9 DAYS 8 NIGHTS
Crocodiles wait hidden beneath muddy water
overview
This 9-day safari is crafted for travelers eager to witness the awe-inspiring Great Wildebeest Migration at the Mara River. Begin in Arusha, with game viewing in Tarangire and birdwatching along the shores of Lake Natron, famous for its flamingos and striking volcanic landscapes. Then head north to Serengeti’s Mara River region, where thousands of wildebeest risk everything to cross predator-filled waters. From there, explore Central Serengeti’s vast plains before ending with a game drive in Ngorongoro Crater. This route offers a thrilling combination of wildlife, migration drama, and natural wonders, all guided by experts for a seamless and unforgettable experience.
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 & BEAKFAST
DRINKS NOT INCLUDED
Day 2
TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast, drive to Tarangire National Park, home to ancient baobab trees and large elephant herds. This beautiful park is known for its scenic savannahs, seasonal swamps, and the Tarangire River, which draws animals in the dry season. Keep your eyes open for lions, giraffes, buffalo, and over 500 bird species. Enjoy a picnic lunch inside the park, then continue your game drive in the afternoon. Later, head to the nearby town of Mto wa Mbu, located at the base of the Rift Valley. Check into your lodge or camp for the night and enjoy a well-earned dinner and rest.
ACCODATIONS
EILEENS TREE/ FARMS OF DREAMS
FULL BOARD
DRINKS NOT INCLUDED
Day 3
MTOO WA MBUU-LAKE NATRON
Today’s journey winds north into some of Tanzania’s most remote and hauntingly beautiful landscapes. The road leads past Maasai villages, ancient volcanic formations, and finally to the shimmering, surreal shores of Lake Natron. Known for its crimson hue and flamingo flocks, the lake is bordered by the towering Oldonyo Lengai volcano. Stop for a short waterfall hike—a refreshing contrast to the arid terrain. In the evening, walk along the alkaline lake’s edge, watching flamingos wade through the waters against a glowing sunset. Tonight, you sleep under vast skies, far from the rest of the world
ACCOMODATIONS
MAASAI GIRAFFE ECO-CAMP
FULL BOARD
DRINKS NOT INCLUDED
Day 4
LAKE NATRON-MARA RIVER
After an early breakfast, your route heads west—into the legendary Serengeti. The road weaves through wilderness few travelers ever see. By midday, you reach Kleins Gate, entering the northern Serengeti where the Mara River flows through acacia-dotted savannah. As you approach the riverbanks, anticipation rises—wildebeest gather, crocodiles lie in wait. Begin your first game drive in this migration hotspot. You may catch your first glimpse of a crossing, or lions stalking the chaos. By evening, arrive at your intimate tented camp near the river and fall asleep to distant calls of wildlife.
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
FULL DAY AT CENTRAL SERENGETI
Wake up to the calls of the wild and set off for a full day of game drives in Central Serengeti. This region is a predator stronghold, with high chances of spotting lions, leopards, and cheetahs. You’ll explore the Seronera River Valley and surrounding plains where wildlife congregates around water sources. Depending on your preference, your day can include a morning and afternoon drive with a break at camp or a full-day outing with a picnic lunch. Marvel at giraffes, elephants, hippos, and possibly even elusive rhinos. Return to camp in the evening for your final Serengeti overnight stay.
ACCOMODATIONS
ZAWADI CAMP
FULL BOARD
DRINKS NOT INCLUDED
Day 8
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 9
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