This 8-day safari takes you deep into the heart of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area to witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles—the wildebeest river crossing. As part of the annual migration, wildebeests and zebras cross the crocodile-infested rivers in their journey for fresh grazing. The thrilling experience of these crossings is something every wildlife lover must witness at least once. This safari also offers extensive wildlife viewing in Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti, where you’ll see an incredible variety of wildlife including the Big Five, predators, and migrating herds.
8-Day Safari Itinerary: Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti Migration Adventure
Explore the extraordinary Ngorongoro Crater and witness the breathtaking Great Migration in Serengeti National Park. This journey promises unforgettable wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and the thrill of nature’s most dramatic events.
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – Transfer to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Travel time: ~4–5 hours | Distance: ~190 km
Begin your adventure with a warm welcome at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where your guide will greet you. Journey to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, enjoying picturesque landscapes along the way. After lunch at your lodge or camp, embark on an afternoon game drive along the Ngorongoro Crater rim, where you’ll spot elephants, zebras, and buffaloes against the backdrop of sweeping views. Return to your accommodation for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater – Wildlife Exploration
Start your day with an early breakfast before descending into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Crater floor is a natural haven for diverse wildlife, including the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos. Enjoy a picnic lunch in this wildlife-rich environment, and continue exploring the unique ecosystem. As the day concludes, ascend to your lodge or camp for dinner and a well-deserved rest.
Day 3: Ngorongoro – Serengeti National Park
Travel time: ~4–5 hours | Distance: ~160 km
After breakfast, drive to the Serengeti, with its vast plains and abundant wildlife. En route, marvel at the changing landscapes and wildlife sightings. Upon arrival, enjoy a game drive through the Seronera area, home to a wide variety of animals, including predators and prey. Conclude the day with dinner and overnight at your lodge or camp.
Day 4: Serengeti – River Crossing Spectacle
Set out early to the northern Serengeti, where the Great Migration often reaches the Grumeti or Mara Rivers. Witness the dramatic river crossings, as thousands of wildebeests and zebras navigate predator-filled waters.
A full day of game drives ensures you’ll have the best chance to experience this incredible phenomenon. Return to your lodge or camp for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5: Serengeti – River Crossing Adventures
After breakfast, return to the riverbanks to continue exploring the migration. Observe the herds as they gather strength for the crossings or recover from their journey. In the afternoon, venture into other parts of the Serengeti to experience its rich biodiversity. Return to your accommodation for dinner and a peaceful evening.
Day 6: Serengeti – Full Day of Migration & Predator Viewing
Spend another full day immersed in the migration’s dynamic scenes. Watch predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas as they interact with the migrating herds. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the stunning Serengeti landscape. As the sun sets, return to your lodge for dinner and a relaxing night.
Day 7: Serengeti – More Migration Adventures
Dedicate your final full day in the Serengeti to following the herds and witnessing more of their epic journey. Your guide will help you explore new regions of the park for the best wildlife encounters. In the evening, reflect on your safari over dinner at your lodge or camp, savoring your last night in the wild.
Day 8: Serengeti – Departure
After breakfast, enjoy a final game drive as you make your way to Seronera Airstrip. Board your flight back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport, concluding your safari adventure with unforgettable memories.
Price Includes:
– All park entry fees
– Concession fees
– Flying Doctor Service
– All park camping fees
– Airport pickup
– Ngorongoro Crater service fees
– Accommodation at hotels, lodges, tented camps, or campsites as per the safari program
– Chef services
– Meals as per the itinerary
– English-speaking driver/guide
– Transport in a 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof
– Bottled drinking water (1.5 liters per person per day during the safari)
– One-night complimentary hotel accommodation in Arusha upon arrival, including breakfast
– Camping equipment, including tents, sleeping mats, sleeping bags, pillows, chairs and tables
Price Does Not Include:
– International and domestic flights
– Fees for passports, visas, immunizations, and insurance
– Tips for staff, including driver-guides, chefs, and porters
– Personal expenses such as souvenirs
Best Time to Visit:
The wildebeest river crossings are typically most spectacular from July to October, especially when the migration reaches the Mara River in the northern Serengeti. This period offers the best chances to witness dramatic crossings.
This 8-day safari combines thrilling wildlife encounters with the grandeur of Serengeti National Park and the breathtaking scenes of the wildebeest migration river crossings.
Inspired by this Itinerary? Click below to organize your dream safari!
