8 Days Wildebeest Migration Safari
Overview
The central Serengeti National Park is where the herds move south in October, traveling through the Lobo area of the Serengeti National Park. In September, the wildebeest herds are dispersed across Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve and the northern Serengeti National Park. Some large wildebeest herds linger in the area, and changes in weather may sometimes draw the herds back from the Mara. Beginning in July, the wildebeest migration river crossing heads north, passing through the Lobo and Wagakuria areas on the way to Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve.
Detailed Itinerary
8 Days Wildebeest Migration Safari: In August, the wildebeest migration river crossing moves north, passing through the Wagakuria area (remote northern Serengeti National Park along the Mara River) and the Lobo area (north of Central Serengeti National Park) en route to Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve.
DAY 1: Tarangire National Park – Arusha
We start our journey with a game drive in Tarangire National Park, one of Tanzania’s largest national parks located in the Manyara region. This park is famous for its large herds of elephants, tree-climbing lions, and iconic baobab trees, often called the Tree of Life due to the mythical powers attributed to them by some cultures. The Tarangire River, flowing year-round, is the sole water source for wildlife during the dry season.
Meals: L, D
Accommodation: Maramboi Lodge
DAY 2: Central Serengeti (Seronera)
After breakfast, we head to the Central Serengeti, renowned for its healthy resident wildlife population, especially the “big five” — Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffaloes, and Rhinos.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Serengeti Katikati Camp
DAY 3: Serengeti National Park
Following breakfast, we embark on a full-day game drive in pursuit of the Great Migration trails. Our experienced driver-guide will share intriguing insights about this world-famous event, solidifying Tanzania’s status as a premier safari destination in Africa.
Home to approximately 200,000 zebras and 300,000 Thomson’s gazelles, the Serengeti is a UNESCO World Heritage site that vibrates with the sounds of over six million hooves on the open plains—just as you imagined Africa to be!
Meals: L, B, D
Accommodation: Lobo Wildlife Lodge
DAY 4: Kogatende (Serengeti North)
We will enjoy a full day of game viewing in the Mara area, where resident wildlife numbers are particularly high. The Mara River is a key feature, with chances to witness herds crossing north one day and returning south a few days later. However, witnessing a crossing can be unpredictable. The area boasts stunning kopjes, woodlands, riverine vegetation, and open plains, reminiscent of Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve.
Meals: L, B, D
Accommodation: Lobo Wildlife Lodge
DAY 5: North Mara (Serengeti National Park)
After breakfast, we continue our journey to Serengeti North, observing the great migration in the Mara area. The Mara River is central to this experience, with herds often seen crossing north one day and then back south shortly after. Finding a crossing can be tricky, as herds may linger next to the river before deciding to cross. This region’s beauty is characterized by kopjes, woodlands, riverine vegetation, and open plains, similar to Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Lobo Wildlife Lodge
DAY 6: Ngorongoro Conservation Area
We start with another morning game drive in Serengeti National Park. In the afternoon, we head to the Olduvai Gorge museum in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a significant archaeological site in East Africa. At Laetoli, 45 km south of Olduvai Gorge, discover preserved hominin footprints in volcanic rock dating back 3.6 million years, representing some of the earliest signs of humanity.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Ngorongoro Farm House Lodge
DAY 7: Ngorongoro Crater Tour
We begin with an early morning game drive inside the Ngorongoro Crater, located in the expansive highland area along the eastern arm of the Rift Valley. The crater, a focal point of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), was established to conserve wildlife, safeguard indigenous interests, and promote tourism.
Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation: Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge
DAY 8: Return to Arusha
After breakfast, we journey back to Arusha or head to the airport for your return flight home.
Meals: B, L
Accommodation: End of tour (no accommodation)
Safari Package Overview
Includes:
- Airport Transfers: Round-trip transfers between the International Airport and Arusha.
- Accommodation in Arusha: Two nights of lodging in Arusha—one night before the safari and one night after.
- Luxury Safari Vehicle: An extended 4×4 jeep equipped with a pop-up roof for optimal game viewing.
- Expert Guide: A professional safari guide fluent in English.
- Safari Chef: A skilled cook to prepare meals during the trip.
- National Park Fees: Entrance fees for all national parks included.
- Camping Accommodation: Full board camping accommodation throughout the safari.
- Camping Fees: All necessary camping fees for national parks.
- Ngorongoro Crater Fees: Included in the package.
- Taxes and VAT: 18% VAT on entrance fees and all government taxes covered.
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi in the safari jeep and unlimited drinking water.
- Emergency Services: Access to flying doctor services if needed.
Excludes:
- Tanzania Visa: Not included in the package.
- Personal Expenses: Any additional costs such as laundry, phone calls, and beverages are not covered.
- Optional Activities: Activities like balloon rides (USD 550 per person) should be booked in advance.
- Tips and Gratuities: Not included for your safari guide and cook.
Join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Serengeti!