Private 6-Day Great Migration Ndutu Serengeti Safari Tour

Setting out on a six-day safari through Tanzania’s renowned parks is a bucket-list adventure many dream of, and this private tour certainly checks all the right boxes. It’s designed for travelers who want a well-rounded, immersive experience of the Serengeti’s iconic wildlife, combined with the chance to witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration and its calving season.

From expert guides who know how to spot elusive predators to the breathtaking views of the Ngorongoro Crater, this tour promises an intimate look at Africa’s wildlife spectacle. While the price tag of around $2,827 per person might seem steep, the value lies in the personalized service, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see the Big Five and thousands of migrating animals in their natural habitat.

A potential consideration? The tour is non-refundable, so if your plans change, you’ll need to be certain before booking. Otherwise, this experience is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone craving an authentic, hassle-free safari with expert insights and comfortable accommodations.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Tour: Exclusive experience with your own group and dedicated guides.
• Expert Guides and Vehicle Quality: Guides like Gilbert and Gama are praised for their knowledge and animal-spotting skills.
• Best Time for Migration & Calving: December to April, especially January, offers the most dramatic wildlife scenes.
• Diverse Parks & Landscapes: Includes Tarangire, Ndutu, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara, providing rich variety.
• High-Value Experience: Combines game viewing, cultural encounters, and comfortable accommodations.
• Non-Refundable Policy: Important to consider if your plans might change.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Arusha Airport, where a Lion King representative will oversee your transfer to the Arusha Planet Lodge. This initial stop is more than just a place to rest; it sets the tone with its stunning landscape views and tranquil atmosphere. Most guests use this night to relax and prepare mentally for the safari ahead—perhaps enjoying a good meal or a quiet evening to acclimate.

Day 2: Exploring Tarangire National Park

Early morning pickup kicks off the safari journey, heading toward Tarangire National Park. Traveling along smooth tarmac roads across rolling Maasai plains, you’ll notice the colorful Maasai communities along the roadside—an authentic glimpse into local life.

Tarangire is celebrated for its massive elephant herds and the seasonal Tarangire River that attracts a diverse range of animals. Expect to see zebra, giraffes, and possibly predators like lions, all against a backdrop of acacia trees and open plains. The open-roof safari jeeps, described as “state-of-the-art,” allow for excellent wildlife viewing and photography.

Reviewers highlight the guides’ expertise here—Gilbert, for example, is praised for his ability to spot animals and ensure you get a close look. One reviewer shared how Gilbert and Ozzie made their game drives “amazing,” demonstrating the importance of a knowledgeable driver for a rewarding safari.

Day 3: Journey to Ndutu Lake

After breakfast, the drive to Ndutu Lake takes about three hours, crossing the dramatic landscape of the Rift Valley. Lake Ndutu’s alkaline waters are teeming with wildlife, and during December to April, the Great Migration’s main herds gather here, especially during calving season in January.

Traveling across this scenic area, you’ll get a look at the lush, short-grass plains which are perfect for the wildebeest and zebra herds. Reviewers rave about the incredible sightings—one mentioned seeing wildebeests “running cross the river in Ndutu in February,” an event that is both dramatic and unforgettable.

Day 4: Full Day in Ndutu

Spending a full day in Ndutu means plenty of game drives. Expect to witness the spectacle of hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebras, especially during the calving period when around half a million young are born within weeks. This synchronized event is a marvel—critically important for the ecosystem and a highlight for wildlife lovers.

Guides like Naurey are noted for their skill in locating elusive animals, including predators preparing to hunt these herds. You’ll also explore different habitats—swamps, woodland, soda lakes—and appreciate the landscape’s diversity. Many reviewers comment on the excellent food and the friendly service, which makes the long days even more enjoyable.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater

An en-route game drive through the Serengeti leads you to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The Crater itself is a geological wonder—a massive caldera formed from a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. It’s one of the best places to see big game, with approximately 25,000 animals including the famous Big Five.

Guests consistently praise the expert guiding here, emphasizing the opportunity to spot a variety of species within such a dense population. Arriving at the rim before lunch allows for spectacular views of the crater floor, a perfect moment for photos and reflection on the scenery.

