9-Day Great Migration & Big Five Safari Experience
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 9-day journey through Tanzania's most iconic wildlife destinations during the peak of the Great Migration. This classic safari takes you from the baobab-studded landscapes of Tarangire National Park to the lush highlands of Ngorongoro Crater, and deep into the heart of Serengeti — culminating in the dramatic river crossings of the Northern Serengeti. Witness vast herds of wildebeest and zebra on the move, followed closely by predators in search of opportunity.
Highlights
Gallery
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1 — Arrival in Arusha
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Depending on your arrival time, you'll have the opportunity to relax or explore the town. Later in the evening, your safari guide will meet you for a detailed briefing.
Accommodation
Four Points by Sheraton Arusha
Dinner
Day 2 — Arusha – Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, depart Arusha and head towards Tarangire National Park, a journey of about two hours. The park is renowned for its large herds of elephants, ancient baobab trees, and seasonal swamps teeming with wildlife. Enjoy a full-day game drive, stopping for a picnic lunch inside the park. In the late afternoon, transfer to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation
Farm of Dreams Lodge
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 — Tarangire – Mto wa Mbu or Lake Manyara – Karatu
Today begins with an optional cultural visit to the vibrant village of Mto wa Mbu, where you can experience local life, markets, and traditions. Alternatively, you may opt for a game drive in Lake Manyara National Park, known for its tree-climbing lions and birdlife. In the afternoon, drive to the lush highlands of Karatu for your overnight stay.
Accommodation
Farm of Dreams Lodge
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 — Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive
After an early breakfast, descend into the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day game drive. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a vast array of animals, including the rare black rhino, and offers some of the best chances to see the Big Five in one place. Enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic spot before continuing your wildlife exploration.
Accommodation
Rhino Lodge
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 — Ngorongoro – Central Serengeti
This morning, depart for the Serengeti, driving through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and entering the Serengeti National Park via Naabi Hill Gate. Enjoy a picnic lunch en route and continue with game drives as you head towards the Seronera area, known for its abundance of wildlife, particularly big cats. Arrive at your lodge or camp in time for dinner.
Accommodation
Into Wild Africa
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 — Central Serengeti – Northern Serengeti (Migration)
After breakfast, enjoy a morning game drive in Central Serengeti before continuing your journey to the Northern Serengeti. The northern region is where the Great Migration herds cross the Mara River, often facing crocodile-infested waters. Arrive in the Kogatende area in the afternoon and enjoy a game drive en route to your camp.
Accommodation
Into Wild Africa
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 — Full Day in Northern Serengeti
Spend the day exploring the Northern Serengeti in search of dramatic river crossings and the migratory herds of wildebeest and zebras. This region offers excellent wildlife viewing year-round, including lions, leopards, elephants, and hippos. A packed lunch allows you to spend maximum time in the bush before returning to your camp for a beautiful sunset and dinner.
Accommodation
Into Wild Africa
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 — Northern Serengeti – Arusha
After a leisurely breakfast or an optional early morning game drive, you will begin your journey back to Arusha. Enjoy the scenic drive through the diverse landscapes of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro regions. Arrive in Arusha later in the day and check in to your hotel for rest and relaxation.
Accommodation
Four Points by Sheraton Arusha
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 — Departure
Depending on your international flight schedule, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey. This marks the end of your unforgettable Great Migration safari in Tanzania.
Included
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Park fees & crater service fee
- Accommodation as per selected level (FB on safari)
- Bottled water during safari
- All government taxes
- Airport transfers
Excluded
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips (suggested $15–$20 per person per day)
- Alcoholic/soft drinks
- Optional excursions (e.g. Maasai village visit)
- Post-safari accommodation in Arusha (available on request)
Ready to Experience This Safari?
Bring Your Dreams into Reality
Fill in the form below to create your custom itinerary. Our highly experienced team of professionals will go through your request and get back to you.
Plan My Trip
Stay Updated on Exclusive Adventures
Sign up to get the latest travel tips, exclusive destination highlights, and early access to new adventures.