The Ultimate 8-Day Ndutu Safari: A Calving Season Journey Through Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Lake Manyara
- Price on request
- Destination: Tarangire National Park, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara
- Tour Length: 8 Day
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- Tour Details
Embark on an exciting 8-day safari through Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Experience the wonders of Tarangire National Park, with its majestic baobab trees and large elephant herds. Continue to the Serengeti for the extraordinary calving season at Ndutu, where you’ll witness newborn wildebeest and zebras amidst the stunning plains.
Explore the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with wildlife, and finish your adventure at Lake Manyara, home to tree-climbing lions and vibrant flamingos.
With expert guides and a carefully planned itinerary, this safari offers a perfect blend of wildlife encounters and scenic beauty, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
- Package Skeleton
| Day | Destination | Activities | Meal Plan | Accomodation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Arusha |
Arrival &Transfer
|
HB |
Mount Meru Hotel |
|
2 |
Arusha – Tarangire National Park |
Game Drive |
FB |
Eileens Trees Inn |
|
3 |
Serengeti National Park |
Game Drive |
FB |
Kon Tiki Camp |
|
4 |
Central Serengeti – Northern Central Serengeti – Southern Serengeti (NDUTU) |
Game Drive |
FB |
Kon Tiki
Camp |
|
5 |
Southern Serengeti (NDUTU) |
Game Drive |
FB |
Kon Tiki Camp |
|
6 |
Southern Serengeti – Ngorongoro Highlands |
Game Drive |
FB |
Ngorongoro Wild Camp |
|
7 |
Ngorongoro Crater- Karatu |
Crater Tour |
FB |
Farm Of Dreams Lodge |
|
8 |
Airport |
Departure |
N/A |
No Accomodation |
- Itenary
Day 1
Arusha
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and transferred to your accommodation in Arusha. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, offering scenic views of the surrounding landscapes as you enter the vibrant town. Alternatively, if you arrive at Arusha Airport (ARK), the transfer to the hotel is much quicker, taking approximately 20-30 minutes
Once at the hotel, check in and take in the beautiful views of the accommodation from your room and receive a safari briefing from the guide/office representative.
If you prefer, you can opt for a guided city tour for an extra cost to explore Arusha’s vibrant culture and local landmarks, including the bustling markets and nearby attractions. Alternatively, you can relax at the hotel and enjoy its serene surroundings.
In the evening, Savor a delicious dinner made from fresh local ingredients, preparing you for the exciting adventures that lie ahead.
Main Destination Arusha
Activities Arrival, Scenic Transfer, Check-in to the hotel & Safari briefing
Accommodation Mount Meru Hotel. (1 Double/Twin Room)
Meal Plan Bed & Breakfast, Lunch & or Dinner, +
Water
Day 2
Arusha – Tarangire National Park
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a scenic drive to Tarangire National Park, a haven of diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. The journey, about 2 hours long, takes you through picturesque Tanzanian countryside dotted with traditional villages and lush greenery, setting the tone for your adventure.
Upon entering Tarangire, the sight of ancient baobab trees and sprawling elephant herds will captivate you. Begin your game drive through this extraordinary park, known for its vast herds of elephants and a wide array of wildlife, including lions, zebras, giraffes, and countless bird species. The park’s vibrant ecosystems—from riverbanks to sprawling savannahs—offer endless opportunities for exploration and photography.
Take a midday pause to enjoy a delightful picnic lunch in the heart of the wilderness. Surrounded by the park’s raw beauty, this is the perfect moment to soak in the serenity and reflect on the wonders of nature.
As the day winds down, journey to your charming lodge nestled in the hills of Karatu. Relax in its tranquil setting, indulge in a sumptuous dinner crafted from fresh, local ingredients, and relive the day’s adventures under the starlit African sky.
Main Destination Tarangire National Park
Distance / Time Arusha – Tarangire (Approx. 2-2.5 hrs.)
Activities Scenic Transfer & Game Drive
Accommodation Eileen’s Trees Inn Lodge, Karatu (1 Double/Twin Room)
Day 3
Karatu - Serengeti
Awake early and enjoy a satisfying breakfast as your adventure takes you deeper into Tanzania’s wilderness. Depart Karatu and begin the exhilarating drive toward the heart of Serengeti National Park. Along the way, travel through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a stunning region of lush highlands, scenic valleys, and dramatic escarpments. Take in breathtaking vistas and stop at select viewpoints to admire and capture the beauty of this remarkable landscape. As you enter the Serengeti, the iconic golden plains stretching endlessly before you will leave you awestruck. This renowned park is synonymous with wildlife abundance and the spectacle of the Great Migration—a breathtaking natural phenomenon where millions of wildebeests and zebras move in search of greener pastures. The day’s safari experience immerses you in the Serengeti’s wonders. Encounter awe-inspiring predators such as lions and cheetahs, gracefully roaming giraffes, herds of elephants, and a variety of other wildlife in their natural habitat. Bird enthusiasts will delight in spotting some of the 500-plus species that inhabit this vast ecosystem.
