SERENGETI WILDEBEEST MIGRATION

Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari 

The Serengeti wildebeest migration safari is a world-renowned natural event in Tanzania, where over a million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, migrate in a circular route in search of fresh grazing and water. This spectacular wildlife phenomenon, often referred to as ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’, offers an unparalleled opportunity for visitors to witness the circle of life in action, including thrilling predator-prey interactions. The safari typically includes game drives, guided walks, and even hot air balloon rides for an aerial view of the migration.

Serengeti wildebeest migration cost

The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari cost varies depending on the length of the trip, the level of accommodation, and the time of year. On average, a 8 Days Wildebeest Migration Serengeti 2 pax can range from $4,500 to $7,500 per person. This typically includes accommodation, meals, park fees, and transportation, but excludes international flights. Luxury safaris can cost upwards of $10,000 per person. 

Animals In The  Serengeti wildebeest migration safari 

The wildebeest migration is one of the most amazing events one should never miss out on, nothing is thrilling like watching these animals in big numbers running up and down in the grasslands and crossing rivers, it gives an unforgettable experience in the wild. Below are the animals that take part in this migration:

Wildebeests:

Wildebeests are mammals and belong to the antelope family, and it is estimated that there are about one and a half million (1.5 million) wildebeests that take part in this migration. They are classified into different species of which all them are native to Africa; they include the Western-bearded wildebeest these are the ones that migrate within the Serengeti and Masai Mara, the Eastern white-bearded wildebeests found in Tanzania and Kenya in the East of Gregory Rift, and the Blue or brindled wildebeests found in the south of River Zambezi. The other name to refer to wildebeest is “Gnu”; they are herbivorous animals and live in the open woodlands and savannah grasslands which is where they get what to eat. In most cases over 250,000 wildebeests die during the migration from Serengeti to Masai Mara, as they cover a large distance so some end up losing their lives due to exhaustion, hunger, and thirst, also others are eaten by predators.

 Zebras And Other Antelopes:

It is estimated that there are 250,000 Burchell’s zebras in addition to about 300,000 various types of antelopes among which are the Thomson’s gazelles, impalas, Grant’s gazelles, and elands that take part in this migration.

Predators:

The great migrating herd offers plenty of prey for the different predators living within the areas that this herd matches through among which are big cats like lions, leopards, and cheetahs; hyenas and crocodiles targeting the river crossings. The wildebeest migration is one of the most amazing events one should never miss out on, nothing is thrilling like watching these animals in big numbers running up and down in the grasslands and crossing rivers, it gives an unforgettable experience in the wild.

WHEN AND WHERE TO BEST OBSERVE THE SERENGETI WILDEBEEST MIGRATION SAFARI 

Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Maasai Mara. Depending on what you want to see, here’s when to book a migration safari.

January-February-March (The Calving Season)

During this time many herds of wildebeests and zebras are around the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and in the Southern plains of the Serengeti, the grass there is short and rich, so most pregnant wildebeest find there stay here. The calving season starts at the end of January to mid March; around 600,000 calves are born in this time. Them being born in large numbers it is easier to survive predators than those born few and earlier.

During this time from January to March, these wildebeest migration can be viewed comfortably at a mobile camp, though most mobile camps are faced with the issue of flies so clients who are in for camping are advised to go in for Lake Masek Tented camp, then also midrange travelers can opt for Ndutu lodge as they observe the migration. Those who are into the luxury basis can go for Mwiba lodge, which is located a few kilometers away from Ndutu area so private vehicles can be offered by the lodge to take you to the area to observe the migration.

April-May

By the end of March to early May, this is considered an off season for observing wildebeests and other animals at large because there are heavy rains in Tanzania by this time. The grass during this time grows so tall and also roads become hard to pass through since the soils are slippery.

At the start of May the grass is already reduced since the population of the animals is a lot, so they choose to migrate looking for more grass. Most of the wildebeests and zebras move to the North via Seronera and the West near Lake Victoria and Serengeti’s western corridor, by this time these areas have enough water and longer grass.

In April, there is a possibility of observing the migration and the better place to stay would be Kusini Camp but there are many tsetse flies so the other option would be Ndutu Safari lodge. Other facilities include; Serengeti Kati Kati camp, Osupuko tented camp, Serengeti Serena safari lodge, and Serengeti wildlife lodge. We generally don’t advise you to travel during April and May.

June

Early June the wildebeests start to move westwards because there is no enough food where they were. They tend to move to River Grumeti, which is surrounded by a forest and in this forest there are lots of elephants, buffaloes and in the river are a number of hippos and big-starving crocodiles that are ready to eat the wildebeests that come to drink water from the river.

There are different places where one can stay and catch the migration. They range from luxurious lodges such as Sasakwa Hill Lodge, Faru Faru River Lodge and Sabora Plains Tented camp; while here you not only watch the migration but also can have drives off the road, wildlife viewing walks and night drives. Other accommodation facilities where to see the migration include; Kirarwa and Grumeti River camp but while here you cannot do night drives or off-road drives.

