Migration Safari
Masai Mara & Serengeti Migration Safari
9 Days | 8 Nights
Safari Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey with Next Stop Tanzania on our 9 days Masai Mara & Serengeti Migration Safari, a testament to the raw beauty and extraordinary wildlife of East Africa. Your adventure begins in the iconic Masai Mara, renowned for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, including the Big Five. Witness the drama of the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores cross the Mara River in search of greener pastures, creating a spectacle unlike any other in the natural world.
From the Masai Mara, venture into the Serengeti, a vast wilderness that hosts the second leg of the Great Migration. Marvel at the endless plains dotted with acacia trees and witness predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs in pursuit of their prey. Our expert guides will ensure you have the best vantage points to observe this incredible phenomenon up close. Immerse yourself in the heart of the African wilderness and experience the untamed beauty of the Masai Mara and Serengeti on this unforgettable safari experience.
NOTE: To book one of this Masai Mara- Serengeti Migration Safari package, please consider Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as your point of arrival in Kenya and Kilimanjaro International Airport to depart from Tanzania.
Full Itinerary
Nairobi to Masai Mara
Start your adventure with an early morning pick-up from either your hotel or upon arrival at the airport, and journey to the captivating Masai Mara National Reserve. This iconic destination remains one of the last strongholds where wildlife thrives undisturbed, echoing the ancient rhythms of Africa’s plains and forests. As the northern extension of the vast Serengeti ecosystem, the Mara plays host to the awe-inspiring annual migration of countless wildebeest, zebras, and their predators.
Upon arrival, savor a delicious lunch before embarking on an afternoon game drive, immersing yourself in the reserve’s remarkable biodiversity. Explore the sweeping savannahs and dense forests in search of the Big Five and other fascinating wildlife. As the sun sets, return to your lodge for a delightful dinner, recounting the day’s adventures under the starlit African sky. Rest peacefully, surrounded by the untamed beauty of the Mara, before another exhilarating day of exploration.
Accommodation: Masai Mara Sopa Lodge/ Related Lodge (Full Board)
Masai Mara Game Reserve
Following breakfast, embark on an exhilarating full-day game drive with a packed lunch provided for your convenience. The reserve is renowned for its black-maned lions and abundant resident wildlife, offering a rare opportunity to encounter the Big Five during a single morning’s excursion. The cheetahs in the area are notably relaxed around vehicles, often seeking shade beneath them or even climbing onto the roofs for a better vantage point to observe potential prey.
Bird enthusiasts will be enthralled by the reserve’s avian diversity, with nearly 500 species recorded. Among these are 16 species of eagles, numerous hawks and falcons, 6 species of vultures, 8 species of storks, 4 species of bustards (including the Kori bustard, the world’s heaviest flying bird), and 9 species of sunbirds. Capture the essence of the Mara’s wildlife and birdlife in their natural habitat, creating unforgettable memories of this remarkable ecosystem.
Accommodation: Masai Mara Sopa Lodge/ Related Lodge (Full Board)
Masai Mara to Arusha, Tanzania
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, bid farewell to the reserve as you begin the second phase of your Serengeti migration safari, heading towards Tanzania. Journeying towards Nairobi, you’ll make a stop for a delightful lunch. In the late afternoon, arrive at the Namanga Border and switch to another safari jeep for the continuation of your adventure to Arusha.
(Note: Upon arrival in Nairobi, you have the option of being dropped off directly at the airport for your convenience, ensuring a seamless transition to your next destination)
Accommodation: Kibo Palace hotel/ Related Hotel (Bed & Breakfast)
Arusha to Central Serengeti Via Ngorongoro crater
Your adventure begins as our driver collects you from your hotel in Arusha, providing a delicious picnic lunch for the journey ahead. You’ll enjoy a scenic drive to Ngorongoro Crater, where a full day of exploration awaits. Descend 2000 feet into the crater aboard a sturdy 4-wheel drive vehicle, allowing you to delve deep into this natural wonder. After a day of discovery, you’ll ascend and enroute to central Serengeti for a dinner & overnight.
Often referred to as ‘Africa’s Eden’ and the ‘8th Natural Wonder of the World,’ Ngorongoro Crater is a highlight for visitors to Tanzania, boasting a wealth of wildlife and unparalleled natural beauty. Formed over 2.5 million years ago from a volcanic mountain’s collapse, this caldera is a testament to the forces of nature. Spanning 22.5 kilometres in diameter, with rim walls towering 600 meters high, the crater provides a breathtaking backdrop for your safari experience. Home to approximately 30,000 animals and a diverse array of bird species, the crater’s inhabitants thrive in its unique ecosystem, ensuring remarkable wildlife encounters throughout the year. After a day of exploration, return to the lodge for a sumptuous dinner and a restful overnight stay, surrounded by the sights and sounds of this remarkable natural paradise.
Accommodation: Nyota Luxury Camp / Related Lodge (Full Board)
North Serengeti
Following breakfast at your lodge, embark on a thrilling game drive with a picnic lunch in tow, offering you the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the great migration in the Serengeti National Park.
In the Wagakuria area of the park, wildlife sightings are abundant, particularly in the resident population. Here, prides of lions, some as large as 30 members strong, roam the plains. However, from August to October, this area transforms into a wildlife paradise as the great migration unfolds. The Mara River plays a pivotal role during this period, serving as a focal point for the migrating herds. It’s not uncommon to witness the herds crossing the Mara River, heading north on one day and then back south a few days later. However, it’s important to note that witnessing a crossing can be challenging and often relies on luck, as the animals’ movements are unpredictable.
Accommodation: Mara Heritage/ Related Lodge (Full Board)
North to Central Serengeti
We will proceed for a full day game drive viewing the great migration at Mara area. Resident wildlife numbers are exceptionally high in the Wagakuria area. The key feature is the Mara River and there is a great chance to see the herds cross the Mara River to the north on one day and back south a few days later.
Please note that it might be very difficult to witness crossing and sometimes a matter of luck. A herd can be seen next to river and only decide to cross a couple of days later. This area is a stunning region with kopjes, woodland, riverine vegetation and open plains, similar to Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve.
Accommodation: Baobab Camp Lodge/ Related Lodge (Full Board)
Serengeti to Arusha & Departure
Following breakfast, delve into the wonders of the central Serengeti as you make your way to Seronera airstrip. Here, you’ll board your flight to Arusha, where you’ll be transferred directly to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your evening departure. Enjoy the final moments of your safari adventure amidst the breath-taking landscapes of the Serengeti before bidding farewell to Tanzania.
Includes
- All airport transfers
- Private safari vehicle 4x 4 Toyota Land Cruiser with pop-up roof,
- Dedicated services of highly experienced safari-guide
- All park fees
- All game drives at the parks
- Accommodation
- Meals as per itinerary
- Distilled water during the safari
Excludes
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel/Medical Insurance (recommended)
- Optional activities
- Tips and gratuities to the crew and personnel (USD 15 per person per day)
- Personal items and purchases
Book This Tour
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