9-day Wildebeest Migration Safari on a Land Cruiser 4×4 jeep

Planning a safari that combines iconic wildlife spectacles with the chance to explore some of Tanzania’s most renowned parks? This 9-day Wildebeest Migration Safari offers an immersive adventure through the Mara and Serengeti, with a well-balanced mix of game viewing, cultural experiences, and comfortable lodgings—all for around $5,695 per person.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the opportunity to witness the Great Migration in its full glory—one of nature’s most awe-inspiring displays. Second, the carefully designed itinerary ensures diverse scenery and wildlife encounters, from the vast plains of the Mara to the lush craters of Ngorongoro. Lastly, the inclusion of private transport in a four-wheel drive vehicle guarantees that you’ll get up close and personal with Africa’s wildlife, with guaranteed window seats for everyone.

However, travelers should be aware that this trip involves quite a bit of driving—around 5 to 6 hours from Nairobi to Masai Mara on the first day, plus border crossings and multiple safari days. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or are sensitive to long drives, this might be something to consider. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for those eager to experience vast landscapes and incredible wildlife in a relatively compact schedule.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive Tanzanian safari with guaranteed wildlife sightings, a focus on the migration, and a taste of both Kenya and Tanzania’s top parks.

Key Points

• Wildlife Highlights: Witness the legendary wildebeest migration, along with diverse animals in the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private 4×4 land cruiser with guaranteed window seats for optimal game viewing.
• Cultural & Scenic Variety: Traverse multiple parks, including the Maasai Mara and Ngorongoro Crater, offering a mix of open plains, forests, and volcanic landscapes.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides and tracker-guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Full Board Accommodation: Comfortable lodges and tented camps with all meals included, providing restful retreats after exhilarating days.
• Flexible Payment & Cancellation: Book now with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 9-Day Wildebeest Migration Safari

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi

Your adventure begins at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where a representative from SHAGAMI KENYA TOURS AND SAFARIS will greet you with a sign bearing your name. They’ll assist with luggage and transfer you to the Nairobi Best Western Plus Meridian Hotel or a similar hotel. Expect a relaxed start, giving you time to settle in and perhaps soak in the vibe of Kenya’s bustling capital before heading out the next morning.

This initial night on a bed-and-breakfast basis provides a comfortable base, and it’s a great chance to prepare for the days ahead.

Day 2: Nairobi to Masai Mara

The early morning begins with a scenic drive from Nairobi to the Masai Mara, taking about 5 to 6 hours. While long, the journey offers glimpses into Kenya’s landscapes, from urban outskirts to expansive savannahs. Once inside the reserve, you’re immediately immersed in game viewing.

Depending on your arrival time, you may head straight into the park for an afternoon game drive or settle into your camp first. The Mara Jambo Lodge offers comfortable accommodations with the chance to relax while watching wildlife from the lodge’s surroundings.

Days 3 & 4: Exploring the Mara

The next two days are dedicated to discovering the diversity and grandeur of the Mara. Early starts mean encountering animals at their most active—lion prides lounging in the morning sun, herds of elephants moving across the plains, and cheetahs stalking prey.

Your guide, experienced and personable, will tailor each game drive based on current sightings and conditions. A review mentions that guides are not only knowledgeable but also enthusiastic about sharing their expertise, making every drive informative and fun. You’ll see the big five and many more species, with the vast landscape offering stunning views and photographers’ dreams.

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Day 5: Crossing into Tanzania and Serengeti

After an early breakfast, you’ll depart for Serengeti National Park via the Isebania/Sirare border crossing. This process is described as quick and straightforward, allowing you to spend more time on safari. The Serengeti’s reputation as Tanzania’s oldest and most iconic park lives up; wide-open plains stretch as far as the eye can see, hosting some of the best game-viewing in Africa.

Your stay here is at the Osinon Tented Camp, which combines adventure with comfort. Staying in a tented camp puts you right in the heart of the wilderness, waking up to the sounds of nature and the sight of wildlife nearby.

Days 6 & 7: The Serengeti’s Expanses and the Ngorongoro

These days are dedicated to exploring the Serengeti’s vastness. The morning game drives are designed to maximize sightings—your guide will likely point out interesting behaviors and lesser-seen species, making each outing a learning experience.

A highlight is the drive to Ngorongoro Crater, where you’ll descend into one of the world’s most breathtaking wildlife calderas. The large population of animals here, including lions, elephants, and rhinos, makes for unforgettable viewing. The slow pace of traveling from Serengeti to Ngorongoro allows for additional game encounters.

