Travel
The Great Migration of Serengeti – Mara River Crossing Experience
Duration
8 Days
Trip Highlights
Explore the vibrant city of Nairobi, a gateway to Kenya’s wildlife wonders and rich culture. Discover the flamingo-filled shores and diverse wildlife of Lake Nakuru National Park before immersing yourself in the iconic Masai Mara, renowned for the Great Migration and thrilling game drives. Cross into Tanzania for the endless plains of Serengeti National Park, the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater teeming with the Big Five, and the enchanting baobab-dotted landscapes of Tarangire National Park, each offering unforgettable safari experiences.
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Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
- Day 2: Exploring Nairobi
- Day 3: Lake Nakuru National Park
- Day 4: Masai Mara National Reserve
- Day 5: Full-Day Masai Mara Adventure
- Day 6: Game En Route to Serengeti
- Day 7: Full Day Serengeti National Park
- Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater
- Day 9: Tarangire National Park
- Day 10: Drive back to Arusha – Depart or Extension to Zanzibar
Day by day description
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to the comfortable Argyle Grand Hotel. Spend the evening relaxing and settling in after your journey. This is the perfect opportunity to prepare for the exciting safari adventure ahead.
Day 2: Exploring Nairobi
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the Argyle Grand Hotel before venturing out to discover Nairobi’s unique attractions. Visit Nairobi National Park to witness wildlife close to the city, explore the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, and enjoy an up-close encounter at the Giraffe Center. Savor a delightful lunch at the Karen Blixen Coffee Garden and relax amidst its tranquil surroundings.
Day 3: Lake Nakuru National Park
After breakfast, depart Nairobi and journey through Kenya’s scenic Great Rift Valley to Lake Nakuru National Park. Arrive in time for lunch, then head out on an afternoon game drive to spot flamingos, rhinos, and other fascinating wildlife. This park is renowned for its diverse birdlife and picturesque landscapes.
Day 4: Masai Mara National Reserve
Depart after breakfast and drive to the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve, arriving in time for lunch at Zebra Plains Classic Camp. In the late afternoon, head out for a thrilling game drive, where you may encounter lions, elephants, and other members of the Big Five. Experience the breathtaking savannah landscape and the rich wildlife of the Masai Mara.
Day 5: Full-Day Masai Mara Adventure
Start your day with an optional early morning balloon safari to witness the Masai Mara from above or enjoy breakfast at camp. Spend the day on an exciting full-day game drive, with picnic lunch boxes, exploring the reserve’s abundant wildlife and iconic scenery. Capture unforgettable moments as you track predators, grazing herbivores, and vibrant bird species.
Day 6: Game En Route to Serengeti
After breakfast, enjoy a morning game drive as you depart the Masai Mara, heading toward the Serengeti. Cross the border into Tanzania and experience the stunning landscapes and wildlife along the way. The journey offers opportunities to spot wildlife en route, making it an exciting transition between these two legendary parks. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure in Serengeti Central National Park.
Day 7: Full Day Serengeti National Park
Today is dedicated to exploring Serengeti National Park, one of the world’s premier wildlife destinations. After breakfast at 7:00 am, set out on a full-day safari guided by experts, traversing different areas in search of the park’s remarkable wildlife. Pause midday for a scenic Picnic lunch in the Seronera Valley, known for its diverse animals drawn to the Seronera River. Look out for the Big Five, as well as giraffes, gazelles, and the spectacular Great Migration, with herds of wildebeest and zebras crossing the plains in search of greener pastures.
End the day with a relaxing drive back to camp, where you can unwind with a shower and reflect by the campfire on an unforgettable day in the heart of the Serengeti.
Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater
Embark on an adventure after breakfast with a hamper lunch, heading to the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, known as “Eden’s Garden”. Descend over 600 meters into this natural wonder within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where wildlife and communities harmoniously coexist. Enjoy an afternoon game drive through the Ngorongoro Highlands, spotting antelope, elephants, and predators like lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas. Keep an eye out for the rare black rhino and if you are lucky, you may spot one or two. After game drive you will make an ascent leaving the Crater and drive to the lodge in Karatu for dinner and overnight, reflecting on an unforgettable day in Tanzania’s natural paradise.
