10-Day Great migration safari to Kenya & Tanzania
Untamed African Trails
Experience the Ultimate Great Migration Safari to Kenya & Tanzania
Witness the Circle of Life in Action
Set out on a Great Migration safari to Kenya & Tanzania, where the iconic savannahs of Kenya and Tanzania's untamed beauty come to life. Witness the awe-inspiring movement of millions of wildebeests and zebras across the Serengeti and Maasai Mara—one of nature’s greatest spectacles.
Experience thrilling game drives, encounter Africa’s Big Five up close, and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of East Africa. From dramatic river crossings to breathtaking sunsets over the plains, every moment on this journey offers a window into nature's raw splendor.
Begin your unforgettable African adventure with a Great Migration safari, blending wildlife, culture, and timeless landscapes.
Customizable Itinerary
Tour Features
Mid-range tour
This mid-range tour uses tented camps and hotels.
Private tour
This mid-range tour uses tented camps and hotels.
Can be customized
You can request minor changes to the accommodations and destinations of this tour.
Can start any day
If availability permits, this tour can start on any day.
Activities & Transportation
- Activities: Game drives and Beach Holidays
- Game drives : Pop up 4x4 Vehicle
- Transfer : To and back to the airport is included
Great Migration Safari Highlights
Arusha City: Begin your great migration safari in Tanzania’s vibrant gateway city, the perfect base for exploring the northern safari circuit.
Tarangire National Park: Discover scenic landscapes adorned with ancient baobab trees and encounter vast herds of elephants alongside diverse wildlife.
Ngorongoro Crater: Descend into this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a breathtaking natural sanctuary packed with abundant wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery.
Serengeti National Park: Experience the heart of the great migration safari on Tanzania’s iconic plains, where the Big Five and seasonal migrations unfold dramatically.
Maasai Mara: Cross into Kenya to witness the spectacular Great Migration, complete with thrilling river crossings and unforgettable wildlife moments.
Nairobi: Conclude your adventure in Kenya’s dynamic capital, visiting attractions like the Giraffe Centre and David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage.
Comfortable Lodging: Enjoy mid-range lodges and camps with modern amenities, exceptional hospitality, and stunning views of Africa’s breathtaking landscapes.
Embark on a great migration safari that blends thrilling wildlife encounters with the majestic beauty of East Africa’s iconic destinations.
Customizable Itinerary
Day by Day
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Arusha
Your adventure begins upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where your guide will greet you warmly. After a brief introduction, enjoy a scenic 55-kilometer transfer to Arusha, the vibrant gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit.
Nestled at the base of Mount Meru, Arusha offers a peaceful environment to relax and prepare for the thrilling Great Migration safari to Kenya & Tanzania. Depending on your arrival time, take the opportunity to explore the city or unwind at your lodge, surrounded by lush landscapes and the promise of unforgettable experiences.
Overnight stay at Serena Lodge in Arusha.
What's Include
- : Park and Airport Transfer
- : Activity
- : Depend on time you Arrive , & Drinking water
- : Accommodation : Arusha Serena Hotel
Arusha Serena Hotel
Arusha Serena Hotel Resort & Spa
Day 2: Free Day in Arusha
Spend your day at leisure in Arusha, a charming city known as the gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. This free day offers you the opportunity to unwind and soak in the serene surroundings, or you can opt for optional activities to make the most of your time.
Explore Arusha’s local markets for vibrant crafts and fresh produce, visit cultural centers to learn about Tanzanian traditions, or take a guided tour of nearby coffee plantations. For nature enthusiasts, a short drive to Arusha National Park offers a chance to see Mount Meru and spot wildlife in its lush landscapes.
Overnight stay in Arusha.
What's Include
- : Park and Airport Transfer
- : Activity
- : All Meals & Drinking water
- : Accommodation :Arusha Serena Lodge
Arusha Serena Lodge
Arusha Serena Hotel Resort & Spa
Day 3: Arusha to Tarangire National Park to Karatu
Begin your journey with a scenic 120-kilometer (approximately 2-hour) drive from Arusha to Tarangire National Park, famous for its towering baobab trees and large elephant populations. Experience an exciting game drive through this wildlife-rich park, spotting lions, giraffes, zebras, and an array of bird species.
In the afternoon, continue your adventure with a drive to Karatu, a picturesque town nestled in the lush highlands near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (about 90 kilometers or 1.5–2 hours). Relax at your mid-range accommodation, Eileen’s Trees Inn, and enjoy exceptional hospitality, immersing yourself in the serene environment, perfect for those exploring the Great Migration Safari to Kenya & Tanzania.
What's Include
- : Park and Airport Transfer
- : Activity
- : All Meals & Drinking water
- : Accommodation : Eileen’s Trees Inn
Eileen’s Trees Inn
Eileen’s Trees Inn
Day 4: Full Day Ngorongoro Crater Experience
Drive 25 kilometers (45 minutes) from Karatu to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area for a full-day safari in the crater. Witness lions, elephants, hippos, flamingos, and the rare black rhino in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Enjoy a picnic lunch by the hippo pool, soaking in breathtaking views of the crater floor.
