5-Day Fly in Migration Crossing Safari from Arusha

Name: 5 Days Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Brand: Nihapa Tours
SKU: 5D-SER-NGO
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5.0 (34 reviews)

Ngorongoro and Serengeti

Wildebeest crossing Mara River during the Great Migration on a Safari Tanzania Serengeti tour

Gallery

5-Day Fly in Migration Crossing Safari from Arusha

Ngorongoro and Serengeti

Price

From $3,570.00

Duration

5 days

Max People

Min Age

Tour Type

Fly-in Safaris, Serengeti Migration Safari

Overview

A 5-Day Fly-in Migration Crossing Safari from Arusha is the ultimate way to experience the wildebeest migration in Northern Serengeti without long road transfers. This tour begins with a scenic flight from Arusha to Kogatende Airstrip, placing you directly in the heart of the Mara River crossing zone, where millions of wildebeest and zebras gather between July and October.

You’ll spend several days exploring Northern and Central Serengeti, following the herds and witnessing dramatic river crossings, predator hunts, and breathtaking savannah landscapes. Many itineraries also include a visit to the Ngorongoro Crater, home to the Big Five, offering a perfect mix of migration excitement and classic safari experiences.

Designed for travelers with limited time, this fly-in safari by Nihapa Tours combines luxury camps, expert local guides, and seamless logistics — allowing you to maximize your time in the wild and capture the essence of the Great Migration in just five unforgettable days.

Tour Highlights

Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Parks Visited: Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater
Safari Style: Private guided tour
Group Size: Flexible (2–6 recommended)
Departure and Return Place: We can start/end this tour from any hotel in Arusha or Arusha Airport
End: Kilimanjaro International Airport (flight from Kogatende)
Departure Time: Please be ready by 6:45 AM for a prompt departure at 7:15 AM.
Return Time: Approximately 4:30 PM.
Dress Code: Casual. Comfortable athletic clothing, a hat, and spare clothing.
Customizations: Can be amended/customized upon request, to suit your requirements
Extensions: Trip Extensions are available on request
Season: The Dry season (from late June to October) offers the best wildlife viewing in general, with the wildebeest migration as its absolute highlight. The timing of the migration varies every year (the best chance of seeing it is during June and July), while the wildebeest calving is from late January to February.
Your own private guide and driver for in-depth wildlife touring based on your interests
Firsthand, sophisticated destination knowledge and recommendations from our locally born travel specialists
Around-the-clock support from your travel designer and concierge before, during, and after your trip

5-Day Fly-in Migration Crossing Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Fly from Arusha to the Northern Serengeti (Kogatende or nearby airstrip). Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon game drive in search of the migrating herds and the thrilling Mara River crossings.
Day 2: Spend a full day exploring the Northern Serengeti, following the movements of wildebeest and zebras near the Mara River. This area offers dramatic scenes of predator action, with lions, cheetahs, and crocodiles often on the hunt.
Day 3: Continue your safari with a flight or scenic drive to the Central Serengeti, known for its endless plains and large resident predator populations. Enjoy game drives throughout the day in this wildlife-rich region.
Day 4: Head to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its dense concentration of wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffalo, and rhinos.
Day 5: After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely drive back to Arusha, passing through beautiful highland landscapes. Arrive in the afternoon, marking the end of your incredible Tanzania migration safari.

Why Choose This Safari

Maximize Your Time in the Wild
The fly-in approach eliminates long road transfers, allowing you to spend more time on game drives and less time traveling between parks.
Front-Row Seats to the Migration
Designed specifically around the Mara River crossing season (July–October), this itinerary positions you perfectly to witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles, thousands of wildebeest and zebras braving the crocodile-filled waters.
Explore Tanzania’s Most Iconic Parks
Experience the best of Tanzania with visits to the Northern and Central Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, each offering unique wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes.
Fully Customizable Experience
The itinerary can be tailored to your preferences, with optional additions such as Tarangire National Park or extra days in Serengeti for photography or relaxation.

