8-Day Wildebeest Migration Safari – The Mara River Crossing Experience
8-Day Wildebeest Migration Safari – The Mara River Crossing Experience
Where to visit?
Safari Highlights:
- Serengeti National Park: Witness the Great Migration and spot the Big Five.
- Mara River: Experience the thrilling river crossing where wildebeest and zebras brave the crocodile-infested waters.
- Ngorongoro Crater: Explore the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera, teeming with wildlife.
- Tarangire National Park: Known for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees.
- Lake Manyara National Park: Famous for its tree-climbing lions and flamingos.
Tour Schedule
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
- Experience: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Arusha. Relax and prepare for your adventure.
- Highlights: Safari briefing with your guide, rest, and enjoy local hospitality.
Day 2: Tarangire National Park
- Experience: Begin your journey in Tarangire, known for its iconic baobab trees and large elephant herds.
- Wildlife: Elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, and over 500 bird species.
- Activities: Morning and evening game drives, photography stops.
Day 3-4: Serengeti National Park – Central Serengeti
- Experience: Travel to the Serengeti and explore its central plains, rich in wildlife and photographic opportunities.
- Wildlife: Lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and resident herbivores.
- Activities: Game drives and optional photography workshops.
Day 5-6: Serengeti National Park – Northern Serengeti (Mara River)
- Experience: Witness the dramatic Mara River crossing, where thousands of wildebeests and zebras risk it all in search of greener pastures.
- Wildlife: Wildebeests, zebras, crocodiles, and predators like lions and leopards.
- Activities: Full-day game drives along the Mara River and prime photographic moments.
Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater
- Experience: Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best locations for close-up wildlife viewing.
- Wildlife: Black rhinos, flamingos, lions, and herds of buffalo.
- Activities: Guided crater tour with panoramic photo stops.
Day 8: Departure
- Experience: Return to Arusha for your onward journey, carrying memories of this unparalleled safari adventure.
Cost Estimates:
The cost for an 8-day wildebeest migration safari typically ranges from $3,000 to $5,000 per person, depending on the level of accommodation and services included. This estimate usually covers:
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Park fees
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Accommodation
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Meals
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Guide and driver fees
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Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
Safari Add-ons:
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Hot Air Balloon Safari: Experience the Serengeti from above.
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Cultural Tours: Visit local Maasai villages and learn about their traditions.
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Walking Safaris: Explore the parks on foot with a guided walk.
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Night Game Drives: Experience the nocturnal wildlife.
Book Your Tanzania Safari Today!
Take the first step toward your dream adventure! Contact us now to reserve your spot on this unforgettable 8-day photographic safari.
Safari FAQs
1. When is the best time to see the Mara River crossing?
The river crossing typically occurs from late July to early October, depending on weather patterns and migration timing.
2. Is this safari suitable for families?
Yes, this safari is family-friendly, but younger children may find long game drives challenging.
3. What should I pack for this safari?
Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, sturdy walking shoes, a camera with zoom lens, binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
4. Can I book optional activities during this safari?
Yes, optional activities such as a hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti can be arranged at an additional cost.
5. Do I need vaccinations or a visa to visit Tanzania?
Check with your local travel clinic for recommended vaccinations. Most travelers need a visa, which can be obtained online or on arrival.
Price Includes the following:
✔️ Accommodation in lodges and tented camps
✔️ All meals and bottled water during the safari
✔️ Game drives in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
✔️ Professional English-speaking safari guide
✔️ Park entry fees for all destinations
✔️ Cultural tour with the Hadzabe tribe if applicable
✔️ Airport transfers
✔️ Daily photographic and wildlife viewing opportunities
✔️ Domestic flights for Arusha Zanzibar transfers
Note: This list of inclusions and exclusions is just a sample and can be altered in the final version to suit client needs and budget
Price Excludes the following:
❌ International and domestic flights
❌ Visa fees for entry into Tanzania
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses
❌ Optional activities like hot air balloon safaris
❌ Tips for guides and staff
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Safari Highlights
Close Encounters with Wildlife
Get ready for some amazing wildlife experiences as you come face to face with the incredible elephants of Tarangire, spot “The Big Five” in the stunning Ngorongoro Crater and catch a glimpse of the true king of the Jungle, the African Lion, in the breathtaking Serengeti. If you’re lucky, you’ll encounter even more wildlife.
Scenic Landscapes
Special Wildebeest Experience
What to Pack
- Lightweight clothing for warm days
- Warm layers for cooler evenings
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Camera with extra batteries
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen with high SPF
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal toiletries
- First aid kit
- Travel insurance documents
- Guidebook or map
- Snacks for the journey
- Power bank for charging devices
- Notebook and pen for journaling
- Lightweight backpack
- Travel pillow for comfort