Overview
Experience one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth — the Great Migration Mara River crossing — on this unforgettable 8-day Tanzania safari. This carefully designed itinerary takes you from Tarangire’s elephant plains to Central Serengeti, and finally to the dramatic Mara River in Northern Serengeti, where thousands of wildebeest and zebras risk their lives crossing crocodile-filled waters.
This safari offers extended time in Serengeti for maximum migration viewing opportunities.
Destinations: Tarangire • Central Serengeti • Northern Serengeti • Ngorongoro Crater • Lake Manyara
Best Time: July – October (Mara River Crossing Season)
Safari Style: Private Guided Safari
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha — Welcome to Tanzania
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your safari representative and transferred to your lodge in Arusha.
Relax and prepare for the adventure ahead as you enjoy the comfort of your lodge in Tanzania’s safari gateway city.
Accommodation: Lodge in Arusha
Meals: Dinner (depending on arrival time)
Day 2: Arusha → Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, depart for Tarangire National Park, known for its massive elephant herds and iconic baobab trees.
Enjoy a full-day game drive along the Tarangire River, spotting elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and diverse birdlife. Tarangire offers classic African safari scenery and fewer crowds compared to other parks.
In the late afternoon, drive to Karatu for overnight stay.
Distance: Approx. 120 km
Game Viewing: 6–7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Karatu → Central Serengeti
After breakfast, travel through the scenic Ngorongoro highlands before descending into the vast plains of Central Serengeti (Seronera region).
Enjoy a game drive en route as wildlife sightings begin immediately upon entering the park. Central Serengeti is famous for year-round wildlife and strong predator presence.
Arrive at your camp in time for an afternoon game drive.
Distance: Approx. 240 km
Game Viewing: 6–7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Central Serengeti → Northern Serengeti
Today you travel north toward the legendary Northern Serengeti, home to the dramatic Mara River crossings.
As you journey through the Serengeti ecosystem, enjoy wildlife viewing along the way. The landscape gradually changes to rolling hills and riverine forests near the Mara River.
Arrive in Northern Serengeti and prepare for migration action.
Distance: Approx. 100–150 km
Game Viewing: 6–7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Northern Serengeti – Mara River Crossings
Spend a full day in Northern Serengeti, focusing on the Mara River crossing points.
Witness one of nature’s most dramatic spectacles as thousands of wildebeest and zebras gather at the riverbanks before making the dangerous crossing through crocodile-infested waters.
This is the highlight of the Great Migration safari — raw, emotional, and unforgettable.
Besides migration herds, Northern Serengeti also offers:
Large lion prides
Leopards along riverbanks
Elephants and buffalo
Stunning open landscapes
Game Viewing: 6–8 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Northern Serengeti → Central Serengeti
After breakfast, enjoy a morning game drive before returning to Central Serengeti.
This return journey offers additional wildlife sightings and opportunities to encounter predators following migration herds.
Arrive in Central Serengeti for dinner and overnight.
Distance: Approx. 150 km
Game Viewing: 6–7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Serengeti → Ngorongoro Crater – Overnight in Karatu
After breakfast, enjoy a final morning game drive in Serengeti before heading toward the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater.
Descend 600 meters into the crater floor for a spectacular safari experience. The crater supports a high concentration of wildlife including the Big Five.
After the crater tour, ascend and drive to Karatu for overnight stay.
Distance: Approx. 145 km
Game Viewing: 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8: Lake Manyara National Park or Cultural Experience – Departure
On your final day, choose between:
Option 1: Lake Manyara National Park
Explore this scenic park known for:
Tree-climbing lions
Flamingos
Groundwater forests
Rift Valley escarpment views
Option 2: Cultural Experience
Visit a local Maasai village or explore Mto wa Mbu cultural village to learn about Tanzania’s diverse communities and traditions.
After the activity, return to Arusha for airport drop-off.
Distance: Approx. 120–130 km
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
What's Included & Not Included
What's Included
- Accommodation in selected lodges/camps
- All park entrance and conservation fees
- Professional safari guide and driver
- All meals as per itinerary
- Transportation in safari vehicle
- Drinking water throughout the safari
What's Not Included
- International flights to/from Tanzania
- Personal travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities for guides and staff
- Tanzania visa fees
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Personal expenses and souvenirs