Pause midday to enjoy a delightful picnic lunch surrounded by the serenity of the African wilderness. Afterward, continue your exploration on thrilling game drives, capturing unforgettable moments of wildlife and landscapes as the sun casts golden hues across the savannah. By late afternoon, arrive at your tranquil lodge. Unwind and savor the peaceful ambiance of the African bush while reflecting on the extraordinary experiences of the day.
Main Destination Serengeti National Park.
Distance / Time Karatu – Serengeti (Approx. 3.5-4 hrs.)
Activities Game Drive
Accommodation Heritage Camp (1 Double/Twin Room)
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Water
Day 4
Central Serengeti - Southern Serengeti
Rise with the sun for another thrilling day of adventure in the Serengeti. Following breakfast, embark on a scenic drive from the iconic Central Serengeti to the enchanting Ndutu area in the Southern Serengeti. This journey takes you through breathtaking landscapes, transitioning from the endless golden savannahs to the lush, wildlife-rich plains of Ndutu, renowned as the heart of the calving season. The Southern Serengeti offers a front-row seat to one of nature’s most miraculous events—the birth of thousands of wildebeest calves. This season transforms the plains into a haven for new life and creates a dynamic predator-prey spectacle as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas take advantage of the abundance of prey.
Spend the day immersed in this vibrant ecosystem, with game drives tailored to maximize your experience. Witness the tender moments of calves taking their first steps, herds of wildebeests and zebras grazing peacefully, and predators stealthily stalking their prey in this dynamic wildlife theater.
A picnic lunch under the vast African skies ensures you remain connected with the wilderness, offering a serene moment to recharge while surrounded by nature’s splendor. As the day winds down, arrive at your lodge nestled in the Ndutu area. Relax and reflect on the unparalleled experiences of the day, as the sounds of the wild serenade you into the evening.
Main Destination South Serengeti (NDUTU).
Distance / Time Central – Ndutu (Approx. 4-5 hrs.)
Activities Game Drive
Accommodation Kontiki Ndutu Camp (1 Double/Twin Room)
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Water & Soft
Drinks
Day 5
Southern Serengeti National Park
Wake up to the soft hues of dawn over the Southern Serengeti, where the drama of the calving season unfolds in all its glory. After a hearty breakfast, set off for an unforgettable day of exploration in the Ndutu area, a haven for wildlife and a photographer’s paradise. This unique region, with its seasonal lakes and lush grasslands, serves as the epicenter of the Great Migration during the calving season. The plains come alive with the sights and sounds of thousands of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles caring for their young. You’ll have the rare opportunity to witness life in its rawest and most captivating form, from the nurturing bonds of mother and calf to the incredible agility of predators stalking their prey. Your expert guide will tailor the day’s game drives to ensure you don’t miss a moment of the action. Capture thrilling encounters with lions and cheetahs, marvel at the acrobatics of hyenas, and observe the spectacle of countless bird species that flock to this rich ecosystem. Break for a sumptuous picnic lunch in the heart of the wilderness, savoring the tranquility and unspoiled beauty of your surroundings. The Ndutu plains offer endless opportunities for remarkable wildlife moments, so every game drive promises new surprises and memories to cherish. As the day draws to a close, retreat to your accommodation, where you can unwind and relive the breathtaking experiences of the day. The Ndutu area, with its unparalleled energy and raw natural beauty, will leave an indelible mark on your journey through Tanzania.
Main Destination South Serengeti.
Activities Game Drive
Accommodation Kontiki Ndutu Camp. (1 Double/Twin Room)
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Water & Soft
Drinks
Day 6
Southern Serengeti - Ngorongoro Highlands
Begin your day with an exhilarating morning game drive through the Ndutu area, where the plains come alive in the soft light of dawn. The wildlife is at its most active, and you’ll have a final chance to immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenes of the calving season. Watch as herds of wildebeest move gracefully across the plains, playful calves at their sides, while predators like cheetahs and hyenas keep a watchful eye. As you bid farewell to the enchanting Southern Serengeti, savor the last moments of this wildlife haven. Enjoy a hearty picnic lunch amidst the natural splendor, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past days. After lunch, begin your scenic journey to the Ngorongoro Highlands. The drive is a feast for the eyes, offering stunning views of changing landscapes—from endless savannahs to rolling hills and lush greenery. As you ascend into the highlands, the air grows cooler, and the terrain transforms into a verdant paradise dotted with traditional Maasai villages.
Arrive at the highlands in the late afternoon, where you’ll be welcomed by the tranquil ambiance of this elevated haven. The Ngorongoro Highlands, perched on the edge of the famous Ngorongoro Crater, offer a serene retreat after your adventures on the plains. Take time to relax, enjoying the crisp mountain air and the stunning vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see.End your day with a delicious dinner and a sense of anticipation for the next chapter of your safari journey—exploring the natural marvels of the Ngorongoro Crater.
Main Destination Ngorongoro Highlands
Distance / Time Ndutu to Ngorongoro Highlands (Approx. 3-4 hrs.)
