8 Days Great Migration Safari – Mara River Crossing
From $2,730
Tour Overview
Experience the unforgettable 8 Days Great Migration Safari in Tanzania and witness the dramatic Mara River crossing. This safari takes you through Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater – offering you the chance to see the Big Five and millions of wildebeests and zebras crossing the river while escaping hungry crocodiles. With expert guides, amazing game drives, and cozy lodges or camps, this tour is perfect for wildlife lovers. Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in the Serengeti!
Itinerary summary
- Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – Welcome to Tanzania
- Day 2: Arusha – Tarangire National Park
- Day 3: Tarangire – Central Serengeti
- Day 4: Central Serengeti – Northern Serengeti
- Day 5: Northern Serengeti – Mara River Action
- Day 6: Northern Serengeti – Central Serengeti
- Day 7: Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater
- Day 8: Ngorongoro – Arusha – Departure

Who Should Take the 8 Days Great Migration Safari – Mara River Crossing?
This safari is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and adventure seekers who want to witness one of the world’s most amazing animal events – the Great Migration. If you dream of seeing thousands of wildebeests and zebras crossing the dangerous Mara River while escaping crocodiles, then this safari is for you. It’s also ideal for honeymooners, families, and anyone looking for a deep connection with nature. Whether it’s your first time in Africa or you’re returning for more, this 8-day experience will stay in your heart forever.
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 – Central Serengeti
After breakfast, enjoy a slow drive back to Central Serengeti. You’ll have another chance to see big cats, elephants, and maybe a leopard relaxing on a tree.
Overnight: Into the Wild Africa Tented Camp or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Day 7: Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater (3 hrs drive + game drive)
Early morning game drive, then head to Ngorongoro. In the afternoon, descend into the Crater for a breathtaking safari experience. This place is home to black rhinos, lions, and flamingos.
Overnight: Rhino Lodge or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Ngorongoro – Arusha – Departure (4 hrs drive, 190 km)
After breakfast, drive back to Arusha. Depending on your flight time, you may enjoy a short city tour or local market visit before drop-off at the airport.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
PRICE FOR 8 Days Great Migration Safari – Mara River Crossing
Prices (quoted in USD/per person)
2 People | 3 People | 4 People | 5 People | 6 People |
---|---|---|---|---|
$3,750 USD | $3,420 USD | $2,990 USD | $2,870 USD | $2,730 |
Included
- All park entrance fees (Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro)
- Full-board accommodation during the safari (7 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.
What Other Say About Us
EXCELLENT Based on 57 reviews Swabra O2025-04-25Verified Kilimanjaro & Safari magic We were a group of 4 friends and had the most amazing trip with this company! First, we did the 8 Days Lemosho Route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It was challenging, but so beautiful and well-organized. The guides and porters were friendly, patient, and always took care of us. Reaching the summit together was the best moment of our lives!After the climb, we went on a 5 Days Tanzania Safari and wow! We saw the Big Five, watched the sunset in the Serengeti, and enjoyed every minute. The lodges were clean and comfortable, and the food was delicious. Our safari guide made the trip even better with his knowledge and fun personality.Thank you so much for giving us memories that we’ll keep forever. We highly recommend this to anyone looking for a true African adventure! Hawa M2025-04-13Verified A safari to Remember Forever I had the most incredible experience on the Serengeti Migration Safari. From the moment the journey began, everything was thoughtfully arranged and professionally handled. The staff were warm, knowledgeable, and always attentive to our comfort and safety.The 4x4 safari vehicle was spacious, clean, and perfectly suited for game drives — with large windows and a pop-up roof that made animal viewing effortless and exciting. We were lucky to witness thousands of wildebeest crossing the plains, a truly breathtaking moment that I’ll never forget.Our guide was not only friendly but also deeply knowledgeable about wildlife behavior, the ecosystem, and the Great Migration. He shared fascinating insights that made the trip educational as well as inspiring.The accommodations were clean and comfortable, and the meals exceeded expectations — fresh, delicious, and served with genuine hospitality.This was more than just a trip; it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that connected me to nature in the most beautiful way. Highly recommended for anyone looking to experience Africa’s magic in a safe and professional setting. Tumpe K2025-04-10Verified A Journey of love and Altitude As a couple, climbing