8 Days of Following the Migration Footsteps

An Unforgettable Journey Through the Pulse of the Wild

This carefully curated itinerary immerses you in the majestic rhythm of the Great Migration—one of Earth’s most extraordinary wildlife spectacles. With four nights in the Serengeti, you’ll not only explore the iconic Central region but also follow the thunderous herds as they traverse seasonal pathways—gathering in the Southern plains (Ndutu) from December to March, or migrating toward the remote Northern reaches near the Mara River from July to November.

Day 1: Tarangire National Park – Giants and Baobabs

After a hearty breakfast, embark on your adventure with a full-day safari in the majestic Tarangire National Park. Often called a “hidden gem,” Tarangire is a realm of diverse ecosystems and commanding landscapes. Towering baobab trees stand like ancient guardians over herds of elephants—Tarangire boasts the largest population in Tanzania—while predators quietly observe from the shadows.

The Tarangire River draws an astonishing concentration of wildlife, including lions, leopards, giraffes, buffalos, zebras, and countless species of antelope. Enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the river, where scenes of raw nature unfold—zebras and wildebeests approach for a drink, sometimes stalked by stealthy lions.

Optional: Night game drive to witness the nocturnal rhythms of the bush.
Overnight: Choice of campsite, tented camp, or lodge.
Recommended: Haven Nature Camp (budget), Maramboi Tented Camp (mid-range), Tarangire Safari Lodge (mid+), Tarangire Sopa Lodge (luxury), or Oliver’s Camp (luxury+).

Day 2: Lake Manyara National Park – A Tapestry of Forest and Lake

Cross the Great Rift Valley and descend into the lush embrace of Lake Manyara National Park, a small but enchanting haven of biodiversity. Its evergreen forests of fig and mahogany trees harbor blue monkeys and large baboon troops. Continue through open plains where elephants, giraffes, and buffalo graze serenely.

The shores of Lake Manyara teem with birdlife—over 400 species, from pink flamingos to the elusive crested eagle. Keep your camera ready for the park’s famously elusive tree-climbing lions.

Optional Activity: Guided bicycle safari along the lake’s edge for a more intimate encounter with nature.
Overnight: Choice of accommodation.
Recommended: Haven Nature Camp (budget), Manyara Wildlife Safari Camp (mid-range), Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge (mid+), Manyara Serena Lodge (luxury), Plantation Lodge (luxury+).

Day 3: Into the Heart of Serengeti – Central Plains

Today’s journey takes you through the dramatic highlands of Ngorongoro, where you’ll pause at the crater’s rim for a sweeping view, before descending into the boundless Serengeti—“endless plains” in Kiswahili.

This iconic landscape hosts over 2 million large mammals—wildebeest, zebras, gazelles—and the predators that follow them: lions, cheetahs, hyenas. You’ll drive through this cinematic expanse, spotting wildlife en route to your camp.

Optional Stop: Visit Oldupai Gorge, the “Cradle of Mankind,” where the Leakey family uncovered early hominid fossils.
Overnight: Public campsite or luxury tented lodge.
Recommended: Seronera/Lobo Camp (budget), Ikoma or Serengeti Heritage (mid-range), Kati Kati or Ang’ata (mid+), Serena Serengeti Lodge or Lemala Camps (luxury+).

Day 4: Serengeti National Park – A Day in the Wild

Devote your full day to game drives in the Central Serengeti. From golden dawn to fiery dusk, witness the daily drama of predator and prey. Follow lion prides, track cheetahs, or quietly watch elephants traverse the plains.

Optional Highlight: Balloon safari at sunrise—soar above the savannah as herds scatter below, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush.
Overnight: Return to your chosen camp or lodge.

Days 5 & 6: Tracking the Migration – North or South Serengeti

Spend the next two days pursuing the greatest show on Earth: the Great Migration. Depending on the season, you’ll be guided deep into the Southern plains (Ndutu) or venture north toward the Mara River, where heart-pounding river crossings and dramatic predator encounters await.

Your guide will tailor your route to offer front-row seats to this unforgettable journey.

Overnight: Camps and lodges aligned with migration movements.
Recommended: Lobo Campsite (budget), Ang’ata Migration Camp (mid+), Chaka Mobile Camps (luxury), or Lemala Camps (luxury+).

Day 7: Sunrise Over Serengeti → Journey to Ngorongoro

Rise before dawn to greet the sun on the savannah. Early morning game drives reveal predators still on the prowl and soft light perfect for photography. After brunch at camp, travel to the legendary Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Framed by volcanic walls and cloaked in clouds, the Ngorongoro Crater—often called the 8th Wonder of the World—harbors a microcosm of African wildlife. Expect awe-inspiring scenery and prolific game.

Optional: Guided walking safari along the crater rim.
Overnight: Choose from campsites to five-star lodges nestled near the crater.
Recommended: Simba Camp (budget), Rhino Lodge (mid-range), Ang’ata (mid+), Serena Lodge or Lemala Camp (luxury+).

Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater – Nature’s Masterpiece

Descend into the crater at first light for a day of unparalleled game viewing. Nowhere else packs such diversity into a single location—rhinos graze alongside elephants with tusks like ivory sabers, while flamingos dot the soda lake and lions lounge under acacia trees.

After a lakeside picnic and a final afternoon drive, ascend from the crater and return to Arusha.

Optional Extension: Ol Doinyo Sambu Maasai Village

Add an enriching cultural immersion by visiting a non-touristic Maasai village near Arusha. Guided by the village chief, you’ll learn about their daily life, traditions, and rituals—an unforgettable glimpse into Tanzania’s living heritage.

Migration Timing Tip:

If traveling July to November, the herds gather in the Northern Serengeti. In this case, we highly recommend reversing the itinerary—starting with Ngorongoro and ending in the North Serengeti, flying out directly to Arusha or Zanzibar to avoid backtracking.

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