Overview
Experience the thrilling Grumeti River crossings in Western Serengeti, one of the most dramatic chapters of the Great Wildebeest Migration. Between May and July, thousands of wildebeest gather along the Grumeti River, facing powerful currents and giant Nile crocodiles in a life-or-death crossing.
This carefully designed 6 Days Grumeti River Crossing Safari combines Western Serengeti, Central Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater for a complete Northern Tanzania wildlife adventure.
Best Time: May – July
Main Location: Western Serengeti (Grumeti Region)
Safari Type: Private Guided Migration Safari
Day by Day Itinerary
DAY 1 | Kilimanjaro Airport – Arusha City
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional safari guide and transferred to your hotel in Arusha.
Relax and prepare for the adventure ahead in Tanzania’s safari gateway city.
Accommodation: Lodge/Hotel in Arusha
Meals: Dinner (depending on arrival time)
DAY 2 | Arusha – Arusha Airport – Western Serengeti
After breakfast, transfer to Arusha Airport for your scheduled flight to Western Serengeti (Grumeti Region).
Upon arrival, begin your migration-focused game drive in one of the most dramatic wildlife areas in Tanzania. The Grumeti River is famous for large crocodiles and intense migration crossings during early migration season.
Enjoy an afternoon game drive before heading to your lodge or tented camp.
Game Viewing: 5–6 hours
Transport: Flight + 4WD Safari Vehicle
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Western Serengeti Lodge / Tented Camp
DAY 3 | Full-Day in Western Serengeti – Grumeti River Action
Spend a full day exploring the Western Serengeti migration corridor.
During Grumeti season, you may witness:
Massive wildebeest herds gathering at the riverbanks
Crocodile ambushes
Lions and hyenas following migration movements
Dramatic predator-prey interactions
This region also offers:
Riverine forests
Fewer crowds compared to Central Serengeti
Excellent photography opportunities
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush before continuing your afternoon safari.
Game Viewing: 6–8 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Western Serengeti Lodge / Tented Camp
DAY 4 | Western Serengeti – Central Serengeti
After breakfast, enjoy a morning game drive before heading toward Central Serengeti (Seronera region).
As you travel eastward, the landscape transitions into open plains known for year-round predator activity.
Central Serengeti is famous for:
Leopard sightings along riverbanks
Large lion prides
Cheetahs on open plains
Abundant resident wildlife
Arrive at your camp in time for an afternoon game drive.
Distance: Approx. 120–150 km
Game Viewing: 6–7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Serengeti Lodge / Tented Camp
DAY 5 | Central Serengeti – Ngorongoro Conservation Area
After breakfast, enjoy a final Serengeti morning game drive before departing for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Arrive at the crater rim in the afternoon and enjoy breathtaking views of the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater.
Relax at your lodge in preparation for the crater safari the following day.
Distance: Approx. 145 km
Game Viewing: 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge in Ngorongoro / Karatu
DAY 6 | Ngorongoro Crater – Kilimanjaro International Airport
After an early breakfast, descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife destinations.
The crater floor hosts:
The Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, black rhino)
Large hippo pools
Flamingos and diverse birdlife
Dense wildlife concentration
After your crater safari and picnic lunch, drive back to Kilimanjaro International Airport for departure.
Distance: Approx. 180 km
Game Viewing: 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch