6-Day Serengeti Great Migration Safari (Jun–Oct)
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Destinations: Northern Serengeti (Kogatende/Lamai – Mara River) ± Central Serengeti (Seronera)
Safari Types: Private | Fly-in/Drive | Photographic | Honeymoon
Starting Point/End: Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) — optional start/end in Zanzibar
Overview
Designed around the Great Migration’s river-crossing season (June–October), this itinerary maximizes time in Northern Serengeti near the Mara River. Fly straight to the action, then spend unhurried days moving between crossing points with an expert guide. Expect patient stakeouts, big cats shadowing the herds, and dramatic moments as wildebeest and zebra brave the currents. Overland versions are available if you prefer to drive through Central Serengeti.
Itinerary (Day by Day)
Day 1: Arrive Arusha
Meet and greet at JRO/Arusha, transfer to your lodge, safari briefing, and time to relax by the garden or pool.
Overnight in Arusha.
Day 2: Fly to Northern Serengeti — First River Scout
Morning flight Arusha → Kogatende (about 1.5 hours). Meet your guide, then slow drives along the Mara River to check active crossing points and the Lamai/Wogakuria plains. Picnic lunch in the bush; sunset at camp.
Overnight in Northern Serengeti.
Day 3: Full Day on the Great Migration
Early start. Circle the river loops, wait quietly where herds build, and follow radio updates. Look for crocs in the water, lions and hyenas at the edges, and raptors overhead. Picnic lunch; return at dusk.
Overnight in Northern Serengeti.
Day 4: Big Cats & Crossings
Second full day to raise your chances of witnessing a crossing. Explore Bologonja woodlands for leopard and open grasslands for cheetah. Optional sunrise start; relaxed evening at camp.
Overnight in Northern Serengeti.
Day 5: Optional Balloon — Fly Back to Arusha
Optional dawn hot-air balloon (weather permitting, extra cost). Final game drive, then midday/afternoon flight Kogatende → Arusha. Settle into a coffee-estate lodge or visit local markets if time allows.
Overnight in Arusha.
Day 6: Departure or Zanzibar Add-On
Airport transfer for your flight home or connect to Zanzibar for beach time. If your schedule allows, add a short Arusha coffee tour before departure.
Safari Booking
Private 4×4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof, fridge and charging points
Professional English-speaking safari guide/driver
Park and conservation fees for Serengeti (North/Central as applicable)
5 nights accommodation in quality lodges/tented camps (mid-range or luxury options)
Meals during the safari days, including picnic lunches on full game-drive days
Bottled drinking water in the vehicle
Airport transfers on arrival and departure
Government taxes and VAT
International flights (and domestic flights if choosing the overland version)
Tanzania visa and comprehensive travel insurance
Optional activities (e.g., hot-air balloon), premium beverages, laundry, and personal expenses
Tips/gratuities for guide and camp/lodge staff
Extra nights before/after the itinerary and any services not mentioned as included