6 Days Flying River Crossing Migration Safari
Join us on this 6 Days Flying River Crossing Migration Safari Mid-range to Northern Serengeti known as Kogatende Area, This tour can starts from Zanzibar, Dar-es-Salaam or Arusha where our guide and the jeep will be waiting for you at the Kogatende Airstrip.
Safari cost from $3050
Tour Summary
Experience the ultimate 6 Day Flying River Crossing Migration Safari in Tanzania from Zanzibar. Fly directly to Northern Serengeti and witness the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration as thousands of wildebeests brave crocodile-filled rivers. Enjoy exceptional game drives in Northern and Central Serengeti, encounter the Big Five, and explore the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater. This Tanzania safari combines comfort, adventure, and unforgettable wildlife experiences in Africa’s most iconic safari destinations.
Safari Highlights
- Scenic flight from Zanzibar to Serengeti
- Game drives in Serengeti National Park,Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire
- Big Five wildlife viewing
- Luxury or mid-range tented camp stay
- Sunrise and sunset safaris
- Expert safari guide experience
- Bush airstrip arrival adventure
- Optional Maasai cultural visit
Top Features
- Can be Customized
- Suitable for all ages
- Best Lodge and Camps Guaranteed
- Can start any day
Day by Day Program for 6 Days Flying River Crossing Migration Safari
Day 1 : Arrival
On this first day of your 6 Days Flying River Crossing Migration Safari our guide will be at the Airport to welcome you and drop you at your accommodation. You will drive to your accommodation in Arusha, and on a clear day, you may have views of Kilimanjaro en route. After a long day traveling, you may want to rest, but if you want to keep yourself busy until the evening, we can arrange a city tour or other experiences dependent on your interests.
Accommodation
Forest Hill Hotel
Day 2 : Fly to Northern Serengeti National Park ( Kogatende Area)
After breakfast from your accommodation, you will be picked and be dropped at Arusha Airport for your flight to Northern Serengeti.
Upon your arrival at kogatende Airstrip you will meet your guide waiting for you and ready for wildlife drive in Northern Serengeti. This is the famous area for migration, the Mara River in this region presents the most stunning river crossing of the great migration. Fierce, deep and heavily rain fed the river takes an enormous toll on the migrating wildebeest. Watching the wildebeest surge through the torrential flood, some drowning and a few becoming preys to prowling crocodiles is a memorable sight. If it’s your lucky day you will be able to witness this natural beauty and watch nature take its course. Tracing the great migration, you might even move towards the Lobo valley.
Accommodation
Safari Haven Migration Camp
Day 3 : Full Daye at Northern Serengeti National Park ( Kogatende Area)
You will start your day at sunrise with a full-day game drive, enjoying the beautiful landscapes of Northern Serengeti. Your main focus may be the Great Migration’s river crossing, but the Northern Serengeti has much more to offer. More than 500 bird species can be found in the area, ranging from black eagles soaring majestically over the savannah to the enormous ostrich and distinctive secretary bird of the grasslands. You’ll return to your lodging for dinner and a restful night after an exciting day.
Accommodation
Safari Haven Migration Camp
Day 4 : Northern to Central Serengeti
Today, we will proceed to the heart of the Serengeti for a magnificent day of wildlife drive in the area. The center Serengeti is ideal for game viewing all year round due to the profusion of species and the availability of food and water throughout the year. Following a magnificent day of wildlife viewing, we will return to our lodge for a night of relaxation and unwinding in the evening. We could spend the night in Serengeti or leave the park altogether and spend the night in Ngorongoro, ready to drop into the crater first thing in the morning.
Accommodation
Matawi Serengeti Camp
Day 5 : Full Day at the Central Serengeti
Wake up in the Serengeti for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. After breakfast, embark on a full-day game drive across the endless plains in search of the Big Five and other spectacular wildlife. Enjoy a picnic lunch immersed in nature, with every moment offering a new surprise. Conclude your day with dinner and a comfortable overnight at your lodge.
Accommodation
Matawi Serengeti Camp
Day 6 : Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha.
Following a delectable breakfast, you will leave early today to see Ngorongoro Crater, stopping along the way for a game drive. The most stunning location in East Africa to witness the Big Five is the Ngorongoro Crater. It’s one of the world’s most stunning natural wildlife safari destinations and a great way to meet Maasai people. On reaching the crater’s edge, the 20 km diameter caldera opens up before you in all its spectacular magnificence and you will descend into the crater on an adventurous trail. Over 25,000 animals, including a variety of bird species, hyenas, and the critically endangered black rhino, call this World Heritage Site home during certain seasons. You will continue to explore the crater after a hot lunch is given at a picnic area near the hippo pool.
