8 Days Serengeti Wildebeest migration experience
8 Days Serengeti Wildebeest migration experience is among the most sought-after programs. The animal migration in East Africa, namely between Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Masai Mara National Park in Kenya, is a year-long phenomenon, albeit many may not grasp its intricate complexity. Although many individuals are eager to observe it, it is crucial to ascertain the specific time and location to enhance the likelihood of experiencing this annual occurrence firsthand. The optimal period for this safari is from June to October.
The migration of over 1.5 million wildebeests, 500,000 zebras, 200,000 Thompson’s gazelles, and 18,000 elands in search of fresh pastures across the Serengeti and Mara plains is a remarkable phenomenon. The interval from July to September features the most remarkable river crossings, as a substantial congregation of animals across the river into the Masai Mara plains each day. During this moment, visitors may witness crocodiles and lions hunting their prey as these animals attempt to cross. From May to July, the initial river crossing occurs at the Grumeti River barrier when animals migrate from the south to the western corridor. Subsequently, between July and September, the herd migrates further north to traverse the significant obstacle of the Mara River, into Kenya.
The daily river crossing often lasts no longer than 30 minutes, hence the element of chance is significant in witnessing this remarkable phenomena. This tour will enhance your comprehension of Northern Tanzania as you explore Tarangire National Park, renowned for its colossal Baobab trees and substantial elephant population, attempt to observe the tree-climbing lions of Lake Manyara National Park, and traverse the vast plains of the Serengeti to witness the big migration. Embark on an 8 Days Serengeti wildebeest migration experience with All Tanzania Safaris
Brief itinerary of 8 Days Serengeti Wildebeest migration experience
Day 1: Arrive at JRO. Transfer to Arusha (1.5 hours)
Day 2: Depart Arusha at 08:00. Transfer to Tarangire National Park (2.5 hours)
Day 3: Depart after breakfast at 08:30 to Lake Manyara National Park (1.5 hours)
Day 4: After an early morning breakfast, transfer to Ngorongoro Crater.
Day 5: Morning game drive in Central Serengeti and transfer to the north. (4-5 hours)
Day 6-7: Full days of game drives in Northern Serengeti
Day 8: Departure
Detailed itinerary of 8 Days Serengeti Wildebeest migration experience
Day 1: Arrive at JRO Airport. Travel to Arusha (1.5 hours).
Upon arrival, Our All Tanzania Safaris driver-guide will collect you and transport you to your accommodation. Reside at Zawadi House (Bed and Breakfast)
Day 2: Depart from Arusha at 08:00. Transfer to Tarangire National Park (2.5 hours).
8 Days Serengeti Wildebeest migration experience, In the morning, your driver-guide will get you from your hotel and transport you to Tarangire National Park. Upon arrival, embark on a game drive from 10:30 to 13:00 while observing several wildlife species. You may observe certain arid-region antelopes, such as the fringe-eared Oryx and the long-necked Gerenuk, which are rather rare in other groups. Extensive herds of elephants excavating arid riverbeds for subterranean water and migrating antelopes congregating at diminishing lagoons may constitute the day’s principal attractions. The Park features the largest elephant population density in Tanzania, and its sparse vegetation, embellished with acacia and large baobab trees, creates a picturesque landscape. Enjoy a picnic lunch and leisure, followed by an afternoon game drive from 14:30 to 17:00, before proceeding to your tent situated outside the national park for relaxation and overnight accommodation. Accommodate at EcoScience Tented Camp (All-Inclusive Meal Plan)
Day 3: Depart at 08:30 after breakfast for Lake Manyara National Park (1.5 hours).
8 Days Serengeti Wildebeest migration experience, In the early morning, L. Manyara National Park, named after the soda ash lake at the base of the, Rift Valley was the destination. Upon arrival, embark on a game drive through the park to appreciate its magnificent beauty. Troops of baboons traversing the forest, herds of elephants, buffaloes, and schools of hippos, among other wildlife species, may serve as significant highlights of your day. On fortunate occasions, one may observe other species such as tree-climbing lions, hyenas, and leopards, while giraffes, zebras, warthogs, and wildebeests are readily visible. The stunning vistas of the lake, which may turn purple due to the flamingos’ seasonal presence, provide an excellent backdrop for your picnic lunch, followed by an afternoon game drive. Subsequently, proceed to Karatu (1 hour) for repose and nighttime accommodation. Accommodations at Tloma Lodge (Full Board) / A swimming pool is accessible for visitors wishing to arrive early and swim. A cultural trip of the Tloma area, featuring the Iraqw tribe, is available for an additional fee, contingent upon time availability.
Day 4: Following an early breakfast, proceed to Ngorongoro Crater.
(1 hour to the parking gate + 30 minutes to the rim viewpoint, followed by a 20-minute descent.)
8 Days Serengeti Wildebeest migration experience In the morning, you will descend into the caldera for wildlife observation. This ancient caldera, three million years old, is home to some of the most exquisite sanctuaries on Earth, encircled by towering cliffs and protective woodlands. The Ngorongoro crater, measuring around 20 square kilometers in circumference, is the biggest intact and unflooded caldera globally. Experience a morning game drive on the crater floor, with opportunities to observe elephants, rhinos, lions, buffaloes, and various other wildlife species. Following a picnic lunch, travel at 14:00 for a trip to Serengeti National Park, renowned for its big five creatures. Three-hour trip to the entrance.
Day 5: Morning safari in Central Serengeti followed by transportation to the northern region. Four to five hours
In the morning, embark on an exploration of the central Serengeti grasslands, where you may encounter migrating animals en route to the western corridor, particularly during June, before continuing your journey to northern Serengeti. Should time permit, conduct a game drive in the Kogatende area before to proceeding to your accommodation. Accommodate in Aurari Camp (All-Inclusive Meal Plan)
Day 6-7: Full days of game drives in Northern Serengeti by the Mara River,
To witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Optional hot air balloon excursion available one morning for an additional fee of US$600 per individual. From July to August, one may have the opportunity to observe the Mara River crossing phenomenon, where large congregations of animals assemble at the riverbanks to traverse into the northern region of Masai Mara. Enormous crocodiles prey upon weaker creatures that succumb during this river crossing ordeal. You will engage in two days of game drives in this region to extensively see wildlife. Reside at Aurari Camp (All-Inclusive Meal Plan)
Day 8: Departure
Post-breakfast, proceed to Kogatende Airstrip, incorporating an en-route game drive, arriving by 09:00 to check in for the aircraft departing from the Serengeti. Estimated Time of Departure: 09:45-10:15. Return to JRO Airport between 12:30 and 13:00.
Cost: US$5500 per person for 2 (double occupancy) / US$8250 for 1 (single occupancy) / US$5200 for 3 (triple occupancy) / US$4900 for 4 (2 double occupancies)