Tanzania · Wildlife Safari

8-Day Tanzania Safari to Northern Serengeti with Mara River Crossing

8 Days Round trip from Arusha Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Witness the dramatic Mara River crossing during the Great Wildebeest Migration
  • 02 Explore the Big Five and big cats in Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater
  • 03 Experience guided game drives and walking tours across stunning landscapes
  • 04 Immerse yourself in Maasai culture and enjoy authentic Tanzanian cultural activities

Embark on an 8-day private safari through Northern Tanzania to witness the world-famous Mara River crossing and the Great Wildebeest Migration. Explore Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater while spotting the Big Five and majestic big cats. Experience thrilling game drives, walking tours, and cultural encounters in Maasai villages. This guided adventure blends wildlife, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, offering the ultimate African safari experience across Tanzania's most celebrated and scenic national parks.

Witness the thrilling Mara River crossing as wildebeest and zebras navigate crocodile-infested waters.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
Cities Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tarangire National Park
Languages English, French, German, Italian, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Arusha and City Exploration

  • Arrive at the airport, where a representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to Arusha, the safari capital of Tanzania.
  • Explore the city with visits to the Maasai Market, Cultural Heritage Centre, and Arusha local market.
  • Engage in community-based cultural experiences such as visiting schools or joining a tree-planting programme.
  • Relax in the evening as you prepare for the safari adventure ahead.
2
Day 02

Full-Day Safari in Tarangire National Park

  • After breakfast, drive to Tarangire National Park for a full-day safari experience.
  • Discover large elephant herds, baobab trees, and the park's diverse landscapes.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch inside the park while watching wildlife by the Tarangire River.
  • Continue with an afternoon game drive before heading to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
3
Day 03

Scenic Drive to Central Serengeti via Ngorongoro

  • Depart after breakfast for a scenic drive through the Ngorongoro Highlands.
  • Stop at the Ngorongoro Crater viewpoint for sweeping views and photographs.
  • Visit a Maasai Boma to experience traditional dancing, music, and cultural displays.
  • Arrive in Central Serengeti in time for lunch and an afternoon guided game drive focused on lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
  • Return to your camp for dinner and an overnight stay.
4
Day 04

Game Drive Transfer to Northern Serengeti

  • Begin with an early morning game drive in the Central Serengeti, spotting predators and grazing herds.
  • Continue with a transfer game drive toward the Northern Serengeti, known for its dramatic landscapes and predator activity.
  • Enjoy lunch in the park before an afternoon safari exploring migration herds and big cats.
  • Arrive at your lodge or tented camp for dinner and rest.
5
Day 05

Mara River Crossing and Great Migration Safari

  • Set out early for a full-day game drive in the Northern Serengeti.
  • Witness the thrilling Mara River crossing as wildebeest and zebras navigate crocodile-infested waters.
  • Track the Great Migration with opportunities to spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, and elephants.
  • Enjoy lunch in the heart of the park before continuing your exploration of this remarkable region.
  • Return to camp for dinner and an overnight stay.
6
Day 06

Return to Central Serengeti with En Route Safari

  • Begin the day with a morning game drive in the Northern Serengeti.
  • Spot big cats and other wildlife amid breathtaking landscapes.
  • Enjoy lunch in the park before driving back toward the Central Serengeti.
  • Continue your afternoon safari en route before arriving at your lodge for dinner and rest.
7
Day 07

Full-Day Ngorongoro Crater Exploration

  • After breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day game drive.
  • Experience close encounters with the Big Five and other species in this rich ecosystem.
  • Have lunch inside the crater before ascending back to the rim and returning to Arusha for dinner and an overnight stay.
8
Day 08

Mto Wa Mbu Cultural Visit and Departure

  • After breakfast, visit Mto Wa Mbu Village for a guided walking tour and cultural immersion.
  • Learn about Maasai traditions, local crafts, and community life.
  • Enjoy a final Tanzanian meal before transferring to Kilimanjaro Airport for your departure.
Mara River crossing, Northern Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire River

Where this trip takes you

Mara River crossing, Northern Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire River

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Arusha 5 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Park fees for non-residents
  • Meals as per itinerary
  • Roundtrip airport transfer
  • Professional driver and guide
  • All taxes and VAT

What's Not Included

  • International flights from or to the client's home country
  • Additional accommodation before or after the tour
  • Tips of 20 dollars per person per day for the guide and crew
  • Personal items including souvenirs, travel insurance, and visa fees

What to bring

  • 1 to 2 long-sleeved shirts
  • Warm sweaters or a light jacket
  • Regular light shirts or T-shirts
  • 1 to 2 pairs of light cotton trousers
  • Shorts or a loose skirt for the ladies
  • A hat for the sun
  • Backpack
  • Warm sweater or light fleece
  • Walking shoes or boots
  • Long-sleeve dress
  • Sunglasses
  • Insect repellent

Know before you go

  • All activities mentioned are included unless optional.
  • Accommodation is as listed unless upgraded.
  • All transportation mentioned is included unless optional.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Arusha, Tanzania
Tour start
Arusha, Tanzania
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 8 days finish where they began, in Arusha.

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