July-August-September-October

By this time, the water and grass has totally reduced in Grumeti and in the Western Corridor so wildebeests start moving to look for more grassland. So there are chances of watching migration around the Singita Grumeti reserve in July but these chances reduce as the month ends.

At the end of July to mid October, the herds of wildebeests divide themselves into smaller groups residing in the North of Serengeti and in the Masai Mara, during this time if it’s a dry season the wildebeests gather around water bodies particular the Masai River, whereby this river also has hungry crocodiles ready to prey on those that come to drink water.

In mid to late October there are short rains; because of this the wildebeests start moving south of the Masai Mara in Kenya. So by this time the best place to view the migration is the Masai Mara though this reserve is smaller than the Serengeti. So while here, you will not only observe the migration but also you could visit the nearby Maasai communities that have been there for very many years.

During this period, you can observe the migration while staying at different lodges and Camps. Staying in northern Serengeti is advisable since most herds are there and also are in the Masai Mara. For those in need of a luxurious treat the Singita’s Mara River Tented Camp can work for you, another is Sayari camp which is a few minutes away from the wildebeest herds. Other accommodation facilities include; Nomad’s Lamai Camp, Lemala Kuria Hills, Olakira, Serian, Kimondo, and Governor’s Camp (found in the Mara) among others.

November-December

The rains continue throughout November so the wildebeests continue to move south and east. By December they start moving back to Southern Serengeti to the rich and short grasses. Most herds arrive by the end of December towards beginning of January which marks the end of that cycle.

Other areas in the Serengeti have tall grass growing at a fast rate hence making it difficult for wildlife viewing. So you are advised not to travel at this time of the year especially if you are interested in game safaris.

If you choose to travel during this time of the year, you can catch the migration while staying at Namiri Camp, staying in this area is an added advantage because it has different animals such as the cheetahs and lions. Nonetheless, it worth mentioning that because of these predators there are not many herds of wildebeests seen in this place. Also Klein’s camp could be better for viewing the migration but it has some tsetse flies. After this cycle, the migration cycle begins again when the female wildebeests give birth to very many calves.

How the Serengeti wildebeest migration works!

The theory is simple. Seasonal rains and the availability of grazing determine the “clockwise” movement of the migration. The larger eco-system includes Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara. A few physical barriers like the Simiti and Lobo hills, the Grumeti and Mara rivers hinder and alter this “circular” path. Well in reality it’s not quite that simple!

For us to get a clear picture of what the wildebeest migration will be about, we are going to look at the birthing process and how the wildebeests come to life to start the long trek across the plains. The birthing process takes place between January and February with an estimate of over 300,000 to 400,000 calves born within a short interval of the other. The birthing of these calves mostly takes place on the slopes of the Ngorongoro crater mountain, the vast plains around Olduvai Gorge and Serengeti.

The birthing of the many calves bring about the prescience of the many predators like lions, leopards that mostly come out to hunt for the young ones who can hardly fend for themselves and they end up killing many especially those that don’t have the older animals protecting them. Much as many are killed during infancy, others grow and they become one of those that join in the great migration year after year.

These animals are believed to be moving towards a certain direction because they follow the weather and the March begins at the end of the month of March when the dry season starts in Serengeti National Park heading out to Masai Mara where the rains are abundant and the grass is enough for all the animals and these animals always stick together when they are traveling.

The animals walk miles and miles during this wildebeest migration and by visiting the two parks where the migration takes place, you get a clear view although you need to book early so that you get a clearer view since the place can be very crowded. During the migration you can also get to see other animals and bird species that are located in the area. The animals in the Serengeti national park can travel for more than 26000 square kilometers as they move from Serengeti to Masai Mara and then back to Serengeti. Since the great wildebeest migration starts from Serengeti, we are going to be looking at the migration takes place and progresses month per month.

Arrival In Serengeti

The herds start arriving in Serengeti around November and December due to the start of the rains during this period. They settled around Ndutu area the North of Ngorongoro and the Seronera part which is south of Serengeti. The animals stay in this area through January to March and then spread throughout the Serengeti Park. Towards April, they start moving towards the Northern part of the park.

The animals start moving North in May while some of them move West wards in search of water and pasture. Tourists can easily see herds of animals in large columns moving to the Moru Kopjes and the North of Seronera.

The Rutting Season

When the rains start, many of the herds are seen heading to koppies and Simba. Between May and June, this is known to be the rutting season and many of the animals are mated in this period and they can be seen in the Serengeti western corridor and the shores of Lake Victoria. When the animals leave the western corridor, they head out to the Masai Mara in Kenya. In June the herds can be seen moving to the Western corridor near the Grumeti River. 

The herd congregates near the River for sometime in the south as they wait for others that were left behind. Once they are all in there, they cross the River in large numbers. The Grumeti River is famous for the numerous crocodiles that keep on feasting on the animals as they cross and the different channels that it has but still this does not stop the animals from crossing the Grumeti River and continue North wards.

The Wildebeest migration then continues to the North after crossing the Grumeti River in the months of July and August. During these months the herds separate as some of them head to the central part of Serengeti National Park while others head to Ikorongo and the Grumeti Reserve. While crossing the river, many animals lose their lives due to the predators that are found in the River and the wild currents.

The Mara River Crossing

In September, the herds cross over to the Northern part of the Serengeti National Park up to the Mara River. This is one of the hardest Rivers to cross and some animals can be seen struggling to cross the gushing Waters in the Mara River. This is a very spectacular view that you should not miss once you visit the Serengeti National park. And these animals can be seen crossing back to the south just after a few days.

Seemingly vicious fighting between dominant or territorial males takes place during the rut, though there is generally little actual violence or serious injury. And in spite of these energetic duels, the males have little say over their choice of mates, for it is the females who do the actual choosing.

Arrival In Masai Mara National Reserve

From the western part of Serengeti, the herds head north to Masai Mara in Kenya. The Wildebeests cross the Mara River and Grumeti Rivers before they reach the Masai Mara Game Reserve. The rivers at times are easy to cross but there are times when they become violent and end up killing many wildebeests. The Rivers mostly the Grumeti has crocodiles which await the animals as they cross the River leading to the loss of many of the wildebeests. 

The rivers have a lot of thick vegetation which may hide predators and yet the animals cannot change their course when it comes to trekking and therefore end up using the rivers even if they have the terror for water and predators. But despite all this, the crossing of these rivers is quite a sight that one cannot miss it.

When the animals reach the Mara River, they gather as they wait for the herds to increase and then cross at the same time. The crossing points for the animals differ every year and this may cause them to choose a suicidal place where hundreds of animals will drown.

Closing Of The Migration Cycle

In October, the Wildebeest migrate to the south, move throughout the southern part of Loliondo to the Lobo area in the Serengeti Park before returning to Serengeti in November and then the great migration begins all over again.

The wildebeest migration is a repeated cycle by the different animals that trek and it is done every year. When planning a safari, this is one place that you should not miss. The animals move according to weather and they have the routes that they use in their instincts because it is hard to find when they have changed the routes.

Where’s the best place to see the wildebeest migration safari? Kenya or Tanzania?

• Each destination is good at completely different times of the year. The wildebeest migration is usually active in the Tanzania’s Serengeti for 9 months. It’s most active in Kenya’s Masai Mara for 3 months during August/September/October.
• If you’re planning a migration safari then decide on either Kenya or Tanzania. Don’t think of combining or switching at the last moment on the cheap. Logistically it’s best to handle the Serengeti from Arusha and the Mara from Nairobi. This will help with decisions on beach breaks on the Kenyan coast or Zanzibar. Or other safaris into southern Tanzania or elsewhere in Kenya.

How to deal with the crowds

• With the exception of a short period during the “long rains” around April/May visitors are always busy looking for the migration.
• As a result of bad advice many people end up looking for the wildebeest migration in the completely wrong areas. There’s one spot in the Serengeti’s Western Corridor that’s on the migration path for about a week each year. That’s “maybe” around June. The area has poor resident game, has a lousy road network, is a 2 hour bone-jarring drive from the Seronera circuits but enjoys a 9 month “high season”. It’s practically full for 10 months of the year. (How crazy is that?!)
• So when the migration is “on”, the right space is at a premium, prices are relatively high and advance bookings are essential.
• If you’re too late to get the right space when you originally intended it’s better to postpone your safari plans to get the right space. Even if that means a delay for a year.
• The Mara and Seronera areas have some big hotels and lodges so crowd density can be a problem. These hotels and lodges are generally full even when the migration is happening in a completely different area.
• The really great thing about these big outfits is that they work to a formula. Same circuits, same timetables to ensure that their tourists “see the migration” then the tourists get fed, watered and to bed in time for the next day’s action. They do it all at the same time too.
• The trick is to work with smaller outfits with the flexibility and real interest to get out into the bush before the hordes arrive. They’re happy to hold breakfast under a tree when the minibuses are doing their rounds. Then they spend time looking for quieter spots to catch the afternoons and early evenings without crowds.
• The smaller outfits are a far better bet in both the Serengeti and Mara. Sometimes more expensive but definitely better value for money.

Choose To Have A Combined Serengeti wildebeest migration safari packages

The wildebeest migration is an amazing and an unforgettable experience for every traveler but you could choose to add a standard safari to the viewing of the Great migration. This involves various activities such as night game drives in the Serengeti, cultural encounters by visiting the Maasai communities, Serengeti hot air balloon rides, visiting the beautiful coastal sand beaches near the ocean, and many more things. Plan your safari with us! I addition this safari can be combined with other popular safari destinations both in Kenya and Tanzania among which are: the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park, Tarangire National Park and even climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Where To Stay For The Great Wildebeest Migration In Tanzania

While on a Tanzania Safari to see the Great wildebeest Migration that includes close to 2 million animals the most recommended type of accommodation is staying in any of the Serengeti mobile camps. during the year, these mobile camps have particular locations (which may be 2 or 3) where they are pitched or set up depending on the movement and location of the migrating herd to offer guests the best views of these animals. The advantage of staying at the mobile camps is that you will get a chance to stay very close to the animals and follow the herd. Some of the most prominent mobile camps in the Serengeti are the &Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas and the Nomad Serengeti Safari Camp.

between July and November as well as from December to March, other mobile camps such as Kimondo Camp, Alex Walker’s Serian, Ubuntu migration camp and the Olakira Migration Camp also offer great accommodation however you should keep in mind that in the months of April, May and June these camps are normally closed so keep this in mind while booking your safari. Nonetheless, for the less adventurous travelers, you can choose to stay at any of the permanent lodges found in the Serengeti which will also give you a chance to see the great herd.

Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari Itinerary Packages

The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari Itinerary is a planned journey that allows tourists to witness one of the most spectacular natural events in the world – the annual migration of over a million wildebeest across the Serengeti ecosystem in Tanzania and Kenya. The itinerary typically includes game drives in various parts of the Serengeti National Park, where visitors can observe the wildebeest, along with other wildlife like zebras, elephants, and lions, in their natural habitat. The exact timing and route of the safari can vary each year, depending on the movement of the wildebeest herds.

The matter of how much will it cost to see the great Serengeti wildebeest migration will depend on the number of days you plan to spend on your safari, which additional destinations you will be visiting as well as the type of accommodation you will use on your safari.  In the table below are estimated prices for two (2) people highlighting the number of days on safari, destinations visited and cost of safari.

8 Day Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari Package  by road –  $ 7,600 per person.

8 days  Serengeti wildebeest migration safari is an outstanding 7 nights 8 days Tanzania safari. It is a remarkable Tanzania wildlife expedition to explore Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, Serengeti National Park, and Ngorongoro Crater – the top destinations in the Northern tourist circuit. The main highlights of this enchanting Tanzania migration experience include observing millions of wildebeest, game drives to see the big five, bird sightings, and more.

Day 1 : Arrival at Arusha

Meet your Tanzania safari leader at Kilimanjaro International Airport for a warm welcome to Tanzania. He will brief you shortly about your 8 days migration adventure in Tanzania and after, drive to pre-booked hotel in Arusha.

Overnight stay

• Luxury: Four Points by Sheraton Arusha
• Mid-range: Tulia Boutique Hotel & Spa
• Budget: Arusha Tourist Inn

Meal plan:Half board

Day 2 : Arusha-Tarangire National Park

After an early breakfast, drive to your first destination -Tarangire National Park, 2 hours drive. The 2850sq. km Tarangire National park is home to large herds of elephants, zebras, buffaloes, gazelles, elands, impalas, wildebeest, 350 bird species and features distinct vegetation especially bush savanna, giant baobab trees, etc. A lengthy game drive will be done today and a huge concentration of elephants will at your exposure plus other wildlife, and birds.

Overnight stay

• Luxury: Tarangire Sopa Lodge/Tarangire Treetops Lodge
• Midrange: Tarangire Safari Lodge
• Budget: Planet lodge/Country Lodge

Day 3 : Tarangire-Lake Manyara National Park

Hefty breakfast early after, set off for Lake Manyara National Park an exceptional spot where tree-climbing lions live. Drive while enjoying the jaw-dropping rift valley escarpment and at Lake Manyara, lots of wildlife will be spotted. The park shelters amazing species of animals including hartebeest, giraffes, gazelles, hyenas, tree-climbing lions, over 350 bird species, buffaloes, hippos, etc. A guided game drive will be done through Lake Manyara National Park bush savanna and after, get to your pre-booked for relaxation, dinner, and overnight sleep.

Overnight stay

• Luxury: Lake Manyara Tree Hotel
• Midrange: Kirurumu Tented Lodge
• Budget: Olmasera Tented Camp

Day 4 : Lake Manyara-Ngorongoro Crater

Enjoy a hot cup of tea/coffee, after drive to Ngorongoro Crater. A guided game drive will be done at the Crater with higher chances to see lots of big five games, antelopes, birds, and in addition, the breathtaking view of the crater. After, drive to the pre-booked lodge for an overnight sleep at Ngorongoro Crater.

Overnight stay

• Luxury: Neptune Ngorongoro Lodge
• Midrange: Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge
• Budget: Plantation Lodge

Day 5 : Ngorongoro-Serengeti

Get breakfast, after drive to Central Serengeti National Park for an unforgettable guided game drive to see the big five and watch more than 1.5 million wildebeest plus thousands of zebras, and elands as they migrate in search of pasture. This is perfect for those of you visiting between June and October or have a remarkable wildebeest birthing experience around December to February.

Overnight stay

• Budget: Usanja Camp/Shuhudia Tented Camp
• Midrange: Serengeti Sopa Lodge
• Luxury: Four Seasons Safari Lodge/Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge

Day 6 : Kagatende, Northern Serengeti National Park

Transfer to the Northern section of Serengeti for an incredible game drive. Here, you should expect the great migration -the wildebeest river crossing at Kagatende usually begins in August-October.

