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8 Days Private Collection

08 Days River Crossing Safari

Starting From

€3,916

Per Person USD

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Duration 8 Days
Difficulty Moderate
Style Private
Location Tanzania
Overview

The Experience

What this journey is about and what you can expect.

Experience the most dramatic event in the animal kingdom.

Between July and October, witness the breathtaking Mara River crossing where over 1.5 million wildebeest and zebra brave crocodile-infested waters in their relentless migration cycle. This heart-pounding spectacle features massive herds gathering at riverbanks, dramatic leaps into turbulent waters, and nature’s raw drama unfolding as predators await their opportunity. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that showcases the ultimate survival story.

River Crossing Locations

Prime viewing areas for the dramatic Mara River crossings

Journey

Day by Day Itinerary

A clear day-by-day breakdown so you know what to expect from start to finish.

Day 1

Arrive Arusha

You will arrive at JRO (Kilimanjaro International Airport) where you will be warmly welcomed by your driver guide. Afterward, you will be transferred to your accommodation in Arusha, where you can enjoy dinner and relax overnight. A pre-safari briefing will also be held to prepare you for the adventure ahead.
Stay: Under the Shades Safari Lodge
Day 2

Arusha – Northern Serengeti

After an early breakfast, you will be transferred to Arusha Airport for your flight to the northern Serengeti. Upon arrival at Kogatende Airstrip, you will be greeted by your expert guide for an exciting private game drive through the northern Serengeti. This area is renowned for its stunning wildlife and dramatic landscapes, including the world-famous Mara River, where you may have the opportunity to witness the incredible river crossing, a remarkable event during the Great Migration when wildebeests and zebras brave the waters to continue their journey. During the afternoon, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the wilderness. In the late afternoon, you will drive to your lodge or camp, where you can unwind and savor a delicious dinner before spending the night in the heart of the Serengeti.
Stay: Untamed Migration Camp
Day 3

Northern Serengeti

Wake up in the heart of the Serengeti! After an early breakfast, we will depart for a day of game drives and exploration in the northern part of the Serengeti. During this time of the Great Migration, the region comes alive with incredible wildlife encounters. You’ll have the chance to witness thrilling events like predator hunts and the dramatic river crossings at the Mara River, where herds of wildebeest and zebras face the challenges of the crossing, often under the watchful eyes of predators. We will carry a picnic lunch to allow us to explore the area further and take in all the sights and sounds of this vibrant ecosystem. In the late afternoon, we will drive back to your camp, where you can enjoy a delicious dinner and relax overnight, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of the day.
Stay: Untamed Migration Camp
Day 4

Northern Serengeti

Begin your day with an early breakfast before heading out for a thrilling full day of game drives in the Northern Serengeti, one of the most remote and spectacular corners of the park. This region is known for its rolling hills, dramatic river crossings, and fewer crowds—making it a prime location for an authentic safari experience. The Northern Serengeti is especially famous for the Great Migration (seasonal), when thousands of wildebeest and zebras attempt the treacherous crossing of the Mara River, often shadowed by crocodiles and big cats. To maximize your exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch out in the bush, allowing for flexibility and extended time in the wilderness. Return in the late afternoon to your camp or lodge for dinner and a peaceful overnight stay, surrounded by the magic of the African savannah.
Stay: Untamed Migration Camp
Day 5

Northern Serengeti

You will spend another exciting day in the northern Serengeti, a prime location during the Great Migration, where we will maximize our chances of witnessing the incredible Mara River crossing. This natural spectacle is one of the most thrilling moments of the safari, as vast herds of wildebeest and zebras make the dangerous crossing, often under the watchful eyes of predators. As we explore the northern Serengeti, you’ll have the opportunity to witness not only the migration but also the diverse wildlife that roams the plains. We will enjoy our lunch in the field, taking in the sights and sounds of the wilderness. After a thrilling afternoon game drive, we will return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful night under the stars, reflecting on an unforgettable day in one of the world’s most iconic wildlife destinations.
Stay: Untamed Migration Camp
Day 6

