Serengeti Wildebeest migration
OVERVIEW
Experience the extraordinary 9-day safari across Tanzania’s iconic national parks to witness the remarkable Great Wildebeest Migration. From the Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater, this journey offers a front-row seat to the dramatic movement of millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles as they migrate in search of fresh grazing grounds. Enjoy thrilling game drives, explore diverse landscapes, and immerse yourself in the rich wildlife of Tanzania’s most renowned parks.
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Morning:
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport. Upon arrival, meet your safari guide and transfer to your accommodation in Arusha for check-in.Afternoon:
Relax at your hotel or explore Arusha at your leisure. Known as the “Gateway to Tanzania’s Northern Circuit,” Arusha boasts a vibrant mix of culture, history, and local markets.Evening:
Enjoy a welcome dinner at your lodge, meet fellow travelers, and receive an overview of the exciting safari ahead.
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Arusha – Lake Manyara National Park
Morning:
After breakfast, drive to Lake Manyara National Park, about a 2-hour drive from Arusha. The park is renowned for its tree-climbing lions, rich birdlife, and stunning landscapes.Afternoon:
Upon arrival, enjoy a game drive and spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, and flamingos around the lake, with the Rift Valley escarpment providing a picturesque backdrop.Evening:
Return to your lodge for dinner and unwind while soaking in the natural beauty of the area.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Lake Manyara – Serengeti National Park
Morning:
After breakfast, travel to Serengeti National Park, a 4-hour journey through the scenic Ngorongoro Highlands. Take in the breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley along the way.Afternoon:
Arrive at Serengeti and check into your lodge. In the late afternoon, enjoy a game drive across the vast plains of the Serengeti, where you may witness the beginning of the Great Wildebeest Migration, depending on the season.Evening:
Dine at your lodge or camp and reflect on your first day in the Serengeti.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4-5: Serengeti National Park – The Great Migration
Morning:
Start your days with early morning game drives to catch predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards during their active hours. If it’s the right season, you’ll witness the awe-inspiring Wildebeest Migration as millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles traverse the Serengeti’s plains.Afternoon:
After a picnic lunch, continue your exploration of the Serengeti, observing massive herds of wildebeests crossing rivers and avoiding predators, as they seek food and water.Evening:
Return to your lodge or camp for dinner and share stories of the day’s wildlife encounters.
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater
Morning:
Enjoy a final game drive in Serengeti before traveling to the Ngorongoro Crater (3-4 hours by road). Ngorongoro is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s most unique ecosystems.Afternoon:
Arrive at your lodge on the crater rim and savor a lunch with magnificent views of the crater below. In the afternoon, enjoy panoramic views from the crater rim and relax at your lodge.Evening:
Check-in to your accommodation, enjoy dinner, and take in the breathtaking landscapes.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater – Karatu
Morning:
After breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day game drive. The crater’s volcanic caldera is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino).Afternoon:
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the crater floor, surrounded by wildlife, and continue exploring the diverse landscapes of this unique ecosystem.Evening:
After a day of exploration, depart the crater and travel to Karatu (about 1.5 hours away). Check into your lodge for a relaxing evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Karatu – Tarangire National Park
Morning:
After breakfast, head to Tarangire National Park (2-3 hours away), known for its large herds of elephants and iconic baobab trees.Afternoon:
Arrive at Tarangire and enjoy an afternoon game drive. The park is teeming with elephants, giraffes, zebras, and predators like lions and leopards.Evening:
Return to your lodge or camp for dinner and relax after an exciting day of game viewing.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Tarangire National Park – Arusha
Morning:
Enjoy a final morning game drive in Tarangire National Park. The early hours are perfect for spotting elephants and other wildlife as they go about their day.Midday:
After the game drive, return to your lodge for lunch and a brief rest before your journey back to Arusha.Afternoon:
Travel back to Arusha (2-3 hours) and, depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to visit local shops or relax before heading to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
Price includes
- Airport transfer
- All transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional and experienced safari guide
- All meals (as specified in the itinerary: breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Park entrance fees and conservation fees
- Game drives
- Bottled water during the safari
- Picnic lunches during game drives
- Accommodation and concession fees
Price Excludes
- International and domestic flights
- Tips for guides and lodge staff
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks, etc.)
- Optional activities (e.g., hot air balloon ride in Serengeti)
- Travel insurance
- Alcoholic beverages
- Visa fees (if applicable)
Speak with a Specialist
Have questions or need help crafting a custom itinerary? We’re here to assist with expert guidance tailored to your needs.