Overnight stay

• Budget: Usanja Camp/Shuhudia Tented Camp
• Midrange: Serengeti Sopa Lodge
• Luxury: Four Seasons Safari Lodge/Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge

Day 7 : Full Day Game Drive in Serengeti

Enjoy breakfast and after, you have a lengthy guided game drive in Serengeti to explore its wildlife. Today, you will have enough time to watch the wildebeest migration at the Mara Riverside.

Overnight stay

• Budget: Usanja Camp/Shuhudia Tented Camp
• Midrange: Serengeti Sopa Lodge
• Luxury: Four Seasons Safari Lodge/Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge

Day 8 : Departure

Enjoy breakfast, after drive back to Arusha -do some shopping and then drop off at Kilimanjaro International Airport for departure. End of safari

8 Day Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari – 8 days $9,625 per person (luxury serengeti safari)

Serengeti provides us with the stage for all our adventures on this wildlife extravaganza as we cover Tanzania’s most iconic national park in eight days. From Arusha, we depart first for the Western Corridor, an area fed by the Grumeti and Mbalageti rivers whose waters guarantee a constant presence of animals. After exploring with a series of enthralling game-drives, we move on to Central Serengeti, which could justifiably claim to be the ‘hub’ of the Serengeti’s wildlife-watching action. It will be hard to drag ourselves away, but our final destination, the Northern Serengeti, with a boundary to its north by the Mara river and then Kenya, will never disappoint.

Day 1 – Welcome to Tanzania

Whatever your arrival time at Kilimanjaro International Airport, your KG driver-guide will be waiting for you with a warm welcoming smile. Kick back and relax in your comfortable vehicle as he takes you to your hotel in Arusha, Tanzania’s self-styled ‘safari capital.’ On your one-hour journey to the hotel, you will get a brief impression of this large, bustling, commercial city. Depending on your arrival time, you may have your pre-safari briefing today; if not, it will take place early tomorrow morning.

Accommodation

Those seeking luxury in Arusha will find it at this modern, opulent hotel. The Gran Meliá Arushasits in 18 acres of carefully looked-after tea and coffee plantations, with its own herb and vegetable gardens and stunning views of Mount Meru. Rooms are thoroughly modern and spacious, furnished to a very high standard, as you would expect from an international hotel chain. Guests here can benefit from the hotel’s heated pool, spa, and gym – all great ways of staying in shape while being pampered during your stay. The Indian-inspired cuisine at the Yellow Chilli is renowned, but the two other hotel restaurants ensure that every taste is catered for here.

• Meal Plan
  Dinner at your hotel.

Day 2 – Arusha – Western Serengeti

Unless your arrival time yesterday allowed time for your safari briefing, then this will take place after breakfast. We will provide you with all the essential information, before we set off to the airport for our flight to the Western Serengeti to begin our  Serengeti wildebeest Migration Safari. From our arrival airport, we make the journey to our accommodation for our lunch, then begin our adventure with an afternoon game-drive. In late afternoon, we return to your accommodation for our evening meal and our overnight stay. Welcome to the Serengeti!

Journey: Flight from Arusha to Western Serengeti

We start our journey with a short drive to Arusha airport, followed by a 2 ½ hour flight to the Grumeti Airstrip in the Western Serengeti.

Day’s Highlight

If you have never seen the Serengeti before, the primeval vastness of this place will blow you away!

Safari (Game Drive) in Western Serengeti

Kirawira, Nyasirori, Simiti…the names are hard to say and maybe difficult to remember, but over the next few days these locations in Tanzania’s Western Corridor will bring you wildlife adventures that will fill you with memories. Your driver-guide can choose from a number of ‘loops’ when searching out wildlife opportunities for you: these depart from and reconnect to the main road, visiting different types of vegetation and exploring varied habitats. Two important rivers cross this region, and the permanent pools created by the Grumeti and Mbalageti ensure that animals can be seen all year-round. Populations of elephant and giraffe, wildebeest, baboons and lions are all resident here, but the wildebeest Migration time sets a different scene entirely. Huge crocodiles lurk in anticipation of the river crossing, looking to pick off a wildebeest or two as their herds plunge into the waters for the other side. Safety in numbers? Not always, so perhaps you will see not only a crossing, but a kill as well. Patience will bring its rewards – for crocodiles and for you, the visitor, poised with your camera!

Accommodation

Located in the beautiful Western Serengeti, the Kirawira Serena Campis a tented camp, an ideal base for exploring Tanzania’s premier national park. Accommodation may be in tents, but with en-suite facilities, Wi-Fi, and private balconies from which to view the Serengeti Plains (and any passing animals!) this camp may surprise you with its high level of comfort. With a delightful pool and a sundeck equipped for relaxation, there are plenty of options to let guests unwind after a day’s exhilarating safari. Visitors can take advantage of the classy cuisine and will be pampered by the attentive, welcoming camp team.

• Meal Plan
  Breakfast will be provided by Gran Melia Arusha. Lunch will be a nutritious and balanced meal, also provided by the hotel for you to take out on safari. Your evening meal will be a full, cooked dinner at the Kirawira Serena Camp.

Day 3 – Western Serengeti

Day’s Highlight

With a full day to explore this diverse area, we will be on the lookout for a river crossing. This is wildlife at its rawest!

Morning Game Drive in the Western Serengeti

In wildebeest Migration times, your driver-guide will do all he can to ensure you witness a crossing. If you didn’t see one yesterday, then today offers another possibility. But the Western Corridor has much more to offer. A favourite amongst our visitors is the collection of hippo pools: as they wallow throughout daylight hours in the mud, this really is wildlife-spotting at its easiest! A local speciality here is the lowland species of the black and white colobus monkey, different from the ones you may see in other parts of Tanzania. The Mbalageti area also hosts the highest density of topi in Tanzania, so keep your eyes peeled.

Afternoon Game Drive in Western Serengeti

Whether it’s the best place to catch a wildebeest migration river crossing, the best time to watch a lumbering hippo leave its pool to feast on vegetation for its evening meal, or simply to find the highest vantage point from which to watch the sun set over the plains, your driver-guide will draw on his incredible knowledge and experience to give you wildlife encounters beyond your imagination. Today, once again we will explore this Western Corridor of the Serengeti, admiring its grasslands and bushlands and the wildlife. Here, ponder that perhaps this is how the world once was, long, long ago, with animals in the ascendant and few humans to be seen. Simply incredible, and thought-provoking, too.

Accommodation
With the sights and sounds still fresh in your consciousness, it’s time to relax, dine and then sleep. With this is mind, and after your busy and exhilarating day of safari in this captivating area, we will return you to your accommodation in the Western Serengeti.

• Meal Plan
  Breakfast is enjoyed at the Kirawira Serena Camp. Lunch will be a nutritious and balanced meal, also provided by the camp for you to take out on safari. Your dinner will be a delicious meal at the Kirawira Serena Camp.

Day 4 – Western Serengeti – Central Serengeti

Journey: Western to Central Serengeti

After breakfast, and a morning game-drive en-route, we set off for our next destination, the Central Serengeti, a journey of 100km with an expected time of around 2 ½ hours. On arrival, we take lunch and have an afternoon game drive.

Day’s Highlight

While you’ve been asleep or having breakfast, you can be sure that your driver-guide has been checking to see what’s happening in the wonderful world of wildlife. Rest assured, he will find you a highlight!

Safari in Central Serengeti

Before leaving the Western Serengeti, we take the opportunity this morning to enjoy another game drive in this incredible location. This allows us further time to wonder at the migratory herds and the dangers and challenges they face each year in their battle for survival. As well as the herd animals, you can look to the skies, perhaps finding a majestic martial eagle or one of the other birds that populate this area. As well as the thousands of migrating animals, this area also has a good population of resident wildlife, so you will never be disappointed. In the afternoon, we take the short drive to the central part of Serengeti, where after lunch a game-drive will introduce you to this wildlife ‘hub. Finally, you will go to your chosen accommodation for relaxation and your evening meal.

Accommodation

Situated around 45km north of Central Serengeti, where Tanzania’s wonderful wildlife wander free, the Melia Serengeti Lodge offers a superb retreat for those enjoying their safari adventures. The lodge is perfectly located next to a watering hole, so wildlife visitors are very common here! The lodge buildings are located on differing levels, giving great views over the surrounding Serengeti plains. You can relax on your private balcony, taking a drink and watching the world pass by (slowly) before enjoying a visit to the lodge spa for some pre-dinner pampering. All rooms are modern, beautifully appointed and with outdoor space to make the most of the stunning views.

• Meal Plan
  Breakfast will be provided by Kirawira Serena Camp. Lunch will be a nutritious and balanced meal, also provided by the camp for you to take out on safari. Your evening meal will be a full, cooked dinner at the Melia Serengeti Lodge.

Day 5 – Central Serengeti

Day’s Highlight

Today, we set off from our accommodation in Central Serengeti. Wildlife is abundant here: sometimes you may think it has come to find you, rather than the other way around. Today’s highlight is unknown, as the animals don’t publish their schedule (!) We will be mindful of the migratory movements, of course, but this area is where bushland meets grassland, so a favorite spot for big cats looking for prey. Cheetah, leopard and lions are all possibilities today.

Safari in Central Serengeti National Park

Waking up in the Serengeti is something really special. Sights, sounds and smells of Africa are all around us, and ahead is a full day of adventure in the world’s most famous national park. After breakfast, we start today with the morning section of our game drive in Serengeti National Park, marveling at the stunning scenery, ever changing light and always entertaining wildlife, all explained to you by your expert driver-guide.

The Seronera River weaves its way through this area, providing waters for all species of wildlife. You will also see the distinctive rocky outcrops, the famous kopjes which characterize the Serengeti landscape. Lunch will be an unforgettable experience, enjoyed in the middle of the bush.