Kilimanjaro together was a personal dream, and Bush Lion Tours made that dream feel safe, exciting, and deeply meaningful. We took the 7-day Machame Route, and every single day brought us closer not just to the summit, but to each other. The trail challenged us in new ways, but the support from the team made it feel possible. Our guide was patient and kind, always checking on us and explaining what to expect each day. The gear provided; tents, sleeping bags, mats was clean, warm, and reliable, even on the coldest nights.What made the experience so special was the energy of the whole team. The porters, cook, and guides felt like family. They cheered us on, made us laugh, and even surprised us with a celebration song after reaching the summit. We’ll never forget sharing tea at Shira Camp under the stars, or watching the sunrise hand in hand at Uhuru Peak. It wasn’t just about climbing a mountain it was about sharing something powerful and emotional. Thank you, Bush Lion Tours, for making this journey the highlight of our lives. Magreth G2025-04-07Verified A Family Adventure to the Top of Kilimanjaro We traveled as a family with Bush Lion Tours on the Machame route, and it was an adventure we'll always cherish. Jackson and his team ensured that the climb was safe and enjoyable for everyone, including our kids. The guides were friendly, knowledgeable, and extremely patient with us. They made sure we took breaks when needed and even shared stories about the mountain’s history. The whole experience exceeded our expectations, and we will forever be grateful for Jackson’s leadership and the amazing service. Janny G2025-04-06Verified Fantastic Lemosho Route Climb Bush Lion Tours made my Kilimanjaro dream come true! The Lemosho Route was quiet, scenic, and full of adventure. Great food, friendly porters, and expert guides. 10/10! Caroline S2025-04-02Verified Amazing Experience with Bush Lion Tours We had an incredible time with Bush Lion Tours! Jackson was very helpful from the start, and he organized everything perfectly for us. He made sure we had all the details in place, and his communication was always clear and fast.The whole experience, from the 7-day Machame route trek to the 4-day safari, was unforgettable. The team was so friendly and professional. They took care of everything, ensuring we were always safe, comfortable, and well-informed. The guides were amazing, always there to support us and share their knowledge. Thanks to them, we felt confident and enjoyed every moment of our adventure.We highly recommend Bush Lion Tours! Jackson and his team made this trip unforgettable, and we are so grateful for their excellent service. If you're looking for a well-organized and memorable trip, don’t hesitate to book with them! Yǔ tóng L2025-03-31Verified Amazing 8-Day Lemosho Route and 6-Day Safari with Bush Lion Tours I had an unforgettable experience with Bush Lion Tours! We contacted Jackson, who helped us organize an amazing trip. He was very helpful and made sure everything was well planned for us.The 8-day Lemosho route trek was incredible! The views were breathtaking, and the guides were professional and friendly. They made sure we were comfortable and safe throughout the hike. We reached the summit of Kilimanjaro with their great support!After the trek, we went on a 6-day safari, and it was just as amazing! We saw so many animals up close, and the guides were knowledgeable and passionate about wildlife. The accommodations were excellent, and we felt very well taken care of.Thank you, Jackson and Bush Lion Tours, for making this trip so special! Highly recommend this company for anyone planning a safari or Kilimanjaro trek! Bianca M2025-03-05Verified Unforgettable Safari Experience This was the best safari experience ever! I reached out to Jackson regarding our trip as we were a group of 4. Initially, we were deciding between the 7-day Machame route or the 8-day Lemosho route, with an additional 4-day private safari. With Jackson’s expert guidance, we decided to go for the 8-day Lemosho route combined with the safari, and everything turned out to be perfect. From the pickup, to the service, and the hotels, every detail was handled beautifully. I highly recommend this company for an unforgettable experience. Farzaneh R2025-02-08Verified Safari and climbing mount Kilimanjaro I must say that every thing was great. We climbed mount Kilimanjaro and had a two days Safari. The food was great during climbing and team members specially main guides, Mohammad, Yahya and Luma were so friendly and kind. Also we were in touch with Jacson all the time and he handled our requests even helped us rearranging some of our plans. I am so greatful for having such a great experience with this amazing team. 宇威 顾2025-02-04Verified Mount adventure I was soloing going to Tanzania for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, I contacted with Jackson, he showed every details for the route and pricing, it is all clear. And the whole team is great during the climbing period. Thanks a lot for making a n amazing adventure, I successfully get to the summit with the team.Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more