The Mara River Crossing Experience

The Mara River crossing is the dramatic highlight of this safari and one of the most unforgettable wildlife events on Earth. Each year, vast herds of wildebeest and zebras gather along the river’s edge, hesitating before plunging into the fast-moving waters filled with waiting crocodiles. It’s a heart-stopping spectacle of survival and instinct.

Best Timing: The crossings usually take place between July and October, though their exact timing can vary depending on rainfall and grass conditions. Visiting during this period offers the best chance to witness the raw intensity of the migration in motion.
Beyond the Migration: The Northern Serengeti remains rich with wildlife year-round. Even outside the crossings, the region offers superb sightings of lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, and an array of birdlife, ensuring every game drive is rewarding.

Why Choose Nihapa Tours for Your Tanzania Safaris?

Nihapa Tours designs personalized Tanzania Safaris to suit your preferences, blending adventure, comfort, and expert guidance. Our Tanzania Safaris stand out with:

Extended Exploration: More time to visit key parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
Expert Guides: Local experts enhance your Tanzania Safari with rich insights.
Flexible Options: Choose budget camping, mid-range lodges, or luxury tented camps.
Private Tours: Enjoy exclusive 4x4 vehicles for an intimate safari experience.
Conservation Focus: We support sustainable tourism during your Tanzania Safari.

With Nihapa Tours, your Tanzania Safari will be a seamless and memorable journey.

Tips for Booking Your Tanzania Safari

Reserve Early: Secure your Tanzania Safari dates with Nihapa Tours.
Consider Fly-In Options: Fly to Serengeti from Arusha, arranged by Nihapa Tours.
Pack Wisely: Bring binoculars and a camera for your Tanzania Safari.
Visa Prep: Apply for a Tanzanian e-Visa online.
Trust Nihapa Tours: We handle permits and logistics for a hassle-free safari.

How to Book Your Migration Crossing Safari

Booking your 5-Day Fly-in Migration Crossing Safari with Nihapa Tours is easy and personalized from start to finish:

Get in Touch: Contact us via [email protected] or call +255 786 261 927 to check availability and discuss your preferred travel dates.
Customize Your Itinerary: Our safari experts will help you tailor your journey, from accommodation style to extra destinations like Tarangire or Zanzibar.
Confirm Your Booking: Once you’re satisfied with the plan, secure your safari with a deposit. We’ll send a detailed confirmation and pre-trip information.
Enjoy Hassle-Free Travel: Upon arrival, our team will meet you in Arusha and handle all logistics, flights, transfers, and park arrangements, so you can focus on the experience.

Don’t wait—book your Tanzania Safari with Nihapa Tours today!

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Costs Includeds/Excludes

All Mentioned Safari Activities
Air Ambulance Service by AMREF Flying Doctors
Airport Pick-up and Drop-off Transfers
Hotel Accommodations According to the Itinerary
Transportation in 4×4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for easy game viewing and photography
All Park Fees
Experienced English-speaking safari guide
All Meals according to the Itinerary
Bottled water and soft drinks throughout the tour
Binocular (1 per Vehicle)
Medical kit
All Taxes on Tour Fees & Services
Crew salaries

Air tickets
Visa fees
Lunch and dinner in hotel (only before and after safari)
Travel insurance
Tips to your safari guide ($25-45 per day per car)
Other optional activities
Personal expenses

Day 1 Arusha - Ngorongoro

Our driver will pick you up from your Hotel in Arusha, with a picnic lunch en route to a full-day Ngorongoro Crater tour. You will be taken 2000ft down the crater by a 4-wheel drive vehicle, explore the crater before ascending, and drive to your Lodge set on a crater rim. The Ngorongoro Crater is often called ‘Africa’s Eden’ and the ‘8th Natural Wonder of the World.’ A visit to the crater is a main drawcard for tourists coming to Tanzania and a definite world-class attraction.

