Great Migration Safari In Tanzania

Traveling through Tanzania’s iconic national parks to witness the legendary Great Migration is a dream for many wildlife enthusiasts. This 7-day safari, offered by Savannah Explorers, promises a private, tailor-made adventure that takes you through some of Africa’s most spectacular landscapes. With reviews consistently praising the guides, the scenery, and the value, this trip stands out as a top choice for those seeking an authentic and immersive safari experience.

What makes this tour special? First, it’s the expert guides who know the parks inside out. Second, the itinerary covers multiple key areas, including Manyara, Serengeti North and Central, and Ngorongoro—each offering unique wildlife sightings. Lastly, the highly personalized, private nature of the trip means you won’t be crowded or rushed, allowing for a more relaxed, in-depth exploration.

Of course, with a price tag of $3,900 per person, this is an investment. Travelers should consider whether they’re comfortable with the non-refundable policy, which means any cancellations won’t be reimbursed. This safari is best suited for those who want a comprehensive, high-quality experience in Tanzania and are prepared for the expense in exchange for expert guidance and exclusive access to some of Africa’s most famous parks.

Key Points

• Personalized, private safari tailored to your group’s interests
• Experienced guides praised for their knowledge and professionalism
• Well-planned itinerary covering major parks: Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro
• Excellent value for the quality of experiences and accommodations
• Optimal timing for viewing the Great Migration (July to October)
• Includes all major highlights with game drives, picnic lunches, and comfortable lodges

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Karatu

Your journey begins with a 2-hour transfer from Kilimanjaro Airport to the charming town of Karatu. This first leg is mostly about settling in and adjusting to the surroundings. If you arrive early, there’s an opportunity to stop at a local market, offering a peek into Tanzanian village life. Otherwise, you can relax at your lodge, preparing for the adventures ahead. This initial transfer sets a calm tone, with a private vehicle making the trip smooth and hassle-free.

Day 2: Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, you’ll head to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its massive elephant herds, iconic baobab trees, and rich predator activity. This park is perfect for your first game drive, giving an immediate sense of Tanzania’s wildlife bounty. The 7-hour adventure includes a picnic lunch, allowing you to spend more time observing animals without worrying about meal breaks.

The reviews highlight Tarangire’s appeal—“big herds of elephants,” as one traveler noted, along with abundant predator sightings. The park’s unique landscape and the high density of wildlife make this an excellent introductory experience.

Day 3 & 4: Serengeti North and the Great Migration

The next two days are dedicated to tracking the Great Migration, a spectacle of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and predators. The journey from Karatu takes around 3 hours into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, then onwards into the Serengeti’s northern regions—Lobo, Bologonya, and Mara.

Here, you’ll spend two full days on game drives, with reviews confirming how mesmerizing these sightings are. One reviewer mentions, “During the summer months, the herds move north, and you can see them crossing Mara River full of crocodiles.” The guides are praised for their ability to locate the herds, often during the peak migration months of July to October.

Expect long days, around 8-10 hours of game drives, with plenty of opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, and the elusive leopard. The Serengeti’s vast open plains and dramatic scenery are a highlight—“the most beautiful park in Africa,” according to many travelers.

Day 5: Serengeti Central and Predator Sightings

Moving southward, you’ll transfer to the Serengeti Central region, focusing on the core of the wilderness. The landscape here features endless plains, perfect for spotting predators like lions and cheetahs, especially around watering holes and river crossings. From the reviews, it’s clear that guides excel in locating the big cats, making this a rewarding day for wildlife lovers.

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater

Descending into the Ngorongoro Crater, you’ll experience one of the densest concentrations of wildlife in Africa. The crater’s high walls create a natural sanctuary where elephants, lions, rhinos, and buffalo roam freely. The game drive with a picnic lunch inside the crater is a highlight according to many reviewers, who praise the “high density of wild animals” and the chance to see the Big Five in one place.

The Ngorongoro experience is often described as “an unforgettable highlight,” and guides are lauded for their ability to find rare sightings amid the crater’s abundant wildlife.

