7-Day The Great Serengeti Migration Safari

Tarangire , Serengeti, and Ngorongoro

7-Day The Great Serengeti Migration Safari

Tarangire , Serengeti, and Ngorongoro

Price

$2,361.00

Duration

7 days

Max People

16

Min Age

5+

Overview

The 7-Day Great Serengeti Migration Safari offers a front-row seat to one of the world’s most breathtaking wildlife spectacles, the wildebeest migration. Each year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move across the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing lands, creating unforgettable moments of survival and wonder.

This immersive journey takes you through the Central, Western, and Northern Serengeti, following the herds as they traverse rivers, plains, and woodlands. Along the way, you’ll witness dramatic predator action involving lions, cheetahs, and crocodiles, as well as encounters with elephants, giraffes, and countless bird species.

With Nihapa Tours, you’ll enjoy the comfort of handpicked lodges or tented camps, personalized guiding, and seamless logistics, ensuring you never miss a moment of the migration. Whether it’s the river crossings between July and October or the calving season from January to March, this 7-day safari delivers the very essence of the Serengeti, wild, untamed, and unforgettable.


Tour Highlights

  • Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
  • Parks Visited: Tarangire, Serengeti (Central and Northern), Ngorongoro Crater
  • Safari Style: Private guided safari
  • Group Size: Flexible (2–16 recommended)
  • Expert: English-speaking guides
  • Start/End: Arusha (Kilimanjaro International Airport or hotel)
  • Departure Time (Day 2): Be ready by 8:00 AM for a prompt 8:30 AM departure
  • Return Time: Approximately 6:00 PM on Day 8
  • Dress Code: Casual, comfortable athletic clothing, hat, spare clothing
  • Customizations: Tailored upon request (e.g., Maasai village visits)
  • Extensions: Available (e.g., Zanzibar beach stay, Kilimanjaro climb)
  • Season: June-October (dry season, ideal for Great Wildebeest Migration in northern Serengeti); December-March (calving in southern Serengeti)
  • Private 4x4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof
  • 24/7 support from Nihapa Tours

Sample 7-Day Serengeti Migration Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – Gateway to the Serengeti

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your Nihapa Tours guide and transferred to your lodge in Arusha. Take the day to relax and recover from your flight, surrounded by views of Mount Meru and lush tropical gardens.

Day 2: Arusha to Central Serengeti (Seronera Valley)

After breakfast, depart for the Serengeti National Park, driving through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. You’ll arrive at the heart of the Serengeti by afternoon, where the plains teem with elephants, lions, and antelopes. Enjoy your first game drive on the way to your camp.

Day 3: Central Serengeti – Game Drives in Big Cat Territory

Spend a full day exploring the Seronera Valley, known as the “predator capital” of the Serengeti. Lions rest under acacia trees, leopards hide in the kopjes, and cheetahs scan the horizon. Your guide will position you for the best wildlife photography and migration sightings.

Day 4: Serengeti (Central) to Western/Northern Corridor – Following the Herds

After breakfast, continue toward the Western or Northern Serengeti, depending on migration movement. Between June and October, herds gather near the Grumeti or Mara Rivers, attracting crocodiles and big cats waiting for their chance. Afternoon game drive in this dynamic region.

Day 5: Northern Serengeti – Witness the Mara River Crossings

This is the day you’ve been waiting for, the Mara River crossing. Watch as wildebeest and zebras plunge into the river, battling strong currents and crocodiles. The intensity of this spectacle is unmatched. Your day ends with a sunset drive across the golden plains.

Day 6: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

After an early breakfast, enjoy a final morning drive in the Serengeti before heading back toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Arrive at your lodge perched on the crater rim in time for a scenic sunset and dinner with panoramic views.

Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha Departure

Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to over 25,000 animals, including rhinos, lions, elephants, and flamingos. Enjoy a half-day game drive before returning to Arusha for your flight or onward plans.

Why Choose This Safari

  • Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, the Big Five, and diverse wildlife
  • Ngorongoro Crater as the grand finale for a dramatic end
  • Extended Serengeti time (3 days) for optimal migration viewing
  • Private 4x4 Land Cruiser for superior game viewing
  • Ideal for wildlife photographers, families, and migration enthusiasts
  • Flexible, customizable itineraries
  • Stay in eco-friendly lodges or budget camps

Why Choose Nihapa Tours

Nihapa Tours crafts personalized Tanzania safaris with:

  • Extended Exploration: Three days in Serengeti to track the Great Wildebeest Migration
  • Expert Guides: Local experts like Fadhili provide deep wildlife insights
  • Flexible Options: Budget camping, mid-range, or luxury lodges (e.g., Melia Ngorongoro)
  • Private Tours: Exclusive 4x4 vehicles for intimate experiences
  • Conservation Focus: Partners with Nature Steward for sustainable tourism

Best Time to Visit

  • June-October: Dry season, ideal for Great Wildebeest Migration river crossings in northern Serengeti (June-July peak)
  • December-March: Calving season in the southern Serengeti, with predator action
  • April-May: Fewer crowds, lush landscapes, budget-friendly (migration less predictable)

Travel Tips

  • Pack: Lightweight clothing, binoculars, camera, sunscreen
  • Visa: Apply for a Tanzanian e-Visa online ($50 for most, $100 for US citizens)
  • Vaccinations: Consult for yellow fever (if from endemic areas) and malaria prophylaxis
  • Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS); USD widely accepted
  • Safety: Follow the guide instructions; avoid wandering alone at night
  • Arrival: Book flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO); Nihapa Tours arranges transfers

Book Your 7-Day Serengeti Migration Safari

Call us: +255 786 261 927
Email: [email protected]

Don’t miss your chance, book your Tanzania safari with Nihapa Tours today!

