8 Days Wildebeest Migration Safaris | 2025 & 2026

Safari Overview

On this private safari, we journey from Arusha into Tanzania’s northern wilderness, covering about 810 km in eight days with roughly 19.5 hours of scenic road exploration. This adventure leads deep into the northern Serengeti, the legendary Kogatende region, where from July to October, the Great Migration gathers at the Mara River for one of nature’s most dramatic spectacles. Towering riverbanks, powerful herds, and tense predator encounters create a thrilling atmosphere—perfect for UK adventure couples seeking raw discovery and unforgettable moments together. During this season, luxury tented camps position themselves directly along the migration corridor, blending refined comfort with breathtaking views. Each lodge and camp is carefully selected for its intimacy, charm, and warm hospitality, offering romantic settings ideal for couples. From the vast Serengeti plains to the ancient Ngorongoro Crater and the lush forests of Lake Manyara, each day unfolds with new landscapes, rich wildlife, and shared experiences. Curated by Sana Wild Experience, this journey blends wilderness, romance, and deep storytelling—crafted for couples who wish to connect with Tanzania’s wild heart and with each other.

DAY 1: Arrival – Arusha (JRO Airport → Arusha Coffee Lodge | 55 km, 1 hr)

Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport, your private guide will greet you with a personalized sign and assist with your luggage. Enjoy a relaxing transfer to Arusha Coffee Lodge, nestled among lush coffee estates beneath Mt. Meru. As the cultural heart of Tanzania’s northern circuit, Arusha blends modern life with deep Maasai heritage. Depending on arrival time, a gentle stroll or relaxed evening at the lodge sets the tone for your adventure.

Accommodation: Arusha Coffee Lodge

DAY 2: Arusha → Fly to Northern Serengeti (Arusha Airstrip → Kogatende + Game Drive | 15 km transfer + 2 hrs flight + 100 km game drive)

After an early breakfast, transfer to Arusha Airstrip for your scenic flight to Kogatende. On arrival, your guide welcomes you and transfers you to the lodge for a warm lunch before your first game drive. The northern Serengeti is the epicenter of the Great Migration’s dramatic Mara River crossings, where vast herds gather on the riverbanks while massive Nile crocodiles patrol below. After an exciting afternoon, return to your luxurious hilltop lodge for dinner and a peaceful evening.

DAY 3 & 4: Northern Serengeti – Mara River Region (Kogatende Game Drives | ~100 km per day

Spend two full days exploring one of Africa’s most awe-inspiring wildlife regions. Early drives reveal nocturnal predators winding down as daylight reveals sprawling herds. Between June and December, over a million wildebeest and thousands of zebras and gazelles flood the landscape, shadowed by lions, leopards, hyenas, and crocodiles. You’ll enjoy long game drives with packed lunches, maximizing your chances of witnessing river crossings, predator interactions, and migration drama. Evenings invite relaxation, luxury, and stargazing back at camp.

DAY 5 & 6: Mara River → Central Serengeti (Kogatende → Seronera + Game Drives | 155 km, 4.5 hrs + 100 km per day)

After breakfast, journey south towards the Central Serengeti, known for its exceptional wildlife density and dramatic predator activity. Over the next two days, enjoy extensive game drives that capture classic Serengeti moments: lions atop sun-soaked kopjes, cheetahs scanning the plains, elephants wandering beneath acacias, and sweeping grasslands stretching endlessly. Your evenings at Serengeti Pioneer Camp combine classic safari ambiance with romantic comfort—perfect for adventure-driven couples

Accommodation: Serengeti Pioneer Camp

DAY 7: Central Serengeti → Ngorongoro Crater → Karatu (Seronera → Crater + Game Drive → Karatu | 180 km, 4.5 hrs + 100 km game drive)

Depart early for the world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater, descending 600 meters to explore the wildlife-rich floor. This natural amphitheater is home to black rhinos, large lion prides, elephants, buffalo, zebra, and vast herds of wildebeest. After a full game drive and picnic lunch, continue to Karatu. The lush highlands and cultural warmth give you a comfortable transition from the wild to a charming, peaceful setting for the night.

Accommodation: Manor Hotel Ngorongoro

DAY 8: Karatu → Lake Manyara → Arusha (Karatu → Lake Manyara + Game Drive → JRO | 210 km, 4.5 hrs + 60 km game drive)

Begin your day with a drive into the Great Rift Valley toward Lake Manyara National Park for a morning game drive. Known for its tree-climbing lions, elephant families, hippos, and diverse birdlife, Manyara offers a refreshing final burst of wildlife variety. After lunch at a scenic site, drive to Arusha and transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home—closing your journey through one of East Africa’s greatest wildlife ecosystems.

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Includes and excludes

What is included in this tour?

Items that are included in the cost of the tour price.

  • Respective accommodation or similar throughout as indicated
  • All meals during the Safari
  • Passengers arriving in Tanzania may be asked to present a valid Covid 19 test Certificate
  • Flying doctor
  • Transport with photographic roof hatch land cruiser driven by professional guide
  • Unlimited drinking water during the Safari
  • All national park entry fees
  • Visit Maasai village
  • Government Taxes
  • All airport transfers
  • Programs as stipulated

What is Excluded in this tour?

Items that are not included in the cost of the tour price.

  • Tourist visas
  • Travel Insurance
  • International flights to Kilimanjaro and any other flights(local flights can arranged)
  • Personal shopping and memorabilia
  • Drinks and refreshments
  • Tip to your driver guide
  • Tip to porters
  • Cost to anything not mentioned at the list of included