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This 5-day Wildebeest Migration Safari takes you right into the middle of the Great Migration in Northern Serengeti. Instead of spending hours driving, you'll take a short flight from Arusha to Kogatende, where the wildebeests gather near the Mara River. You'll have a chance to see exciting river crossings, big cats hunting, and huge groups of animals moving together.
After spending two days in the north, you’ll go to the Central Serengeti, which is famous for lions and leopards. Then, you’ll visit the Ngorongoro Crater, where you can see elephants, rhinos, and the rest of the Big Five.
Route: Arusha ✈️ Kogatende – Northern Serengeti – Central Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha
Best Time to Visit:
July – October (River Crossings)
5-Day Wildebeest Migration Safari Detailed Itinerary
- Highlights: Mara River Crossings, Big Cats, Great Migration Herds, Ngorongoro Crater
- Safari style: Private safari with handpicked luxury lodges
🗓️Day 1: Fly from Arusha to Northern Serengeti (Kogatende)
In the morning, you'll take a short scenic flight from Arusha to Kogatende Airstrip in Northern Serengeti. Your guide will meet you at the airstrip and take you on your first game drive as you head to your camp. In the afternoon, you’ll explore the area around the Mara River, where you might see wildebeests crossing the water or predators waiting nearby. Dinner and overnight will be at a safari tented camp close to the river.
Accommodation: Mara Under Canvas / Heritage Mara Camp
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Highlight: Scenic flight + first encounter with migration herds
🗓️Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Northern Serengeti
Today is all about experiencing the Great Migration. You’ll spend the whole day tracking the herds of wildebeests and zebras near the Mara River. If you're lucky, you'll witness a river crossing, one of the most thrilling scenes in the animal world. You’ll also see crocodiles, lions, hyenas, and plenty of other wildlife. In the evening, you’ll return to the same camp for a relaxing night under the stars.
Accommodation: Mara Under Canvas / Heritage Mara Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlight: Full immersion in the Great Migration action
🗓️Day 3: Game Drive from Northern Serengeti to Central Serengeti
After breakfast, you’ll start your drive south through the Serengeti, heading to the central part of the park. This area, known as Seronera, is famous for its high concentration of big cats and beautiful landscapes. Along the way, you'll see different types of animals, from giraffes and elephants to cheetahs and leopards. You’ll arrive at your lodge or tented camp in time for dinner and a peaceful overnight stay.
Accommodation: Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge / Into Wild Africa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlight: Transition from river crossings to predator-rich heart of Serengeti
🗓️Day 4: Central Serengeti – Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Start the day with an early game drive in Central Serengeti, then continue your journey to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The drive offers stunning views of the highlands, and you might stop at a Maasai village to learn about the local culture (optional). In the evening, you’ll check in at a lodge near the crater rim, where you can enjoy the cool mountain air and prepare for your final safari day.
Accommodation: Rhino Lodge / Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlight: Cultural encounter + stay near the Ngorongoro Crater rim
🗓️Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater – Drive Back to Arusha
Early in the morning, you’ll descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive in one of the best wildlife areas in Africa. This is your chance to spot the Big Five, including the rare black rhino. After your picnic lunch in the crater, you’ll drive back to Arusha with memories that will last a lifetime. We’ll drop you at your hotel or the airport depending on your schedule.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Highlight: World-class wildlife in Ngorongoro Crater
✅ What's Included
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Internal flight from Arusha to Kogatende
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Private 4x4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof
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Professional English-speaking safari guide
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All park fees & conservation charges
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4 nights full-board accommodation
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Daily game drives
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Bottled water throughout safari
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All airport transfers
❌ What's Not Included
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International flights to/from Tanzania
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Travel insurance
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Visa fees
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Tips & gratuities
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Optional Maasai village visit ($20)
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Personal expenses (alcohol, laundry, etc.)
Important Notes for the 5-Day Wildebeest Migration Safari
1. Migration Timing Varies
The Great Migration is a natural event, and animal movements depend on seasonal rain patterns. While we schedule your safari for the best chance to witness river crossings and large herds, sightings cannot be guaranteed due to the unpredictability of nature.
2. Travel Insurance & Health
Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover unexpected changes or emergencies. Also, consult your doctor about vaccinations (such as Yellow Fever) and malaria prevention before traveling to Tanzania.
3. What to Pack
We recommend packing lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, a warm layer for early mornings, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, binoculars, and your camera. Don’t forget personal medications, travel documents, and chargers.
4. Private Safari Vehicle and Guide
Your safari includes a private 4x4 vehicle and a professional, English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the trip. This gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and focus on wildlife and landscapes that interest you most.
5. Includes a One-Way Flight (Arusha to Kogatende)
To save travel time and give you more time for game drives, the itinerary includes a short flight from Arusha to Kogatende. Please note that domestic flights in safari regions have strict luggage limits; soft-sided bags only, usually 15–20 kg (33–44 lbs) per person.
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