Ndutu

The Ndutu region lies within the Southern Ngorongoro Conservation Area, extending seamlessly into the unfenced southern reaches of Serengeti National Park. This unique location creates a natural bridge between two of Africa’s most stunning wilderness areas. Defined by rolling grasslands, acacia woodlands, and alkaline lakes that attract vibrant flocks of flamingos, the landscape here is rich and diverse, offering visitors a captivating safari experience.

The Ndutu region is renowned as a prime viewing location for the entire cycle of the Great Migration. Starting in December, massive herds return to graze, leading to the intense calving season between January and February. During this time, approximately one million wildebeests give birth to 8,000 calves daily. This abundance of newborns draws predators like lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas, creating a powerful and dramatic spectacle of life in the wild. The migration continues as the herds begin their journey north in April, embarking on the next leg of their annual circuit. The area surrounding Lake Ndutu is particularly renowned for game-viewing, as large herds gather there to graze and calve from December to April.

Location and How to get there

Ndutu is a remote and remarkable safari destination accessible by air or road. It lies approximately 275 kilometers from Arusha, Tanzania’s safari capital, with travel taking about 6–7 hours by car. If arriving from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a drive of roughly 300 kilometers, or 6.5 hours, will bring you to Ndutu. Daily flights from JRO or Arusha Airport (ARK) also offer convenient access, taking about an hour to reach the Ndutu airstrip, a quick drive from the region’s lodges and camps.

For travelers from Dar es Salaam, the flight time to Ndutu is approximately 2 hours, making it an accessible yet wild addition to any Tanzanian safari itinerary. The Ndutu region offers a uniquely immersive experience with its incredible landscapes, rich wildlife, and seasonal spectacles.

Wildlife and Migration in Ndutu

The Ndutu and South Serengeti regions are breathtaking throughout the year, but they truly come alive between December and March. After the short rains in December, the landscape turns vibrant with fresh grass and rejuvenated waterholes, attracting an influx of wildlife. During this period, the wildebeest migration sweeps into the area, filling the plains with thousands of wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, and smaller herbivores.

Yet, even after the migration season, the region is never empty. Ndutu remains home to many resident species, including aardvarks, pangolins, monkeys, dik-diks, and an impressive concentration of predators such as lions, hyenas, and cheetahs.

Birding in Ndutu

Birdwatching is particularly rewarding in Ndutu, especially in areas rich in diverse habitats like the western and northern Serengeti, though the southern plains also offer sightings of some remarkable species. Common birds include Fischer’s lovebirds, superb starlings, and cordon-bleus, while ostriches, bustards, and shrikes add a special touch for bird enthusiasts.

Vegetation

Ndutu’s vegetation, like much of the Serengeti ecosystem, is characterized by rolling grasslands and signature trees such as kigelias, figs, and umbrella acacias. This unique mix of flora supports the diverse wildlife and offers stunning landscapes for safari-goers.

Things to Do in Ndutu

Wildebeest Calving

Between January and March, especially in February, the wildebeest calving season unfolds, with thousands of calves born each day. Visitors can witness calves taking their first steps while predators like lions and hyenas keep a watchful eye on the herds, making for a thrilling safari experience.

Hot Air Balloon Safari

From December to March, hot air balloon safaris over the Ndutu plains offer breathtaking views of the migration and calving season. This adventure begins early, between 4:00 a.m. and 5:30 a.m., with a guided flight that provides a unique aerial perspective of the wildlife below, followed by a champagne breakfast and a commemorative certificate.

Walking Safari

A walking safari offers an up-close exploration of the region, allowing you to track wildlife and interpret animal tracks with an expert guide. Typically starting at 6:30 a.m., walking safaris come in short (4-hour) or long formats and require following safety guidelines set by the ranger. Wearing comfortable, full-length clothing is recommended to protect against insects and the elements.

Climate and When to Visit

Ndutu’s climate is generally moderate, with cooler mornings and evenings and warmer afternoons. The dry season spans from June to October, with temperatures between 14°C (57°F) and 25°C (77°F). The wet season, from November to May, has slightly warmer temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 26°C (79°F).

The ideal time to visit Ndutu is from late December to March, aligning with the Great Migration and calving season. For those particularly interested in seeing newborn calves, mid-January to February is ideal.

Location and Access

Ndutu is located in northern Tanzania, about a 6-hour drive west of Arusha. You can reach it by road, with pick-up available from Arusha, or by air, with scheduled flights operating from mid-December to March to Ndutu’s airstrip or the nearby Kusini airstrip for Southern Serengeti access.

Entrance Fees

Ndutu lies within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and partially in South Serengeti, so entrance fees depend on the side you’re visiting. For those on the Ngorongoro side, a daily park fee of $71 applies, with an additional $71 for private camping per night. For the Serengeti side, daily park fees are $83, with camping at $59 per night. We generally recommend staying on the Ngorongoro side, as herds are often more concentrated there during the migration.

FAQs

Recommended Visit Months
Late December to March, with mid-January to February being the best time for viewing calving.

Distance from Arusha and Central Serengeti
Ndutu is approximately a 6-hour drive from Arusha and a 2-hour drive from Central Serengeti.

Wildlife Beyond the Migration
Aside from the migrating herds, you can expect to see dik-diks, impalas, lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. Though rarer, pangolins and aardvarks may also be seen.

Recommended Stay Duration
For a comprehensive safari experience, 2–3 nights are ideal, but a single overnight stay can still offer a rewarding glimpse of Ndutu’s unique wildlife.

Ngorongoro Side vs. Serengeti Side
Due to higher concentrations of wildlife during migration, staying in the Ngorongoro area of Ndutu is preferable.