Following your exploration, you will drive directly back to Arusha after ascending the crater.
What is included
- Professional English/any preferred language speaking guide on a private basis
- Airport Meet and Greet with Private Transfers
- Domestic Flights
- All the park’s fees
- Ngorongoro crater service charges
- Safari Jeep 4×4 land cruiser with open roof special for game viewing.
- Accommodation per itinerary
- Meals, full board during on safari (Dinner, breakfast & lunch both Halal Food, Vegan and Vegetarians, Gluten-free dishes)
- Full-game drives in the mentioned parks
- 18% VAT taxes
- Unlimited Drinking Water
- Beer & Wine on Game drives
- Wi-Fi in the Jeep
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.
Why you should Book 6 Days Flying River Crossing Migration Safari 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
Optional Activities
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Hot-Air Balloon $500
Enjoy Early Morning Balloon flight at the Serengeti
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Walking Safari $70
Get Closer to nature by doing a Walking safari at Tarangire National Park
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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
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Masai Visit $15
Visiting a Maasai village in Tanzania is a fantastic insight into life in Africa
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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
Receive a free, No obligation quote
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 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/
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.
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
Luggage Restrictions for Domestic Flights
Most safari airlines in Tanzania operate small aircraft with limited luggage space, so passengers must follow strict baggage rules.
Typical luggage allowance:
- 15 kg (33 lbs) total luggage per person
- This includes carry-on and checked luggage combined
- Soft-sided duffel bags are required
Hard suitcases are usually not allowed because they do not fit easily in small aircraft compartments.
Recommended Luggage Type
The best luggage for safari flights is:
- Soft duffel bag
- Lightweight travel bag
- Flexible material
These bags are easier to load into bush planes and safari vehicles.
Click to see our Packing Lists
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.
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.
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.
About the Mara River Crossing (July to October)
The big herd moves north at this time, heading toward Kenya's Maasai Mara National Park. There is no set schedule for the animals; we have to keep an eye on them every day as they slowly but surely make their way to their next big test: the Mara River.
Here, the water is the last lethal barrier. To get to the safer side of the river, the herds have to cross fast-moving water and crocodiles that are waiting for them. People come from all over the world to see it, hoping to catch a moment of raw, life-threatening drama on video or in photos.
Even outside of the famous river crossing at Kogatende, the surroundings around it are incredibly beautiful. They are a timeless stage for one of nature's greatest dramas of life, risk, and regeneration.
Click here to read more about Serengeti Wildebeest Migration
When is the best time to see the river crossing ?
The prime viewing period for the Mara River crossing in the Northern Serengeti (Tanzania) and Masai Mara (Kenya) is from July through October. The exact timing can vary slightly each year based on rainfall patterns, but late July to September typically offers the most reliable action.
Can you guarantee we will see a crossing?
No ethical operator can guarantee a crossing, as it is a natural event driven entirely by animal instinct. However, by visiting during the peak season and spending multiple days in the area with an experienced guide (like our Meijo Safaris experts), you significantly increase your chances. Patience is key, and the anticipation is part of the adventure.
What happens during a typical day of "crossing viewing"?
Days are spent on game drives along the riverbanks. Your guide will communicate with other drivers and read animal behavior to position you at promising locations. You may wait for several hours—a fantastic opportunity for birdwatching and landscape photography—until the herd’s momentum builds and they eventually plunge into the river.
Can i get close to the River Crossing ?
Yes. You will always observe from inside your safari vehicle at a safe distance designated by your guide and park rules. Our vehicles are rugged and safe, and our guides are trained to read animal behavior and ensure a secure viewing experience.
Can I extend my trip to Zanzibar ?
Of course! We can easily set up your flight to Zanzibar (ZNZ) from a mainland park airstrip (such as Seronera or Manyara).
What is the luggage allowance on the light aircraft ?
Luggage is strictly limited due to aircraft size and weight restrictions. Typically, the allowance is:
Soft-sided duffel bags only (hard suitcases are not permitted).
Weight limit: 15-20 kg (33-44 lbs) per person in total, including hand luggage.
Dimensions are often restricted (e.g., 25cm x 30cm x 62cm). Exact limits will be provided in your pre-departure information.
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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
Terms & Conditions
By making a booking with Meijo Safaris, the customer confirms that they have read, understood, and accepted these Terms and Conditions and agree to abide by them.
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