Kenya Tanzania Herdtracker Migration Safari – 08 Days

Experience the Majesty of the Kenya-Tanzania Herdtracker Migration Safari — 8 Days of Unmatched Wildlife Encounters

Our review takes a close look at the 8-day Kenya Tanzania Herdtracker Migration Safari, a carefully curated journey that promises to bring you face-to-face with some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife events. From the spectacle of the great wildebeest migration to encounters with elephants in Tarangire, this trip combines adventure, stunning scenery, and expert guiding into one seamless experience.

What makes this safari stand out? First, its focus on following the migration herds, which guarantees some of the most dynamic wildlife sightings in East Africa. Second, the inclusion of renowned parks like the Maasai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater, each offering unique landscapes and animal behaviors. Third, the knowledgeable guides — highly praised for their ability to locate elusive animals and share insightful stories.

The one potential consideration? The itinerary involves a fair amount of driving and border crossings, which might feel rushed for travelers seeking a more relaxed pace. But if your goal is to witness as much of Africa’s wildlife spectacle as possible within a week, this tour offers incredible value.

This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers eager to capture dramatic moments, and those wanting to witness the migration in its full glory. It suits travelers who appreciate expert guidance, stunning vistas, and the thrill of adventure through some of Africa’s most famous parks.

Key Points

• Authentic Wildebeest Migration: Follow the herds across Kenya and Tanzania, witnessing one of the world’s most epic wildlife spectacles.
• Incredible Park Visits: Experience the Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire — each offering distinctive landscapes and animal sightings.
• Expert Guides: Guided by knowledgeable professionals who excel at spotting wildlife and sharing engaging stories.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines game drives, scenic drives, and cultural experiences with visits to iconic landmarks.
• Value for This Price: At $5,450 per person, this all-inclusive package covers transportation, park fees, and accommodations, delivering a comprehensive East African safari.
• Potential for Rushed Feel: The program involves considerable travel time, which may be tiring but is necessary to cover key destinations.

The Safari Breakdown: What to Expect at Each Stop

Day 1: Maasai Mara National Reserve

Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your Nairobi hotel, followed by a scenic drive northward. As you cross the Great Rift Valley, you’ll stop at a viewpoint that offers breathtaking vistas of this geological wonder — a perfect photo opportunity and a stark reminder of Africa’s natural grandeur.

Afterward, you’ll head through the Maasai town of Narok, traversing endless plains dotted with iconic acacia trees. Arriving in the Maasai Mara in time for lunch, you can settle into your camp or lodge, settle in, and prepare for the days ahead.

The Maasai Mara is renowned for its big cat sightings and the annual wildebeest migration, which you’ll get a firsthand look at during your full day of game drives the next morning.

Day 2: Exploring Maasai Mara

This day is dedicated to enjoying the park’s wildlife. The early start means breakfast before a full day of game drives. Expect to see lion prides, elephants, giraffes, and cheetahs, plus plenty of plains game like gazelles and zebras.

The Maasai Mara is famous for its high animal density and the chance to witness predator-prey interactions, especially around the Mara River. The reviews highlight the guides’ skill in tracking elusive animals, with one traveler mentioning how they consistently knew where to find the Big Five.

The experience is a feast for wildlife lovers and photographers alike, with the chance to capture dramatic moments in the golden sunrise light.

Day 3: Transition to Serengeti

After breakfast, you’ll leave Kenya’s Maasai Mara and make your way towards Tanzania, crossing at the Sirare border. Here, immigration formalities are handled smoothly, and you’ll meet your Tanzanian guide.

The drive into Serengeti National Park begins with a picnic lunch en route. Arriving in the afternoon, your game drive will focus on the Northern Serengeti, where migrating herds are often gathering in preparation for their crossing from Kenya.

The Serengeti landscape is expansive and varied, with rolling plains and acacia-drowned hills, offering a sense of boundless wilderness.

Day 4: Serengeti Migration & Wildlife

Today is dedicated to following the wildebeest herds as they move through the Serengeti. The game drives will focus on areas like the Mara River, where you might see predators lurking, waiting for the migration herds to cross.

Serengeti is home to over 4 million animals and more than 500 bird species. As one reviewer noted, the guides are highly experienced at spotting animals like cheetahs, hyenas, and wild dogs, even in the dense bush. You’ll also have chances to observe birds like ostriches and vultures.

Expect a full day of wildlife sightings, with plenty of opportunities for photography, especially around water sources attracting animals.

Day 5: Southward Serengeti & Kopje Circuit

Moving south from the Northern Serengeti, your game drive takes you through the Seronera region, famous for its lion sightings and the Seronera River. You’ll enjoy a relaxing picnic under the shade of acacia trees, surrounded by the sounds of the bush.

