Lake Ndutu

The heart of the calf season

The southeastern part of the Serengeti, the Ndutu area, is rich in wildlife year-round. Numbers peak between December and April. Huge herds of wildebeest and zebra, from the Great Migration, are attracted by the fresh grass and seasonal rains. During this period, this area is the best place to view game on the plains around Lake Ndutu, where the herds of wildebeest are concentrated.

Most calves are born in January and February, about 8,000 a day. The short grassy plains offer them some safety, as predators can be spotted more easily. But as it goes in nature, these young wildebeest attract many hungry predators, such as lions, cheetahs, leopards and hyenas. Other species, such as gazelles and zebras, also give birth in this area and use the wildebeest calves as cover to divert attention from their own young. The area is also suitable for birdwatchers. The Thorny Tree forests are the habitat of even more birds, and if you pay close attention, you might see the fantastically colored Fischer’s Lovebird.

Wildlife you can spot:

Practical information

Location: The Lake Ndutu area is located in the southern region of the Serengeti ecosystem in Tanzania, near the Ngorongoro Crater.

Entrance fee: The entrance fee may vary depending on your age and period of your visit. This entrance fee (Park fee) is always included in our tours.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Lake Ndutu area is during the green season (December to May) when thousands of wildebeest and zebra migrate to the area to calve. This provides unique opportunities for wildlife spotting. However, there is plenty of wildlife to spot in this area all year round.

Climate: The climate in this area can vary widely, from hot and dry to rainy and cool, depending on the season.