8 DAYS 7 NIGHTS
Wildebeest crossing waters destiny hangs by seconds
overview
8-day Mara River Wildebeest Migration Safari itinerary, with a more immersive, storytelling tone—while still keeping eachStep into the heart of Africa’s greatest wildlife spectacle—the closing chapter of the Great Wildebeest Migration at the Mara River. This 8-day journey traces the wild pulse of Tanzania, from the baobab-filled plains of Tarangire to the remote beauty of Lake Natron. Traverse ancient volcanic trails, encounter flamingos in surreal soda lakes, and reach the northern Serengeti where drama unfolds daily as wildebeest cross the crocodile-laced Mara River. With expert guides leading you through prime game-viewing areas—from the predator-rich Serengeti to the Eden-like Ngorongoro Crater—this safari delivers raw, breathtaking encounters with nature. Each day is a step deeper into the wild, ending with warm campfires, African skies, and memories carved by the land.
daily safari itinerary
Day 1
ARRIVAL DAY
Your Tanzanian adventure begins as you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport. A friendly guide greets you and escorts you to Arusha—a vibrant town at the foot of Mt. Meru. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and settle into your lodge surrounded by tropical gardens or coffee farms. Whether you arrive early or late, the evening is yours to unwind, refresh, and prepare mentally for the wild days ahead. Dinner is served with local flavors, and your guide will brief you on the coming journey. Rest well—tomorrow, your story in the African wilderness truly begins.
ACCODATIONS
FOREST HILL LODGE
BED & BREAKFAST
DRINKS NOT INCLUDED
Day 2
TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast, set off to Tarangire National Park, known for its ancient baobab trees and large herds of elephants. Explore the park’s rivers, woodlands, and open plains during a full day of game driving. Wildlife sightings may include lions, zebras, giraffes, ostriches, and a variety of antelopes. Tarangire is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 500 species recorded. After your game drive and a picnic lunch inside the park, continue on to Karatu, a green and scenic town located near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Settle into your lodge for the evening, relax in the cool highland air, and enjoy a delicious dinner before turning in for the night.
ACCODATIONS
EILEENS TREE/ FARMS OF DREAMS
FULL BOARD
DRINKS NOT INCLUDED
Day 3
KARATU - CENTRALSERENGETI
Depart early from Karatu, driving through the Ngorongoro highlands with scenic views along the way. Enter Serengeti National Park via the Naabi Hill gate and begin your game drive en route to the Central Serengeti. This region, particularly the Seronera Valley, is famous for its year-round concentration of wildlife and excellent predator sightings. Search for lions lounging under acacia trees, cheetahs scanning the horizon, and elephants moving through the grasslands. Stop for a picnic lunch and continue your game drive in the afternoon. As the sun sets, arrive at your camp nestled in the wilderness for dinner and a restful night surrounded by the sounds of the Serengeti.
ACCOMODATIONS
ZAWADI CAMP
FULL BOARD
DRINKS NOT INCLUDED
Day 4
CENTRAL SERENGETI TO NORTH SERENGETI
After breakfast, begin your journey north through the Serengeti’s sweeping savannahs toward the Mara River. This region is the stage for the wildebeest migration’s dramatic river crossings. The drive offers plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way—from solitary leopards to herds of topi and eland. By afternoon, reach the northern Serengeti and begin your search along the Mara River for wildebeest herds preparing to cross. With a bit of luck, you may witness the adrenaline-filled event where thousands of wildebeest plunge into crocodile-infested waters. End the day at a nearby tented camp, surrounded by raw wilderness and endless sky.
ACCOMODATIONS
BUSH CAMP
FULL BOARD
DRINKS NOT INCLUDED
Day 5
FULL DAY AT MARA RIVER
This day is pure adventure. You’ll rise early and follow the migration trails, watching thousands of wildebeest crowd the banks of the Mara River. Tension fills the air—any moment, the herd may leap, stampeding into the water with predators waiting below. Your guide positions you in the best spots to witness the action unfold. Between crossings, look for big cats, elephants, and vultures circling above. Enjoy a bush picnic as herds pass by, and soak in the raw, untamed energy of one of Earth’s greatest natural events. As the sun sets, return to camp—exhilarated and awe-struck.
ACCOMODATIONS
BUSH CAMP
FULL BOARD
DRINKS NOT INCLUDED
Day 6
LEAVE NORTH TO CENTRAL SERENGETI
The drama of the north fades behind as you journey south toward the heart of Serengeti. This stretch of road is a safari in itself, with leopards in the trees, cheetahs on the hunt, and herds grazing against endless horizons. Arrive in the central Serengeti—Seronera Valley—famous for its year-round wildlife and sweeping views. Game drive through acacia-studded plains teeming with animals: giraffes silhouetted against the sky, prides of lions lounging on rocks, and elephants parading in the distance. Tonight, you’ll rest in a safari camp immersed in the sounds and rhythm of the wild.
ACCOMODATIONS
ZAWADI CAMP
FULL BOARD
DRINKS NOT INCLUDED
Day 7
CENTRAL SERENGETI TO NGORONGORO CRATER
Leave the Serengeti behind as you travel to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area—where another wonder awaits. After crossing the highlands, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater: a collapsed caldera that shelters one of the densest concentrations of wildlife in Africa. Spend hours on the crater floor, driving past hippo-filled pools, open savannah, and fever tree forests. Spot rare black rhinos, massive tuskers, and perhaps a lioness with cubs. After a picnic lunch, ascend the crater rim and head to nearby Karatu for a well-earned rest at a charming lodge surrounded by lush hills.
ACCOMODATIONS
EILEEN'S TREES INN/FARM OF DREAM
FULL BOARD
DRINKS NOT INCLUDED
Day 8
KARATU - ARUSHA
After breakfast, begin your drive back to Arusha. Depending on your departure schedule, you may have time for optional souvenir shopping or a brief local tour. Upon arrival in Arusha, you’ll be transferred to either Arusha Airport or Kilimanjaro International Airport for your outbound flight. This final leg of the journey offers time to reflect on your experience or transition to a Zanzibar beach extension. While the return drive can feel long, it’s an opportunity to enjoy Tanzania’s landscapes one last time. Your safari concludes with unforgettable memories of wildlife encounters and the magic of the Great Migration.
INCLUDED
- Park fees
- All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
- All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- Drinks (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- All transportation
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- A professional driver/guide
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
EXCLUDED
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Tips to your safari Guide (tipping guideline US$15.00 pp per day)
- Additions Optional Activities After Booking Confirmations
- Travel insurance;
- Visa fee