The Ndutu plains is an located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, on the outskirts of the Southern Serengeti plains. These plains are enriched with tremendous acacia trees, providing a panoramic view across Lake Ndutu and Masek at the other end. It is one of the best places in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to spot predators and enjoy the stunning landscapes. Standing here means you're in the midst of a calving ground for migratory wild animals, specifically the wildebeest migration. It is typically composed of vast swaths of short grassland, soda-lake Masek, marshes, and woodland vegetation that support both residents and migratory animals.

In 1973, the shores of Lake Ndutu were the location of an archaeological excavation site about 140 square metres that led to the discovery of the Ndutu cranium along with several remains of tools from over 500, 000 years ago.

Ndutu area forms an important part of the Serengeti ecosystem, in particular the short grass plains which provide calving grounds for wildebeest and other migratory animals, usually taking place between January and March. "This is their home pastureland, the only place of any protracted residence".

The Best of Ndutu Plains

While Ndutu is an excellent game viewing area throughout the year, the best time to visit the Ndutu plains is from the end of December, when the Great Migration herds begin to arrive from the north, until April, when millions of wildebeest, gazelles, and zebras begin their journey northwards again. Due to the seasonal rains, massive herds of wildebeest and zebra can be seen all over these plains at this time of year. 

Thousands of calves are born within Ndutu during the calving season, making Ndutu a home for new creatures on Earth. Giraffe, impala, elephant, dik dik, lion, cheetah, leopard, hyena, bat-eared fox, genet, jackal, wildcat, and many other animals end up living in Ndutu. The plains, marshes, and lakes to woodland attract an abundance of bird species.