12-Day Great Migration Safari: Journey Through Tanzania’s Iconic Wildlife Realms
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day safari adventure with Sababu Safaris and witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles – the Great Migration. From the vibrant gateway of Arusha to the vast plains of the Serengeti and the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater, experience Tanzania’s legendary wildlife and rich cultural heritage in a journey tailor-made for the discerning traveler.
Highlights
- Great Migration Spectacle: Witness nearly two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles as they traverse the Serengeti plains, with dramatic Mara River crossings where nature’s raw energy comes to life.
- Diverse Ecosystems: Experience a remarkable blend of ecosystems—from the elephant abundance in Tarangire to the predator-rich Ngorongoro Crater and the endless grasslands of the Central and Northern Serengeti
- Cultural Immersion: Enjoy unique opportunities to engage with local traditions in Karatu and at the Original Maasai Lodge, where authentic Maasai culture is celebrated.
12-Day Great Migration Safari: Journey Through Tanzania’s Iconic Wildlife Realms
- Arrive: Kilimanjaro International Airport
- Transfer: Meet your Sababu Safaris guide and travel to Arusha (approx. 60 minutes).
- Evening: Settle into your accommodation, enjoy a great meal, and relax before your safari adventure begins.
Sample Accommodations:
- Arusha Planet Lodge
- The African Tulip Hotel
- Arusha Villa
- Arusha Coffee Lodge
- Morning: Depart from Arusha to Tarangire National Park (2-hour drive) via scenic tribal areas.
- Midday: Enjoy a picnic lunch en route.
- Afternoon: Embark on your first game drive to see Tanzania’s largest elephant population, stunning baobab trees, and unique dry-country antelope species.
Sample Accommodations:
- Maramboi Tented Lodge
- Tarangire Safari Lodge
- Ndovu Tented Lodge
- Mpingo Ridge
- Morning: Drive towards Karatu, stopping at the culturally vibrant town of Mto wa Mbu.
- Midday: Explore local markets and enjoy the authentic flavors of Tanzania.
- Afternoon: Arrive near the Ngorongoro Crater rim; choose from optional biking, hiking, or specially curated Sababu Experiences for a deeper cultural insight.
Sample Accommodations:
- Marera Valley Lodge
- Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
- Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
- Lion’s Paw Camp
- Early Morning: Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for exceptional game viewing among 20,000–30,000 animals, including the endangered black rhino.
- Midday: Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst dramatic volcanic landscapes.
- Afternoon: Gradually exit the crater and journey towards the Central Serengeti for dinner and overnight stay.
Sample Accommodations:
- Nyikani Central Camp
- Sametu Camp
- Ole Serai Turner Springs
- Nanyukie Tented Lodge
- Morning: Rise early for a game drive across the endless central Serengeti. The golden light of dawn and the crisp morning air set the stage for extraordinary wildlife encounters.
- Midday: Return to camp for a hearty lunch and some well-deserved rest.
- Afternoon: Optional guided nature walk or leisure time to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
- Evening: Enjoy an evening game drive as the savanna comes alive with a chorus of wildlife sounds.
Accommodations: Stay at your chosen Central Serengeti camp (as per Day 3).
- Full Day: Dedicate the day to exploring the expansive central Serengeti. Participate in morning and afternoon drives to catch diverse sightings—from stealthy lions and graceful giraffes to vast herds of zebras and wildebeest on the move.
- Optional Activity: Consider a hot-air balloon ride for a breathtaking aerial view that captures the grandeur of the migration and the endless plains.
- Evening: Return to camp for dinner and to share the day’s remarkable stories.
Accommodations: Remains the same as Day 4.
- Morning: Depart from the Central Serengeti and make your way north toward the nutrient-rich landscapes along the Mara River.
- Midday: Enjoy a refreshing break and lunch as the scenery shifts to lush, green pastures that nourish the migrating herds.
- Afternoon: Experience your first encounters with the dynamic wildlife action in the Northern Serengeti.
- Evening: Check into your Northern Serengeti accommodation and relax under the stars after a day of travel.
Sample Accommodations: • Nyikani Migration Camp – Kogatende • Mara River Post • Serengeti River Camp • Kuria Hills Tented Lodge
Morning: Begin an early game drive focusing on the iconic Mara River region.
Midday: Stop for a picnic lunch and prepare for the dramatic river crossing experience.
Afternoon: Witness the perilous Mara River crossings where thousands of wildebeest and zebras navigate crocodile-infested waters—a true highlight of the migration.
Evening: Return to your camp to unwind and discuss the spectacular events of the day.
- Full Day: Dedicate this day to absorbing the raw energy of the Northern Serengeti. Continue exploring the riverine ecosystems and nearby grasslands through guided game drives.
- Wildlife Encounters: Look out for predators, large herds, and the ever-dramatic interplay of nature along the Mara River region.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at the camp while recounting your thrilling river crossing experiences and sighting of big cats, elephants, and more.
Accommodations: Remains the same as Day 7.
- Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast or a final short game drive to capture any last moments of wildlife magic in the Northern Serengeti.
- Transfer: Head to Kogatende Airstrip for your scheduled flight back to Arusha.
- Afternoon/Evening: Upon arrival, consider visiting a local community project or simply relax with a celebratory dinner in Arusha.
Sample Accommodation: • Original Maasai Lodge
- Morning: Depart from Arusha and travel to West Kilimanjaro.
- Late Morning: Check into Original Maasai Lodge, a unique destination nestled on 400 acres of protected wildlife territory.
- Daytime: Immerse yourself in authentic Maasai culture—participate in traditional activities, learn about local customs, and share stories with the Maasai community.
- Evening: Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the expansive savanna as you dine and reflect on your safari experience.
Accommodation: • Original Maasai Lodge
Morning: Relish a final, relaxed breakfast and take a moment to soak in the final views of Tanzania’s enchanting landscapes.
Transfer: Your private transfer will take you from the lodge to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure flight.
Farewell: Depart Tanzania with unforgettable memories of the Great Migration, exhilarating wildlife encounters, and immersive cultural experiences.