9 Days Migration safari

Starting the Migration

During May, they spread out heading to the western part of Serengeti National Park. In June, they spread out heading further west to the Grumeti river which is a channel of pools where they congregate and blocked on their trip towards the northern part. This is where the crocodiles of the Grumeti River get their feast. Each migrating animal must face the challenge of crossing the crocodile- infested river. As June moves into July, the hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebra accompanied by antelopes continue to head north along the western edge of the Serengeti toward the Mara River in the north of the Serengeti. These river crossings are arguably one of the most famous wildlife events on Earth.

During late July and August, the migration  moves  far north of Serengeti National Park known as Kogatende passing through the central part of Serengeti and Grumeti reserve. Arriving on the north Serengeti, this is where the spectacular crossing happens at the mara river which goes through until September. The migration arrives at the Mara River in groups of thousands where they gather and cross. A huge number of adults and calves are lost to crocodile and predators attacks, drowned or crushed by the herd and many of the young ones are separated from their mothers.

During October, the herds move on the far north to the Masai Mara reserve.  During November, the herds move towards the south following the short grass plains through eastern part of Serengeti and this is where the migration pattern begin.

Itinerary Summary

This 9-day safari offers the ultimate Great Migration experience through Tanzania’s best national parks—Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater. You’ll witness dramatic wildlife scenes, follow migrating herds, explore diverse landscapes, and enjoy cultural highlights along the way. With multiple nights in Serengeti and a relaxed pace, it’s the perfect in-depth safari for nature enthusiasts.

Destinations: Arusha, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Central Serengeti, Northern Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater

Full Itinerary Overview

Migration safari in Tanzania focuses on the Great Wildebeest Migration, specifically in the Serengeti ecosystem. The safari typically involves game drives to observe the vast herds of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle, along with other wildlife, and potentially witnessing the dramatic river crossings or calving season. The exact location within the Serengeti and the specific experiences will depend on the time of year and the current location of the migration.

DAY 1 : Arrival in Arusha

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport. Meet your guide and transfer to your lodge in Arusha. Relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Overnight: Lodge in Arusha
Meal Plan: Dinner

DAY 2 : Arusha – Lake Manyara National Park

Depart for Lake Manyara, a beautiful park famous for flamingos, groundwater forests, and tree-climbing lions. Enjoy a game drive, then overnight in the nearby town of Karatu.
Overnight: Lodge in Karatu
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 3 : Karatu – Central Serengeti

After breakfast, journey into the Serengeti via the Ngorongoro Highlands. Game viewing en route as you reach Central Serengeti, a prime area for big cats and wildlife action.
Overnight: Central Serengeti Camp/Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4 : Full Day Game Drive in Central Serengeti

Spend the day exploring Central Serengeti’s diverse landscapes and resident wildlife. This area is excellent for spotting lions, cheetahs, and other predators.
Overnight: Central Serengeti Camp/Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5 : Central Serengeti – Northern Serengeti

Drive or fly to the Northern Serengeti (or Ndutu during the calving season). This is the best location for seeing the migration in full motion, especially around the Mara River.
Overnight: Northern Serengeti Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6 : Full-Day Migration Safari in Northern Serengeti

Track large herds of wildebeest and zebras as they navigate river crossings or graze across endless plains. Watch for predators lurking nearby.
Overnight: Northern Serengeti Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 : Northern Serengeti – Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Enjoy a final Serengeti morning game drive, then drive toward Ngorongoro with scenic stops along the way. Arrive in the evening and relax at your lodge.
Overnight: Lodge near Ngorongoro Crater
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 : Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive – Tarangire National Park

Descend early into the Ngorongoro Crater for game viewing. After lunch, drive to Tarangire National Park and settle in for your final safari overnight.
Overnight: Lodge near Tarangire
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 : Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive – Tarangire National Park

Enjoy a final morning game drive in Tarangire, home to massive elephant herds and ancient baobabs. Later, return to Arusha for your outbound flight.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

In nine unforgettable days, travel from Lake Manyara’s forests to the vast Serengeti plains and witness the Great Migration in motion. End with game drives in Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire, where nature’s drama continues among ancient landscapes and towering elephants.


INCLUDED

NOT INCLUDED

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