Northern Serengeti – Central Serengeti

Enjoy another day in the Serengeti! After checking out of your camp, we will begin a game drive en route from the northern Serengeti to the central Serengeti, a drive of approximately 150 km (about 4 to 5 hours). Along the way, you will have the opportunity to witness a variety of wildlife, including large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, as well as predators such as lions and cheetahs that roam the plains. The transition from the northern to the central Serengeti offers a unique chance to experience different landscapes and ecosystems, providing rich wildlife encounters. We will enjoy a packed lunch while continuing our exploration of this stunning area. In the late afternoon, we will arrive at your camp in the central Serengeti for dinner and overnight, where you can relax and reflect on another amazing day in the wild.
Stay: Sounds of Nature Tented Camp
Day 7

Central Serengeti – Karatu

We will depart early in the morning for further game drives in the central Serengeti. The central Serengeti is known for its vast open plains, dotted with kopjes (rock outcrops) and acacia trees, providing excellent opportunities to observe a wide range of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and elephants. This area is particularly famous for its high density of animals year-round, making it a prime location for safari enthusiasts. We will enjoy a picnic lunch while continuing our exploration of this remarkable region. In the afternoon, we will begin our drive towards Karatu town, a journey of approximately 190 km (around 4 to 5 hours). We will pass through breathtaking landscapes, including the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offering stunning views of the Ngorongoro Crater and its surrounding highlands. As we approach Karatu, the scenery transitions into lush green hills. We will arrive in the evening at your lodge for a well-deserved dinner and overnight stay, reflecting on the day’s adventure in the Serengeti.
Stay: Bougainvillea Lodge
Day 8

Karatu – Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha

We will start early with a drive from Karatu town to the Ngorongoro area, approximately 30 minutes away. Upon arrival, we will descend into the crater floor for a day of game drives and exploration. The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, rhinos, and buffalo, all within the lush caldera of an ancient volcanic crater. This unique ecosystem offers spectacular views and close encounters with some of Africa’s most iconic animals. We will enjoy a packed lunch in the field while continuing to explore the crater’s diverse landscapes. In the late afternoon, we will ascend from the crater highlands and begin our drive back to Arusha, a journey of approximately 190 km (about 4 to 5 hours). Once in Arusha, we will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to catch your international flight onward, marking the end of your unforgettable safari adventure in Tanzania.
End of Itinerary
What's covered

Included & Excluded

Know exactly what's part of your package so you can plan and budget with confidence.

Included
  • All transport (4WD Toyota Land Cruiser with pop-up roof)
  • Hotel and lodge accommodation as detailed
  • Bottled drinking water
  • Services of local guides
  • All National Park entrance and campsite fees
  • All meals (breakfasts, packed lunches, evening meals)
  • Donations and payments to local community projects
  • Flight from Arusha to Southern Ndutu Area
Excluded
  • International flights
  • Local flight from Seronera to Zanzibar
  • Travel and personal accident insurance
  • Visa, passport, vaccinations, and medicines
  • Tips (recommended: US$30 per day)
  • Personal bar bills, souvenirs, personal items
  • Optional excursions/activities not detailed in itinerary
  • Any additional services requested
Investment

2025/2026 Rates

Prices are quoted in USD per person sharing, based on group size. No hidden fees.

Group Size Mid-Range Luxury High-End
2 Travelers €3,916 €6,185 €11,997
4 Travelers €3,720 €5,876 €11,397
6 Travelers €3,525 €5,567 €10,798
8 Travelers €3,446 €5,442 €10,557
10 Travelers €3,329 €5,257 €10,198

FAQs

Quick answers to common questions about this trip.

Is airport transfer included?
Yes, we provide complimentary pick-up and drop-off from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK) for all our package bookings.
What type of vehicle do we use?
We use custom 4x4 Toyota Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs for 360-degree game viewing. Each vehicle is equipped with a fridge, charging ports, and radio calls.
Do I need a Visa for Tanzania?
Most travelers need a visa. You can obtain an E-Visa online beforehand or a Visa on Arrival ($50 USD or $100 USD for US citizens). Please check your specific country requirements.
What about dietary requirements?
We cater to all dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal. Please inform us at the time of booking so our chefs can prepare accordingly.

Preparation

Packing List Background
Free Guide

Safari Packing Essentials

From neutral clothing to camera gear. Our expert guide on what to pack for the bush.

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