Travel
The Great Migration of Serengeti – Mara River Crossing Experience
Duration
8 Days
Trip Highlights
Experience the best of African safaris with this unforgettable journey through Tanzania’s top wildlife destinations. Witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti, where millions of wildebeests and zebras brave the perilous Mara River crossing. Explore the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, home to the Big Five and Discover the vibrant culture of Mto Wa Mbu, where diverse local traditions bring Tanzania’s heritage to life. Conclude your African safari in Tarangire National Park, home to massive elephant herds, towering baobabs, and elusive big cats roaming the golden savannah.
Itinerary
- Day 1: Welcome to Tanzania / Transfer to Arusha
- Day 2: Fly to Serengeti NP – Kogatende Airstrip - Fly to Northern Serengeti with the best Aerial Views
- Day 3: Following the Great Migration – Full Day
- Day 4: Game enroute to Central Serengeti National Park
- Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater tour
- Day 6: Mto wa Mbu market visit – Tarangire National Park
- Day 7: Tarangire National Park
- Day 8: Drive to Arusha/ Transfer to JRO
Day by day description
Day 1: Welcome to Tanzania / Transfer to Arusha
Your African safari adventure begins as you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where your Nature in Spirit Safari guide will greet you with a warm welcome. Enjoy a 1-hour transfer to Arusha, and if the weather is clear, you might catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro along the way. Settle into your lodge, relax, and enjoy a delicious dinner as you prepare for the thrilling days ahead. Don’t forget to pack your cameras and recharge your batteries for the fantastic adventures to come!
Day 2: Fly to Serengeti NP – Kogatende Airstrip - Fly to Northern Serengeti with the best Aerial Views
After a fantastic flight with the best Aerial views,picture yourself on the vast plains of Northern Serengeti, where millions of wildebeests and zebras are gathered, preparing for one of nature’s most dramatic events—the Great Migration. As they approach the Mara River, the tension builds, with the herds hesitating before making the treacherous leap into crocodile-infested waters. The Great Migration is not only a breathtaking sight but a true test of survival, as predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards lie in wait on the other side, ready to hunt the vulnerable. Between July and October, this natural spectacle can be witnessed in the northern Serengeti, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the wild’s circle of life.
Day 3: Following the Great Migration – Full Day
Your adventure begins with a short drive to the Mara River, where the sight of vast herds of wildebeests and zebras preparing for the dramatic Great Migration river crossing will leave you breathless, as they navigate past crocodiles waiting in the waters. This is a natural occurrence, and sometimes the crossing can take a while, but the anticipation is always worth it. After this unforgettable moment, savor a delicious lunch on the riverbanks, followed by a serene sundowner, where you can soak in the beauty of the savanna at sunset. As the evening draws in, enjoy a delightful dinner before gathering around the campfire, where your guide will share fascinating tales of the Great Migration. End the day under the starlit African sky, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the wilderness.
Day 4: Game enroute to Central Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, enjoy a game drive en route to Central Serengeti, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife. From August to October, the weather works in your favor, as the shorter grasses make it easier to spot the Serengeti Big Cats, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs, as they roam the plains. Marvel at the Serengeti “Kopjes,” towering granite formations that provide shelter for these predators, before arriving at your camp in time for lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy an exciting game drive through the iconic plains, and end the day with a relaxing evening, a refreshing drink at the bar, and a delightful dinner under the starlit African sky.
Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater tour
Begin your day with a 7:00 AM departure to the UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Crater, a stunning caldera teeming with diverse wildlife and rich Maasai culture. Descend 600 meters into this self-sustaining ecosystem, where you can spot elephants, lions, zebras, wildebeests, and the rare black rhino amidst breathtaking scenery. Enjoy a picnic lunch with panoramic views of the crater before visiting Lake Magadi, home to flamingos, hippos, and water birds. Conclude your adventure with an afternoon game drive before returning to your lodge for a relaxing dinner and overnight stay.
Day 6: Mto wa Mbu market visit – Tarangire National Park
Start your day with breakfast before driving to Mto wa Mbu, a vibrant village home to over 120 tribes, offering a unique cultural experience with diverse languages, customs, and traditions. Explore the local market, meet artisans, and sample fresh fruits, immersing yourself in this lively community. Continue your journey to Tarangire National Park, observing the changing landscapes, roadside shops, and vibrant local life along the way. After checking into your lodge and enjoying lunch, set out on an afternoon game drive, concluding with a stunning sunset before returning for a relaxing evening.
Day 7: Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, you’ll explore Tarangire National Park, Tanzania’s elephant headquarters, with a picnic lunch in one of the park’s scenic spots. Known for its rich wildlife, Tarangire offers a thrilling safari experience where you can search for big cats like lions, leopards, and cheetahs, though sightings are rare and often a game of chance. The Tarangire River, the park’s lifeline, draws abundant wildlife, including giraffes, hippos, and buffaloes, while over 500 bird species fill the air with color and sound. In the afternoon, continue your game drive before heading back to the lodge for a delightful dinner and an overnight stay, reflecting on a day filled with unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Day 8: Drive to Arusha/ Transfer to JRO
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 to visit a school and get to learn more about education in Tanzania as we spend time with the teachers and children.
You will have 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 jewelry, glassware and homewares incorporating 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 1: Welcome to Tanzania / Transfer to Arusha
Day 2: Fly to Serengeti NP – Kogatende Airstrip - Fly to Northern Serengeti with the best Aerial Views
Day 3: Following the Great Migration – Full Day
Day 4: Game enroute to Central Serengeti National Park
Day 6: Mto wa Mbu market visit – Tarangire National Park
Day 7: 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 lodgings 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.
Premium – Elevated Safari Living
with Style and Comfort
Premium lodging 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.
Luxury – Exclusive Safari Excellence for the Discerning Traveler
For those seeking the finest in safari luxury, our Luxury 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, Premium, and Luxury — 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
- Internal Flight (Arusha – Seronera)
- Experienced Safari Guide (who speaks good English, Spanish, French & German)
- Activities as per itinerary
- Unlimited mineral water on Safari
- All government taxes
- AMREF Flying doctor’s emergency rescue
Excluded
- International Flights
- Gratuities
- 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 | $4150 | $5077 | $7655 |
| 3 | $3652 | $4732 | $7465 |
| 4 | $3295 | $4222 | $6800 |
| 5 | $3165 | $4184 | $6756 |
| 6 | $3010 | $3937 | $6515 |
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.
