+255 618 438 540
+255 618 438 540
info@echelonsafaris.com
Experience Africa's most dramatic wildlife spectacle on this 7-day tour focused on the Great Wildebeest Migration river crossings. From July to October, over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras brave the crocodile-infested Mara River in their quest for fresh grazing.
This comprehensive itinerary combines the adrenaline of river crossings in Northern Serengeti with classic game viewing in Central Serengeti, the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater, and the elephant paradise of Tarangire National Park. With convenient domestic flights between Arusha and Serengeti, you maximize your wildlife viewing time.
Experience each day of your Mara River Crossing tour with detailed descriptions of your journey through Northern Serengeti, Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire.
Plan your flight for arrival to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by your Echelon Safaris representative and transferred to Kibo Palace Hotel in Arusha for the night.
Take time to relax after your journey, enjoy the hotel amenities, and prepare for your safari adventure ahead. The Kibo Palace Hotel offers comfortable accommodation and is conveniently located for your early morning transfer to the airport the following day.
We recommend arriving by early evening to allow time to settle in. Dinner is not included tonight, giving you flexibility to dine at the hotel or explore Arusha's restaurants. Your safari briefing will take place at the hotel in the evening or early morning before your flight.
Early morning transfer to Arusha Airport for your scheduled domestic flight to Northern Serengeti. The flight offers stunning aerial views of the Tanzanian landscape, including Mount Meru and the Great Rift Valley.
Upon arrival in Northern Serengeti, you'll be met by your safari guide and vehicle. Enjoy a game drive en route to Mara Bush Camp, with your first opportunity to spot migration herds. The camp is strategically located near the Mara River for optimal crossing viewing.
The flight from Arusha to Northern Serengeti takes approximately 1.5 hours, saving you a full day of driving. Baggage allowance is typically 15kg per person in soft-sided bags. The flight offers a unique perspective of Tanzania's diverse landscapes from above.
Full day dedicated to searching for and witnessing Mara River crossings. Your guide will position you at strategic crossing points along the river, where thousands of wildebeest and zebra brave crocodile-infested waters.
The drama of the crossings unfolds throughout the day - from the nervous gathering of herds on the riverbanks to the sudden rush into the water, and the crocodile attacks that often follow. This is one of nature's most thrilling spectacles, with constant predator-prey action.
Morning game drive in Northern Serengeti with final opportunities for river crossing sightings. After breakfast, begin your journey south to Central Serengeti, with wildlife viewing throughout the drive.
The Central Serengeti (Seronera region) is known for its year-round excellent game viewing, with resident lion prides, leopard sightings, and large herds of elephants. Arrive at Narudi Tented Camp in the afternoon, situated in a prime wildlife area with beautiful views over the Serengeti plains.
Central Serengeti is famous for its leopard sightings, particularly around the Seronera River Valley. The region's kopjes (rocky outcrops) provide perfect vantage points for predators and excellent photographic opportunities with dramatic backgrounds.
Morning game drive in Central Serengeti after breakfast. Search for resident wildlife including the Big Five before beginning your journey to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Drive to the Ngorongoro Highlands, ascending the crater rim to Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge. The lodge offers stunning views and is named for its proximity to prime black rhino habitat. Enjoy the lodge amenities and prepare for your crater descent the following day.
The Ngorongoro Crater is the world's largest intact volcanic caldera, home to approximately 30,000 animals including the rare black rhino. Often called "Africa's Eden," it offers some of the best wildlife viewing in Tanzania with high densities of predators and prey in a relatively small area.
Early breakfast followed by descent into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full morning game drive. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the hippo pool before ascending the crater rim in the early afternoon.
Drive to Tarangire National Park, famous for its massive elephant herds and ancient baobab trees. Arrive at Sangaiwe Tented Lodge, beautifully situated with views over the Tarangire River. Evening game drive in Tarangire to spot elephants, lions, and the park's diverse birdlife.
Morning game drive in Tarangire National Park after breakfast. Search for wildlife including elephants, lions, leopards, and the park's iconic baobab trees. Tarangire is particularly known for its large elephant herds and diverse birdlife.
After your game drive, begin your journey back to Arusha. Enjoy a picnic lunch en route. Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport in time for your evening departure flight, or transfer to your Arusha hotel if extending your stay.
We recommend booking international flights departing after 6:00 PM. For earlier flights, we can arrange a packed breakfast and direct transfer from Tarangire to the airport. If you have an evening flight, we can arrange a day room in Arusha for you to freshen up (additional cost).
This 7-day Mara River Crossing tour includes comprehensive services designed for an optimal migration viewing experience with convenient domestic flights.
6 nights in hotels, lodges, and tented camps as specified in the itinerary.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the safari (as specified: B&B Day 1, Full Board Days 2-6).
Scheduled domestic flight from Arusha to Northern Serengeti (Day 2).
All ground transfers and 4x4 game drives with pop-up roof.
Services of an English-speaking professional safari guide throughout.
All national park entry fees and conservation fees as per itinerary.
International flights to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Tanzania visa fees (currently $100 for US citizens, $50 for others).
Soft drinks, alcohol, and other beverages (except water).
Souvenirs, laundry, telephone calls, and other personal items.
Tips for guides and camp staff (recommended $30-40 per day).
Comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation.
Ready to experience the 7 Day Mara River Crossing? Complete the form below and our safari specialists will contact you to finalize your booking.
Witness the dramatic Mara River crossings during peak season (July-October) with expert guides who know the best viewing spots.
Domestic flight from Arusha to Northern Serengeti saves a full day of driving, maximizing your wildlife viewing time.
Perfect itinerary for wildlife photographers with optimal positioning for river crossing action and diverse wildlife scenes.
