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Safari vehicle observing massive wildebeest herd during migration on golden grasslands of Southern Serengeti
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 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.
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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!
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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 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 TravellerFrom the first contact to trip preparation and implementation as well as support during the trip, Viatu always acted very professionally. Our wishes and the given financial framework were taken into account. The hotels, the food, the activities - everything was excellent and highly recommended.
Nadja
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 TravellerWe loved using the Viatu Trip Builder to design our holidays in South Africa. It was super easy and transparent. Our holidays were great and the few times we needed support, our consultant Benoit was very quick and helpful.
Anita
Verified TravellerI'm very thankful for my first Viatu experience. The 3-week trip across Namibia combined incredible landscapes and nature, mindblowing eco-friendly lodges and utter peace of mind. The organisation and support of the Viatu team were spot-on - this is the way to impress. Thanks a lot!
Christoph
Verified TravellerWe booked our honeymoon with Viatu. From the first minute on, we had good communication going with our travel agent, and she suggested a very nice itinerary right away. After some little adjustments that were easily done, we were ready to go.
Nora
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
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