5 Days Great Migration River Crossing Safari (Serengeti & Masai Mara)

The river crossings are the most dramatic single moment of the wildebeest migration. This 5-day itinerary positions you near known crossing points in the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem during the months when crossings are most likely to occur. This route is built around the Masai Mara’s July-to-October migration window specifically, so confirming herd position closer to your travel dates is worth doing given how much the timing can shift year to year.

5 Days Great Migration River Crossing Safari (Serengeti & Masai Mara) Itinerary

Day 1: Arusha to Serengeti National Park

A drive through the Ngorongoro Highlands brings you into the Serengeti, with an afternoon game drive on arrival.

Day 2: Central Serengeti Game Drives

A full day exploring the Seronera area, known for its resident predator population, while your guide tracks reports of herd movement toward the north. This section of the Serengeti’s central plains is known for its resident predator population, which tends to stay in the area even outside migration season.

Day 3: Northern Serengeti & Mara River

You’ll travel north toward the Mara River, spending extended time at known crossing sites, since crossings can’t be scheduled and depend on herd movement and river conditions.

Day 4: Mara River Crossing Points

A further full day is spent near the river, with your guide watching for herds gathering at the water’s edge, often with crocodiles waiting below.

Day 5: Return to Arusha

The drive or flight back to Arusha closes out the safari. The return drive typically retraces the Ngorongoro Highlands route, giving a last look down into the crater before descending toward Arusha.

What’s Included

• Airport pickup and drop-off in Arusha or Kilimanjaro
• Private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof and professional driver-guide
• Park and conservation area entrance fees
• Accommodation as specified, on a full-board basis unless otherwise stated
• Game drives as per the itinerary
• Bottled drinking water during game drives
• All applicable government taxes

What’s Excluded

• International flights
• Tanzania visa fees
• Tips and gratuities for guides and lodge staff
• Personal travel and medical insurance
• Meals not specified as included in the itinerary
• Items of a personal nature (laundry, souvenirs, phone or internet charges)
• Optional activities not listed in the itinerary