Wildebeest Calving: Witnessing New Life in Tanzania

Tanzania is a land of many wonders. From the white-sand beaches and turquoise beaches of the coast to the Great Migration of the Serengeti, you are truly spoilt for choice when planning your luxury safari holiday.

However, a spectacle that often gets overlooked is the wildebeest calving season. This incredible phenomenon welcomes new life across the lush plains, as several hundred thousand wildebeest are born every year. In addition to watching the adorable antics of the juveniles, you’ll get to see some fast-paced predator action.

Luxury safari holidays aren’t just about comfort. They provide an unparalleled level of access and intimacy, allowing you to witness the breathtaking miracles of nature.

The Details: When and Where

Every year, nearly two million wildebeest migrate to the southern Serengeti, Ndutu plains, and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Grazing animals are drawn to the fresh, nutrient-rich grass that grows here during November and December. 

While the migration itself is a sight to behold, what happens next is even more spectacular.

Between January and February, over 400,000 wildebeest calves are born, with an average of 8,000 calves being born per day. These staggering numbers are what draw hundreds of safari enthusiasts to the region.

The best camps to stay in during this period lie south of the Serengeti. Alternatively, you could also stay in the Central Serengeti, which is home to a vast array of wildlife.

What You Can Expect to See

In the warm months of January and February, the Ndutu plains become a vast nursery where hundreds of thousands of wildebeest calves are born in a matter of weeks. This creates a dynamic environment that highlights the raw drama of survival. 

In addition to wildebeest calves, you’re also likely to see young gazelle, zebra, warthogs, baboons, and elephants. The silly antics of the baby animals make for fantastic safari viewing experiences. 

Big cats like leopards, cheetahs, and lions also have their cubs at this time of year. Additionally, you’re bound to see plenty of predator activity on the Ndudtu plains.

The lush greenery of the season makes for the ideal backdrop, especially if you plan on getting photographs of the calves.

Combining the Calving Season with Other Safari Activities

While the calving season in Tanzania is an incredible experience, there are still plenty of other activities you can participate in during your time there, including:

• Hot air ballooning
• 4×4 safaris
• Village tours
• Hiking and mountain trekking
• Bird watching

Ultimately, when combined with the calving season, your luxury safari becomes the perfect gateway to a deeper, more personal experience of the wild.

Here at Tailormade Africa, we specialise in planning luxury safari holidays in Tanzania and across Africa. If you have your heart set on seeing the incredible calving season for yourself, we can customise your trip to ensure it ticks all your boxes. Contact us today, and we can get the ball rolling.