8 Days Great Migration – Grumeti River

Traveling through the vast plains of Tanzania on a safari might just be one of the most exhilarating adventures you can undertake. This 8-day tour by Ensembles Explores Adventures promises an immersive journey into the heart of the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire National Parks, all with a focus on witnessing the legendary Great Migration along with plenty of Big Five sightings.

What makes this experience stand out? First, we love the unlimited mileage policy — meaning your guides aren’t restrained in their quest to find animals, which can make a big difference during game drives. Second, the knowledgeable guides and their extensive wildlife expertise truly elevate the experience, providing insights you wouldn’t get elsewhere. Lastly, the stunning views from the lodges and the chance to witness some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes make it a worthwhile investment.

However, one potential drawback to consider is the cost — at nearly $5,000 per person, it’s a premium experience. But for those who value expert-guided wildlife safaris, comfortable lodges, and an itinerary packed with prime wildlife locations, this trip offers significant value. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or simply eager to see Africa’s most famous animals in their natural habitat, this tour is likely to match your expectations.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers Tanzania’s top parks, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire.
• Expert Guides: Guides boast extensive wildlife knowledge, enhancing your understanding of the animals and landscapes.
• Unlimited Miles: No restrictions on driving distances, maximizing your chances of sightings.
• Stunning Landscapes: From the rolling plains of Serengeti to the surreal Ngorongoro Crater.
• Accommodation: Full board, comfortable lodges with authentic African charm.
• Price & Value: The tour offers good value considering all included park fees, transportation, and guides, though it is a significant investment.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Tarangire National Park

Your adventure kicks off early with a drive to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its large elephant herds and high bird diversity. The park is especially lively during the dry season when animals congregate around the Tarangire River. Expect to see lions, cheetahs, and leopards stalking the plains, with the possibility of spotting the elusive Kudu, Oryx, and Gerenuk.

A key highlight here is the game drive with unlimited mileage, which means your guide can explore the vast park until they find the best wildlife sightings. Reviewers frequently mention the guides’ wildlife knowledge, which adds a lot of value. As one noted, the guides are skilled at answering questions, making the early hours both educational and exciting.

Lake Manyara: A Unique Cultural and Natural Mix

Next, you’ll visit Mto wa Mbu, a farming village with over 120 tribes, offering a chance to see local life firsthand. A walking tour through rice and banana plantations, a beer factory, and a carving workshop lets you connect with local culture — a gem that adds depth to your wildlife-focused trip.

Shortly after, you’ll explore Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its flamingos and large troop of baboons. Expect breathtaking views of the soda lake, with pink-hued flamingos, and sightings of giraffes, elephants, and hippos. Reviewers have appreciated the diversity here, noting how this park offers a nice contrast to the open plains of Serengeti.

The Serengeti: The Heart of the Action

Arriving in the Serengeti, you’ll stop at a Maasai village en route, which many travelers find enriching — a chance to learn about local traditions and the Maasai way of life. The Serengeti is where the magic of the Great Migration unfolds, especially from May to July when wildebeest herd across the Grumeti River, risking crocodile attacks and predator waitouts.

A picnic lunch amidst the endless plains sets the tone for the game drive, with the guides expertly navigating the terrain to maximize sightings. You might witness predators stalking prey, herd crossings, and an incredible sense of the wild.

Over the next days, you’ll explore different parts of the Serengeti — from the central plains, known for lions and leopards, to more remote areas where wildlife is abundant year-round. The central Serengeti is praised for consistent predator sightings, with reviewers emphasizing the ease of spotting lions, cheetahs, and giraffes.

Ngorongoro Crater: The Natural Wonder

The tour culminates at the Ngorongoro Crater, a highlight for many. This volcanic caldera teems with nearly 30,000 animals, including rare black rhinos and flamingos. The crater’s stunning scenery and dense animal concentration make it one of Africa’s most iconic sights.