Day 9: Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, depart from Karatu for a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive to Tarangire National Park. Along the way, pass through local villages with roadside markets and food vendors, offering an opportunity to stop and explore. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge, enjoy a delicious lunch, and relax before heading out for an afternoon game drive in Tarangire, famous for its large elephant herds. As the day ends, savor a breathtaking sunset during your drive back to the lodge for a restful evening.
Day 10: Drive back to Arusha – Depart or Extension to Zanzibar
After breakfast at the lodge, enjoy your last moments in Northern Tanzania as you drive back to Arusha. On the way, if possible, you will get an opportunity for a school visit and get to learn more about education in Tanzania as we spend time with the teachers and children.
You will get to Arusha in a good time for lunch at Arusha Coffee lodge. After lunch you will have the SHANGA Tour, a social enterprise, which employs people with disabilities to create unique and high-quality handmade goods like glassware and homewares using recycled materials. These products are sold in the Shanga shop in Tanzania, as well as around the world, with profits being reinvested back into developing opportunities to employ more people with disabilities. After the excursion, you will transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight back home.
Our Selected Accommodation
Accommodation on Safari in Tanzania
When planning a safari in Tanzania, where you stay is just as important as where you go. At Nature in Spirit, we handpick accommodations that are not only comfortable but also strategically located close to prime wildlife areas. This reduces long drives and maximizes your time in the bush, giving you more opportunities to experience the magic of nature.
Whether it’s a luxury tented camp in the Serengeti or a charming lodge overlooking Tarangire, the properties we work with offer outstanding service, excellent cuisine, and authentic safari hospitality. Each accommodation is chosen for its quality, atmosphere, and proximity to the action — so you don’t just visit the wild, you live in it.
Day 6: Game En Route to Serengeti
Day 7: Full Day Serengeti National Park
Day 9: Tarangire National Park
Let us know your ideal type of accommodation - we'll match it to your journey.
Your safari experience is shaped not only by the landscapes and wildlife but also by where you rest each night. At Nature in Spirit, we carefully select accommodations that match your comfort level, travel style, and budget. Whether you’re looking for something simple and authentic or refined and exclusive, we’ll help you find the perfect fit.
Midrange – Practical Comfort,
Well-Located, and Reliable
Our Midrange accommodations are ideal for travelers who want comfort, great service, and a close connection to nature — without stretching the budget. These are well-run lodges or tented camps that offer all the essential amenities you need after a day of game drives: clean rooms, private bathrooms with hot showers, mosquito nets, and often lovely natural settings.
Meals are usually amazing with variety of local and international dishes, and WIFI is typically available in common areas. Some even feature swimming pools or fire pits for a relaxed end to your day. They may not be flashy, but they are full of character and offer excellent value in great locations near or within the parks.
Luxury – Elevated Safari Living
with Style and Comfort
Luxury accommodations take your safari a step further, offering a refined, immersive experience. These are stylish lodges or tented camps designed to provide comfort and elegance while still keeping you close to the wild. Rooms are spacious and beautifully appointed, often with private decks, high-quality linens, and panoramic views.
Expect personalized service, excellent à la carte or gourmet buffet meals, and thoughtfully designed spaces — like open lounges, fire pits, or pools overlooking the savannah. In many cases, you can even enjoy wildlife sightings right from your room or dining area. It’s perfect for couples, honeymooners, or anyone wanting a touch of indulgence in the bush.
High-End – Exclusive Safari Excellence for the Discerning Traveler
For those seeking the finest in safari luxury, our High-End properties deliver a world-class experience in some of Tanzania’s most breathtaking locations. These are exclusive lodges and camps where no detail is overlooked — from the architecture to the cuisine, the guiding to the setting.
Here, you’ll find private villas or tented suites with plunge pools, luxury rain showers, premium linens, and terraces that open onto uninterrupted wilderness. Service is ultra-personalized, with private chefs, butlers, and guides available in many cases. These accommodations are ideal for special celebrations, VIPs, or travelers wanting a once-in-a-lifetime, all-inclusive safari at the highest standard.
Your perfect journey, tailored to your budget.
Your dream safari, shaped around your expectations — and your comfort zone.
