10-Day Great Wildebeest Mara River Crossing Safari (August to October)

Experience the Great Migration at the Mara River with Alvin African Safaris. This 10-day Tanzania safari explores Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara, offering epic wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes.

10 Days / 9 Nights Safari

Tarangire National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and the iconic Serengeti Plains

Plan Your Adventure

Safari Overview

Join Alvin African Safaris for a 10-day journey timed to capture one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events: the Great Wildebeest Migration at the Mara River. From August to October, the Northern Serengeti transforms into a dramatic stage as thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and antelope cross crocodile-infested waters in search of fresh grazing lands.

Alongside this unforgettable spectacle, explore Tarangire National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and the iconic Serengeti Plains—all while tracking Africa’s legendary Big Five and soaking up diverse, jaw-dropping landscapes.

Full Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha — Welcome to Tanzania

Your safari begins with a warm welcome at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport. You’ll be met by your Alvin African Safaris guide and transferred to your lodge to relax and prepare for the incredible adventure ahead.

Meals: Dinner on your own
Accommodation: Lodge/hotel in Arusha

Day 2: Arusha to Tarangire National Park — Elephant Encounters

Travel across the scenic Maasai plains to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its massive elephant herds and towering baobab trees. As you explore, watch for giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, buffalo, and, with luck, lions and leopards.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/camp near Ngorongoro

Day 3: Karatu to Central Serengeti — Into the Wild Heart

Today’s journey takes you through the lush Ngorongoro Conservation Area and down into the vast plains of the Serengeti National Park. Spend the afternoon on a game drive, spotting elephants, lions, hippos, and crocodiles across the varied landscapes.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/camp in Central Serengeti

Day 4: Central to Northern Serengeti — Tracking the Migration

Head north through the Serengeti today, following the trail of the Great Migration toward the Mara River. This remote area is rich in wildlife and features rolling hills, seasonal rivers, and iconic landmarks like the Lobo Kopjes.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/camp near the Mara River

Day 5: Northern Serengeti — Mara River Crossing Action

Spend a full day focused on the Mara River, where wildebeest and zebras gather in massive numbers and attempt daring crossings—risking it all against strong currents and lurking crocodiles. It’s one of Africa’s most thrilling and unforgettable wildlife events.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/camp near the Mara River

Day 6: Northern to Central Serengeti — Predator Country

After breakfast, journey southward back to Central Serengeti, keeping your eyes peeled for the migration herds and the predators that follow them. Enjoy a game drive along the way, soaking up the raw beauty of these legendary plains.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/camp in Central Serengeti

Day 7: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater Rim — Highland Retreat

Enjoy a final Serengeti game drive before heading to the Ngorongoro Crater rim. Stay overnight at a lodge with sweeping crater views, setting the stage for an unforgettable descent into the crater tomorrow.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/camp near Ngorongoro Crater

Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater — Big Five Safari

Descend early into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and wildlife haven. Spot black rhinos, massive elephants, lions, hyenas, zebras, wildebeest, and hundreds of bird species. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the hippo pool before heading back to Karatu for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge/camp near Ngorongoro

Day 9: Lake Manyara National Park to Arusha — Safari Finale

Your final safari stop is Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its flamingo-dotted lake, forested areas with baboons and elephants, and rare tree-climbing lions. After your game drive and picnic lunch, return to Arusha for a restful evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Lodge/hotel in Arusha

Day 10: Departure — Farewell, Tanzania

After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport for your onward journey. Optional extensions to Zanzibar’s pristine beaches can be arranged for those wishing to continue their adventure.

Meals: Breakfast