7 days safaris to see great migration

Planning a safari to Tanzania can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many options, it’s hard to know which tour truly delivers the best wildlife encounters and authentic experiences. This 7-day safari offers a well-rounded adventure through the country’s top parks, focusing on the legendary Great Migration, the Big Five, and iconic landscapes. While we haven’t personally been on this tour, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and honest insights help paint a clear picture of what you can expect.

We love how comprehensive this experience is, combining multiple parks to maximize wildlife sightings and storybook scenery. The variety of accommodation options — from luxury tents to budget camping — means it can cater to different travel styles. The expert guides and well-organized itinerary** promise a smooth adventure, and the chance to witness the Mara River crossing is a true highlight.

One point to keep in mind is the cost, which is around $3,461 per person. While this might seem steep, the inclusion of park fees, all meals, private transportation, and expert guiding makes it a fair deal for a safari of this length. Travelers should be prepared for early mornings and long game drives, but the promise of unforgettable wildlife sightings makes it worth it.

This tour suits adventure travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those eager to see the Great Migration in action. If you’re after a hassle-free, well-rounded safari with knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, this could be the experience for you.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Tarangire, Serengeti, Ndutu, and Ngorongoro for maximum wildlife encounters.
• Expert guides like Simba and Charles, praised for their knowledge about animals and parks.
• Multiple accommodation options from luxury tents to budget camping, offering flexibility.
• Opportunity to witness the Great Migration and the incredible Mara River crossing.
• All-inclusive pricing covers park fees, meals, private transport, and accommodations.
• Early mornings and long game drives are part of the adventure, demanding stamina but delivering iconic sightings.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

Your safari kicks off with a drive from Arusha to Tarangire—sometimes called the “Elephant Playground”—famous for its large herds and baobab trees. The game drive here is a great introduction to Tanzanian wildlife; expect to see elephants, giraffes, and possibly lions lounging in the acacia shade. The day includes a lunch break, which is appreciated after a morning of exciting animal spotting, followed by a late afternoon game drive. The overnight stay at a camp allows for some peaceful wildlife viewing under the stars. One reviewer highlights the simplicity of the experience but appreciates the abundance of wildlife, making this a solid start.

Day 2 & 3: Serengeti National Park

Driving into the legendary Serengeti, you’re entering the heart of Africa’s wilderness. The route offers scenic vistas and the thrill of being in one of the world’s most famous parks. With two full days here, you’ll have ample opportunity for game drives, hoping to spot predators like lions and cheetahs or herds of wildebeest and zebras. The guides are praised for their knowledge, often explaining animal behaviors and park ecosystems, making every sighting more meaningful.

The day 3 itinerary emphasizes the ever-changing light at sunrise and sunset, perfect for photographers. The option of a picnic or hot lunch gives flexibility—many reviewers appreciate the ability to enjoy meals in the wild, enhancing the safari feel. Notably, the guide’s expertise is often mentioned as a key factor in successful wildlife sightings, with Simba and Charles earning praise for their sharp eyes and animal instincts.

Day 4 & 5: Ndutu and the Great Migration

The highlight of this tour is tracking the Great Migration in Ndutu and the southern Serengeti. Early morning departures with packed lunches mean you’re out before dawn—an early start but rewarding when viewing the migration’s dramatic river crossings or large herds grazing. One traveler shared how their guide made the experience unforgettable, answering all questions about the wildlife, which is crucial during such a specialized part of the safari.

In the afternoons, you continue exploring with game drives until sunset, often in search of predators stalking prey or large herds moving across the plains. The Ndutu area is renowned for witnessing the migration, and reviews consistently mention how close they got to the action—sometimes just meters away from a river crossing or a pride of lions. The budget camping option keeps the experience authentic, although some may prefer the luxury tents for added comfort.

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater

The journey shifts to Ngorongoro, often called the “Garden of Eden” for its lush crater floor teeming with wildlife. This is a day packed with diverse sightings—from rhinos and elephants to flamingos in the crater lake. The morning game drive in Ndutu prepares you for the transition to Ngorongoro, where the terrain offers a different kind of wildlife spectacle.

The crater’s natural bowl acts like a wildlife magnet, providing some of the best chances to see the Big Five in one place. Reviewers mention the game drives here as “stunning” and “full of surprises,” with some noting the ease of spotting elusive animals like black rhinos. The drive back to Usa River wraps up a busy, rewarding day.

Day 7: Wrap-up and Return

The final day involves a scenic drive back from Ngorongoro to Arusha, with optional stops along the way. The trip concludes around mid-afternoon, leaving you with lifelong memories and a camera full of wildlife photos. The entire itinerary balances adventure with comfort, and the private transportation ensures a smooth journey without the hassle of group tours.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Guides and Service: Several reviews point out the guides’ impressive knowledge—Simba and Charles are often praised for their wildlife expertise and friendly attitude, making game drives educational and fun at the same time.

Wildlife Encounters: From the Big Five to wildebeest crossings, the tour offers ample chances to see iconic animals and natural spectacles. The inclusion of the Great Migration and Mara River crossing adds a once-in-a-lifetime element that many travelers cherish.

Flexibility in Accommodation: With options ranging from luxury tents to budget camping, travelers can choose their preferred level of comfort. The reviews indicate that even budget options provide a true safari experience, with some mentioning the delicious and plentiful meals served by friendly staff like chef Dennis.

Value for Money: The price, which covers park fees, meals, private transportation, and accommodations, is generally considered reasonable for such an extensive, guided experience. Many reviewers felt they received good value, especially with the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see wildlife that is often hard to find elsewhere.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While this safari offers incredible value, some aspects are worth noting. The early mornings and long game drives can be tiring but are essential for witnessing wildlife at the most active times of day. The price includes most costs, but tips are not included—so budget accordingly. The tour is private, meaning your group will have exclusive access, which is ideal if you prefer a more personalized experience.

The timing of this tour, starting at 8:30 am from Arusha, gives plenty of time to settle in and begin exploring. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including solo adventurers, thanks to the flexible and well-organized schedule.

The Sum Up

This 7-day safari in Tanzania offers a well-balanced blend of wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and expert guidance. It’s particularly suited for travelers seeking to witness the Great Migration, Big Five, and iconic landscapes without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. The inclusion of varied parks ensures a diversity of wildlife and scenery that will leave you with unforgettable memories, photographs, and stories.

While it’s an investment, many reviewers agree that the quality of guides, the chance to see extraordinary wildlife, and the convenience of an all-inclusive package make this safari a worthwhile choice. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned wildlife lover, this tour provides a comprehensive taste of Tanzania’s natural riches.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers park fees for non-residents, all accommodations during the safari, a professional driver, private transportation, meals (breakfasts, lunches, dinners), and guided game drives.

Are the accommodations luxury options?
The tour offers different options, including luxury tented camps and budget camping safaris, so you can choose based on your preferred comfort level.

What kind of wildlife might we see?
Expect to see the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhino) as well as wildebeest, zebras, giraffes, and a chance to witness the Great Migration and Mara River crossings.

How early do game drives start?
Game drives typically start early in the morning, often around sunrise, to catch animals when they are most active and avoid the heat of midday.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the tour is private, and reviews mention solo travelers having a memorable experience, especially with knowledgeable guides making the journey easy and enjoyable.

What is the best time to take this safari?
While the specific dates aren’t provided, the migration and river crossings are generally most spectacular during the migration season, which travelers might want to research further.

This detailed review should help you decide whether this Tanzanian safari fits your travel dreams, offering a blend of adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters.