7 Days Great Migration Adventure

Overview

Our signature 7-day Great Migration safari is expertly crafted for explorers eager to witness the awe-inspiring river crossings in the Northern Serengeti, without compromising on comfort or budget. By combining optimal wildlife tracking routes with carefully selected, cozy tented accommodations, this journey offers a perfect blend of exceptional wildlife encounters and sensible pricing. This adventure is structured for a comfortable pace, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in each destination. You'll explore the ancient baobab landscapes of Tarangire National Park or the lush groundwater forests of Lake Manyara, traverse the renowned plains of Central Serengeti, and spend two full nights in the heart of the Northern Serengeti – the prime location for the Great Migration's dramatic river crossings. The experience culminates with an extraordinary descent into the pristine Ngorongoro Crater.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1. Day 1

   Safari Kick-off: Tarangire or Lake Manyara Exploration

   Your expert BIG TOURS driver-guide will greet you in Arusha for a detailed briefing before we embark on our adventure in a custom 4x4 safari vehicle. Today, you have the choice between the majestic elephant haven of Tarangire National Park, famous for its baobab trees, or the vibrant birdlife and tree-climbing lions of Lake Manyara National Park. Enjoy an immersive afternoon game drive, then ascend into the scenic Karatu highlands. Settle in for dinner and an overnight stay at Marera Valley Lodge (or a similar high-comfort mid-range lodge).

2. Day 2

   Journey to the Serengeti's Predator Plains

   After a hearty breakfast, we'll pack up and trace the misty edges of the Ngorongoro Crater rim, descending into the vast, golden savannas of the Serengeti. Upon entering the park, we immediately begin our pursuit of predators across the central Seronera region, a global hotspot for high concentrations of resident leopards and lions. Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay around a traditional open-air campfire at a mid-luxury comfort tented camp within Central Serengeti.

3. Day 3

   Northward Bound to the Great Migration Frontier

   Start your day with an early morning game drive around the Seronera kopjes before heading deep into the park's remote northern sectors, following the migration. As we drive past the Lobo hills, the landscape transforms, revealing dramatic granite outcrops. You'll begin to encounter the colossal, sprawling columns of the Great Wildebeest Migration herds. Arrive in the Kogatende/Mara River area of the Northern Serengeti by late afternoon. Enjoy dinner and a peaceful overnight stay at a beautiful mid-range seasonal tented camp in Northern Serengeti.

4. Day 4

   Full Day Witnessing Mara River Crossings

   Dedicate an entire 24-hour period to tracking the major crossing points along the legendary Mara River banks. Your guide will use real-time radio updates to locate thousands of wildebeest gathering along the steep banks, hesitating before plunging into crocodile-infested waters. We'll break for a delicious packed bush picnic lunch under a wild acacia tree, then spend the afternoon searching for lions and leopards expertly camouflaged along the riverbanks. Enjoy a second tranquil night under canvas in the Northern Serengeti.

5. Day 5

   Southern Safari: From Northern Serengeti to Karatu Highlands

   Begin with a final early morning safari drive along the northern river loops, seeking out nocturnal hunters as they return from the open plains. After packing your belongings, we'll commence an overland game drive back through the central Seronera valley, tracking any species you might still wish to see. As dusk approaches, we'll gently ascend into the cooler Karatu highland corridor. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be at Marera Valley Lodge.

6. Day 6

   Ngorongoro Crater: Big Five Tracking Expedition

   Descend early into the Ngorongoro Crater, an impressive 600-meter deep volcanic caldera, to explore the world's largest un-flooded, inactive caldera. This self-contained ecosystem provides a spectacular stage for viewing over 25,000 large mammals simultaneously. Your guide will expertly navigate the short-grass plains to maximize your chances of spotting a rare black rhino. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the active hippo pool before ascending back to the rim. Dinner and overnight stay at a comfortable mid-range lodge on the crater outskirts.

7. Day 7

   Maasai Cultural Visit & Departure

   Conclude your safari with a meaningful visit to an authentic Maasai boma community located along the outer highland rim. Observe traditional earth-and-thatch homes and witness their vibrant jumping dances. Afterwards, enjoy a comfortable drive back to Arusha, arriving in perfect time for an evening drop-off at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight home.

Prices