5 days wildebeest migration safari (Dec-March)
Trip Description
Embarking on a 5-day Wildebeest Migration Safari in the heart of Tanzania, encompassing the Ndutu region, Serengeti National Park, and the iconic Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offers an unparalleled adventure into the captivating world of wildlife spectacles. This extraordinary journey, spanning from December to March, unveils the magic of nature as vast herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores traverse the undulating landscapes in search of fresh grazing grounds. This annual migration, often referred to as the “Great Migration,” is a testament to the circle of life, survival instincts, and the incredible diversity of East Africa’s ecosystems.
As December marks the beginning of the short rains in the region, the Ndutu area becomes a focal point for the wildebeest and zebra herds. The nutrient-rich soils of Ndutu provide lush grazing opportunities, attracting the migratory animals and setting the stage for an awe-inspiring wildlife spectacle. The lush greenery contrasts vividly with the golden plains, creating a picturesque backdrop against which the drama of predator-prey interactions and the ceaseless movement of the herds unfold.
From Ndutu, the journey seamlessly transitions into the legendary Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most celebrated wildlife reserves on the planet. The Serengeti’s expansive plains become a canvas for the breathtaking choreography of nature, with predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas lurking in the shadows, awaiting the opportune moment to join the mesmerizing dance of survival. Each day on this safari promises a front-row seat to the intricate interplay between predator and prey, set against the backdrop of the Serengeti’s vast and ever-changing landscapes.
The adventure culminates in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, home to the iconic Ngorongoro Crater—a natural amphitheater teeming with diverse wildlife. The crater, formed from a collapsed volcanic caldera, provides a unique ecosystem where an abundance of flora and fauna coexists harmoniously. Against the backdrop of the crater’s rim, the safari experience takes on a cinematic quality, with unforgettable encounters with rhinos, elephants, and an array of other wildlife species.
As the journey unfolds from December to March, the safari not only captures the essence of the Great Migration but also showcases the beauty of the East African plains during the green season. This exclusive opportunity to witness the migration during this time of the year adds a layer of uniqueness to the adventure, presenting a different perspective on the natural rhythms of the Serengeti ecosystem. With each day offering new vistas and wildlife encounters, the 5-day Wildebeest Migration Safari promises an immersive and unforgettable exploration of the wild wonders that define Tanzania’s Ndutu, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro regions.
Pick up from your Hotel in Arusha and then driving to Ndutu area, arriving in time for lunch and little rest thereafter followed by game drive in Ndutu to encounter the Great migration as the millions of animals moving together as infantry brigade.
Since the dominant animals in the great migration are wildebeest and zebra with close much of antelopes but this area is usually heavily populated with elephant, birds and resident game between December and April annually
Dinner and overnight at Serengeti Savannah Camp
Full day of game drives at Ndutu area
Dinner and overnight at Serengeti Savannah Camp
Breakfast then more game drives at Ndutu while heading to Serengeti Central (Seronera)
The park is well known for its healthy stock of other resident wildlife, particularly the "big five", and the home to Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, Wildcats and Wild dogs with rare encounter. The Serengeti is believed to hold the largest population of lions in Africa due in part to the abundance of prey species. More than 3,000 lions live in this ecosystem. And some big numbers of African Leopard (reclusive predators) are commonly seen around.
Dinner and overnight at Serengeti Katikati Tented Camp
Breakfast at the camp and then continue with game drives at Serengeti area before heading to Ngorongoro area with stopover at Olduvai Gorge, Sire Louise and Mary Leakey’s renowned archaeological discoveries. Their findings include some of the man’s earliest known ancestral remains. Continue driving to the rim of the crater for dinner and overnight at Ngorongoro Serena Lodge
After your early breakfast today, we will descend 2000 ft. (Over 600metres) to the floor of the crater for a crater tour with picnic lunches. Explore the forest areas that are inhabited by monkeys and elephants. In the lake area, you may see the flamingoes and in the open savannah, you may find the lions hunting or meting. The game continue till afternoon then ascend and driving back to Arusha for drop off
Included/Exclude
- Pick up and drop off to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha
- Transfers as per Itinerary
- Accommodations as per itinerary
- Meals - full board unless noted
- Bottled water when in game drives.
- Ngorongoro Conservation and National Park fees , Crater service fees
- Professional Safari Guide
- Well maintained 4x4 Land Cruisers or Land Rover have viewing hatches for optimum game viewing..
- Temporary evacuation insurance
- Airfare from Arusha to Serengeti
- Activities not mentioned
- Accommodation before and after the trip
- Day use room if required
- Visas
- International flights
- Gratuity to your driver/ guide
- Soft drinks and alcohol at the Lodges /Camp
- Tips to the waiters, bar staff, porter, maid staff at the lodges and resorts
- Laundry service at the lodges and resorts
- International Travel insurance. Highly recommended
- Christmas and New Year Supplements (Dec 24,25,26, 31 and Jan 1) if you travel on these dates
- Purchase of personal items and souvenirs.
