6 Days Wildebeest Migration Safari in Tanzania

Follow the iconic movement of wildebeests through Tanzania’s legendary northern circuit. This six-day safari covers Lake Manyara, Northern Serengeti (including the Mara River crossing area), Central Serengeti, and the Ngorongoro Crater. Expect varied wildlife sightings, scenic routes, and rewarding game drives.

Day 1: Arusha – Lake Manyara National Park

Your safari begins in Arusha with a morning pickup from your lodge or hotel. The journey to Lake Manyara National Park spans about 120 kilometers and takes roughly 2.5 to 3 hours. Known for its rich greenery and compact size, this park is home to elephant herds, zebras, dik-diks, hippos along the lake shore, and over 400 species of birds, including flamingos and pelicans. After a full-day game drive with a picnic lunch, you’ll drive to the Karatu area for your overnight stay.

Accommodation: Country Lodge or Olea Africana LodgeMeals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Karatu – Northern Serengeti National Park

After breakfast, the drive continues across the Ngorongoro Conservation Area into Serengeti National Park via Naabi Hill Gate. You’ll travel northward into the remote Northern Serengeti, passing expansive plains along the way. Enjoy game viewing en route before reaching your lodge in the late afternoon.

Accommodation: Serengeti Mara Heritage CampMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 & Day 4: Northern Serengeti Game Viewing

These two days will be spent exploring key areas of the Northern Serengeti, including Lobo, Bologonja, and Kogatende. The Mara River banks on the Tanzanian side offer the possibility of witnessing wildebeest river crossings, accompanied by zebras and gazelles. This season also draws numerous predators, including lions and crocodiles. Wildlife viewing may include dramatic scenes such as hunts and territorial displays.

Accommodation: Serengeti Mara Heritage CampMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Central Serengeti – Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Depart the Northern Serengeti after breakfast, driving southwards through Central Serengeti with wildlife viewing en route. After exiting at Naabi Hill Gate, continue towards the Ngorongoro highlands. Optional visits to Olduvai Gorge or a traditional Maasai village can be arranged at extra cost. You will overnight at the crater rim.

Accommodation: Rhino LodgeMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater Exploration – Return to Arusha

Begin your day early with a descent into the Ngorongoro Crater. Spend the morning on the crater floor searching for lions, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, and possibly leopards. The crater provides a high chance of spotting the full Big Five within a single day. After a final wildlife viewing session and picnic lunch, return to Arusha in the afternoon, concluding your safari.

Accommodation: Not includedMeals: Breakfast, Lunch