Wildebeest migration safari in February

In February, the calving season is in full effect as huge herds of wildebeest dot the vast grassy plains of the southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area, all dropping their young in a two- to a three-week span of time, with predators ever-present and ready to hunt the weak and vulnerable members of the herds.

The southern part of Serengeti national park comprises grassy plains and granite kopjes and it stretches from the central part of the national park also known as the Seronera area to Ngorongoro conservation area and also to Maswa reserve.

Hot air ballooning is offered in the Southern Serengeti, with a launch site located in the area. A gentle sunrise flight will give you incredible views over the vast plains, and a totally different kind of wildlife spotting. February is an excellent month to do a hot air balloon safari in the Southern Serengeti to see baby wildebeest being born on the savanna.

What to expect in southern Serengeti in February

The southeastern portion of Serengeti is teeming with wildlife year-round, but the peak in terms of wildlife density is between December and April. Giant herds of wildebeest and zebra are attracted by the seasonal rains pouring down. In this period the best area to see wildlife is around Lake Ndutu, in the heart of the wildebeest gathering. This is where female wildebeest give birth to countless calves and therefore makes up one of the highlights of the Great Migration.

Best places to stay in southern Serengeti in February

The Ndutu area in the northern part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area joins the Serengeti. As such, it forms part of the annual migratory route of hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, zebra, antelope, and their predators who come to graze and calving season is between January and March, depending on the rains. The forests around Lake Ndutu and small kopjes are also home to prolific resident wildlife.