Wildebeest Calving Season: How to Plan It

Wildebeest Calving Season: How to Plan It

The wildebeest calving season is one of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring wildlife events in Tanzania, offering a rare glimpse into the beginning of life in the wild. Taking place primarily in the Ndutu region of the southern Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, this event occurs between late January and early March when nearly half a million wildebeest give birth to their young over just a few weeks. Planning a safari during this period requires careful timing, as the calving is synchronized and largely dependent on the rains that nourish the nutrient-rich grasses of the short-grass plains. To witness this spectacle, it’s best to book your trip several months in advance, especially for accommodations in the Ndutu area, which gets fully booked during peak season. Staying in mobile camps or lodges close to the action allows for early morning and late afternoon game drives, maximizing your chances of seeing predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas that are drawn to the vulnerable newborns. For the best experience, consider hiring a knowledgeable guide familiar with the migration routes and predator behavior. A good camera, binoculars, and patience will help you capture this unique wildlife event, where life begins under constant threat, offering one of the most emotional and thrilling safari experiences in Africa.