 

Costs Includeds/Excludes

  • All accommodations
  • All activities - unless indicated as optional
  • Airport Pick-up and Drop-off Transfers
  • All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
  • Accommodation and Meals (Half Board - First & Last day, Full board - All other days)
  • Taxes / VAT
  • Bottled water, onboard snacks, wines, beer, coffee and soft drinks throughout the tour
  • Binocular (1 per Vehicle)
  • Medical kit
  • AMREF Flying Doctors Evacuation
  • Experienced English-speaking safari guide
  • Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  • International flights
  • Lunch and dinner in hotel (only before and after safari)
  • Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
  • Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
  • Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
  • Any other personal expenses

Day 1 Arrival in Arusha – Gateway to the Serengeti

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your Nihapa Tours guide and transferred to your lodge in Arusha. Take the day to relax and recover from your flight, surrounded by views of Mount Meru and lush tropical gardens.

Day 2Arusha to Central Serengeti (Seronera Valley)

After breakfast, depart for the Serengeti National Park, driving through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. You’ll arrive at the heart of the Serengeti by afternoon, where the plains teem with elephants, lions, and antelopes. Enjoy your first game drive en route to your camp

Day 3 Central Serengeti – Game Drives in Big Cat Territory

Spend a full day exploring the Seronera Valley, known as the “predator capital” of the Serengeti. Lions rest under acacia trees, leopards hide in the kopjes, and cheetahs scan the horizon. Your guide will position you for the best wildlife photography and migration sightings.

Day 4 Serengeti (Central) to Western/Northern Corridor – Following the Herds

After breakfast, continue toward the Western or Northern Serengeti, depending on migration movement. Between June and October, herds gather near the Grumeti or Mara Rivers, attracting crocodiles and big cats waiting for their chance. Afternoon game drive in this dynamic region.

Day 5 Northern Serengeti – Witness the Mara River Crossings

This is the day you’ve been waiting for, the Mara River crossing. Watch as wildebeest and zebras plunge into the river, battling strong currents and crocodiles. The intensity of this spectacle is unmatched. Your day ends with a sunset drive across the golden plains.

Day 6 Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

After an early breakfast, enjoy a final morning drive in the Serengeti before heading back toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Arrive at your lodge perched on the crater rim in time for a scenic sunset and dinner with panoramic views.

Day 7 Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha Departure

Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to over 25,000 animals, including rhinos, lions, elephants, and flamingos. Enjoy a half-day game drive before returning to Arusha for your flight or onward plans.

Tour Accommodations

 

Tour Day Budget Camping Package Standard Package
Day 1 On Request Mt. Meru Hotel
Day 2 On Request Serengeti Kati Kati
Day 3 On Request Serengeti Kati Kati
Day 4 On Request Serengeti Kati Kati
Day 5 On Request Serengeti Kati Kati
Day 6 On Request Ngorongoro Serena Hotel
Day 7 On Request No Accommodation

What’s the cost of a migration safari?

Costs vary but typically range from $2,000 to $10,000+ per person, depending on the length, luxury level, and inclusions.

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

Will I see the famous ‘Big 5’?

There are never any guarantees with wildlife, but our driver-guides work hard to find you the ‘Big 5’ and so much more. But you will certainly have a good chance of seeing the Big 5, depending on which parks you choose to visit as part of your itinerary. If your goal is to see a black rhino, you should include Ngorongoro on your schedule.

What is the Great Wildebeest Migration?

The Great Wildebeest Migration is a year-round movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and other animals across the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya in search of fresh grazing and water.

When is the best time to see the migration?

The timing depends on what stage of the migration you want to witness:
  • Calving season (January–March): In southern Serengeti, ideal for baby animals and predator action.
  • River crossings (July–October): In northern Serengeti and Maasai Mara, famous for dramatic scenes as wildebeest cross crocodile-filled rivers.
  • Migration on the move (April–June and November–December): Best for quieter safari experiences as herds traverse central and western Serengeti.

Where does the migration occur?

The migration mainly takes place in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Kenya’s Maasai Mara.

How long does the migration last?

It’s a continuous cycle throughout the year, but specific events like river crossings last a few weeks at a time.

Are river crossings dangerous?

For animals, yes, as they face predators like crocodiles and lions. For humans, safaris are conducted at a safe distance, making it a thrilling but safe experience.

Is the migration only about wildebeest?

No, it also involves zebras, gazelles, elands, and numerous predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.

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.

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.

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.

I would like to book but I have group is large group, is this a problem?

We aim to keep the size of the public groups to a minimum, as we feel that a group that is much larger than ten trekkers is cumbersome and trekkers lose the sense that they are in a wilderness if there are too many people. That said, if you are a single, private group, then there is no problem accommodating you whatever the size of the group, as, of course, you will be aware before arriving in Tanzania of the number of people you will be trekking with.

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 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

When does the tour end?

This day experience is to end in either Moshi or Arusha, drop off between 3 to 6 pm. Transfer to your accommodation is included

When does the tour start?

Safari starts at 10 am (Unless advised otherwise by Safari)

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

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Nihapa Tours is a sustainable, family-owned Boutique Tour Operator based in Arusha, Tanzania.

Proudly Tanzanian-owned and deeply rooted in local expertise, our multicultural team combines the passion of our primarily Tanzanian staff with fresh global perspectives from our expatriate collaborators who share an unwavering dedication to showcasing the wild beauty of our homeland.

We’re dedicated to delivering personalized, world-class safari experiences infused with genuine African hospitality & Sustainability. We offer Luxury safari and Beach vacation trips to Tanzania and Zanzibar, Camping safari, and Adventure trips to Serengeti, Kilimanjaro, and the whole of East Africa.

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Meru Spring Plaza, Box 13287, Arusha Tanzania, Plot 690 Block D, 23106.

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