Discover 6-Day (North Serengeti Migration) – Mara River Crossing

Travel to Tanzania’s Serengeti to witness one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles—the Great Wildebeest Migration crossing the Mara River. This 6-day private safari, offered by Africa Natural Tours, promises a well-rounded adventure with game drives through iconic parks, plenty of wildlife sightings, and a front-row seat to the dramatic river crossings that draw photographers and nature lovers worldwide.

What makes this experience stand out? First, we love the expert guides who bring the wilderness alive with their knowledge and enthusiasm. Second, the well-structured itinerary covers key highlights like Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park, ensuring a varied safari experience. Third, the opportunity to witness the migration crossing the Mara River—arguably the most exciting wildlife event on the planet—is genuinely unforgettable. That said, a possible consideration is the price point of $3,120 per person, which reflects the quality and exclusivity but may be a stretch for budget travelers. This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photography lovers, and those seeking a comprehensive Tanzanian safari adventure.

Key Points

• Authentic wildlife encounters with guided game drives in top parks
• Focus on the North Serengeti migration crossing for a unique spectacle
• Includes essential park fees and accommodations, simplifying planning
• Designed for small groups or private experience, offering personal attention
• Travel from Arusha, combining cultural and natural highlights
• Experienced guides who bring stories and insights to life during drives

An In-Depth Look at the 6-Day Serengeti Migration Safari

Starting Point: Arusha — The Gateway to Tanzania’s Wilderness

Your safari begins in Arusha, a lively town that acts as the launching pad for adventures across northern Tanzania. The tour company offers pickup services, making your start seamless. From here, the journey heads toward Lake Manyara, a park famous for its scenic backdrop and diverse wildlife, setting a relaxed tone for the trip. You’ll stay at Ngedere Lodge, a comfortable base where you can unwind after the day’s drive and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Day 1: Lake Manyara — The First Wildlife Encounter

While Lake Manyara is primarily known for its stunning landscape and tree-climbing lions, it also offers a wealth of birdlife and a variety of animals. The game drive here is a perfect introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife richness. The lodge’s location allows for quiet evenings and early mornings, giving you a chance to spot elephants, giraffes, and maybe even some elusive predators.

Day 2: Mto wa Mbu to Serengeti — Entering the Iconic Wilderness

After breakfast, you travel from Mto wa Mbu into the Serengeti, one of Africa’s most celebrated national parks. The drive itself offers scenic views and a chance to see local villages, giving a glimpse into Tanzanian rural life. Once inside the Serengeti, you’ll head straight into game drives, where the abundance of wildlife—lions, cheetahs, elephants, and thousands of wildebeest—will be mesmerizing. Overnight stays at Serengeti Heritage Lodge allow you to soak in the vastness of this wilderness.

Day 3: Central Serengeti to North Serengeti — Witnessing the Migration Crossings

The highlight of this day is reaching the North Serengeti, specifically Kogatende, known as the prime spot for migration river crossings. Here, you’ll have opportunities to see wildebeest and zebras gathering before crossing the Mara River, a dramatic and often perilous journey. The guide’s knowledge enhances the experience, helping you anticipate the crossing and share stories about the migration. Spending the night at the comfortable Serengeti Heritage Lodge keeps you close to the action.

Day 4: Return to Central Serengeti — Exploring More Habitats

Back in Central Serengeti, the focus shifts to exploring different habitats, looking for predators stalking prey, and enjoying the diverse landscapes. You’ll enjoy game drives that reveal the park’s ecological richness, with chances to see predators like lions and cheetahs. Tumbili Campsite offers a camping experience under the stars, adding a true wilderness feel to the adventure.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater and Mto wa Mbu — Wildlife in a Unique Caldera

Today’s visit to the Ngorongoro Crater is a highlight. It’s a world-renowned wildlife haven, with elephants, lions, rhinos, and flamingos often spotted in this seemingly enclosed ecosystem. The crater’s breathtaking scenery, combined with the chance to see a dense concentration of animals, makes it a must-see. Afterward, you return to Mto wa Mbu at Ngedere Lodge to relax and recount your adventures.

Day 6: Tarangire National Park and Return to Arusha

On your final day, Tarangire National Park offers a different landscape—elephant herds wandering among baobab trees and rivers teeming with wildlife. The large elephant populations here are a signature sight, complementing your safari experience. After a day of game viewing, you’ll head back to Arusha, carrying memories of an unforgettable journey through Tanzania’s wilderness.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour focuses on providing a smooth experience with included essentials like park entrance fees, a professional safari driver guide, a 4×4 land cruiser, and accommodations during the safari. The food is described as large, fresh, and healthy—important for keeping energy levels high amid long game drives. Drinking water and medical kits are also provided, adding peace of mind.

The not-included costs are mostly personal, such as alcoholic beverages, post-tour hotel stays, travel and medical insurance, tips for guides, and flights. This transparency allows you to budget accordingly and understand where extra costs might arise.

The Experience of Traveling with AFRICA NATURAL TOURS

According to reviews, the company’s guides are highly knowledgeable, with one reviewer noting that their trip to Marangu Waterfalls and local coffee tours was “so organized” and enjoyable. The emphasis on professionalism and personalized service makes this safari appealing for those who value quality and trustworthiness. The vehicle used—4×4 safari land cruisers—ensures comfort and access to hard-to-reach wildlife viewing spots.

Flexibility & Group Size

Being a private tour, only your group will participate, fostering a personalized experience. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received quickly upon booking. It’s a great choice for those who want a curated, in-depth safari experience with the flexibility of small-group travel.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Safari?

If you’re passionate about witnessing iconic wildlife events like the wildebeest river crossings, this safari delivers a front-row seat. The combination of expertly led game drives, diverse park visits, and the chance to see the migration in action makes this a truly special experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided tours with knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and a well-planned itinerary that maximizes wildlife sightings.

Keep in mind the price; while it’s a significant investment, it reflects the quality of service, the inclusion of park fees, and the exclusive access to one of the world’s greatest natural spectacles. If you’re after an authentic, well-organized Tanzanian safari that covers the highlights and the migration crossing, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup services from Arusha, making your start hassle-free.

What parks are included in this 6-day safari?
The itinerary covers Lake Manyara, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
The core focus is witnessing the North Serengeti Migration crossing the Mara River, a spectacular sight during the annual migration.

How many days are spent in the Serengeti?
You’ll spend four nights in the Serengeti—two in the Central Serengeti and two in the North Serengeti (Kogatende).

Are accommodations included during the safari?
Yes, accommodations are part of the package, including lodges and a campsite, depending on the day’s schedule.

What is not included in the price?
Alcoholic beverages, post-tour hotel stays, flights, insurance, and tips are not included.

Can this tour be canceled?
Yes, there is a free cancellation policy if canceled at least 24 hours before the start, with full refunds.

To sum it up, this 6-day North Serengeti Migration safari offers a deeply immersive Tanzanian adventure. It’s perfect for wildlife lovers eager to see the migration in action, along with visits to Ngorongoro and Tarangire. The emphasis on experienced guides, comfortable accommodations, and a carefully curated itinerary makes it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a comprehensive and authentic safari experience. While the cost might be high for some, the memories of witnessing one of Earth’s most extraordinary wildlife events make it a journey worth considering.