Day 6: Final Stop at Lake Manyara

The last day brings us to Lake Manyara National Park, known for its flamingos and diverse landscapes. The shallow salt lake floods seasonally, attracting thousands of flamingos, while the park’s varied terrain hosts primates, giraffes, and elephants.

Reviewers say guides like Gama did a fantastic job of finding animals on their “list,” including cheetahs and lions lounging in trees. This park offers both water and land-based wildlife viewing, making it a fitting conclusion to a busy safari.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

While $2,827 per person is a noteworthy investment, the tour’s value stems from its comprehensive itinerary, expert guides, and private nature. Unlike larger group safaris, the private arrangement means you get undivided attention and tailored game drives—perfect for wildlife photography or just soaking in the scenes without distraction.

The guides’ reputation for being passionate and knowledgeable shines through in reviews. For instance, Gilbert was praised for his tireless animal-finding skills, and Gama’s ability to spot animals on the “list” made the safari even more rewarding. The vehicles are described as well-maintained, offering comfort during long days.

You’ll cover several key parks, each offering different landscapes and species, with the Serengeti’s vast plains providing the classic African safari backdrop. The Ngorongoro Crater is a wildlife haven, and Lake Manyara adds a splash of birdlife and primates to the mix.

Accommodation & Food

Guests note that the accommodations are comfortable, and the food is “wonderful,” with some reviewers mentioning the ability to customize meals to their preferences. This enhances the overall experience, making long days of game viewing more enjoyable.

Expertise & Service

Most reviews highlight the personalized service and communication from the Lion King team, with staff like Carolyn, Florida, and Ozzie praised for their responsiveness and professionalism. Knowing your guides are well-trained and enthusiastic transforms the safari from good to extraordinary.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This safari appeals most to travelers who value personalized attention, are wildlife enthusiasts eager to see the Big Five and the Great Migration, and want a balanced mix of adventure and comfort. It’s ideal for those who want to witness the calving season, which is one of the most dramatic times of the year for wildlife viewing.

It’s also well-suited for photographers, given the opportunity to catch up-close shots of herds, predators, and scenic landscapes. The private setup makes it perfect for couples, families, or small groups who prefer a tailored experience rather than a crowded group tour.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day private safari offers an immersive, flexible, and enriching way to experience Tanzania’s most famous parks. The combination of expert guides, diverse landscapes, and incredible wildlife sightings makes it a fantastic choice for anyone serious about wildlife photography or simply wanting to witness Africa’s natural spectacles firsthand.

The tours’ highlights—seeing the Great Migration, crossing the Ngorongoro Crater, and exploring multiple ecosystems—are complemented by excellent service and comfortable accommodations. Despite its higher cost, the value of the personalized experience, knowledgeable guides, and unforgettable wildlife encounters makes it worth considering.

If you’re seeking an authentic, well-organized safari with the flexibility to customize your adventure, this tour might just be the perfect fit. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a hassle-free experience with an emphasis on wildlife, scenery, and expert insights.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for first-time safari travelers?
Absolutely. The itinerary covers essential parks and wildlife highlights, and the guides are experienced in making the experience accessible for newcomers.

What is the best time to go for the Great Migration?
December to April is ideal, with January being the peak time for calving and witnessing herds spread across the plains.

Are accommodations included in the price?
While the specific accommodations aren’t detailed here, reviewers mention they are comfortable and well-maintained, contributing to the overall value.

Can I customize the safari or is it fixed?
This is a private tour, which generally allows some level of customization, especially with the dedicated guides and flexible itinerary.

What does the non-refundable policy mean for me?
You need to be sure about your travel dates before booking, as cancellations cannot be refunded or changed.

How experienced are the guides?
Reviews highlight guides like Gilbert, Gama, and Naurey for their exceptional animal-spotting skills and friendly, informative approach.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the safari vehicles are described as “state-of-the-art,” ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride across varied terrains.

If you’re craving a safari that blends wildlife spectacle with personalized service and stunning scenery, this private 6-day Great Migration tour in Tanzania delivers it all—an adventure that promises lifelong memories.