5-Day Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari—Witness the Mara River Crossing

Discover the world’s most fascinating event on this 5-day Serengeti wildebeest migration safari. The magnificent migration, featuring unforgettable experiences of the dramatic river crossing at the Mara River, is an annual event that occurs from July to October. Millions of wildebeests and zebras cross the river amidst so many challenges, including crocodiles and flowing river waters that could drown these creatures. The safari focuses on spending more time at the river observing the chaotic crossing and predator action.

Expect to witness massive herds gathering, hesitating, crossing, and suddenly surging forward. Alongside this, lions, cheetahs, and hyenas take advantage of the migration by staging near the herds  for a catch. This adventure guarantees breathtaking wildlife moments in Tanzania’s most famous national park, Serengeti.

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha—Safari Briefing & Rest

Day 2: Arusha to Northern Serengeti—Mara River Game Drive

Day 3: Full-Day Game Drive—Witness the Mara River Crossing

Day 4: Second Full Day at the Mara River—Predator Action

Day 5: Morning Game Drive & Return to Arusha or Departure

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha 

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted by your safari guide and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. After checking in at your accommodation, you will be briefed about your 5-day Serengeti wildebeest migration safari itinerary. Take time to relax from the long flight hours and soak in the breathtaking landscapes surrounding the bustling city. Relax, have meals at your accommodation, and prepare ahead of your safari.

Day 2: Transfer to Northern serengeti 

Wake up early and enjoy breakfast at your accommodation, after which you will fly or take a scenic drive to Northern Serengeti, where the Mara River awaits you to showcase its phenomena. The journey offers stunning landscapes, from rolling plains to scattered acacia trees. Upon arrival, you will embark on a game drive right away, spotting some of the first groups of migrants. Millions of herds are gathering around the riverbanks and anticipating the danger that lies ahead. Crocodiles aggressively lie in the river, waiting for an opportunity to grab the moving herds. After a thrilling afternoon of wildlife viewing, check in at your lodge or tented camp for the rest of the evening. 

Day 3: Full-day game drive 

Wake up very early and head straight out to the Mara River, where thousands of wildebeests line up along the banks, desperate but afraid to cross. They can assemble here for hours  with animals nervously pacing back and forth before they suddenly decide to jump into the river. As they jump into the river, they struggle with the currents as well as  avoiding the jaws of the hungry crocodiles. Lions and hyenas wait to ambush the weary survivors on the riverbanks, posing numerous obstacles to their survival. At lunchtime, you will embark on a picnic lunch and return to enjoy more incredible moments. We will drive you to your accommodations for the remainder of the day late in the afternoon. 

Day 4:  Full day Mara crossing

Today is another day that ensures a full day of observing migration activity at the river. Each river crossing is unique, with some herds successfully making it across, while others face deadly obstacles. Watching millions of animals pouring into the river is a breathtaking spectacle that offers unforgettable experiences. Throughout the day, game drives explore different vantage points, ensuring multiple perspectives on the crossings. You may also encounter leopards in the nearby woodlands  or cheetahs scanning for an opportunity to hunt. By evening, return to your lodge   and enjoy a delicious meal and overnight stay.

Day 5: Morning game drive and departure 

On your final morning in Serengeti, enjoy one last game drive before departure. The present is an excellent time to spot early morning  predator activity, as lions and hyenas  feed on the remains from previous hunts or hunt for other prey. Wildebeests continue to move to the Mara River, creating endless photographic opportunities. Return to your lodge for breakfast, after which you will start your journey back to Arusha  or Kilimanjaro International Airport. Upon arrival, check in at your accommodation or bid farewell to Tanzania for your next destination, leaving with unforgettable memories of the migration’s river crossing and beautiful landscapes of Serengeti.