Activities Game Drive
Accommodation Ngorongoro Wild Camp. (1 Double/Twin Room)
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Water & Soft
Drinks
Main Destination: Lake Manyara National Park
Distance /Time:Karatu to Lake Manyara: Approx. 30 mins(35 km)
Activities: Game Drive
Accomodation:Farm of Dreams Lodge, Karatu
(1 Double/Twin Room)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Water & Soft Drinks
Day 7
Ngorongoro - Karatu
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before descending into the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural wonder often referred to as the “Garden of Eden.” This vast caldera, teeming with wildlife, promises an unforgettable experience as you explore its diverse habitats, from open grasslands to freshwater lakes and acacia woodlands. As you venture deeper into this UNESCO World Heritage Site, marvel at the extraordinary concentration of wildlife within its walls. Spot lions lounging under the shade, rhinos grazing along the plains, and herds of zebras and wildebeest roaming freely. The crater is also home to an abundance of birdlife, from flamingos painting the lake pink to majestic eagles soaring above. Pause at a serene picnic site within the crater to enjoy lunch amidst nature’s splendor, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery and the sounds of the wild. Take this moment to absorb the beauty of this unique ecosystem and reflect on the magic of your safari. After your crater exploration, ascend the crater walls, capturing the dramatic views of this geological marvel one last time. As you emerge, the lush highlands and rolling hills guide your journey to Karatu, a charming town nestled in the heart of Tanzania’s safari circuit.
Arrive in Karatu in the late afternoon, where the tranquility of the surroundings offers the perfect setting to unwind after a day of adventure. Enjoy a well-deserved dinner and rest in preparation for the final leg of your unforgettable Tanzanian safari.
Main Destination Ngorongoro Crater.
Distance / Time Ngorongoro Crater – Karatu (Approx. 1 hr.)
Activities Crater Tour
Accommodation Farm of Dreams Lodge
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Water & Soft
Drinks
Day 8
Lake Manyara National Park & Departure
Begin your final day with an early breakfast before heading to the enchanting Lake Manyara National Park, a jewel of Tanzania’s northern circuit. Famous for its lush forests, sparkling soda lake, and diverse wildlife, this park is the perfect place to conclude your safari adventure. Embark on a captivating game drive through the park’s varied landscapes, from dense woodlands to open grasslands. Marvel at the acrobatics of tree-climbing lions, observe playful troops of baboons and keep an eye out for elusive leopards resting in the shade. Along the shores of Lake Manyara, flamingos, pelicans, and other waterbirds create a dazzling spectacle, while hippos lounge in the cool waters.
As you navigate the park, soak in the stunning views of the Rift Valley escarpment and the shimmering lake, reflecting the vibrant colors of nature. Pause for a peaceful picnic within the park, cherishing your last moments immersed in Tanzania’s extraordinary wilderness. In the afternoon, bid farewell to Lake Manyara and embark on your scenic journey back to Arusha. Along the way, take in the charming landscapes and reflect on the incredible experiences of the past days. Upon arrival in Arusha, you’ll be transferred to either Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK) for your onward journey. Carry with you the memories of Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and warm hospitality, a safari experience that will remain etched in your heart forever.
Main Destination Lake Manyara National Park.
Distance / Time Karatu – Lake Manyara (Approx. 4.5-5 hrs., 250km) Lake Manyara – Airport (Approx. 3.5-4 hrs., 190km)
Activities Game Drive & Departure
Accommodation N/A (Departure)
Meal Plan Breakfast, Lunch, Water & Soft Drinks
Inclusion
- Transfers to and from Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) and Arusha
- All Park entrance fees
- All game drives and activities as per the itinerary
- All accommodations as stated in the itinerary
- A professional driver/guide throughout the safari
- All transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for optimal viewing
- Drinking water throughout the day on safari
- All taxes/VAT
- Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner as outlined in the itinerary)
Exclusion
- International Airfares (flights to and from Tanzania).
- Premium drinks (alcoholic and soft drinks outside of meals)
- Entry Visas
- Personal items (souvenirs, laundry, etc.)
- Additional accommodation before and after the safari.
- All transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for optimal viewing
- Government-imposed increase of taxes or park fees during the tour.
- Services not mentioned in the itinerary (e.g., optional activities or excursions)
- Services not mentioned in the program.
- Travel insurance and medical repatriation
- Photos
- Traveller Infromations
Starting November 30, 2024, Tanzania visas will no longer be available at entry points (borders
and ports). All visa applications must be completed online through the official Tanzania
Immigration website.
Cost: $50 per person for non-American citizens; $100 per person for American citizens.
Validity: The visa allows for a stay of up to 3 months in Tanzania Mainland and
Zanzibar.
How to Apply: The online process allows visitors to apply, pay, and receive their visas
remotely. For more details and to apply, please visit Tanzania Immigration website.
Identification: Passports should be kept in carry-on luggage as they may be required
when boarding all flights, including domestic and charter flights.
Yellow Fever Certificate: Travelers arriving from countries affected by Yellow Fever
must carry a valid vaccination certificate
Plastic Bag Ban: As of June 1, 2019, Tanzania has banned the import and use of plastic
carrier bags. Exceptions include plastic packaging for medical, industrial, agricultural,