After our lunch, we set off again, searching for wildlife in this awe-inspiring park. Serengeti’s wonders evolve subtly as the day progresses. The myriad animals and birds are the ‘stars of the show’ and Nature’s dramas can unfold at any time. Of course, the animals don’t work to a timetable, so we may find lion or leopard, elephant and zebra, cheetah and antelope at any time on our drives. At the end of the afternoon, we return to the camp for dinner and some much-needed rest.

Accommodation
After your day of thrilling game drives, your driver will return you safely for another relaxing night at your Serengeti accommodation (see above). Drink, relax, dine and sleep, all out in the wilderness of the Serengeti. What could be better?

• Meal Plan
  Breakfast is enjoyed at the Melia Serengeti Lodge. Lunch will be a nutritious and balanced meal, also provided by the lodge for you to take out on safari. Your dinner will be a delicious meal at the Melia Serengeti Lodge.

Note: for those who have booked the Balloon Safari for today, you will be picked up from the lodge at 05.00 hours for a 06.00 hours departure. After your 60 – 90-minute aerial adventure, bush breakfast and champagne, your driver will pick you up for your full-day game drive.

Day 6 – Central Serengeti – Northern Serengeti

Today on our trip-of-a-lifetime we turn north, driving to the very northern edge of the Serengeti, our world-famous national park and – of course – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Journey: Central to Northern Serengeti

After breakfast, our journey from Central Serengeti to Northern Serengeti will take around 5 ½ hour (155km), with plenty of changing landscapes and wildlife highlights to see along the route.

Day’s Highlight

The changing landscapes of Northern Serengeti and the wildlife surprises it will almost certainly provide. There are no guarantees, but a rhino sighting cannot be ruled out!

Safari in Northern Serengeti National Park

The Northern Serengeti is a land of open woodland, extending from the Seronera in the south to the Mara river in the north, marking the frontier with neighboring Kenya. During your time here, you can get to grips with a whole new set of exotic names: Bolongonja, Kogatende, Lamai and of course, the legendary Mara river.

We are now following in the footsteps of the Great Migration, great herds of thousands of zebra and wildebeest getting ready to cross the Mara into Kenya, and back again. On a daily basis, crossings cannot be guaranteed, but our driver-guides know the most likely places to witness them, one of Nature’s most awe-inspiring sights. Patience is required! And if you’re not lucky enough to witness a crossing, there’s always tomorrow; and in Northern Serengeti, plenty more to see today.

Accommodation

For those visiting the Northern Serengeti, the luxury of the Sayari Campoffers real style in the wilderness. Comfortable and intimate, this is the ideal place in which to end a perfect day on safari with a dip in the swimming pool, enjoying views out over Serengeti’s northern plains. Sayari is an award-winning permanent camp, a true oasis, dripping in comfort… and a great place to relax. Top-class game-viewing is a given here, and the famous Mara River is nearby, allowing guests – in season – access to witness the unforgettable wildebeest crossings. The campfire is a focal point in the evening, while – whether dining inside or out – cuisine is crafted from locally sourced ingredients.

• Meal Plan
  Breakfast is enjoyed at the Melia Serengeti Lodge. Lunch will be a nutritious and balanced meal, also provided by the lodge for you to take out on safari. Your evening meal will be a full, cooked dinner at the Sayari Camp.

Day 7 – Northern Serengeti

Day’s Highlight

If you’re lucky today, perhaps a rare, black rhino might cross your path…

Morning Safari (Game Drive) in Northern Serengeti

As you awake for a second day in Northern Serengeti, you can contemplate that parts of this northern area can easily match the Southern Serengeti for the abundance of wildlife viewing, especially between July and October. After your breakfast, you will embark with your driver-guide on a full-day game drive, looking out for elephant and buffalo, eland and gazelle. Maybe you’ll be lucky enough to spot something really special: perhaps a cheetah, or even a rare black rhino, of which a small population are resident here.

Afternoon Safari (Game Drive) in Northern Serengeti

Depending on what your driver-guide found for you yesterday and this morning, this afternoon we’ll set out to see something new. If a Mara River crossing has escaped you, perhaps the conditions this afternoon will suggest that a crossing could take place. Our driver-guides have intimate knowledge of where and when they might occur. As well as the migrating herds, the Northern Serengeti is an area where you might easily see giraffe, elephant and dik-dik: with many resident species, there’s never a dull moment.

Accommodation
After a full and exciting day of wildlife-spotting in the Northern Serengeti, we will return you to your Northern Serengeti accommodation for dinner and your second night’s stay.

• Meal Plan
  Breakfast is enjoyed at the Sayari Camp. Lunch will be a nutritious and balanced meal, also provided by the camp for you to take out on safari. Your dinner will be a delicious meal at the Sayari Camp.

Day 8 – Northern Serengeti – Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport

After a relaxing breakfast, we leave our Northern Serengeti accommodation and transfer to Kogatende airstrip for our flight back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (‘KIA’). Your two-hour flight represents a last chance to see beautiful Tanzania – this time, from above. At the airport, you will be met by a KG driver who will take you to lunch, before ensuring that you get to your onward flight out of KIA.