The afternoon involves exploring the Kopjes Circuit, a series of rocky outcrops known for lions, crocodiles, and large herds of herbivores. The guides’ deep knowledge of animal behaviors makes it easier to spot lions lounging on rocks or stalking prey.

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater

Crossing into Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Conservation Area, you’ll descend into the remarkable crater, a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife. The crater’s dense animal populations include elephants, buffalo, hippos, and black rhinos — some of Tanzania’s last remaining.

The water supply and grasslands support a high concentration of animals, making it one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences in Africa. A reviewer praised the guides’ ability to find animals like the elusive black rhino, making this a highlight of the trip.

The full-day game drive allows plenty of time to explore and photograph this unique ecosystem.

Day 7: Tarangire National Park & Cultural Experience

Leaving the crater behind, you’ll head to Tarangire National Park. Along the way, a stop at Mto wa Mbu village offers a peek into local life, with guided walks through markets, visits to banana beer production, and Makonde carving shops. It’s a chance to connect with the local culture and see traditional crafts.

In Tarangire, the landscape is characterized by giant baobab trees and the winding Tarangire River. This park is especially famous for its enormous elephant herds, as well as lions, zebras, and antelopes. You’ll go on an afternoon game drive, enjoying the dry-season wildlife congregation.

Day 8: Final Game Drive & Departure

Your safari concludes with a half-day game drive in Tarangire, allowing you to squeeze in one last look at the wildlife. Expect to see elephants, giraffes, and other plains game, with plenty of opportunities for final photographs. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to Arusha Airport, ready for your onward journey.

Why Travelers Love This Safari

The reviews give high praise to the knowledgeable guides who are skilled at spotting rare animals and sharing stories that bring each park to life. For example, one reviewer mentions that guides always knew where to find animals like cheetahs and lions, making every drive exciting.

Many travelers also highlight the stunning scenery — from the sunrise over the Great Rift Valley to the vast plains of Serengeti and the lush crater floor of Ngorongoro. The diversity of landscapes is truly striking, offering endless photo opportunities.

The safari’s focus on the migration adds a sense of excitement, as you’re following the herds during their seasonal movement, witnessing the drama of predator hunts and river crossings.

However, some reviewers note that the itinerary involves a lot of driving, which can feel a bit rushed, especially with border crossings and long distances covered in a single day. But, for those eager to see as much as possible in a week, the trade-off is well worth it.

Practical Details & Value

At $5,450 per person, this safari includes all fees and taxes, private transportation, accommodations, and meals. This makes it an excellent value considering the inclusivity and the high quality of the lodges and guides.

The tour is highly rated for its balanced itinerary, combining game drives, scenic routes, and cultural stops. The fact that it’s a private tour means fewer crowds and a more personalized experience, which can significantly enhance wildlife sightings and comfort.

Transport is by private vehicle, allowing flexibility and comfort during long drives, and pickup is offered from Nairobi’s Sarit Centre, simplifying logistics.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to partake comfortably. It’s especially good for those who want to see the migration and big game with expert guidance, but it requires a bit of flexibility for the travel times and border crossings.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Safari Best For?

This Kenya-Tanzania herd migration safari is an excellent choice for adventure-minded travelers who want to witness the iconic wildebeest migration and experience multiple top-tier parks in a single trip. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, keen photographers, and anyone eager to make the most of their time in East Africa.

The tour’s focus on expert guides and authentic wildlife encounters makes it a valuable investment for those who seek immersive, memorable experiences. While the itinerary involves some long travel days, the reward is the chance to see some of Africa’s most spectacular landscapes and animal behaviors up close.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, comprehensive safari that balances adventure, scenery, and cultural insights, this tour is worth considering. It’s a bold adventure that captures the true spirit of East Africa’s wilderness.

FAQ

What is included in the price of $5,450?
The price covers private transportation, all fees and taxes, accommodations, and all meals — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — during the trip.

Are airport transfers included?
Yes, pickup is offered from Sarit Centre in Nairobi, and the tour ends at Arusha Airport in Tanzania.

Is this a group or private tour?
It is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, which allows for a more personalized experience.

What kind of wildlife will I see?
You’ll see the Big Five, wildebeest, zebra, gazelle, cheetahs, lions, elephants, crocodiles, and over 500 bird species, depending on the day.

How many game drives are included?
There are game drives on days 2, 4, 5, 6, and 8, totaling at least five dedicated wildlife viewing sessions.

What cultural experiences are included?
A stop at Mto wa Mbu village provides insights into local daily life, banana beer production, and Makonde carvings.

Is this safari suitable for families or solo travelers?
Most travelers can participate, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo adventurers eager for a comprehensive East African wildlife trip.

This safari offers a fantastic blend of iconic wildlife, expert guiding, and scenic landscapes, all at a competitive price for such a comprehensive experience. It’s a trip that promises awe-inspiring moments and plenty of stories to tell long after you’re back home.