Tanzania · Luxury Safari

5-Day Serengeti Safari with Mara River Crossing by Bush Plane

5 Days Round trip from Arusha Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Witness the Great Mara River crossing
  • 02 Marvel at full-day game drives in the Serengeti
  • 03 Enjoy up-close wildlife encounters in open safari vehicles
  • 04 Experience the wildebeest migration in the northern Serengeti

Embark on a thrilling 5-day Serengeti safari where luxury meets wilderness in one of Africa's most iconic landscapes. Fly over breathtaking vistas, witness the awe-inspiring wildebeest migration at the Mara River, and explore the heart of the Serengeti on immersive game drives. Indulge in exclusive stays at Lemala Kuria Hills and experience nature's raw beauty up close, creating unforgettable memories of Africa's majestic wildlife.

Prepare to be captivated by one of the finest African safaris in Tanzania, where the extraordinary Mara River crossing showcases wildebeests braving the rushing waters in a mesmerizing display of nature's power and beauty.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days
Tour type Shared
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Luxury
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park
Languages English, French, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

VIP Arrival in Arusha

  • Step into luxury as you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where a VIP reception awaits to whisk you away in private, luxurious transport to Arusha.
  • Feel like a true VIP as you make your way to the opulent Arusha Gran Melia Hotel, where comfort and elegance await.
  • Anticipation builds for the extraordinary experiences that lie ahead in the heart of the Serengeti.
  • Enjoy a lavish stay at the hotel, indulging in a delightful breakfast to kickstart your safari adventure.

Overnight: Arusha Gran Melia Hotel.

Meals Plan: Breakfast.

2
Day 02

Bush Plane Flight to Northern Serengeti

  • Embark on a journey of awe and wonder with our safari in Africa, Tanzania, as you board a VIP bush plane, offering unmatched views of the majestic Serengeti landscapes en route to Lemala Kuria Hills in the northern Serengeti.
  • Let your spirit soar as you gaze upon the breathtaking beauty below, setting the perfect tone for an unforgettable safari adventure.
  • After landing at Kogatende airstrip, dive into an exhilarating game drive and witness the iconic Mara River crossing, where wildebeests brave the waters in search of lush pastures.

Overnight: Lemala Kuria Hills.
Meal Plan: All-Inclusive.

3
Day 03

Full-Day Serengeti Game Drive

  • Embark on an exhilarating exploration of the Serengeti in a luxurious open tourist vehicle, offering unobstructed views of the wildlife and landscapes.
  • Engage in a full-day game drive, where the natural wonders of the Serengeti reveal themselves in a mesmerizing spectacle of beauty and wildlife encounters.
  • Keep an eye out for the thrilling wildebeest river crossing, a captivating display of nature's raw power and resilience.

Overnight: Lemala Kuria Hills.

Meals Plan: All-Inclusive.

4
Day 04

Mara River Crossing Experience

  • Prepare to be captivated by one of the finest African safaris in Tanzania, where the extraordinary Mara River crossing showcases wildebeests braving the rushing waters in a mesmerizing display of nature's power and beauty.
  • Witness this awe-inspiring spectacle from the comfort of a luxurious open safari vehicle, providing you with a front-row seat to this unforgettable event.
  • As you marvel at the wildlife in action, the resilience and grace of nature will leave you in awe.

Overnight: Lemala Kuria Hills.
Meal Plan: All-Inclusive.

5
Day 05

Final Game Drive and Departure

  • As the sun rises over the Serengeti, embark on a final morning game drive, soaking in the splendor of the wilderness one last time.
  • After bidding farewell, fly from Kogatende airstrip to Arusha Airport, freshen up with a shower in a room at Gran Melia Hotel, before we whisk you away in style to Kilimanjaro International Airport.
  • Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and cherished memories of your safari adventure, carrying with you the essence of the majestic Serengeti long after you depart.
Mara River crossing, Lemala Kuria Hills, Kogatende airstrip

Where this trip takes you

Mara River crossing, Lemala Kuria Hills, Kogatende airstrip

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Arusha 3 cities · 5 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Accommodation throughout the trip, including luxurious tented camps in the Serengeti
  • All meals during the safari
  • Guided tours and activities as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Return flights between Arusha and Serengeti
  • Park entrance fees
  • Flying Doctors Emergency Evacuation Service
  • Professional guides
  • Meet-and-greet services at airports and transfers

What's Not Included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Gratuities

What to bring

  1. Lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors
  2. Warm layers for cool mornings and evenings
  3. Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen)
  4. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes for game drives
  5. Insect repellent
  6. Binoculars and camera with extra batteries
  7. Reusable water bottle
  8. Personal medications and basic first-aid kit
  9. Power bank and adapters (UK-style plugs)
  10. Small daypack for game drives
  11. Passport and necessary travel documents
  12. Cash for gratuities (US dollars accepted)

Know before you go

  1. July to September is the dry season with mild temperatures.
  2. Check visa requirements for Tanzania before travel.
  3. Consult your doctor about necessary vaccinations.
  4. US dollars are widely accepted, but bring some local currency.
  5. Dress modestly and in neutral colors for safari.
  6. Be prepared for early mornings to catch the best wildlife viewing.
  7. Follow guidelines for responsible wildlife viewing and photography.
  8. Tipping is customary for guides, drivers, and camp staff.
  9. Expect limited Wi-Fi and cell service in the Serengeti.
  10. Pack light due to luggage restrictions on bush planes.
  11. Be aware of the possibility of dust during game drives.
  12. Respect local customs and ask permission before photographing people.
  13. Ensure your travel insurance covers safari activities.
  14. The Serengeti is in the East Africa Time Zone (UTC+3).
  15. Wildlife sightings, including river crossings, are unpredictable.

Experience the ultimate Tanzania African Safari with our "5-Day Fly-in - The Great Mara River Crossing" adventure, a journey designed to captivate and inspire. Begin with a warm airport pick-up and drop-off service, setting the tone for a luxurious stay at Lemala Kuria Hills in northern Serengeti. Travel effortlessly via bush plane for a seamless domestic flight experience that brings you closer to the heart of Tanzania's wilderness. Your first night unfolds at the exquisite Arusha Gran Melia, where you'll find yourself ready for an unforgettable encounter with the wild wonders of the Serengeti.

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 5 days finish where they began, in Arusha.

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