5 Days Wildebeest Migration Safari with Natron
This 5 Days Wildebeest Migration Safari with Natron tour will let you see the raw drama of nature. Safari to see the wildebeest migration as well as the river crossing.
Safari cost from $2170 per person
Tour Summary
This 5 Days Wildebeest Migration Safari with Natron tour will let you see the raw drama of nature. Safari to see the wildebeest migration as well as the river crossing. This schedule is planned just right so that you have the best opportunity of seeing the heart-stopping moment when thousands of wildebeest and zebra jump into the crocodile-infested waters of the Mara River. It’s sometimes called “The Greatest Show on Earth.”
This Mid-range tour takes you to the beautiful Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the boundless plains of Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. You will follow the huge herds as they gather along the riverbanks, looking for the best place to cross.
Best time to visit: July to September—peak Mara River crossing season.
Safari highlights include crossing the Mara River, seeing the Big Five in Ngorongoro, predator action in the Serengeti, and seeing elephants in Tarangire.
Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and daring tourists looking for a top-tier safari experience during Tanzania’s Great Migration.
Safari Highlights
- Great Migration river crossing in Northern Serengeti
- Big Five wildlife viewing
- Scenic game drives across endless savannah plains
- Lake Natron flamingos and waterfall hike
- Spectacular Rift Valley scenery
Top Features
- Can be Customized
- Suitable for all ages
- Best Lodge and Camps Guaranteed
- Can start any day
Day by Day Program
Day 1 : Arrival
Accommodation
Forest Hill Hotel
Meals
Bed & Breakfast
Day 2 : Arusha to Lake Natron
After breakfast, depart for Lake Natron, leaving the main road near Mto wa Mbu and driving along the scenic East African Rift Valley. Pass Maasai villages and the sacred mountain Ol Doinyo Lengai before arriving at Ngare Sero near the lake.
Lake Natron is famous for its striking red-hued waters and as a breeding ground for millions of flamingos. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walk to the lake and visit nearby waterfalls, where you can swim in a natural oasis.
Overnight at a camp near Lake Natron.
Estimated Driving Time:
Lake Natron to Northern Serengeti: Approx. 5–7 hours (including game drive stops)
Accommodation
Africa Safari Lake Natron
Meals
Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner
Day 3 : Lake Natron to Northern Serengeti
After an early breakfast at your camp near Lake Natron, depart for Northern Serengeti, driving through remote Maasai lands and dramatic Rift Valley landscapes.
As you approach the Serengeti boundary, the scenery opens into rolling savannahs dotted with acacia trees. Upon entering Northern Serengeti (Kogatende area), your game drive begins immediately.
This region is famous for the Mara River, where the Great Migration typically crosses between July and October. During this period, thousands of wildebeests and zebras gather along the riverbanks, often hesitating before making the dramatic plunge across crocodile-filled waters.
Your guide will position you near key crossing points, tracking herd movements for the best opportunity to witness this spectacular natural event.
Enjoy a picnic lunch inside the park before continuing your afternoon game drive.
Arrive at your lodge or tented camp in Northern Serengeti in the late afternoon for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4 : Northern Serengeti to Central Serengeti
After breakfast at your camp in Northern Serengeti (Kogatende area), depart for Central Serengeti (Seronera) with a game drive en route.
As you travel south, enjoy wildlife sightings along the way, including giraffes, elephants, zebras, and resident predators. Depending on the season, you may still encounter migrating herds moving across the plains.
Stop for a picnic lunch inside the park before continuing your afternoon game drive.
Arrive at your lodge or tented camp in Central Serengeti in the late afternoon for dinner and overnight stay.
Estimated driving time: 4–6 hours (including game viewing stops).
Day 5 : Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater to the Airport.
After breakfast, head to Ngorongoro Crater, the Eighth Wonder of the World. When you see this wide, lush caldera from the panoramic vista, you’ll appreciate its exalted reputation.
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area, home to over 120 animal species, including the Big Five, is a popular safari destination. The endangered black rhinoceros eating alone on the grass plains and vast numbers of hippopotamus enjoying the cold water are very lovely to observe.
From your open-top car, you may see and photograph Africa’s most famous faces. Lions, leopards, cheetahs, jackals, and hyenas live in the crater, along with wildebeest, zebras, antelope, cape buffalo, and others. One of Africa’s top safari spots.
After the day’s excitement, you’ll have a picnic lunch near the park’s famed hippo pool before driving to the airport to catch your flight home or to Zanzibar.
This will be the end of your safari tour
Accommodation
Own arrangements
Meals
Breakfast & Lunch
$ 2170 Per Person
What is included
Private 4×4 Safari Vehicle
Travel in a custom 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser designed for safari comfort, featuring a pop-up roof for panoramic wildlife viewing and excellent photography opportunities.
National Park Entry Fees Included
All required park entry fees are covered, allowing seamless access to Tanzania’s premier wildlife destinations.
Full-Board Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable stays in carefully selected lodges or camps on a full-board basis, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day as specified on the itinerary.
Ngorongoro Crater Service Fee
All Ngorongoro Crater service fees are included, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free visit to this natural wonder.
Private Professional Safari Guide
Be accompanied by a knowledgeable, English-speaking private guide who will share expert insights into Tanzania’s wildlife, landscapes, and ecosystems also the following guides are available upon request, Spanish Speaking Guide, French Speaking Guide, German Speaking Guide, Chinese Speaking Guide, Italian Speaking Guide
All Meals During the Safari
Delicious, freshly prepared meals are provided throughout your safari, allowing you to fully focus on your adventure.
Bottled Drinking Water
Complimentary bottled mineral water is available in the vehicle to keep you refreshed during your game drives.
Airport Transfers
Round-trip transfers to and from the international airport are included for a comfortable and stress-free arrival and departure.
What is not included
Hotel Meals & Beverages
Lunch, dinner, and drinks at your hotel before and after the safari are not included unless otherwise specified.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is not included. We strongly recommend obtaining coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, and personal belongings.
Flights
International and domestic flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport are not included in the package price unless is mentioned on itinerary.
Laundry Services
Laundry services are available at most hotels and lodges at an additional cost.
Personal Items & Toiletries
Guests are responsible for their personal belongings, toiletries, and any additional comfort items required during the trip.
Gratuities
Tips for your safari guide $10 Per person per night which is done at the end of the Safari.
While not mandatory, tipping is customary and greatly appreciated as a gesture of recognition for excellent service.
Plan Your Dream Trip
Why you should Book with Us?
- Your safety is our Number 1 Priority
- There is no Hidden Costs
- Quickest response time
- Drinks - Coffee, Water, Beer, Wine & Soft Drinks
- We take pride in having knowledgeable, experienced, and genuinely caring guides
- We select Great Accommodations
- We provide high-quality, well-maintained Land Cruisers fitted with a fridge, Wi-Fi, and power outlets
- Hot meals during the most of the safaris
- Local Registered Tour Operator in Tanzania
- Competitive Prices
Receive a free, No obligation quote
Optional Activities
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Hot-Air Balloon $500
Enjoy Early Morning Balloon flight at the Serengeti
-
Walking Safari $70
Get Closer to nature by doing a Walking safari at Tarangire National Park
-
Night Game-drive $250
Explore wildlife in the bush at night in Lake Manyara A whole new world of animal species (nocturnal) await you on a night game drive
-
Masai Visit $15
Visiting a Maasai village in Tanzania is a fantastic insight into life in Africa
-
Serval Wildife Sanctuary $250
This tour offers unforgettable interactions with these free-roaming animals.
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Foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro $100
Be immersed in Tanzania's great outdoors on this full-day tour ideal for culture vultures and active travelers in the region
Your Safari Questions Answered
Every unforgettable Tanzania safari begins with a question. Whether you’re planning a short safari in Tanzania or exploring our Northern Circuit safari packages, we’re here to help you travel with confidence and return home with incredible wildlife memories.
Is Tanzania safari safe?
Yes. Safaris are conducted by professional guides in protected areas. Following your guide’s instructions ensures a safe experience.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Tanzania?
Yes, most travelers need a visa to enter Tanzania.
Visa on Arrival → Available for many nationalities at airports and borders
E-Visa → Can be obtained online before travel (recommended for faster entry)
Cost → $50 for most nationalities, $100 for U.S. citizens
Apply now: https://visa.immigration.go.tz/
When is the best time to visit Tanzania?
The best time for a safari in Tanzania typically coincides with the dry seasons, from June to October, and from late December to February. During these periods, wildlife congregates around water sources, making it easier to spot them.
Dry Season (June – October) → Best for wildlife viewing; animals gather around waterholes
Great Migration River Crossing (June – July & October → Witness massive herds in Serengeti
Calving Season (January – March) → Best time to see newborn animals & predator action
Green Season (November – May) → Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower prices
What Kind of a Vehicle is Used During the Safari?
We use 4×4 Toyota Land Cruisers prepared for tough routes. These vehicles have pop-up roof hatches for 360-degree game viewing, a cooler box to keep drinks cold, VHF radios for communication, and electrical outlets to charge electronic gadgets.
To preserve the unspoiled safari experience, Wi-Fi is not provided in the vehicles unless required, enabling complete absorption in your surroundings. Every camp and lodge has Wi-Fi. Our cars are inspected by mechanics after each safari to guarantee they are in excellent condition.
Which Airport Should I Use for a Safari in Tanzania?
The best airport depends on your safari itinerary and where your adventure begins. Here are the main airports used for Tanzania safaris:
1. Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – Best for Northern Circuit Safaris
Recommended for:
- Serengeti National Park
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- Tarangire National Park
- Lake Manyara National Park
Why choose JRO?
- Closest international airport to Arusha
- Main gateway for Northern Tanzania safaris
- Easy transfers to safari lodges and airstrips
Most travelers doing the classic Northern Circuit safari fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport.
2. Arusha Airport (ARK) – For Domestic Safari Flights
Used mainly for domestic flights to Serengeti airstrips
Ideal for fly-in safaris
Not a major international airport
3. Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Best for Southern & Coastal Safaris
Recommended for:
- Nyerere National Park
- Ruaha National Park
- Beach extensions in Zanzibar
DAR is located in Dar es Salaam and is ideal if your safari starts in Southern Tanzania.
4. Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) – For Zanzibar Extensions
If you’re combining safari with a beach holiday, you may:
- Fly into Kilimanjaro
- Safari in Northern Tanzania
- Fly to Zanzibar
- Depart from Zanzibar
Quick Recommendation
Northern Circuit Safari? → Fly into Kilimanjaro (JRO)
Southern Safari? → Fly into Dar es Salaam (DAR)
Safari + Zanzibar? → JRO arrival & ZNZ departure (or vice versa)
If you share your plan, we’ll advise the best airport and flight route for your trip.
How many days are recommended for a safari?
A minimum of 4–5 days is recommended to properly explore the Northern Circuit parks.
What is a day like on safari?
A typical safari day is designed around wildlife activity — early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for game viewing.
Early Morning Game Drive (6:00 AM – 9:30 AM)
Your day usually starts early with tea or coffee before heading out into the park.
This is prime time for spotting predators such as lions, leopards, and hyenas while they are still active. The cool morning light is also perfect for photography.
Breakfast & Relaxation (9:30 AM – 12:00 PM)
You may return to your lodge for a full breakfast and some relaxation time, or enjoy a packed breakfast in the bush depending on your itinerary.
Midday Break (12:00 PM – 3:30 PM)
Wildlife tends to rest during the heat of the day, so this is time to:
- Enjoy lunch
- Relax at camp
- Take in the scenery
On full-day safaris, you may instead have a picnic lunch inside the park.
Afternoon Game Drive (4:00 PM – Sunset)
Animals become active again as temperatures cool. You may witness:
- Elephants heading to water
- Cheetahs scanning the plains
- Stunning sunset views over the savannah
Evening at Camp
After returning to camp:
- Dinner is served
- Stories are shared around the fire
- You may hear lions roaring in the distance
Then it’s time to rest before another exciting day.
Every day on safari is different — no two game drives are ever the same.
Are the accommodations on this tour flexible? Can I choose my own hotel ?
Absolutely. We welcome special accommodation requests and will provide curated alternatives from our extensive portfolio, which includes both our own properties and trusted partner lodges. By booking with us, you also gain access to exclusive discounted rates secured through our special partnerships.
What Kind of Meals are provided?
You will be offered safe-to-eat continental meals as well as traditional Tanzanian and African cuisine in lodges and tented camps, along with fresh fruit and salads. While some establishments provide individual plated meals, others offer buffet-style meals. Numerous dietary requirements, including those who are vegetarian, vegan, or gluten intolerant, can be met. When you book your vacation, you will be asked about your preferences.
What should I pack for safari?
Think lightweight, breathable, and neutral-colored clothing. Include:
- Long-sleeved shirts & pants (for sun and insects)
- A warm jacket (early mornings can be chilly)
- Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Binoculars and a camera
- Comfortable walking shoes
Click to see our Packing Lists
Is this tour Adjustable?
Absolutely. All our safaris are fully customizable, and adding extra nights in Serengeti National Park is highly recommended if your schedule allows.
Why Add Extra Nights?
More time to track lions, leopards, and cheetahs
- Increased chances of witnessing the Great Migration (seasonal)
- A more relaxed pace with extended game drives
- Opportunity to explore different regions (Central, Western, or Northern Serengeti)
Let us know your travel dates and total number of days available, and we will design the perfect Serengeti extension tailored to you.
Is Flying Option Available?
For added comfort and to save travel time, you can choose a fly-in or fly-out safari:
- Scheduled light aircraft flights from Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha to Serengeti airstrips
- Scenic aerial views of the savannah
- Reduced driving time (approx. 1–1.5 hours by air)
- Ideal for luxury or shorter itineraries
You may
- Fly in and drive out
- Drive in and fly out
- Or fly both ways for maximum comfort
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100% Tailored Safaris
No matter if you’re an individual, couple, family, or group, Meijo Safaris is here to assist you in planning your itinerary and guaranteeing that you have an incredible experience in Africa with complete confidence and peace of mind.
Experienced Safari Experts
You will have the opportunity to plan your journey with knowledgeable Safari Specialist who will guide you every step of the way. Embrace a life where you can dedicate more time to living the experience, rather than getting caught up in researching, worrying, and comparing.
Safari's FAQ
We receive many queries regarding traveling to this amazing destinations some of which we have tried to answer in our Tanzania Safari Faq's
Safari Packing List
If this is your first time in Tanzania or your first time on safari, this packing list below can help to be well prepared and comfortable during your adventure
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