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5 Days Serengeti Migration Safari – Mara River Crossing

From $1,700/person

Trip Overview

This 5 Days Serengeti Migration Safari takes you on a thrilling journey to witness one of the world’s most incredible wildlife spectacles — the Great Migration at the Mara River. You will explore both the central and northern parts of Serengeti, where thousands of wildebeests and zebras attempt the dangerous river crossing while predators lie in wait. This unforgettable adventure also includes a visit to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater for a chance to spot the Big Five.

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 0: Arrival in Arusha

You will be welcomed at Kilimanjaro International Airport by our professional driver-guide holding a signboard with your name. From here, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Take your time to relax after your international flight and enjoy dinner at the lodge.

Day 1: Arusha to Central Serengeti (Seronera Valley)

After breakfast, your safari adventure begins with a scenic drive or flight to the heart of the Serengeti — Seronera Valley. This region is well-known for its rich wildlife and iconic landscapes of open plains dotted with acacia trees and granite kopjes.

As you enter the park, you’ll begin your first game drive. Keep your eyes open for:

  • Herds of wildebeests and zebras

  • Lazy lions basking on rocks

  • Leopards resting in sausage trees

  • Giraffes, elephants, and more

After a thrilling afternoon game drive, you’ll head to your lodge or tented camp in central Serengeti for dinner and overnight.

Day 2: Central Serengeti to Northern Serengeti (Kogatende Area)

Today after breakfast, enjoy a slow game drive as you head north toward the Mara River region, where the Great Migration is in full action during this season. This area is the main stage for dramatic river crossings.

As you drive through various zones of Serengeti, you’ll pass through beautiful savannahs and woodlands. Along the way, expect to see:

  • Hunting cheetahs and hyenas

  • Massive elephant families

  • Colorful bird species

Arrive at your camp near the Mara River in time for an afternoon game drive before settling in for dinner and a peaceful night in the wilderness.

Day 3: Full Day Game Drives in Northern Serengeti (Mara River Crossing)

This day is fully dedicated to exploring the northern Serengeti, especially around the Mara River. You’ll spend the day watching thousands of wildebeests gather along the riverbank — hesitant, yet determined to cross. This is nature at its rawest.

With patience and luck, you may witness:

  • The dramatic river crossing as wildebeests jump into crocodile-infested waters

  • Lions and leopards waiting in ambush

  • Scavengers like vultures circling overhead

You will enjoy both morning and afternoon game drives and return to camp for meals and overnight.

Day 4: Northern Serengeti to Central Serengeti

After breakfast, begin your journey back to the central Serengeti, continuing your wildlife search along the way. This part of the park offers a different landscape and is ideal for seeing resident animals that don’t follow the migration — such as:

  • Hippos in pools

  • Resident lion prides

  • Ostriches and warthogs

Arrive at your lodge in the late afternoon for dinner and rest.

Day 5: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Highlands

On your last day, wake up early for a sunrise game drive in central Serengeti. After breakfast, begin your journey to Ngorongoro Conservation Area with a game drive en route.

You will descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the world’s largest unbroken calderas and a haven for wildlife. Enjoy a game drive on the crater floor and look out for:

  • Black rhinos grazing

  • Large groups of buffalo and elephants

  • Flamingos on the lake

  • Lions resting near the road

After your picnic lunch in the crater, drive back toward Arusha in the late afternoon, marking the end of your unforgettable 5-day Serengeti Migration Safari.

Price for 5 Days Serengeti Migration Safari – Mara River Crossing

Prices (quoted in USD/per person)

1 Pax 2 Pax 3 Pax 4 Pax 5 Pax 6 Pax
$3,150 USD $2,250 USD $2,075 USD $1,825 USD $1,750 USD $1,700 USD

🦁 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

🧳 Before Safari

What should I pack for my safari?

Bring light clothes for the day, warm clothes for the evening, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable shoes, insect repellent, camera, and a small daypack.

Yes, most travelers need a visa. You can get it online (e-visa) or upon arrival at the airport.

Yes. Yellow fever (if you’re coming from a risk country) and routine vaccinations like Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus are recommended. Please consult your doctor.

Yes, we strongly recommend full travel insurance covering medical, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.

Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and lodges, but not everywhere. It’s good to carry some cash in USD.

Soft duffel bags are preferred over hard suitcases. For domestic flights, weight is usually limited to 15–20 kg per person.

You can enjoy safaris year-round, but the best wildlife viewing is during the dry season from June to October.

🐘 During Safari

Will I see the Big Five?

Yes! Tanzania offers a great chance to see lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos especially in Serengeti and Ngorongoro.

Your day starts early with a game drive, returns for lunch/rest, and continues with an afternoon game drive. Timings can change based on wildlife activity.

You’ll enjoy fresh meals—breakfast, packed lunches, and hot dinners with options for vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free if requested in advance.

Yes, safaris are very safe when you follow your guide’s instructions. Stay inside the vehicle during game drives and never approach animals.

Some lodges and camps offer limited electricity and Wi-Fi. It’s best to charge devices when power is available.

You’ll ride in a 4×4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof, perfect for photography and wildlife viewing.

Most parks have designated restroom stops, but you may also use nature (bush toilets) in remote areas when needed.

Yes. Tipping is appreciated. A general guide is $10–20 per day for the guide, and $5–10 per day for the cook, depending on service.

Price Includes

What’s Not Included

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