Overview
A 6-day safari focusing on the Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania is an unforgettable adventure. The migration is a natural phenomenon where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move through the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing, and it’s often referred to as one of the “Seven Natural Wonders of the World.” The best time to witness the migration is between June and October , when the wildebeest are typically in the northern Serengeti or crossing the Mara River .
Where you'll go
- Serengeti
- Ngorongoro
- Arusha
- Kilimanjaro
Trip Highlights
- Witnessing the Great Migration with the wildebeest crossing rivers and predators hunting.
- Exploring the Serengeti's vast plains , seeing millions of wildebeest and zebras.
- Observing wildlife in the Ngorongoro Crater , including the Big Five .
- Experiencing one of the most incredible natural wonders on the planet.
Day by Day
Itinerary
- 1
Day 1: Arrival in Kilimanjaro International Airport and Transfer to Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport . Meet your guide and transfer to your hotel in Arusha (approximately 1-1.5 hours from Kilimanjaro or Arusha Airport), Relax and explore Arusha, perhaps visit the Cultural Heritage Center or Maasai Market if you have time. Overnight: Stay at a lodge in Arusha.
- 2
Day 2: Arusha to Serengeti National Park (Southern Serengeti)
After breakfast, transfer to Serengeti National Park . drive (approximately 5-6 hours, with a scenic stop for a picnic lunch). Then continue to your safari until the afternoon you Arrive at the Serengeti and enjoy your first game drive. The Serengeti is vast and diverse, and you'll start to explore its rich landscapes and abundant wildlife. After an exciting day of safari, Stay in the Southern Serengeti , relax at your lodge under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the Serengeti’s vibrant wildlife, ideally close to where the wildebeest calving.
- 3
Day 3: Serengeti – Witnessing the Wildebeest Migration (Southern Serengeti to Central Serengeti)
Early morning game drive to witness the wildebeest migration as the herds start moving across the plains. Depending on the season, you'll either be in the southern or central Serengeti. The herds start migrating toward the north and west, moving across the plains in large groups. With endless opportunities for wildlife encounters and stunning Serengeti landscapes, every moment offers something new and unforgettable in one of Africa’s most famous wildlife reserves, Then in afternoon stop for a picnic lunch and one hour for relaxation, After continue your game drive in the Serengeti, following the migration paths, and enjoy spotting predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards with other carnivorans near them that accompany the herds. Stay at a tented camp or lodge within the Serengeti. as the day comes to a close, head to your lodge, where you can unwind, and offering a great base to explore the migration further.
- 4
Day 4: Full Day in the Serengeti (Northern Serengeti – Mara River Crossing)
Early morning game drive in Northern Serengeti near the Mara River , where you’ll witness the dramatic river crossings . This is one of the most exciting aspects of the migration, as wildebeest brave the river and crocodiles to reach the other side. The crossing is often chaotic, with herds stampeding and predators waiting in the wings. in afternoon stop for a picnic lunch then continue your game drive in the northern Serengeti and witness more river crossings or track the migration as it moves across the plains. This area also offers great opportunities to see predators like lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas in action. As the day winds down, head to your lodge for a relaxing evening, where you can unwind and enjoy the tranquil sounds of the African bush under the stars in the northern Serengeti.
- 5
Day 5: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater
Enjoy an early morning game drive to capture the last of the migration before heading out of the Serengeti. After that going back for breakfast, and begin drive to Ngorongoro Crater (approximately 4 hours). The Crater is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife diversity. Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive . The Crater floor is home to dense populations of wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffalo, zebras, and rhinos. The Crater is often described as a "Garden of Eden" due to the abundance of animals in a relatively small area. Stay at a lodge on the crater rim
- 6
Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport
Early morning descent into the Ngorongoro Crater for a final game drive . Enjoy the last opportunity to spot wildlife and take in the magnificent views of this natural wonder. After lunch, drive back to Arusha , or head directly to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure.
Gallery
A taste of the landscapes and wildlife on this kind of trip.
What's included
- ✓4WD Safari vehicle with pop up roof
- ✓Professional English-speaking safari-guide
- ✓Accommodations
- ✓Meals
- ✓Mineral water during safari (unlimited)
- ✓Airport transfers (Arusha Airport or Kilimanjaro Airport)
- ✓National Park fees
Not included
- –Visa paid on arrival at the airport
- –International and Domestic Flights
- –Tips for the crew: US $ 20-35 per person per day
- –Any additional fees/ individual costs (items of personal nature)
- –Travel Insurance (Flying Doctors insurance available for US $ 40)
Good to Know
Best time to visit+
Southern Serengeti (Calving Season): January to March (for the calving season). Northern Serengeti (Mara River Crossings): July to October (for the Mara River crossings).
What to pack+
Bring comfortable, neutral-colored clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, so a light jacket is recommended.
Visas and travel documents+
A valid passport and tourist visa are required for entry into Tanzania. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining, and consider applying for a visa in advance.
Meals+
Meals include local and international dishes, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided. Dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice.
Booking policy+
Early booking required to secure migration viewing spots; full terms available upon inquiry.
When to travel
When to travel
Best game viewing, dry and cool. Book well ahead; prices peak.
Fewer vehicles, decent game, variable weather. Good value.
Lush and quiet, newborn animals and birds, some camps close. Lowest prices, occasional heavy rain.
Common questions
Common questions
Is this a private safari or a group tour?
Private by default — your own 4×4, your own driver-guide, and an itinerary we shape around you. We also run a few set-date small-group departures if you'd rather share costs.
What's included in the price?
Park and crater fees, a private 4×4 with a professional driver-guide, accommodation, meals as listed, airport transfers and drinking water on game drives. International flights, visa and travel insurance are not included.
Will I see the Big Five?
Lion, elephant, buffalo and leopard are seen on most northern-circuit trips. Rhino are only reliably seen in the Ngorongoro Crater and are never guaranteed.
How much driving is there?
Park roads are rough and the legs between parks are long — see the driving-times table. Flights between the far parks can be added to cut the longest transfers.
Why book this with Sereta Safaris
A local team
Born and based in Arusha, at the gateway to the northern parks and Mount Kilimanjaro.
11 years on the ground
Guiding safaris, treks and Zanzibar trips since 2013.
Registered operator
A registered Tanzanian tour operator — verify us on the public BRELA business register.
Direct, not a middleman
You plan with the same team that runs your trip. No call centres, no resale.