At Nature in Spirit, we believe every journey should be personal, immersive, and within reach. Whether you’re seeking classic comfort, indulgent luxury, or an exclusive escape into nature, our experts will guide you to the accommodation that best fits your style — without compromise.
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all safaris. Our team carefully listens to your wishes and curates a travel experience that reflects your priorities — whether that’s proximity to wildlife, elegant surroundings, or seamless service from start to finish.
To help you navigate your options, we offer a clear range of accommodation categories — Midrange, Luxury, and High-End — each selected with intention, and each offering a different kind of connection to Tanzania’s extraordinary landscapes.
We also tailor every trip with seasonality in mind, ensuring you benefit from the best possible value based on when and how you travel. From quieter, more intimate green seasons to the height of the Great Migration, we adapt every detail to align with your vision and budget.
With Nature in Spirit, you don’t just pick a lodge — you design a journey.
Let us help you create something remarkable, meaningful, and uniquely yours. Tanzania is waiting, and we can’t wait to take you there.
Included
- All park fees
- All meals and accommodations during the entire tour
- A high-quality safari land cruiser with pop up roof
- Arrival and departure transfers
- Highly experienced safari guide (who speaks good English and Spanish)
- Unlimited mineral water on safari
- All government taxes
- AMREF Flying doctor’s emergency rescue
Excluded
- International Flights
- Gratuities
- Tips
- Drinks at the lodges
- Any other things not mentioned in the itinerary
HIGH SEASON PRICES
June - October
December - March
| NUMBER OF PAX | PRICE PER PERSON (USD) Midrange | PRICE PER PERSON (USD) Premium | PRICE PER PERSON (USD) Luxury |
| 2 | $ 5,693 | $ 6,664 | $ 8,263 |
| 3 | $ 4,994 | $ 6,137 | $ 7,724 |
| 4 | $ 4,181 | $ 5,526 | $ 6,989 |
| 5 | $ 4,280 | $ 5,437 | $ 6,940 |
| 6 | $ 4,174 | $ 5,146 | $ 6,581 |
LOW SEASON PRICES
April - May
November
| NUMBER OF PAX | PRICE PER PERSON (USD) Midrange | PRICE PER PERSON (USD) Premium | PRICE PER PERSON (USD) Luxury |
| 2 | $ 4,878 | $ 5,264 | $ 5,661 |
| 3 | $ 4,182 | $ 4,683 | $ 5,146 |
| 4 | $ 3,784 | $ 4,124 | $ 4,522 |
| 5 | $ 3,595 | $ 4,004 | $ 4,413 |
| 6 | $ 3,404 | $ 3,745 | $ 4,143 |
Mount Kilimanjaro Day Hike
Start your day with breakfast before setting off on an exhilarating journey to Londorossi Gate, located at an elevation of 2,100 meters. As you ascend more than 1,000 meters through vibrant tropical montane forests, you’ll encounter diverse wildlife, including playful colobus monkeys and the striking crested turacos. Keep an eye out for elephants migrating from Kenya’s Amboseli National Park. Upon reaching the stunning Shira Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated at 3,400 meters, begin your hike towards Shira 1 Camp. Traverse the captivating Lion Gorge and admire the awe-inspiring Shira Pinnacles, with magnificent views of Kibo Peak and its surrounding glaciers. After the rewarding hike, enjoy a delightful picnic lunch amidst breathtaking scenery, before returning to Arusha for a delicious dinner and a restful overnight stay. Reflect on a day filled with adventure and the stunning natural beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Serengeti Bush Dinner
Imagine sharing an unforgettable meal on the vast plains of Serengeti National Park, where romance meets adventure! A bush dinner offers a unique dining experience beneath a canopy of twinkling stars. Savor a delectable feast while the warm glow of a campfire surrounds you, accompanied by the enchanting sounds of wildlife in the night. Typically, tables are arranged just outside the camp, ensuring a perfect blend of intimacy and safety.
Arusha National Park Walking Safari
Walking safari in Arusha National Park promises an experience that will stay with you forever. Accompanied by a knowledgeable ranger, you’ll have the chance to observe majestic giraffes, formidable buffalos, zebras, warthogs, and agile blue monkeys. You will gain insights into the park’s remarkable plant and animal life. Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning sights such as a breathtaking waterfall, the Ngurdoto Crater and the serene Lake Momella. With a bit of luck, you might even spot vibrant flocks of flamingos and the striking Colobus monkey gracefully navigating the canopy.
