7-Day Great Migration Safari in Tanzania – Mara River Crossing Experience
Overview
Witness one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth with this 7-day Great Migration safari in Tanzania. Between July and October, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move across the Northern Serengeti in search of fresh grazing, culminating in the dramatic Mara River crossings.
This immersive safari journey begins in Arusha and continues through the Central and Northern Serengeti, where large predator populations and migrating herds create thrilling wildlife encounters. The adventure concludes with a visit to the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, often described as one of Africa’s greatest natural wonders.
Travel in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle accompanied by a professional guide, enjoy daily game drives, and stay in luxury tented camps positioned in prime wildlife locations. This safari is ideal for photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers seeking an unforgettable Great Migration experience.
BRIEF ITINERARY
Day 1 – Arrival in Arusha
Day 2 – Arusha to Central Serengeti
Day 3 – Full-Day Safari in Central Serengeti
Day 4 – Journey to Northern Serengeti
Day 5 – Mara River Migration Crossing
Day 6 – Northern Serengeti to Karatu
Day 7 – Ngorongoro Crater Safari & Return to Arusha
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1 – Arrival in Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport, where your safari guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Relax and enjoy a briefing about the upcoming adventure.
Accommodation: Green Side Hotel, Arusha (Bed & Breakfast)
Day 2 – Arusha to Central Serengeti
After breakfast, begin your journey toward the famous Central Serengeti (Seronera), a region known for its dense wildlife populations and resident big cats. Enjoy a game drive before arriving at your luxury tented camp.
Accommodation: Moyo Luxury Tented Camp – Central Serengeti
Meals: Full Board
Day 3 – Full-Day Safari in Central Serengeti
Spend the day exploring the Seronera Valley, renowned for lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Large herds often move through this area during migration periods. Enjoy a bush picnic before returning to camp for evening relaxation.
Accommodation: Moyo Luxury Tented Camp – Central Serengeti
Meals: Full Board
Day 4 – Journey to Northern Serengeti
Travel north toward the Mara River region, tracking the movement of migrating herds along the way. This area offers the best chances to observe animals gathering before attempting the river crossing.
Accommodation: Moyo Luxury Tented Camp – Northern Serengeti
Meals: Full Board
Day 5 – Mara River Migration Crossing
Spend a full day along the Mara River waiting for the dramatic migration crossings. Thousands of wildebeest may attempt the crossing at once while crocodiles and predators lie in wait—one of Africa’s most unforgettable wildlife spectacles.
Accommodation: Moyo Luxury Tented Camp – Northern Serengeti
Meals: Full Board
Day 6 – Northern Serengeti to Karatu
After a final morning game drive, depart the Serengeti and travel through the scenic Ngorongoro Highlands toward Karatu, passing Maasai villages and dramatic landscapes along the way.
Accommodation: Karatu Simba Lodge
Meals: Full Board
Day 7 – Ngorongoro Crater Safari & Return to Arusha
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a wildlife-rich volcanic caldera often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Spot rhinos, lions, elephants, and flamingos during a half-day game drive before returning to Arusha.
Your safari concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or the airport.
Included
6 nights accommodation in luxury lodges and tented camps
Private or small-group 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
Professional English-speaking safari guide
All national park and conservation fees
Daily game drives in Serengeti and Ngorongoro
Ngorongoro Crater descent permit
Bottled water during safari
All meals as per itinerary
Airport transfers in Arusha
Government taxes and VAT
Excluded
International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Tips for guides and lodge staff
Alcoholic drinks and personal expenses
Optional balloon safari or Zanzibar beach extension