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Hot air balloon floating above migrating wildebeest herd in Southern Serengeti grasslands during calving season
DestinationSouthern Serengeti Ndutu
A Great Migration hotspot known for Big Cat action and incredible cheetah sightings on the plains.
The Southern Serengeti Ndutu region in Tanzania is one of the most renowned areas of the Tanzanian safari circuit, situated between the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area on the Great Rift Valley floor. This seasonal hub is best known for the Ndutu calving season, which takes place from December to March, when more than half a million wildebeest give birth on the fertile grasslands. The spectacle draws predators in high numbers, making calving season safaris in Ndutu some of the most dramatic in Africa. Beyond the migration, the Ndutu plains remain an excellent destination for year-round wildlife viewing. Travellers on game drives can encounter the Big 5, elephants moving between woodlands and grasslands, as well as some of the best cheetah sightings in East Africa. The seasonal Lakes Ndutu and Masek add to the diversity of habitats, attracting flamingos, waterbirds, and other species that enrich the experience. Accommodation ranges from mobile camps to permanent safari lodges, while a fly-in safari to Ndutu via the Ndutu airstrip makes access simple. With fewer vehicles than the central Serengeti, the area allows for more intimate sightings and a deeper sense of wilderness.
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Best time to go to Southern Serengeti Ndutu
The best time to travel to Ndutu in the Southern Serengeti is from December to March, when the wildebeest calving season takes place. During these months, more than half a million calves are born across the Ndutu plains, creating intense predator action with lions, cheetahs, and hyenas in constant pursuit. This is also when birdlife thrives around Lakes Ndutu and Masek, making game drives exceptionally diverse. Outside the calving months, wildlife remains present, but many herds migrate north as the Great Migration continues. For travellers focused on dramatic sightings, predator encounters, and fewer crowds compared to the central Serengeti, the calving season makes Ndutu one of the most rewarding safari destinations in Tanzania.
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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.
Stefano
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 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
Verified Traveller