THE GREAT MIGRATION & MARA RIVER CROSSING: 5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS

SEASONAL SPECIAL: Available strictly from July to October.

Witness nature's most dramatic wildlife spectacle: the legendary Great Migration River Crossings at the Mara River. Every year between July and October, millions of wildebeest and zebras move into the northern Serengeti (Kogatende sector), braving crocodile-infested waters and swift currents to reach the lush grazing grounds of the Maasai Mara in Kenya.

This comprehensive 5-day overland itinerary is designed to bring you to the heart of the action in the North, while balancing travel distances with stops in Central Serengeti and the UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Crater.

 

DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1: Arusha – Central Serengeti National Park

Your safari adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from Arusha, traveling through the highlands of Ngorongoro into the vast plains of the Serengeti. Arrive in Central Serengeti (Seronera) by early afternoon for your first game drive, exploring prime big cat country along the Seronera River Valley. Check into your camp for dinner and overnight stay.

  • Meals: Lunch (Picnic Box), Dinner
  • Overnight: Central Serengeti (e.g., Serengeti Heritage Luxury Camp or similar)

DAY 2: Central Serengeti – Northern Serengeti (Kogatende / Mara River)

After breakfast, set off on a scenic game-viewing drive heading north towards the Kogatende region. As you travel from Central to Northern Serengeti, watch the landscape change into rolling hills and riverine woodlands. Arrive in the Mara River area by afternoon for your first opportunity to scout for Great Migration herds congregating near the riverbanks.

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

DAY 3: Full Day Northern Serengeti – Tracking Mara River Crossings

Dedicate a full day to exploring the Kogatende area and the banks of the Mara River. Your experienced driver-guide will position your 4x4 near key crossing points, monitoring herd behavior. Experience the suspense as thousands of wildebeest hesitate at the river's edge before plunging into the water, dodging giant Nile crocodiles. Enjoy a packed picnic lunch in the wild surrounded by vast herds before returning to camp for dinner.

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

DAY 4: Northern Serengeti Morning Game Drive – Central Serengeti

Enjoy a final morning game drive in Northern Serengeti to soak in the dramatic wilderness. Around mid-day, begin your journey back south towards Central Serengeti, enjoying game viewing along the way. Check into your Central Serengeti camp by late afternoon for a relaxing evening and dinner under the stars.

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

DAY 5: Central Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha

Rise very early for a morning departure from Central Serengeti towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Descend 600 meters into the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater for a breathtaking game drive inside this natural wonder. Spot the "Big Five" (including endangered black rhinos), hippos, and flamingo-lined soda lakes. Following a scenic picnic lunch on the crater floor, ascend the crater walls and begin your return drive to Arusha, arriving in the evening.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Picnic Box)

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

This high-season itinerary includes 2 nights in Central Serengeti and 2 nights in Northern Serengeti (Kogatende):

  • Option 1: Mid-Range (Comfortable fixed and seasonal tented safari camps near the action)
  • Option 2: Luxury (Exclusive luxury migration camps & high-end safari lodges)

PRICING & INCLUSIONS

Pricing depends on the number of guests, exact travel dates, and selected accommodation category (Mid-Range or Luxury). Exact rates are provided upon request. Note: River crossings are natural events and herd movements depend on rain and seasonal conditions.

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
  • 4 nights accommodation in chosen category (2 nights Central Serengeti, 2 nights Kogatende)
  • All national park entry fees (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

Not included in the price:

  • International and domestic flights (Optional bush flights Arusha–Kogatende available upon request)
  • Tanzania entry visa
  • Accommodation in Arusha prior to or after the safari
  • Gratuities / tips for the safari guide and lodge staff
  • Beverages at the lodges
  • Personal travel insurance and personal expenses