8 Days Great Migration Safari Mara River Crossing

Overview

This 8-day safari is designed for wildlife enthusiasts eager to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, including the dramatic Mara River crossings. From the elephants of Tarangire, across the endless plains of the Serengeti, to the Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara, this journey combines iconic wildlife encounters with luxurious lodges and tented camps.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at JRO – Urban View Hotel

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you'll be met by your driver-guide and transferred to Urban View Hotel in Arusha. The remainder of the day is at leisure to rest and prepare for your safari adventure.

Overnight at Urban View Hotel.

  • Urban View Hotel

  • Arusha

Day 2: Tarangire National Park – Hhando Coffee Lodge

Drive to Tarangire National Park, famous for its elephant herds and majestic baobab trees. Enjoy an afternoon game drive with opportunities to spot lions, giraffes, zebras, and diverse bird species.

Overnight at Hhando Coffee Lodge.

  • Hhando Coffee Lodge.

  • Karatu

Day 3: Serengeti National Park – Kontik Camp

Travel to the Serengeti, the iconic home of the Great Wildebeest Migration. Enjoy an afternoon game drive in the Seronera Valley, renowned for big cats and abundant wildlife.

Check in at Kontik Camp for dinner and overnight.

  • Kontik Camp

  • Serengeti

Day 4: Northern Serengeti – Kontik Kogatende Camp

Head north to the Northern Serengeti, where the Mara River crossings take place. Spend the day tracking herds and positioning yourself to witness this spectacular natural event.

Overnight at Kontik Kogatende Camp, perfectly located to follow the migration.

  • Kontik Camp

  • Serengeti

Day 5: Serengeti – Kontik Serengeti Camp

Drive back south into the Serengeti, enjoying game drives en route. The central Serengeti offers excellent wildlife viewing, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, and large herds of wildebeest and zebras.

Return to Kontik Serengeti Camp for dinner and overnight.

  • Kontik Serengeti Camp

  • Serengeti

Day 6: Ngorongoro Conservation Area – Farm of Dreams Lodge

After breakfast, journey to the Ngorongoro Crater. Descend into the crater for a game drive on the floor, spotting elephants, buffalo, hippos, lions, and the rare black rhino.

Overnight at Farm of Dreams Lodge, set near the crater rim.

  • Farm of Dreams Lodge

  • Arusha

Day 7: Lake Manyara National Park – Gold Crest Hotel

Visit Lake Manyara National Park, known for its tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and diverse birdlife. Enjoy a morning game drive before transferring to Gold Crest Hotel in Arusha.

Dinner and overnight at Gold Crest Hotel.

  • Gold Crest Hotel.

  • Arusha

Day 8: Transfer from Arusha to JRO

After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your onward flight, marking the end of your incredible migration safari.

Include

  • Full board accommodation as specified on safari.

  • 4wd Land cruiser vehicle with pop-up roof.

  • Well-trained driver-guide.

  • Full board meals whilst on safari

  • All the national park fees as per itinerary.

  • All meals whilst on safari.

  • Mineral water.

Exclude

  • Airfares airport taxes and fees

  • Laundry.

  • Entry visas and vaccinations.

  • Personal items.

  • Tips and gratuities.

  • Travel Insurance.

  • Optional tour.

  • Guide tips and any items of personal nature.

Plan Your Trip

Your adventure begins here. Please fill in the Plan Your Trip form  and let us create a personalized safari experience just for you — crafted with care, passion, and the true spirit of Africa.