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Wildebeest Calving Season in Ndutu: A Spectacle of Life and Survival

  • extrapassionsafari
  • Jun 3
  • 3 min read

Every year between late January and early March, the vast plains of Ndutu, located within the southern Serengeti ecosystem and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania, become the birthplace of a powerful natural phenomenon—the Wildebeest Calving Season in Ndutu. Over 500,000 wildebeest mothers gather to give birth to approximately 8,000 calves each day, creating a scene that is equally heartwarming and heart-pounding.

This is one of the most dramatic chapters of the Great Migration, and it offers safari-goers a rare chance to witness the beginning of life, intense predator-prey interactions, and the raw beauty of nature.



Gnu and newborn calf stand closely in a grassy plain, creating a tender scene. Soft green background, with muted earth tones.


Two wildebeests stand on a vast grassland with a hazy tree line in the background. The scene is calm and natural, with muted earthy tones.


Herd of wildebeest and zebras graze on a vast green plain under a clear blue sky, conveying a sense of peaceful migration.

What Makes the Wildebeest Calving Season in Ndutu So Special?

The Ndutu region is uniquely rich in mineral-laden grasses, making it the perfect location for wildebeests to give birth and raise their young before beginning the long migration northward. Unlike other parts of the Serengeti, Ndutu's short grass plains provide better visibility for both predators and prey, creating ideal opportunities for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.

But this is not just about the wildebeests. Where there are calves, there are predators. Lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and leopards all take advantage of the vulnerable young, turning the Ndutu plains into a thrilling scene of survival. This predator action makes the calving season even more compelling to witness.



Why Visit Ndutu During Calving Season?

If you're looking for a safari that combines emotion, action, and photography, visiting Ndutu during the wildebeest calving season should be at the top of your list. Here’s why:

  • Unmatched Wildlife Viewing: You’ll witness thousands of wildebeests giving birth, predators on the hunt, and even rare species like caracals and servals.

  • Perfect Photography Moments: The open plains offer ideal lighting and visibility for capturing stunning images.

  • Mild Weather and Fewer Crowds: Compared to peak migration months, calving season is less crowded yet equally thrilling.

  • Guided Experiences: With Extra Passion Safaris, you get expert guides who know the best spots for dramatic sightings.



When Is the Best Time to Witness the Calving?

The peak of the Wildebeest Calving Season in Ndutu occurs from early February to early March. During this time, thousands of calves are born within a few weeks—a strategy that overwhelms predators and increases the chances of survival for the newborns.

If you plan your safari between late January and mid-March, you'll have the best chances to witness calving events, dramatic predator hunts, and possibly even the first movements of the herd as the Great Migration slowly resumes.



Where Exactly Is Ndutu Located?

Ndutu lies between the southern Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in northern Tanzania. This region is accessible by road or via fly-in safaris, which are ideal for travelers with limited time who still want to witness this incredible event.

Our fly-in and drive-in safari packages to Ndutu can be customized depending on your preferences and travel duration.



Safari Tips for the Calving Season in Ndutu

  • Bring a good camera with a telephoto lens. Wildlife action is often fast and distant.

  • Dress in neutral colors to blend with the environment.

  • Mornings and late afternoons are best for game drives due to lighting and animal activity.

  • Be patient and observant — nature unfolds its drama in subtle and powerful ways.

  • Choose a reputable tour operator like Extra Passion Safaris for knowledgeable guides and eco-friendly travel.



What Else Can You Expect Besides Wildebeests?

While wildebeests are the main event, you'll also see:

  • Zebras, who often accompany wildebeests for safety.

  • Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles, eland, and impalas.

  • Top predators like lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and leopards.

  • A variety of raptors and vultures, attracted by the high volume of kills.

  • The rare chance to spot caracal and African wild cats.



Join Us for the Wildebeest Calving Season in Ndutu

At Extra Passion Safaris, we offer tailor-made safari experiences that allow you to witness the Wildebeest Calving Season in Ndutu in all its glory. Whether you're a photographer, wildlife enthusiast, or first-time traveler to Africa, this is an adventure you will never forget.

Let us take you to the heart of the action — where life begins and survival is a daily challenge. Book your Ndutu Calving Season Safari today and experience nature’s greatest show with us.



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Wildebeest and newborn calf in grassy savanna. The adult nuzzles the calf, showing care. Blurred background with muted greenery.
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A wildebeest and calf stand in a vast grassy savanna under a cloudy sky, evoking a serene and natural atmosphere.
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Wildebeests and zebras graze on a vast green savannah under a clear blue sky, creating a sense of openness and tranquility.
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