Wonders of wildebeest migration - calving safari
17 Days
16 Nights
Witness nature’s raw drama unfold with every leap, splash, and chase—a breathtaking spectacle of survival and instinct.
Custom Photo Safari rigs
Small Group
- Maximum of three guests per vehicles
- Each Photographer gets their own row with access to both sides of the vehicle
- Increased weight allowance for extra camera gear
Trip Leader
Judy Karendal
Days of discovery
February 10, 2027
Main Safari Arrivals: Your Journey Begins at Kilimanjaro International Airport
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our attentive team will be on hand to greet you as soon as you’ve completed customs formalities. Following this, we’ll ensure your smooth transfer to your accommodation in Arusha, where you’ll be treated to a delicious dinner and a restful night’s sleep. Take this opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings of Arusha, allowing yourself to recharge and prepare for the thrilling Migration and Calving Safari that awaits.
Lodging
Ngarasero Mountain Lodge / River Tree
February 11, 2027
Serene Morning and Safari Readiness
You’ll start your day with a leisurely morning at the lodge, where you can relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings before the day’s adventures begin. Following this peaceful start, your safari guides will gather to provide you with a detailed briefing, ensuring you’re well-prepared and informed for the upcoming safari activities.
As the day progresses, you’ll embark on a town tour and a visit to Cultural Heritage, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore an impressive art gallery featuring local artworks and crafts. Take your time to admire the talent on display and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs to remember your journey by.
After your cultural excursion, you’ll return to the lodge for a delicious dinner, served against the backdrop of the lodge’s scenic surroundings. As the evening unfolds, you’ll have the chance to unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences, eagerly anticipating the adventures that await you on the safari ahead.
Lodging
Ngarasero Mountain Lodge or similar
February 12, 2027
Cultural Encounters and Scenic Drives to Ngorongoro Highlands
After breakfast at the lodge, you’ll bid farewell to the lodge and make the journey southwest of Arusha, where your adventure takes you to a Maasai Village, where you’ll be warmly welcomed into their vibrant culture, gaining insight into their traditions and way of life.
Next, you’ll venture to Mto Wa Mbu village, where a flavorful local lunch awaits, tantalizing your taste buds with authentic cuisine. Energized and refreshed, you’ll continue your journey towards the Ngorongoro highlands, eagerly anticipating the breathtaking scenery that awaits.
As the day progresses, you’ll arrive at your lodge nestled amidst the Ngorongoro highlands, surrounded by the majestic beauty of the landscape. Here, amidst the tranquility of nature, you’ll relish a delightful dinner, savoring every moment of this enchanting experience.
Lodgings
Embalakai Ngorongoro
February 13, 2027
Discovering the Depths of the Ngorongoro Crater
Today’s adventure involves a full day of exploration and photography in the remarkable Ngorongoro Crater ecosystem. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, you’ll have ample opportunities for wildlife sightings. The crater floor is renowned as one of Africa’s prime locations for spotting the elusive black rhinoceros.
The Ngorongoro Crater is celebrated as one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, captivating visitors with its enchanting setting and unparalleled wildlife encounters. Its dense predator population, including lions, hyenas, cheetahs, and the elusive leopard, makes it a haven for safari enthusiasts. With some luck, you might even catch a glimpse of smaller felines like the rare Caracal, Serval, and African wild cat, which require a keen eye to spot.
During your adventure, enjoy a picnic breakfast at one of the designated sites on the crater floor. Then, embark on another game drive to explore different areas of the ecosystem. Visit the hippo pool near the Mandusi Swamp and marvel at the vast, shallow, alkaline Lake Magadi in the southwestern corner, a prominent feature of the crater. The Lerai Forest, adorned with ancient trees and dense vegetation, hosts a variety of bird species, monkeys, and baboons. Each part of the crater offers unique wildlife sightings, adding to the richness of your safari experience.
Overall, the Ngorongoro Crater promises an unmatched safari adventure that should not be missed. With its awe-inspiring landscape, abundant wildlife, and diverse habitats, it stands as one of Africa’s most extraordinary and captivating destinations.
Lodgings
Meals and overnight at Embalakai Ngorongoro
February 14, 2027
Ngorongoro & The Southern Serengeti: A Safari Expedition Through Nature's Bounty
After an early breakfast at the lodge, you’ll embark on another captivating journey into the heart of the Ngorongoro Crater ecosystem. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, you’ll be treated to an abundance of wildlife sightings. The crater floor, renowned as one of Africa’s prime spots for observing black rhinoceros in their natural habitat, promises unforgettable encounters.