Journey: Northern Serengeti – Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport

Your flight this morning will take around 2 ½ hour.

• Meal Plan
  Breakfast is served at Sayari Camp. Lunch will be a nutritious and balanced meal, also provided by the camp for you to take out on your flight and enjoyed after your arrival, before we return you to the airport for your flight home. As today is your departure day, please note that dinner tonight is not included in the tour.
• Departure Instructions
  Please note that this Serengeti Wildebeest Migration River Crossing Luxury Safari – 8-day tour ends at Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport at 17.30 hours. Your departure can only take place today if you have pre-booked a domestic flight which leaves from Kilimanjaro International Airport at 19.40 hours or after, or an international flight which leaves at 21.00 hours or after. Otherwise, you will need to book an extra night’s accommodation (not included in the tour price) and take a flight the following day.

7 day Serengeti wildebeest migration safari USD 7200 per person

Discover wildlife in the Ngorongoro Region and the legendary great migration of wildebeest and zebra of the Serengeti. These are Tanzania’s most reputed game and sight-seeing locations. The Tanzania great migration safari is an incredible bush experience. The safari package takes in the following destinations. Ngorongoro Region, Central Serengeti for 7 days/6 nights. Stay at Bougainvillea Safari Lodge in a great park location, between Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater. Spend two nights in one of the well equipped cottages in the lush landscaped gardens. Central to the lodge is the swimming pool…  a great place to sit and relax before dinner. Moving on to the Wild Frontier Serengeti Wilderness camp for 4 nights. Based in the Central Serengeti in the most spectacular park location with easy access to a dense concentration of wildlife. The camp has just 12 tents and offers a traditional ‘Out of Africa’ camping experience – chill and sip sundowners as the sun sets over the plains.

Day 1 – Arrive Kilimanjaro International Airport

You are met on arrival by your driver for a game drive transfer to Bourgainvillea Safari Lodge.

Day 2 – Ngorongoro Crater and game viewing

Game drive down the crater sides – almost guaranteed Big 5 sightings and excellent birding. Picnic in the crater – surrounded by the thick woodlands that hug the crater sides.

Day 3 – Depart Ngorongoro for the Central Serengeti

Stop for picnic lunch at Olduvai Gorge, visit to a Masai village then on to Serengeti Wilderness Camp.

Day 4 – Central Serengeti game drives

Spend a full day in the Serengeti with game drives and a visit to the education centre for fascinating insights into the park.

Day 5/6 – Explore the Serengeti home to the Wildebeest and Zebra migration

Exploring the Serengeti – wildlife such as giraffe, impala, waterbuck, hippo, elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, hyena, jackal and serval.

Day 7 – Departure – recommend adding on Zanzibar for down time on the beach

From Serengeti either drive back to Arusha, or enjoy a scenic flight over the Rift Valley back to Arusha (flight cost not included). We do recommend the flight even though it adds cost.

Includes:

• All accommodation,  meals and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages as indicated in the itinerary
• All activities, game drives, park fees and excursions 
• Emergency medical evacuation
• Private Safari Vehicle and English-speaking guide 
• Scheduled internal domestic flights

Excludes:

• Any activities, game drives, park fees and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary
• International Flights
• Travel Insurance
• Gratuity
• Items of personal nature

we are often asked lots of questions about the Serengeti wildebeest migration including “where is the best place to view, when is the best time of year and what is exactly is the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Tanzania?” So what is all the talk about the world’s greatest migration of mammals?

The Serengeti wildebeest migration Safari is often punted as the “greatest show on earth”.  Also known as one of the Seven New Wonders of the World. It doesn’t have a simple start or end, just a dynamic cycle of wild movement through the year. It’s never the same each year either. Not very predictable but easy enough to witness if you plan around some key points. People usually refer to this as the serengeti migration, but you can also see it on the Masai Mara in Kenya.

How Much Does it Cost To See the Serengeti Wildebeests Migration Safari?

The price for witnessing the Great Migration varies depending on the accommodation, transportation costs, and activities you choose to do. At Mount Kilimanjaro Guide, we offer a variety of packages it our client’s varying budgetary needs. These include;

• The budget great migration safari which costs anything from $300 daily per person sharing.
• the mid-luxury migration safari for as little as $450 daily on per person sharing basis.
• And last but not least, the luxury migration safari which costs anything from $700 on a PPD basis

Which is Better, the Wildebeest Migration in Kenya or Tanzania?

Both Kenya and Tanzania offer spectacular views of the Great Migration. It all boils down to what you are looking for. For example, Masai Mara offers a wider selection of lodges and hotels meaning that it is easier to find accommodation that meets your needs and budget. If, however, you’re looking for a more wild experience then the Serengeti in Tanzania is the way to go. The Serengeti is larger and wider that the Mara and offers more in terms of wildlife sightings and experiences. No matter what you choose, both Kenya and Tanzania offer a rich experience of the Great Migration that you won’t soon forget

Noted: When the wildebeest migration is “on” during high season, you’ll find that the best space gets sold out quickly, so book early to get the best availability and reasonable prices.