) to insert bird names in your own language. The birdnames will automatically be translated for other users!
Upload images
Allowed image types are jpeg,png,gif
Max file size is 20MB
Description
Ndutu is straddling the border between the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the southern Serengeti National Park. Ndutu is not a national park in its own right but forms part of the larger Serengeti ecosystem. The area is a premier birding destination in Tanzania, boasting over 400 recorded bird species thanks to its intersection of shallow alkaline lakes, acacia woodlands, and short-grass open plains.
Top Birding Locations in Ndutu:
Lake Ndutu (1) and Lake Masek (2): These shallow soda lakes are hotspots for Lesser Flamingo and Greater Flamingo, as well as other waterbirds like Great White Pelican, Gull-billed Tern, herons, and various shorebirds.
Acacia woodlands: The trees surrounding the lakes and Ndutu Safari Lodge are home to vibrant species such as Fischer's Lovebird, Lilac-breasted Roller, and Superb Starling. Open plains and marshes: These areas provide habitat for larger ground birds like the Kori Bustard, Secretarybird, Common Ostrich and Grey Crowned Crane, along with an amazing amount of raptors. These include impressive birds like Lappet-faced Vulture, Rüppell's Griffon, Bateleur, Martial Eagle, Tawny Eagle and Verreaux's Eagle-Owl.
Details
Access
The Ndutu area is located approximately 260–300 km west of Arusha. It is roughly a 1-hour drive from the Ngorongoro Crater and about 2–3 hours from Central Serengeti (Seronera).
You can reach Ndutu from Arusha, the main gateway for safaris in Northern Tanzania, in two ways:
By Road (Scenic Route): Duration: Typically 5 to 7 hours depending on road conditions and wildlife stops. Route: Travelers drive from Arusha through the towns of Mto wa Mbu and Karatu, then enter the Ngorongoro Conservation Area at the Loduare Gate. Vehicle: A 4x4 safari vehicle is essential due to rough, unpaved terrain and off-road driving in the Ndutu area.
By Air (Fastest Option): Duration: Approximately 45 to 60 minutes. Airstrip: Flights land at Ndutu Airstrip (NDT), which is located just 1 km from major lodges like Ndutu Safari Lodge. Airlines: Scheduled services are provided by regional carriers such as Coastal Aviation, Regional Air, Air Excel, and Flightlink.
Terrain and Habitat
Forest , Wetland , Plain , Steppe , Scattered trees and bushes , Grassland , LakeConditions
Flat , Hilly , Dry , Wet , Sandy , Open landscapeCircular trail
NoIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Spring , WinterRoute
Unpaved roadDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
CarBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
Best time to visit is the migratory peak (November – April): This is the absolute best period as Palearctic and intra-African migrants arrive. Breeding Season (November – December): The short rains trigger many species to display their vibrant breeding plumage. Calving Season (January – March): Offers high wildlife density, though vehicle traffic is higher during this period. Unlike many parts of the Serengeti, guided nature walks are permitted in Ndutu, allowing for a more intimate birding experience. Vehicles are allowed to go off-track in certain areas of Ndutu, making it easier to follow and photograph elusive species.