Day 7: Return to Karatu and Departure

The final day involves a short transfer back to Karatu, with some time for last-minute shopping or relaxing at the lodge. The journey back to Kilimanjaro or Arusha takes about 2 hours, wrapping up a safari filled with unforgettable sights, expert guiding, and a sense of true adventure.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

According to reviews, the key to this safari’s success is the guides. One reviewer called their guide “a superstar,” highlighting the guide’s ability to locate animals and share insightful commentary. Many mention guides like Evarest, Jackson, and Ismail as knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful. Reviewers emphasize that their guides made the difference between an average trip and a “trip of a lifetime.”

The scenery also wins praise—the vast plains of Serengeti, the elephants of Tarangire, and the dense wildlife at Ngorongoro all leave lasting impressions. Many travelers note how the experience exceeded expectations, especially during the migration season, when seeing wildebeest crossings and predator hunts felt almost surreal.

Accommodation and vehicle comfort also draw positive comments. Travel in 4×4 Land Rovers or Toyota Land Cruisers ensures good visibility and a smooth ride over uneven terrain. The tour’s tailor-made approach means that it feels personal rather than crowded, often making the experience more intimate.

The Value for Money

At $3,900, this safari is a significant investment, but reviews consistently point out the value of the experience. Included in the price are all major parks, game drives, admission tickets, and private guiding. The expert guides and well-planned itinerary help maximize sightings, which many travelers say makes the cost worthwhile.

Considerations

The non-refundable policy is a potential downside for cautious travelers, so it’s important to be sure about your dates. Also, long days of game drives—up to 10 hours—require good stamina, and some may find the early mornings and late evenings a bit tiring. However, for wildlife lovers and first-time visitors, these long hours are part of the magic.

Final Verdict: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari suits travelers who value expert guiding, private experiences, and comprehensive park coverage. If you’re eager to see the Great Migration in action and want a well-organized, memorable trip in Tanzania, this tour ticks all the boxes.

It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate comfort and authenticity—staying in cozy lodges while having the flexibility of a totally private, flexible itinerary. The experience is best for adventure-minded families, wildlife photographers, and couples seeking an intimate, in-depth exploration of Tanzania’s most famous parks.

However, if you are on a tighter budget or prefer more flexible cancellation options, you might want to consider other options. Still, with high praise from past travelers and a carefully curated itinerary, this safari appears to deliver on its promise of a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

FAQs

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private safari, meaning only your group will participate, which allows for a more personalized experience and flexibility in your schedule.

What type of vehicles are used?
The tour is conducted in Jeep 4×4 Land Rovers or Toyota Land Cruisers, providing good visibility and comfort for game drives.

Are the parks included in the price?
Yes, all major park entrance fees and game drives are included in the $3,900 price, ensuring no hidden costs on the day.

How long are the game drives each day?
Expect long days of around 7 to 10 hours on the road, especially during the migration season, to maximize wildlife sightings.

What is the best time to see the Great Migration?
The migration is most visible from July to October, when herds move through the northern Serengeti in search of greener pastures.

Can I customize this tour?
Yes, the tour is 100% tailor-made, so you can discuss preferences or additional activities with the provider before booking.

The Sum Up

This 7-day Great Migration safari by Savannah Explorers offers a blend of exceptional guiding, thoughtfully planned routes, and genuine chances to witness Africa’s world-famous wildlife. Its well-curated itinerary covers key parks, providing a comprehensive look at Tanzania’s stunning landscapes and abundant animals. Travelers who prioritize authentic, private experiences and are ready to invest in a high-quality adventure will find this tour well worth the cost.

The knowledgeable guides and positive reviews suggest that the tour truly delivers on its promise, especially during the migration months when the spectacle of thousands of animals crossing rivers and hunting predators is unparalleled. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a couple celebrating a special trip, or a family seeking a memorable adventure, this safari offers a solid choice for an unforgettable Tanzanian experience.

For those who want to see the best of Tanzania’s wildlife, landscapes, and the Great Migration with expert guides and personalized service, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to plan ahead, be prepared for long days of game viewing, and get ready for a trip that might just change how you see Africa forever.