9-Day Ndutu Photographic Safari
Tarangire, Ndutu & Ngorongoro
Overview
Experience a 9-day photographic journey that showcases some of Tanzania’s most celebrated safari destinations. Begin with a visit to Tarangire, famous for its elephant herds and giant baobab trees, then travel to the Ndutu region for four days of prime wildlife viewing in the Southern Serengeti. This area is especially rewarding for photographers between December and March, when the wildebeest calving season attracts an abundance of predators and dramatic wildlife interactions. Wrap up your adventure with a stop at the Ngorongoro Crater—one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife havens—before returning to Arusha. For added relaxation or further photo opportunities, consider extending your stay in Zanzibar.
Safari Itinerary
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by your guide. Transfer to your hotel in Arusha, where you can rest, adjust to the new environment, and check your camera gear. In the evening, you’ll attend a short briefing about the days ahead.
Meals: Not included
Comfort Accommodation: Forest Hill Hotel
Premium Accommodation: Ngaresero Lodge
After an early breakfast, set off for Tarangire National Park, celebrated for its large elephant populations and striking baobab trees. Spend the morning and afternoon on game drives, focusing on capturing the best light. Late in the day, continue to Karatu, a highland town near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and check into your lodge.
Meals: Full Board
Comfort Accommodation: Marera Valley Lodge
Premium Accommodation: Kitela Lodge
Depart Karatu after breakfast and drive toward the Ndutu region in the Southern Serengeti ecosystem. Enjoy scenic views along the way, and keep your camera ready for any wildlife encounters. Arrive at your Ndutu lodge or tented camp by afternoon. Head out for a short introductory game drive if time allows.
Meals: Full Board
Comfort Accommodation: African Safari Ndutu
Premium Accommodation: In The Wind
Wake up early for a sunrise game drive when wildlife is most active and the light is ideal for photography. The Ndutu area is renowned for its seasonal wildebeest migration, calving events, and predator-prey interactions. Return to camp for lunch and a quick rest, then set out again for an afternoon shoot in the golden hour.
Meals: Full Board
Comfort Accommodation: African Safari Ndutu
Premium Accommodation: In The Wind
Spend a second full day exploring Ndutu. Track large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gaze out for lions, cheetahs, and hyenas that frequently roam these plains. Experiment with different angles and camera settings to capture wide landscapes and close-up wildlife portraits. In the evening, share stories around the campfire.
Meals: Full Board
Comfort Accommodation: African Safari Ndutu
Premium Accommodation: In The Wind
Continue your photographic pursuits with another immersive day in the Ndutu region. Early mornings often offer dramatic skies and minimal vehicle congestion, perfect for capturing rare or shy species. You may also have opportunities for walking safaris or balloon safaris (optional) to diversify your photographic perspective.
Meals: Full Board
Comfort Accommodation: African Safari Ndutu
Premium Accommodation: In The Wind
If traveling between December and March, you might witness the annual calving season—a photographer’s dream due to the abundance of newborn wildebeest and predator activity. Dedicate this final day in Ndutu to capturing any missed shots or revisiting favorite areas. Embrace the changing light and daily rhythms of the savannah.
Meals: Full Board
Comfort Accommodation: African Safari Ndutu
Premium Accommodation: In The Wind
Depart Ndutu after an early breakfast and head toward the Ngorongoro Crater. Descend into the caldera for a half-day game drive, photographing rhinos, lions, and vast flocks of flamingos. After lunch, ascend the crater and drive back to Arusha, arriving in the late afternoon. Enjoy a leisurely evening reminiscing about the week’s adventures.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Comfort Accommodation: Forest Hill Hotel
Premium Accommodation: Ngaresero Lodge
Depending on your flight schedule, spend your final morning exploring Arusha or relaxing at your hotel. If you wish to extend your journey, fly to Zanzibar for pristine beaches, cultural excursions in Stone Town, and a chance to unwind with more photographic opportunities along the coast.
Meals: Breakfast
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