Tarangire National Park Walking Safari
As you venture on a walking safari in Tarangire National Park, you’ll be captivated by the sight of towering baobab trees, expansive acacia woodlands, and impressive herds of elephants. Keep your eyes peeled for the migrating herds of cape buffalo, wildebeests, and zebras that may cross your path, along with the chance to encounter olive baboons, giraffes, impalas, and gazelles. For bird enthusiasts, the park is a paradise, boasting an incredible variety of over 550 bird species waiting to be discovered!
Tarangire National Park – Night Game Drive
Embarking on a night game drive transforms your safari experience into something extraordinary, revealing a world of nocturnal creatures that remain hidden during daylight hours. As the headlights of the safari jeep illuminate the darkness, you’ll witness the mesmerizing glow of their eyes. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights about these night-dwelling animals, assisting you in spotting elusive species like porcupines, civet cats, genets, bush babies, lions, and leopards. This adventure promises to be an unforgettable exploration of the wild after sunset.
Arusha National Park & Lake Duluti Canoeing
Experience the tranquility of Arusha National Park by embarking on a canoe safari across its serene lakes. Immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of nature as you listen to the chorus of birds that inhabit the area. With a bit of luck, you might catch a glimpse of hippos, giraffes, buffaloes, elephants, flamingos, and other wildlife along the shores. An armed ranger will accompany you, ensuring both your safety and providing expert guidance throughout your adventure.
Local markets Visit – Arusha, Karatu & Mto wa Mbu
The local markets of Tanzania, stretching from Mto wa Mbu to Arusha and Karatu, present a lively blend of culture and trade. In Mto wa Mbu, visitors are greeted by a vibrant selection of fresh produce and handmade crafts, allowing for meaningful interactions with a variety of local sellers. Arusha’s markets shine with exquisite Maasai crafts and stunning Tanzanite stones, showcasing the rich heritage of the area. Meanwhile, Karatu’s energetic markets brim with fresh farm products and unique artisanal creations, offering a window into the everyday life of Tanzanians. These dynamic marketplaces not only provide exceptional shopping opportunities but also invite you to dive deep into the heart of Tanzanian culture.
Home Hosted Lunch / Cooking Lessons – Mto wa Mbu & Karatu
Experience the authentic flavors of Tanzania right on a vibrant banana farm. Choose three traditional dishes to explore and master their preparation. Dive into the art of cooking pilau (fragrant spiced rice), makande (a delightful blend of corn and brown beans), or ndizi nyama (savory plantains with meat), and savor the true essence of Tanzanian cuisine!
Cycling Tours
Experience a refreshing escape from your safari adventures with a mountain bike tour in Mto wa Mbu. Nestled near Lake Manyara National Park, this charming village serves as a lush oasis amidst the expansive Maasai plains, where the fertile land nurtures rice, coffee, and bananas thanks to abundant groundwater. Over the course of 2 to 3 hours, this bike tour offers stunning vistas of Lake Manyara as you navigate through the village streets, glide past vibrant banana and coffee plantations, and visit a local school.
Visit Banana Plantations
In Tanzania, bananas rank among the most extensively cultivated crops, playing a vital role in the daily diet of countless households across Africa. With around 20 different varieties grown throughout the country, bananas are a staple food source. A visit to a banana plantation will enlighten you on this topic, as well as provide insights into the diverse cultivation techniques, banana species, and their various applications. For instance, while plantain bananas are primarily used for cooking, sweet bananas are enjoyed fresh, and a special variety is even utilized in the production of local beer or wine.
Coffee Tours
Have you ever considered the incredible journey that coffee takes on before it reaches your cup? Discover how the entire process unfolds at a Tanzanian coffee plantation, where you can follow the path from seed harvesting to brewing that delightful, aromatic beverage that kickstarts our mornings. Tanzania elevates the coffee-making experience to new heights. Visitors can enjoy a captivating tour guided by experts, gaining a deep appreciation for the craft of coffee production as they stroll through endless rows of lush coffee trees.