Day 8: Ngorongoro to Tarangire

After breakfast, the journey continues to Tarangire National Park, often called the “hidden gem” of Tanzania. Less visited than other parks, it offers a more authentic African experience. Here, you’ll find large herds of elephants, iconic baobab trees, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Your accommodations at Sangaiwe Tented Camp are perfect for unwinding after several days of wildlife exploration. This park’s lesser crowds mean more intimate encounters and a sense of discovery.

Day 9: Return to Nairobi

The final day begins with breakfast before heading back to Nairobi via Arusha. A stopover for lunch in a local restaurant adds a taste of Tanzanian life before ending your trip around 4 PM in Nairobi.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Understanding the value of this safari requires looking at its inclusions. With all park entrance fees covered and private transport guaranteed, you’re assured comfort and flexibility. The professional guides and daily wildlife info elevate the experience, helping you understand what you’re seeing.

Meals are included during the safari, and bottled water is plentiful, ensuring you stay refreshed on the game drives. The guaranteed window seats mean everyone gets a good look—no squeezing into the back seats here.

On the flip side, international flights, visas, health insurance, and personal souvenirs are not included, which is typical for safaris. Planning ahead for these expenses is recommended.

What Travelers Say

Reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the comfort of the accommodations. One review appreciates the “friendly, knowledgeable guides who made every drive exciting,” while another notes that the full-board lodgings provided much-needed rest after long days on the move.

A common theme is the value of the private, well-maintained Land Cruiser—guests loved their windows seats and the flexibility to chase sightings without feeling rushed. The long drives are described as “part of the adventure,” with some mentioning that the journey itself offers fantastic scenery and wildlife surprises.

Practical Tips

• Pack layers: mornings and evenings can be cool, especially in the Ngorongoro Crater.
• Bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens for those close-up shots.
• Remember that game drives often start early—be prepared for early wake-up calls.
• The 9-day schedule balances busy days with restful nights, but expect long hours on the road and in the vehicle.

Who Is This Safari Best For?

This safari suits travelers who want an in-depth look at East Africa’s most famous parks within a manageable timeframe. It’s ideal for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see the migration and Big Five in their natural habitat. The inclusive nature of the tour, with comfortable lodges and expert guides, makes it suitable for those seeking a hassle-free, immersive experience.

However, those craving a slow-paced trip might find the driving distances a bit tiring. It’s better suited for those comfortable with multiple days on the move but with enough downtime to enjoy the scenery and relax.

The Sum Up

This 9-day wildebeest migration safari presents an excellent opportunity to witness some of Africa’s most spectacular landscapes and animal encounters. The well-structured itinerary combines iconic parks, expert-guided game drives, and comfortable accommodations, all at a reasonable price considering the scope of the experience.

Perfect for wildlife lovers who want a comprehensive adventure with guaranteed game viewing, this trip promises memorable moments, from the vast plains of the Mara to the volcanic grandeur of Ngorongoro. The inclusion of private transport and full board makes it a convenient, value-packed option for travelers eager to explore Tanzania and Kenya’s top wildlife hotspots.

If you’re after an authentic safari experience that balances adventure, comfort, and expert insights, this tour could be a fantastic fit.

FAQ

What is included in the price of $5,695?
The price covers all park entrance fees, private 4×4 land cruiser transportation with guaranteed window seats, full-board accommodations during the safari, all activities (unless optional), bottled water, professional guides, and airport transfers.

Are international flights included?
No, international flights from and back to your home country are not included.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

What languages are spoken on the tour?
English is the language used for guides and most interactions.

What should I pack?
Bring layers for varying temperatures, binoculars, a camera with a zoom, sun protection, and personal essentials. Comfortable clothing suitable for game drives is recommended.

Is accommodation comfortable?
Yes, the lodges and tented camps are described as comfortable, blending rustic charm with needed amenities for restful nights.

How long are the drives each day?
Game drives typically start early and last several hours, especially during key wildlife activity times in the morning and late afternoon.

What vehicles are used for game viewing?
The safari uses private four-wheel-drive vehicles with retractable roofs, ensuring great visibility and comfort.

Who would find this safari most suitable?
It’s ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, first-time safari travelers, and those wanting to see the migration, Big Five, and other wildlife in a well-organized, comfortable setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: