11-Day Wildebeest Migration Serengeti, Mara, Ngorongoro Crater.

Embarking on an African safari of this scale is a dream for many wildlife lovers—and this 11-day tour offers just that, blending Tanzania’s Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater with Kenya’s Maasai Mara and Amboseli. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews make it clear that this experience is both comprehensive and authentic.

What we love about this safari is the chance to witness dramatic landscapes, huge herds of elephants, and the legendary wildebeest migration—all in one trip. The inclusion of quieter parks like Tarangire and Lake Elementaita means you’ll see a variety of wildlife and scenery without feeling rushed. Plus, the guides seem knowledgeable and enthusiastic, which makes all the difference in spotting elusive predators or explaining the significance of each habitat.

One thing to keep in mind is the price tag—$3,900 per person—which is a fair reflection of the extensive itinerary and private transportation. Still, it’s worth considering whether the full 11 days fits your budget and travel plans. This tour is ideal for those craving an immersive, varied safari with expert guidance and a good balance of iconic parks and off-the-beaten-path spots.

This safari suits travelers who want a thorough exploration of East Africa’s most famous parks, love game drives, and are eager to see the wildebeest migration and Big Five wildlife in their natural homes. If you’re after a well-organized, authentic experience with the flexibility of private transportation, this tour could be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 11-day adventure covering Tanzania and Kenya’s top parks.
• Includes visits to UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Crater and Maasai Mara, two of Africa’s most iconic wildlife areas.
• Highlights wildlife sightings, from elephants and lions to flamingos and hyenas.
• Balanced mix of game drives and scenic stops like Lake Elementaita and Amboseli with views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
• Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility throughout the trip.
• Authentic experience with knowledgeable guides praised for their professionalism and insight.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

Day 1: Arrival and Safari Kickoff at Tarangire National Park

Your journey begins with a pickup from Kilimanjaro or Arusha Airport, heading straight into Tarangire, renowned for its giant baobab trees and the largest elephant herds in northern Tanzania. This park is a wildlife magnet, especially along the Tarangire River, where animals gather like it’s a wildlife party. Expect to see elephants, giraffes, waterbucks, reedbucks, and even predators like lions lurking nearby.

From reviews, visitors loved the way guides made the animals come alive, offering insightful stories about the flora and fauna. For example, one praised the “understanding” guide who helped spot elusive predators and shared interesting facts about the park’s ecological importance.

Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater – The Big Five’s Playground

Early morning, you’ll transfer to the Ngorongoro Crater, a massive volcanic caldera and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The crater’s depth of about 600 meters and 20 km width creates a natural arena filled with elephants, lions, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards. The chance to spot all five Big Five in one place makes this highlight unforgettable.

Visitors have appreciated the smooth game viewing, with some noting that the crater offers a “variety of mammals and over 500 bird species”—a birdwatcher’s haven. The picnic lunch within the crater allows you to soak in the scenery while keeping your camera ready for unexpected wildlife surprises.

Days 3 & 4: Serengeti – The Iconic Plains

Two days are devoted to the Serengeti, which many consider Africa’s crown jewel. Its expansive plains are famous for their wildebeest migration, which, depending on the season, might be in full swing. During the dry season, the thousands of animals crossing the Mara River are a spectacle you won’t forget.

The first day includes a game drive through Seronera, where lions, cheetahs, and leopards often lounge or hunt in the acacia trees. The second day offers a full-day game drive, allowing for an immersive experience among the endless grasslands and scattered kopjes.

Reviews consistently praise the guides’ local knowledge and spotting skills, with one mentioning that they saw a lion kill and cheetahs resting in the same day. The scenery, coupled with abundant wildlife, makes Serengeti a photographer’s paradise.

Day 5 & 6: Amboseli with Views of Kilimanjaro

Crossing into Kenya, you’ll visit Amboseli, known for massive herds of elephants and stunning vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro. The park’s marshy areas attract elephants, and early morning drives often reveal herds with tusks glistening in the sunrise. The view of Kilimanjaro, though in Tanzania, is visible from Kenya, adding a dramatic backdrop.

Multiple reviewers highlight Amboseli’s easy wildlife sightings and iconic scenery. One mentioned that they spent hours watching elephants gather at the marshes, and the observation hill offers some of the best panoramic views of the mountain.

