The Grand Migration Route

Luxury Migration. Iconic African Adventure.
 

12Days

$2,350From

Epic Journey

Overview

Experience the essence of Tanzania on this luxury 12-day safari. Explore Tarangire’s elephant-studded landscapes, the Serengeti’s migration drama, and the northern Kogatende plains for breathtaking Mara River crossings. Immerse in Maasai culture, hike Ol Doinyo Lengai, and witness flamingos at Lake Natron—all while enjoying handpicked luxury stays.
Wildebeest in National park of Africa

Quick Facts

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Arusha

Arrive at Kilimanjaro or Arusha Airport and transfer to your lodge. Relax, recover from your journey, and enjoy a detailed safari briefing. Explore the property or visit local markets before dinner. Prepare for your adventure with a peaceful evening in comfort.

Meal Plan: Dinner
Accommodation: Arusha Coffee Lodge or similar

Day 2 – Tarangire National Park

Drive to Tarangire National Park for full-day game drives among elephants, lions, leopards, and vast herds. Admire ancient baobab trees and vibrant birdlife as you explore this incredible park. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the wild before heading to your scenic lodge.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Tarangire Sopa Lodge or similar

Day 3 – Serengeti National Park (Central Serengeti)

Travel to the Central Serengeti and enjoy thrilling afternoon game drives across open plains dotted with acacias. Spot wildebeests, zebras, and predators like lions and cheetahs. Learn about the migration’s rhythm from your expert guide. Return for a magical evening under African skies.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge or similar

Day 4 – Serengeti (Grumeti Area)

Journey west to Grumeti, renowned for dramatic river crossings during migration season. Witness predators stalking herds and capture incredible wildlife photography. End the day with sundowners overlooking sweeping plains, before a delicious dinner at your tented camp deep in Serengeti wilderness.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp or similar

Day 5 – Serengeti (Grumeti Area)

Spend the day tracking the Great Migration and observing big cats in action. Opt for a guided walking safari for a unique bush perspective. Enjoy a picnic in the wild, and evenings filled with comfort, storytelling, and authentic Serengeti charm by campfire.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp or similar

Day 6 – Serengeti (Grumeti Area)

Continue exploring Grumeti’s pristine landscapes with morning and afternoon game drives. Witness hippos, crocodiles, and vibrant birdlife along rivers. Photograph unforgettable moments before returning for a serene evening at camp. Relax under starlit skies and indulge in fine dining surrounded by nature.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp or similar

Day 7 – Serengeti (Kogatende, Northern Serengeti)

Fly or drive to Kogatende, the heart of the Mara River crossings. Watch thousands of wildebeests braving predator-filled waters in nature’s most dramatic spectacle. Capture incredible photos, then retreat to your luxury camp for a peaceful evening overlooking the remote northern plains.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Kogatende River Camp or similar

Day 8 – Serengeti (Kogatende Area)

Start the day with a magical hot air balloon safari at sunrise (optional) or thrilling game drives. Witness river crossings, predators hunting, and herds grazing. Relax at camp after an adventurous day, enjoying gourmet dining and sweeping views of untamed Serengeti landscapes.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Kogatende River Camp or similar

Day 9 – Serengeti (Kogatende Area)

Enjoy another day exploring northern Serengeti’s migration action. Visit a Maasai village to experience cultural heritage, music, and traditions. Continue game drives spotting elephants, lions, and giraffes before heading back to camp for an elegant dinner under starlit skies and warm hospitality.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Kogatende River Camp or similar

Day 10 – Lake Natron

Travel to Lake Natron, a surreal alkaline lake hosting flamingos and other wildlife. Hike to Engare Sero waterfalls and admire Ol Doinyo Lengai, the sacred volcano. Relax in the serene wilderness after adventurous activities, enjoying a magical night in remote surroundings.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lake Natron Tented Camp or similar

Day 11 – Lake Natron to Arusha

Embark on a morning walking safari along Lake Natron’s shoreline for close encounters with flamingos and unique birdlife. Visit Maasai villages to learn about traditional culture. Return to Arusha for a luxurious overnight stay before concluding your adventure-filled safari the next day.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Gran Melia Arusha or similar

Day 12 – Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey. Reflect on unforgettable experiences, spectacular wildlife sightings, and meaningful cultural interactions from your extraordinary Great Migration adventure. Leave Tanzania with lifelong memories and the spirit of Africa in your heart.

Meal Plan: Breakfast
Accommodation: No accommodation (departure day)

What's Special

Highlights & Experiences

Great Migration Front-Row Access

Witness dramatic Mara River crossings and thousands of wildebeest on the move.

Balloon Safari Adventure

Soar silently above Serengeti at sunrise, spotting wildlife from an unforgettable view.

Big Five Wildlife Encounters

Soar silently above Serengeti at sunrise, spotting wildlife from an unforgettable view.

Luxury Wilderness Stays

Stay in boutique lodges offering comfort, privacy, and breathtaking African landscapes.

Best Time For Great Migration Safari

The Great Migration is a year-round event, but July to October offers dramatic Mara River crossings. January to March showcases calving season in Ndutu, while April and November bring fewer crowds and vibrant green landscapes, perfect for photographers and nature enthusiasts seeking quieter moments.
Month Location Migration Highlights Weather & Conditions
January – March Southern Serengeti & Ndutu Calving season, predator action, plenty of newborns Warm days, occasional showers
April – May Central Serengeti Herds start moving north, lush green landscapes Long rains, fewer crowds, dramatic skies
June – July Western Serengeti & Grumeti Grumeti River crossings, large predator activity Dry season begins, cooler mornings
August – October Northern Serengeti & Mara River Spectacular Mara River crossings, intense predator action Dry, sunny days, perfect for game drives
November – December Eastern & Southern Serengeti Herds return south, short rains refresh landscapes Mild temperatures, light showers

What's Included in Your Journey

  • Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers included
  • Accommodation: All specified lodges, tented camps, and hotels
  • Meals: Full board during safari (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Game Drives: Daily safari game drives with a professional guide
  • Park Fees: All park entry and conservation fees
  • Domestic Flights: Flight to Kogatende where specified
  • Cultural Visits: Maasai village tours and local experiences
  • Nature Activities: Guided hikes and walking safaris
  • Bottled Water: Provided during all game drives
  • Taxes & Service: All government taxes included

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is the best time for Mara River crossings?

July to October is ideal for witnessing dramatic river crossings in Northern Serengeti.

2. Are balloon safaris included in this itinerary?

No, balloon rides are optional but highly recommended for breathtaking views of the Serengeti.

3. How long is the safari?

This luxury Great Migration experience spans 12 days of adventure, culture, and wildlife exploration.

4. What makes this safari unique?

It combines migration hotspots, Maasai cultural visits, Lake Natron exploration, and luxury stays throughout.

5. Can the itinerary be customized?

Yes! We can tailor accommodation, routes, and activities to fit your travel style and interests.

Ready to Explore?

Begin your journey inside Africa’s most captivating destinations. Let’s craft your perfect adventure.

Travel Blog

Travel Tips, Tales, and Hidden Safari Secrets

Responsible Tourism in Tanzania

This shouldn’t take more than a minute or two to complete

Help us plan your dream safari by providing us with a few details

Select your dates.

Where can we send your trip suggestions? .

Prefer direct contact?