RegionSerengeti National Park South
Seasonal grassplains where wildebeest births spark dramatic predator encounters on the Rift Valley floor.
The Southern Serengeti in Tanzania is one of the most iconic safari landscapes in Africa, forming part of the greater Ngorongoro–Serengeti ecosystem. Spanning the vast short-grass plains on the Great Rift Valley floor, it is the stage for the dramatic wildebeest calving season in the Serengeti between December and March. During these months, more than half a million calves are born, creating an intense cycle of life and survival that draws predators in extraordinary numbers. Travellers on calving season safaris can witness incredible predator action, from cheetahs hunting on the open plains to prides of black-maned lions following the herds. This makes the Southern Serengeti grass plains one of the best areas in Africa for encounters with big cats. Outside the calving season, resident game, including elephants, giraffes, and antelope, keep game drives rewarding. Accommodation in the south is designed to move with the migration. Seasonal tented camps are set up during calving months to place travellers close to the action, while mobile safaris track the herds across the plains for an even more flexible experience. For those seeking comfort year-round, a handful of permanent safari lodges sit on the edge of the ecosystem. At sunrise, a hot air balloon safari adds another perspective, drifting over the plains as wildlife stirs below. As part of the Tanzania safari circuit, the Southern Serengeti is easily combined with Ngorongoro or the central Serengeti, and is often accessed via flights into Ndutu or Lake Manyara. For travellers seeking the raw spectacle of the Great Migration, the south is where the drama begins.
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Best time to go to Serengeti National Park South
The best time to visit the Southern Serengeti is from December to March, when the Great Migration herds gather for the wildebeest calving season. This is the peak time for predator sightings, as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas converge on the plains in pursuit of the newborn calves. The green season safaris during these months also bring lush scenery and excellent photographic opportunities. From April onwards, the herds move north, but resident wildlife remains, making the region rewarding even outside migration. For travellers focused on the spectacle of mass calving and predator action, the Southern Serengeti in the green season is unmatched.
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Verified TravellerI had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
Verified TravellerBecause of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
Verified TravellerWith super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified TravellerWhat can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified TravellerOur Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
Stefano
Verified TravellerWe had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified TravellerOur South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.
Svein
Verified TravellerI spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified TravellerWe booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified TravellerWe had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified TravellerI had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
Verified Traveller