Days 7 & 8: Lake Elementaita and Lake Nakuru – Bird-Watching Hotspots

Moving into Kenya’s Rift Valley, you’ll explore Lake Elementaita, famous for flamingos and hot springs. The guided walks along the lake are a peaceful way to see the birdlife up close. The next day, Lake Nakuru National Park impresses with over 400 bird species, including countless flamingos and pelicans, and abundant rhinos and leopards.

Guests have raved about the birdwatching opportunities. One reviewer shared how they enjoyed late-afternoon walks around Lake Elementaita, spotting flamingos and taking dips in natural hot springs—an unexpected treat amidst the wildlife drives.

Days 9 & 10: Maasai Mara – The Legendary Migration and Big Five

The Maasai Mara needs no introduction. It’s the centerpiece of this safari, especially during the migration months, when millions of wildebeests and zebras cross the plains. Even outside migration season, the Mara offers abundant lions, cheetahs, elephants, and rhinos.

Two full days in the Mara mean ample opportunity for game viewing and cultural insights. One reviewer appreciated the full-day game drives with picnic lunches, noting that the Mara’s open grasslands are perfect for spotting predators stalking prey.

Day 11: Return to Nairobi

Your adventure concludes with the drive back to Nairobi, with plenty of time to reflect on countless wildlife sightings and breathtaking landscapes. The tour ends either at your hotel or the airport, depending on your plans.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Wildlife Encounters – From lions hunting at Serengeti to elephants at Amboseli, the variety and quality of sightings seem impressive. Reviewers especially mention guides’ ability to locate elusive animals, making the most of each game drive.

Diverse Landscapes – The itinerary covers savannahs, crater lakes, and mountain views, offering a well-rounded experience of East Africa’s natural beauty. The inclusion of lakes like Elementaita and Nakuru adds birdwatching and relaxation opportunities.

Expert Guides and Private Transport – Several reviews praise the professionalism and knowledge of the guides, who enhance the experience with interesting stories and spotting skills. Private transportation ensures comfort, flexibility, and less crowded game drives.

Value for Money – The price, at $3,900, reflects the extensive 11-day itinerary, accommodations, park fees, and private transport. Considering the inclusions and the number of parks visited, many would find this an excellent value for a comprehensive safari experience.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While the tour offers a rich experience, a few points are worth pondering:

• Duration and Pace – With 11 days packed with game drives, expect some long days and early mornings. It’s ideal for travelers who love wildlife and don’t mind a busy schedule.
• Seasonality – The best time for witnessing the wildebeest migration is not specified, but typically, the migration is in the Maasai Mara from July to September.
• Price Point – At $3,900 per person, this is a premium experience. However, it covers a lot of ground, park fees, and private transport, which would be costly to organize independently.
• Accommodation Quality – While not specified, the included lodges seem comfortable, and reviews mention enjoyable stays, especially at Mara Lodge.

Final Thoughts

This 11-day safari offers a well-rounded exploration of Tanzania’s most famous parks and Kenya’s iconic reserves, with expertly guided game drives and scenic stops. Its strength lies in its ability to combine wildlife viewing with the varied landscapes of the Rift Valley, Serengeti plains, and Maasai Mara.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a detailed, immersive experience, are comfortable with early mornings, and appreciate the convenience of private transportation and expert guides. Whether you’re chasing the wildebeest migration or simply eager to see the Big Five in their natural environment, this tour promises an authentic and memorable adventure.

FAQ

What parks are included in this safari?
The tour visits Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park, Amboseli National Park, Lake Elementaita, Lake Nakuru, and Maasai Mara.

How does the transportation work?
You’ll be traveling in private transportation throughout the trip, ensuring comfort and flexibility in your schedule.

Is the tour suitable for wildlife photography?
Yes. With multiple game drives and knowledgeable guides, you’ll have ample opportunities to capture stunning wildlife moments.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Big herds of elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, rhinos, buffalo, giraffes, flamingos, and various antelope species, including wildebeests, are common sightings.

Are meals included?
The itinerary mentions picnic lunches during game drives, but specific details about other meals are not provided. Expect to enjoy local food at lodges.

What’s the best time to go for the migration?
While not specified, the Maasai Mara’s wildebeest migration is typically from July to September, aligning with the Great Migration season.

Are accommodations included?
Yes, the tour includes stays at lodges like Malkia Trees Lodge and Jacaranda Lake Elementaita Lodge, based on reviews indicating comfortable, well-located lodging.

Can I cancel the tour if needed?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start, providing some peace of mind in planning.

This safari unfolds as a well-organized, wildlife-rich adventure that balances iconic sights with quieter, scenic spots, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking a comprehensive East African safari experience.