GRAND NORTHERN CURCUIT & THE GREAT MIGRATION SAFARI 6 DAYS/5 NIGHTS

SEASONAL SPECIAL: Available strictly from July until the end of October.

The ultimate Tanzanian safari experience. This comprehensive 6-day itinerary covers the complete Northern Circuit, combining the huge elephant herds of Tarangire, the iconic big cat territory of Central Serengeti, two days at the Mara River in Northern Serengeti (Kogatende) to witness the Great Migration, and a grand finale inside the Ngorongoro Crater.

DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1: Arusha – Tarangire National Park – Karatu

Your safari journey starts with a morning pick-up from Arusha and a drive to Tarangire National Park, famous for its majestic baobab trees and giant elephant herds. Enjoy a full-day game drive along the Tarangire River, spotting elephants, lions, giraffes, and diverse bird species. In the late afternoon, head to your lodge in the lush hills of Karatu for dinner and relaxation.

Meals: Lunch (Picnic Box), Dinner
Overnight: Karatu area (e.g., Eileen's Trees Inn or similar)

DAY 2: Karatu – Central Serengeti National Park

After breakfast, travel through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area highlands into the gates of Serengeti National Park. Arrive in Central Serengeti (Seronera) by lunchtime. Spend the afternoon on an exciting game drive exploring the Seronera River Valley, known for abundant big cats and resident wildlife. As the sun sets, check into your safari camp for dinner and overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Picnic Box), Dinner
Overnight: Central Serengeti

DAY 3: Central Serengeti – Northern Serengeti (Kogatende)

Set off early in the morning, driving north towards the remote Kogatende sector. Enjoy game viewing along the way as the scenery transforms into riverine woodlands and granite kopjes. Arrive in the Mara River area by midday, followed by an afternoon game drive searching for the Great Migration herds gathering near the water's edge.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Picnic Box), Dinner
Overnight: Northern Serengeti / Kogatende (e.g., Africa Safari Kogatende, Heritage Mara River Camp, or similar)

DAY 4: Full Day Northern Serengeti – Mara River Crossings

Spend a full day along the banks of the iconic Mara River. Your driver-guide will track the movement of the massive wildebeest and zebra herds, positioning you at key crossing points. Witness the incredible suspense, dramatic plunges, and predator encounters as herds brave the river currents and Nile crocodiles. Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch in the wild surrounded by nature.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Picnic Box), Dinner
Overnight: Northern Serengeti / Kogatende

DAY 5: Northern Serengeti – Central Serengeti National Park

Enjoy a final morning game drive in Northern Serengeti before starting your return journey south to Central Serengeti. Spend the day traversing different ecosystems inside the park, maximizing your chances of spotting leopards, lions, and cheetahs. Check into your Central Serengeti camp by late afternoon for your final night under the African stars.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Picnic Box), Dinner
Overnight: Central Serengeti

DAY 6: Central Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha

Rise early for a early morning depart towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Descend 600 meters into the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater for an extraordinary game drive across the caldera floor. Spot the "Big Five" (including black rhinos), hippos, and flamingos. Following a picnic lunch near Lake Magadi, ascend the crater walls and begin your return drive to Arusha, arriving in the evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Picnic Box)

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

This grand itinerary includes 1 night in Karatu, 2 nights in Central Serengeti, and 2 nights in Northern Serengeti (Kogatende):

Option 1: Mid-Range (Authentic, comfortable safari lodges & tented camps)
Option 2: Luxury (Exclusive luxury safari lodges & migration camps)

PRICING & INCLUSIONS

Pricing depends on the number of guests, travel dates, and selected accommodation category (Mid-Range or Luxury). Exact rates are provided upon request.

Included in the price:

Private transport in a customized 4x4 Safari Land Cruiser with pop-up roof for optimal game viewing
Professional, licensed English-speaking safari driver/guide
Round-trip transfers from/to Arusha
5 nights accommodation in chosen category
All national park entry fees (Tarangire, Serengeti North & Central, Ngorongoro)
Ngorongoro Crater service permit/vehicle fee
Transit fees through Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Meals as specified in the itinerary
Mineral drinking water inside the vehicle throughout the safari