7 Days Great Migration Safari – Mara River Crossing
From $2,389
Tour Overview
This 7 Days Great Migration Safari – Mara River Crossing is the ultimate wildlife adventure in Tanzania. It is perfectly timed to witness the world-famous wildebeest crossing the Mara River, a breathtaking moment during the Great Migration. Starting from Tarangire, continuing through Central and Northern Serengeti, then to the Ngorongoro Crater, this tour gives you a full wildlife experience with diverse landscapes, Big 5 sightings, and dramatic migration action. This safari includes an arrival day and is ideal for travelers who want a well-paced journey with comfortable lodges, local guides, and unforgettable views.
Itinerary summary
- Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – Welcome to Tanzania
- Day 2: Arusha – Tarangire National Park – Karatu
- Day 3: Tarangire – Central Serengeti (via Ngorongoro)
- Day 4: Central Serengeti – Northern Serengeti
- Day 5: Northern Serengeti – Mara River Action
- Day 6: Northern Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater Rim
- Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater Tour – Return to Arusha
Who Should Take the 7 Days Great Migration Safari – Mara River Crossing?
This safari is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife photographers, couples, and families who want to experience the Great Migration at its peak. If you dream of seeing thousands of wildebeest and zebras jump into the Mara River while avoiding crocodiles, this trip is for you. It also suits travelers who prefer a private or small group experience with quality accommodation and expert local guides.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – Welcome to Tanzania
You will arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport. Our driver will meet you and take you to your hotel in Arusha. Relax and prepare for your safari adventure.
Overnight: Planet Lodge Arusha or similar (Mid-range)
Meals: Bed & Breakfast
Day 2: Arusha – Tarangire National Park (2 hrs drive, 120 km)
After breakfast, drive to Tarangire National Park, famous for large elephant herds and giant baobab trees. Enjoy a full-day game drive and see lions, giraffes, zebras, and more.
Overnight: Bougainvillea Safari Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Tarangire – Central Serengeti (6 hrs drive, 320 km)
Drive to Serengeti National Park through Ngorongoro Highlands. Enjoy a game drive on the way and see the endless plains filled with wildlife.
Overnight: Into the Wild Africa Tented Camp or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Central Serengeti – Northern Serengeti (4-5 hrs game drive en route)
Start the day with a morning game drive as you head towards the northern part of Serengeti the best place to witness the Great Migration and the Mara River crossing.
Overnight: Baobab Mara Luxury Camp or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Northern Serengeti – Mara River Action
Full-day game drive near the Mara River. Watch as thousands of wildebeests and zebras gather at the riverbank, preparing to cross. Crocodiles lie in wait – it’s nature at its rawest.
Overnight: Baobab Mara Luxury Camp or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Northern Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater Rim (7 hrs drive + game drive)
After breakfast, begin your journey south with game viewing on the way. You’ll arrive at the Ngorongoro Crater rim in the late afternoon, ready for tomorrow’s crater tour.
Overnight: Rhino Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater Tour – Return to Arusha or Airport Transfer
Start your day with an early descent into the Ngorongoro Crater for a memorable game drive in search of the Big 5. After the safari, drive back to Arusha with a lunch stop on the way. You can choose to stay overnight in Arusha or go directly to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
Please make sure your departure flight is scheduled for 8:00 PM or later.
Accommodation: Optional stay in Arusha or direct airport transfer
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
PRICE FOR 7 Days Great Migration Safari – Mara River Crossing
Prices (quoted in USD/per person)
2 People | 3 People | 4 People | 5 People | 6 People |
|---|---|---|---|---|
$3,282 USD | $2,993 USD | $2,617 USD | $2,512 USD | $2,389 |
Included
- All park entrance fees (Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro)
- Full-board accommodation during the safari (6 nights)
- Transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Professional English-speaking safari guide/driver
- Unlimited game drives during safari
- All government taxes and service charges
- Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
- Bottled drinking water during the safari
- Crater service fee for Ngorongoro
- Pick up and drop off at your Arusha hotel
Not Included
- International flights to and from Tanzania
- Visa fees for Tanzania
- Tips for the guide and lodge staff (recommended)
- Personal travel insurance
- Alcoholic and soft drinks at lodges/camps
- Optional activities (like hot air balloon safari)
- Personal items (laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
Payment Terms
Deposit Payment
- Deposit is 20% of the total booking amount.
- Deposit can be paid either via a bank transfer or an online card payment.
- A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charges), this is non-refundable.
- We offer bank accounts in 10 different currencies for bank transfer.
- Once you make the advance payment you will receive a booking confirmation.
Balance Payment
- Balance can be paid via bank transfer, online card payment, or with cash.
- Bank payment can be done 15 days prior to the tour date (recommended 30 days prior).
- Card Payment can be done 1 day prior to the tour date (recommended 7 days prior).
- A 5% fee is applicable on all card payments (payment gateway charge), this is non-refundable.
- Cash can be paid on arrival (USD printed in or after the year 2009).
Cancellation Policy
8 days and above departure
- No cancellation fees.
0 to 7 days before departure
- 50% of the total tour price will be charged as cancellation fees.
- The 5% surcharge paid for either or both advance and balance payments is non-refundable in case of cancellation of the trek.
