Safari Overview
Nothing in nature matches the Mara River crossings. From July to November, huge herds of wildebeest plunge into crocodile waters in the northern Serengeti. This 7-day safari takes you there, with big cats in the central Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater along the way.
How the Trip Flows
This route saves its drama for the north. The crater and the Seronera Valley open the trip with reliable, spectacular game viewing. Then the road climbs into the remote Mara region, where two full days are given to the river — because crossings reward those who wait. The return leg passes back through the quiet northern plains, ending with a flight or scenic drive from Seronera. Nothing is rushed at the river; that is the whole point. The complete day-by-day plan is in the itinerary tab.
Where You Will Stay
The route uses Bougainvillea Safari Lodge in Karatu, Thorn Tree Camp in the Seronera Valley, and two nights at Mara Kati Kati near the river. Upgrade to Mara Under Canvas or Mara Mara Tented Lodge for more comfort.
Safari Highlights
Watch thousands of wildebeest commit to the crossing. Hear the thunder of hooves on the riverbank. Spot leopards in the sausage trees of Seronera. Add rhinos and lions in the crater.
Best Time to Go
Travel between July and November. August and September are usually peak crossing months. Stay flexible, because rivers follow no schedule. Patience is always rewarded here.
Who This Safari Suits
Built for wildlife lovers, photographers and bucket-list travelers who want the migration’s most dramatic moment.
Good to Know
River crossings follow no timetable. Some guests see three in a day, others wait two days for one. Our guides read the herds and position you early, but patience is part of the adventure. The trip includes park fees, full board and a private 4×4. Fly back from Kogatende airstrip to Arusha to save a full day of driving. August and September dates should be booked at least six months ahead.
Safari Highlights
- Mara River wildebeest crossings
- Two full days at the river
- Seronera big cats
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Northern Serengeti wilderness
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha to Karatu
Depart Arusha and drive about three hours to the Karatu highlands, gateway to the Ngorongoro Crater. Settle into your garden lodge, then visit a coffee farm or the local market in the afternoon.
Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater to the Central Serengeti
Descend into the crater at sunrise for a morning tour among lions, buffalo and black rhino. After a picnic lunch, continue onto the Serengeti plains, game-driving to camp by evening.
Day 3: Seronera Valley
A full day in the central Serengeti's big-cat country. Look for lion prides at dawn, leopards in the sausage trees and cheetahs on the open grass.
Day 4: North to the Mara River
Drive north through changing landscapes of hills and kopjes to the remote Mara region. Herds thicken as you go. Arrive at camp near the river by late afternoon.
Day 5: Full Day at the River
Spend the whole day tracking the herds along the Mara River. When the wildebeest gather at the banks, your guide positions you for the crossing. Patience is part of the drama.
Day 6: Mara Region to the Central Serengeti
One more morning by the river, then game-drive south through the park's quiet northern reaches back to the Seronera area.
Day 7: Serengeti to Arusha
A final sunrise game drive, then fly from Seronera airstrip to Arusha or enjoy the long scenic drive back through the highlands.
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- All park and crater fees
- Private 4x4
- Professional driver-guide
- Full board
- 2 nights at Mara Kati Kati near the river
- Drinking water
- Airport transfers
Not Included
- International flights
- Tanzania visa
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Items of a personal nature
- Drinks at lodges
- Optional balloon safari