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) is home to the Ngorongoro Crater. It was formed some 2.5 million years ago from a volcanic mountain sinking due to inactivity, and was initially thought to be higher than Tanzania’s famous Kilimanjaro. The crater has evolved into a unique and integral part of Tanzania’s ecosystem. The crater is a caldera, measures 22.5 km across, and the rim walls stand 600m high. Views from within and from the rim are breathtaking. The crater houses 30,000 animals and a large variety of birds, which rarely move from the area due to the availability of water through wet and dry seasons. In the evening, back to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 2 Ngorongoro - Serengeti National Park

Pick up from your hotel after breakfast and then drive from Ngorongoro to Central Serengeti. Upon arrival, meet your driver guide for a full-day game drive in this part of the park to view the Great Migration.

The park is well known for its healthy stock of other resident wildlife, particularly the “Big Five,” named for the five most prized trophies taken by hunters: Lion – the Serengeti is believed to hold the largest population of lions in Africa due in part to the abundance of prey species. More than 3,000 lions live in this ecosystem. African Leopard – these reclusive predators are commonly seen in the Seronera region but are present throughout the national park, with the population at around 1,000. African Elephant – the largest land animal is an awe-inspiring sight throughout the Serengeti.

Day 3 Serengeti National Park (North Mara)

After breakfast at the Camp, depart with your picnic lunch for a game drive and to view the great migration.

Serengeti National Park — Resident wildlife numbers are exceptionally high in the Wagakuria area, with prides of lion up to 30 strong; however, from August to October, the area turns into a wildlife paradise. The key feature is the Mara River, and it is not uncommon to see the herds cross the Mara River north on one day and then back south a few days later. Please take note – to actually find a crossing is very difficult and is sometimes a matter of luck.

Day 4 Serengeti National Park (North Mara)

After breakfast, enjoy a full day of game dive at the Mara River viewing the great migration river crossing. In the evening, back to the camp for the evening bonfire, dinner and overnight.

River crossings at Kogatende start to occur every day in August as the mega herd settles into the area. From August to October, game viewing up here is superb with river crossings pretty much guaranteed every day. There is no distinct movement as the herds tend to cross back and forth over the river, following the rains and subsequent fresh grasses. It is not uncommon to see different herds crossing in different directions on the same day.

Day 4 Afternoon Fly from Kogatende to Kilimanjaro Airport

Depart after breakfast for a morning game drive. In the afternoon, transfer to Kogatende Airstrip or your flight to Arusha. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro airport for your home flight.

Tour Pricing

Number of People	Cost Per Person in US($) Budget Camping	Cost Per Person in US($) Standard
1 Person	On Request	-
2 People	On Request	$3,770
3 People	On Request	-
4 People	On Request	-
5 + People	On Request	$3,570

Tour Accommodations

Tour Day	Budget Camping Package	Standard Package
Day 1	On Request	Lion’s Paw Camp
Day 2	On Request	Olkarien Eco Safari Camp
Day 3	On Request	Acacia Migration Camp
Day 4	On Request	Acacia Migration Camp

Will there be wildlife roaming at the camps and lodges?

Yes. Bear in mind they are wild and unpredictable. The thought restrains you from getting too adventurous on hands-on when you cross paths with a wild animal. Attacks are rare but discretion is a better part of valor. Exercise caution. Remember it’s their territory and you are the intruder.

What do you mean by game drives?

The opportunity to explore the thriving wildlife of Tanzania in a safari vehicle by going deep into the secluded zones for an up-close and personal experience of Tanzania’s biggest and meanest

What happens if I get sick or injured on safari?

Any health or medical emergency will be attended to. If the condition requires hospitalization, you will be evacuated to the nearest hospital immediately. Make sure you have travel and health insurance coverage. It’s highly recommended

What if I have special dietary requirements?

Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, celiac, lactose-free, or if you have any allergies, just give us a heads up and you will be catered to.

What is the maximum group size per vehicle?

The maximum group size is Six (6) guests per vehicle.

What travel documents do I need?

You will need a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your dates of travel with an entry or re-entry visa, duly endorsed.

Who are your operators in Tanzania?

We are. We are not agents for anybody, but run the treks ourselves through our own Tanzanian company. So you can rest assured that whoever you speak to in our company has climbed Kilimanjaro – and probably many times.

Will I see wildlife?

Prior to the climb, you’ll enjoy an acclimatization day with wildlife viewing and nature walks. Trekking through the rain forest, you’re likely to spot black-and-white Colobus monkeys, tropical birds and more.

Will the safari be dusty?

Definitely! What’s the point of a safari if you don’t kick up the dust. And there will be plenty to kick in the dry months. Some of the trails on the safari route are bumpy and dusty, especially between Ngorongoro and Serengeti. So roll up the window and turn the AC on. Use sunglasses and a hat, and protect your electronic equipment from the dust storms

What can I expect on a typical safari day?

Depends on which park you have chosen in your itinerary. Every park has a distinct character, topography, and animals with attitude. If it’s Serengeti then enjoy the endless savannahs and Big 5. Tarangire’s offerings are a semi-arid landscape with majestic baobabs with no shortage of wildlife. Including the Big 5 in a day

What about tipping the safari driver guides?

Tipping for services is not obligatory, but very common in Tanzania. Your tip is highly appreciated and can make a big difference to your guide and lodge staff. Tipping is a good courtesy. Tip generously. And always keep their counsel for that optimum and safe safari experience. On safari, this is US$15-20 per person per day, handed directly to the guide at the end of your stay. Of course, you should only give a tip if you are satisfied with the quality of the service.

Do you arrange Airport pick-up and Drop off?

All our tours to mount Kilimanjaro climbs include airport transfers. We pick you up at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or any other airport near Arusha and Kilimanjaro as per your itinerary plan and take you to your pre-climb hotel in Moshi or Arusha, then back again at the end of your itinerary. In short, we take care of your air transfers and accommodation, before and after your Mount Kilimanjaro climb.

How far in advance do I need to book a Safari?

Book your trip early. Ideally, 6 months in advance and 10-12 months in advance if you want to witness the Wildebeest migration in Serengeti.

How much does a safari cost?

Safaris are costly. Tanzania Wildlife Safaris prices depend on the number of people on the trip, how many days of safari, and the level of comfort or luxury.

What about bathrooms in the bush?

The safari trips have public bathroom facilities. In case you have to go and there isn’t one in sight. Relieving behind the vehicle is a good option. of course with the concurrence of your guide. They are sympathetic to nature calls

What about snakes and insects?

They are pretty common. Though sighting one is not a pretty thought. But on safaris atop a vehicle, they are not an issue. While on a walking safari, wear boots when venturing into bushes or woodlands. Use full trousers and long sleeve shirts to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other fly bites. In the bushes, they are a pestilence. Use insect repellent to keep them at bay

What about solar protection?

Tanzania is very near to the equator. So the sun is always at its acme for most of the day. The sun can be fierce and cause sunburns and sunstroke. Wear a hat, shades, and use SPF sunblock lotion

What about the roads on safari?

Bumpy on the safari circuits and on the game drives. If you have a back condition then take precautions with back braces, pillows, or whatever works for you.

Am I allowed to walk around the national parks?

Stay in the vehicle unless you have clearance from the guide to walk or stretch your legs. If you are keen on hiking, there are guided walks that are available in Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro.

Are drinks provided in the safari vehicle?

Big yes! You can also carry your drinking water bottle in your backpack. The safari vehicles are equipped with a small refrigerator to keep the drinks of your choice chilled for you to enjoy during your safari. Beverages, beer, and soft drinks are also available