Renowned as one of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders, the Ngorongoro Crater offers a magical setting and unparalleled wildlife experiences that never cease to mesmerize. Its diverse predator population, including lions, hyenas, jackals, and the elusive leopard, attracts safari enthusiasts from far and wide. With a bit of luck, you may even catch glimpses of smaller cats like the rare Caracal, Serval, and African wild cat, requiring keen observation skills.
Later in the morning, your journey continues to Ndutu forest and the Southern plains of Serengeti, where you’ll arrive just in time for lunch. Upon settling into your Tented Camp, your home for the next five nights, you’ll spend the afternoon exploring the area, seeking out remarkable photo opportunities to capture the essence of this breathtaking landscape.
Lodgings
Meals and overnight at The Canopy Migration Camp - Ndutu
February 15-19, 2027
South Serengeti and Ndutu Forest Migration Safari Photography Expedition: Capturing Nature's Wonders
You’ll spend four days immersed in intensive photography sessions amidst the picturesque landscapes of the southern Serengeti plains and Ndutu forest. These areas are renowned for hosting the vast migratory herds of wildebeest and zebras during the wet season, typically from December to May. During this time, you can expect to explore various stunning locations such as Lake Masek, Lake Ndutu, the Hidden Valley, Kusini Valley, and the Kakesio Plains during your game drives.
In addition to witnessing the impressive migratory herds, you’ll also have ample opportunities to encounter abundant predators. Cheetah sightings will be plentiful, especially as many have followed the migratory Thomson’s gazelles onto the southern and eastern plains. Lions, both resident prides and nomadic ones following the wildebeest and zebras, should also be easily visible.
Moreover, this period coincides with the calving season, allowing you to witness the heartwarming sight of newborn wildebeest and zebras taking their first steps on the African savannah. This unforgettable photography experience highlights why the Serengeti is revered as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa.
Lodgings
Meals and overnight at The Canopy Migration Camp - Ndutu
February 20-23, 2027
Exploring the central eastern Serengeti.
After an early breakfast at the camp, you’ll start your day with a sunrise game viewing session at Ndutu forest and the southern plains of Serengeti. Then, you’ll journey towards Serengeti through Gol Kopjes, an area known for its rocky outcrops and abundant wildlife. Next, you’ll continue to the central-eastern part of Serengeti, where an intimate camp awaits you for a delightful lunch.
The central-eastern Serengeti and Seronera River Valley boast an incredible diversity of wildlife. This area serves as a transition zone where the plains and woodlands merge, allowing various species to coexist. Here, you’ll encounter elephants, giraffes, impalas, waterbucks, hippos, topis, reedbucks, buffaloes, baboons, and vervet monkeys. Predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs can also be spotted among the scattered kopjes.
During your time in the Serengeti, you’ll have the option to split your days into two photography sessions: one in the early morning and another in the late afternoon. In the mornings, you’ll explore the central Serengeti in the golden light of dawn, seeking special wildlife interactions and photo opportunities. In the afternoons, you’ll venture out again for more game viewing, exploring the Seronera Valley for additional incredible photo opportunities.
Overall, your time in the Serengeti promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with stunning landscapes, incredible wildlife sightings, and countless photography opportunities.
Lodging
Meals and overnight at Canopy Wilderness Camp – Eastern Serengeti
February 24, 2027
Soaring from Serengeti to Arusha: The Bush Flight Experience Embracing the Echoes of an Enchanted Safari.
After an early breakfast at your camp in the Serengeti, you’ll start your journey back to Arusha. While heading towards the Seronera Airstrip, you’ll have the chance to enjoy some game viewing along the way, soaking in the beautiful scenery of the Serengeti for one last time.
Upon reaching the airstrip, you’ll board a domestic flight back to Arusha. Once you arrive in Arusha, you’ll be transferred to the Lodge, where a delicious lunch awaits you. You’ll also have the opportunity to relax in a day use room before your later flight.
As the day comes to a close, you’ll leave the lodge and head to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your journey back home. Although your adventure in Tanzania may be ending, the memories and experiences you’ve gathered will remain with you forever.
Safari Enhancement choices
Early arrival Option.
Arrive a day before your scheduled trip to unwind, explore the area at your own pace, and fully immerse yourself in the journey ahead. This extra time allows for a smooth start, ensuring you're refreshed and ready for the adventure that awaits.
Balloon safari
As the sun rises, you’ll gently ascend into the sky, floating silently above the vast Serengeti plains. From this unique vantage point, you’ll witness herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other wildlife roaming freely below.