Ndutu Plains
Ndutu Plains are located in northern Tanzania within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, on the outskirts of the southern Serengeti National Park. They extend to the northeastern part of the conservation area and are home to several wildlife species, including wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, and predators.
This region is also covered by acacia vegetation, which offers a great view of Lake Ndutu. It is also known for the great wildlife migration.
The Ndutu area is a perfect place to view wildlife since it contains a mixture of several species of wildlife and predators. It forms an integral part of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro ecosystems. It is also the best calving place, where thousands of calves are produced within the plains during the seasonal rains. Several wild elephants and zebras also exist in this region.
The Ndutu area is also an excellent place for the annual wildlife migration. Most of the wildlife encountered includes giraffes, impalas, elephants, dik-dik, lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, bat-eared foxes, genet jackals, and many others.
What activities can you engage in while in the Ndutu plains?
While on safaris to the Ndutu plains, there are several activities that you can engage in, and some of these include;
Game drive or game viewing
This is one of the primary activities you can engage in in the Ndutu plains. It involves encountering several species of wildlife in the plains. Game drives are done on the gazette trails within the plains. It uses a 4×4 safari van with a pop-up for easy viewing of wildlife. Wildlife encountered in these plains includes lions, leopards, buffalo, zebras, impalas, wildebeests, cheetahs, and many other species. It is done in several sessions, including morning, full day, afternoon, and evening.
Predator tracking
Predator tracking is another activity you can engage in when visiting the Ndutu plains. Tracking of these predators is usually common in the calving season. Some predators include lions, leopards, cheetahs, and many others.
Visit the Masai village
A visit to the Masai village is one of the cultural encounters you can engage in during safaris to the Ndutu plains. The Masai are one of the Indigenous communities that live within the Ndutu plains. During safaris to the Masai village, there are several activities that you can engage in, and some of these include bead making, cultural fashion wear, cattle rearing, cultural dances, and many others. When visiting the Masai cultural village, you are supposed to follow the community’s cultural norms and beliefs.
Guided nature walks
While on safaris to the Ndutu plains, guided nature walks will take you through the area, allowing you to encounter several wildlife species on foot. These walks are guided by a ranger guide who ensures your safety during the safaris. They also offer the opportunity to learn about the park’s ecosystem.
Balloon safaris
Balloon safaris are a high-end activity on the Ndutu plains that offers an aerial view of the plains. They are a one-hour experience that gives you an aerial view and encounters with several wildlife species.
Where do you stay during safaris to the Ndutu plains?
While on safari in the Ndutu plains, several accommodation options are available, ranging from budget to luxury. These facilities include Ndutu Safari Lodge, Lake Masek Tented Camp, Sanctuary Kusini Camp, Serengeti Safari Camp, Kenzan Ndutu Camp, and Ang’ata Ndutu Camp.
What other destinations can you encounter during safaris to the Ndutu plains?
On a safari to the Ndutu plains, you can also explore other destinations during your trip, including:
Olkarien Gorge
This gorge is a massive granite monolith located on the borders of the Gol Mountains in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It lies in Tanzania’s northern circuit. The gorge measures approximately 8 kilometers long and features vertical walls with some overhanging sections. During the dry season, it serves as a catchment area for both people and wildlife.
Lake Eyasi
Lake Eyasi is a shallow, seasonal Salt Lake located within the Great Rift Valley, at the foot of the Serengeti Plateau. It lies to the south of Serengeti National Park and southwest of the Ngorongoro Crater. During safaris, several cultural communities, such as the Hadzabe tribe and the Datoga tribe, are encountered on this lake.
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara, located near the Ndutu plains at the base of the Manyara escarpment, is named after the lake that occupies approximately three-quarters of the park’s total area. Notably, it is famous for its tree-climbing lions, similar to those found in Queen Elizabeth National Park. In Lake Manyara National Park, you can engage in activities like game drives, nature walks, birding, and many others.