One reviewer marveled at the “beautiful colors and dancing clouds,” describing the crater as almost surreal. Your guide will take you on a final game drive in this remarkable area, offering a last chance to see the Big Five in a single stop — a definite bucket-list moment.

End of the Journey

After the Ngorongoro crater, your safari wraps up with a return to your accommodation, where you can relax and reflect on the incredible sights and experiences. The full-board lodges provide a comfortable base, blending traditional African design with modern comforts.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes all park entrance fees, a 4×4 with pop-up roof, full board accommodation, and unlimited mineral water. The guides are fluent in English and are well-versed in wildlife, which enhances the overall experience.

Not included are tips, travel insurance, and international flights—common exclusions, but worth planning for. The group size is limited to 6 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and personalized attention from your guides.

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in a 4×4 with open rooftop means you get unobstructed views of the wildlife, a crucial factor for photography and spotting animals at a distance. The vehicle’s unlimited mileage policy means guides won’t hold back in searching for those elusive creatures, which many travelers find invaluable.

Accommodation and Meals

Full board stays at carefully selected lodges, providing both comfort and authentic African ambiance. Reviewers frequently mentioned the “fantastic adventure” and appreciated the “great organization skills,” especially regarding timing and navigation.

Authentic Experiences and Unique Insights

Beyond the parks, the tour offers cultural interludes like visiting Maasai villages and local factories, enriching the experience beyond just wildlife. Reviewers also highlighted guides’ extensive knowledge, with one noting that “Mike and his team have great organization skills,” which made the trip smooth and enjoyable.

Wildlife Viewing: A Mix of Big Five and Migration

The main draw here is the chance to see the Big Five along with witnessing the Great Migration. May to July is prime time for migration crossings at the Grumeti River, where herds challenge crocodiles and predators lie in wait. Even outside migration season, the Serengeti’s central plains offer reliable predator sightings, including lions and leopards.

The Value of the Tour

While the price tag may seem high, it covers park fees, luxury lodges, guides, and transport, which can be costly if booked separately. The unlimited driving mileage and small group size add to the value, ensuring personalized attention and maximum wildlife encounters.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is best suited for those who seek a comprehensive, guided experience of Tanzania’s top wildlife parks, with a focus on the Great Migration and the Big Five. If you value expert guides, luxury accommodations, and unrestricted exploration, this tour delivers on all counts.

Travelers eager to see the serenity of the African plains, coupled with the thrill of spotting predators and herd crossings, will find this journey both rewarding and memorable. The cultural elements like visiting Maasai villages add a wonderful touch for those wanting a broader connection to local life.

However, those on a tight budget or seeking a DIY approach might find the cost steep. Also, since the tour is designed for a small group of 6, it’s perfect for travelers who prefer an intimate, personalized safari experience over large, crowded tours.

FAQs

Is transportation provided for the entire trip?
Yes, you’ll travel in a 4×4 with open roof for the entire safari, allowing for excellent wildlife viewing and unlimited mileage to explore parks freely.

Are park entrance fees included?
Absolutely, all park entrance fees are covered within the tour price, so there are no surprises at gate checkpoints.

What kind of accommodations will I stay in?
The full-board accommodations are carefully selected to reflect traditional African charm with modern comforts, providing a cozy and authentic experience.

Can I expect to see the Big Five?
Yes, especially in the central Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, where sightings of lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo are common.

Is the tour suitable for wildlife photography?
Definitely. The open-roof 4x4s and the experienced guides make it ideal for capturing stunning wildlife shots.

What is the best time to see the Great Migration?
Between May and July, when wildebeest herds cross the Grumeti River — one of the most dramatic moments of the safari.

Are tips included?
No, tips are not included, so consider tipping guides and staff for their exceptional service.

In summary, this 8-day safari offers a well-rounded experience of Tanzania’s wildlife treasures, with expert guides, comfortable lodges, and unforgettable moments. It’s especially suited for travelers passionate about wildlife, photography, or cultural exchanges, and willing to invest in a premium, personalized adventure.