8 Days Great Migration Safari
Follow the Great Migration through Tarangire, Central Serengeti, Northern Serengeti and the Mara River region before finishing inside the Ngorongoro Crater.
Follow the movement of millions across the Serengeti
The Great Migration is a continuous movement of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles following seasonal rainfall, fresh grass and water.
This itinerary is designed around the northern migration and Mara River season, especially between July and October.
Two full days in Northern Serengeti increase your opportunity to locate large herds, predators and possible river-crossing activity.
The migration changes throughout the year
Accommodation and game-drive regions can be adjusted according to the expected herd location during your travel month.
Calving Season
December–MarchLarge herds gather around Ndutu and the southern short-grass plains, attracting numerous predators.
Western Movement
April–JuneHerds move through Central Serengeti towards the western corridor and Grumeti region.
Mara River Season
July–OctoberHerds spread across Northern Serengeti, with unpredictable crossing activity along the Mara River.
Return South
October–DecemberThe herds gradually travel south through eastern and central areas as short rains begin.
Eight days through the heart of the migration
Open any day below to read the detailed safari programme while keeping the page clean and manageable.
Arusha
Arrival and briefing
Tarangire
Elephants and baobabs
Central Serengeti
Enter the plains
Northern Serengeti
Travel to Kogatende
Mara River
Search for herds
Northern Plains
Second full day
Ngorongoro
Highlands and rim
Arusha
Crater and departure
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Day 01Kilimanjaro Airport – ArushaWelcome to Tanzania
Meet our representative at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer privately to your lodge in Arusha.
After check-in and rest, attend a private briefing covering the route, migration areas, luggage, dietary needs and photographic interests.
Day 02Arusha – TarangireElephants and ancient baobabs
Travel in a private 4×4 to Tarangire National Park and begin game viewing around baobab woodland, open plains and the Tarangire River.
Search for elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, antelopes, lions, leopards, cheetahs and abundant birdlife.
Day 03Tarangire – Central SerengetiCross the highlands and enter the Serengeti
Travel through the Ngorongoro highlands, with an optional crater viewpoint, Olduvai Gorge or Maasai village visit.
Enter Serengeti National Park and begin game viewing through the Seronera region while travelling towards your central camp.
Day 04Central – Northern SerengetiTravel towards the migration plains
Enjoy a full-day en-route game drive through woodland, river valleys, plains and rocky landscapes towards Kogatende.
Search for migrating herds and resident wildlife before arriving at a luxury camp near the Mara River region.
Day 05Northern Serengeti and Mara RiverFollow the Great Migration herds
Spend the day following current herd reports and exploring different Mara River crossing points, grazing areas and valleys.
River crossings remain unpredictable, so your guide balances patient observation with wider searches for wildebeest, zebras, crocodiles and predators.
Day 06Full Day Northern SerengetiA second day in the migration wilderness
Begin before sunrise or follow a flexible schedule according to herd locations and current wildlife activity.
Return to the river, explore Kogatende plains or search quieter valleys and kopjes for lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants and buffaloes.
Day 07Northern Serengeti – NgorongoroFinal Serengeti drive and highland journey
Travel south by road with extensive game viewing, or use an optional scheduled flight where included to reduce driving time.
Continue into the cooler Ngorongoro highlands and settle into a crater-rim or Karatu lodge before the next morning's crater safari.
Day 08Ngorongoro Crater – ArushaCrater safari and departure
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for approximately five to six hours of game viewing across grassland, forest, marsh and lakeshore habitats.
After a picnic lunch, ascend from the crater and transfer privately to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport.
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Package detailsWhat the safari includes
- Private airport arrival and departure transfers
- Private extended 4×4 safari Land Cruiser
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Confirmed accommodation and listed meals
- National park, conservation and crater fees
- Game drives, transfers and bottled drinking water
- Government taxes and operational support
Not coveredWhat the safari excludes
- International flights and domestic flights unless specified
- Visa, travel insurance and medical expenses
- Optional balloon safari and cultural visits
- Alcoholic drinks, laundry and personal purchases
- Gratuities for guides and lodge staff
- Additional nights caused by delays
- Services not specifically listed as included
Important expectationMigration movement and river crossings
Herd movement depends on rainfall and grazing. Mara River crossings are unpredictable natural events and cannot be guaranteed on a particular day.
Travel planningCamp locations and early booking
Seasonal camps are selected according to expected herd locations, access, quality and availability. Northern Serengeti accommodation should be booked early for July to October.
Witness the Great Migration with Excellence Africa Adventures
Share your travel dates, number of guests and preferred accommodation level. Our team will design a private migration safari around the expected herd location.