Return to Eileen’s Trees Inn in Karatu for a relaxing dinner and overnight stay surrounded by lush gardens.
What's Include
- : Park and Airport Transfer
- : Activity
- : All Meals & Drinking water
- : Accommodation : Eileen’s Trees Inn
Eileen’s Trees Inn
Eileen’s Trees Inn
Day 5: Journey to the Ndutu Region
After breakfast, drive 80 kilometers (2–3 hours) to the Ndutu region in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, renowned for its seasonal wildlife and calving season.
Explore Ndutu’s woodlands and grasslands, spotting lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and vast herds of wildebeest and zebras. Enjoy a picnic lunch amid the stunning scenery and abundant wildlife.
In the evening, relax at Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge, a mid-range retreat offering comfort and breathtaking views of the Ndutu landscape.
What's Include
- : Park and Airport Transfer
- : Activity
- : All Meals & Drinking water
- : Accommodation : Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge
Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge
Serengeti Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge
Day 6: Ndutu to Serengeti Central for Game Drive
After breakfast, drive approximately 90 kilometers (2–3 hours) from Ndutu to the heart of Serengeti National Park.
Spend the day on an exciting game drive through the iconic Serengeti plains, where you’ll encounter the Big Five and witness the thrilling action of the Great Migration. Marvel at the vast landscapes and diverse wildlife, from predators to prey, all set against the backdrop of one of Africa’s most famous parks.
In the evening, return to your lodge for a relaxing dinner and overnight stay, reflecting on the day’s unforgettable experiences.
What's Include
- : Park and Airport Transfer
- : Activity
- : All Meals & Drinking water
- : Accommodation : Serengeti Kati Kati Lodge
Serengeti Kati Kati Lodge
Kati Kati Tented Camp
Day 7: Full Day Serengeti Central Experience
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Serengeti Central with a full day of exploration. Start with an early morning game drive, offering prime opportunities to spot predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards as they begin their day.
As you journey through the vast plains, you’ll encounter herds of elephants, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. During migration season, witness the dramatic spectacle of wildebeest and zebras crossing the plains in their annual trek.
Pause for a picnic lunch amidst nature’s tranquility, then continue your game drive, capturing memories of Serengeti’s abundant wildlife. Conclude your day back at Serengeti Kati Kati Lodge, where you can unwind in a serene setting and savor delicious meals while reflecting on your unforgettable adventure.
What's Include
- : Park and Airport Transfer
- : Activity
- : All Meals & Drinking water
- : Accommodation : Serengeti Kati Kati Lodge
Serengeti Kati Kati Lodge
Kati Kati Tented Camp
Day 8: Serengeti Central to Maasai Mara
After breakfast, begin your journey from Serengeti Central to the renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve, approximately 5-6 hours (around 300 kilometers) away. The drive offers scenic views of the African countryside as you cross into Kenya, immersing you in the beauty of the landscape.
Upon arrival in Maasai Mara, check in to your comfortable accommodation at Mara Sopa Lodge, where you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome and stunning surroundings. After settling in, enjoy a relaxing afternoon to unwind and reflect on your journey so far.
Prepare for exciting game drives in the Maasai Mara, one of Africa’s premier wildlife reserves, as you rest overnight at the lodge in anticipation of the Great Migration Safari to Kenya & Tanzania.
What's Include
- : Park and Airport Transfer
- : Activity
- : All Meals & Drinking water
- : Accommodation : Mara Sopa Lodge,
Mara Sopa Lodge
Mara Sopa Lodge.
Day 9: Full Day Maasai Mara Experience
Start early with a thrilling game drive through Maasai Mara, spotting the Big Five and other wildlife. After a picnic lunch in the reserve, continue exploring the Mara River and its stunning surroundings.
End the day back at Mara Sopa Lodge, relaxing and enjoying a delicious dinner. Your full day in the Mara will offer unforgettable wildlife encounters and scenic beauty.
What's Include
- : Park and Airport Transfer
- : Activity
- : All Meals & Drinking water
- : Accommodation : Mara Sopa Lodge,
Mara Sopa Lodge
Mara Sopa Lodge.
Day 10: Maasai Mara to Nairobi
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Nairobi, a drive of approximately 5-6 hours (about 280 kilometers). Enjoy scenic views of the African countryside as you travel.
Upon arrival in Nairobi, you will be transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your onward flight, reflecting on the incredible safari adventure through Kenya and Tanzania.
What's Include
- : Park and Airport Transfer
- : Activity
- : Depend on time you Arrive , & Drinking water
- : Accommodation :No Accomodation
Customizable Itinerary
Included
- Park fees(For non-residents)
- All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation (Unless ask for upgrade)
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
- Drinks (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Exclude
- International flights(From/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips(Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
- Personal items(Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Some meals( not specified in the day-by-day section)
Customer Reviews
"The Big Elephant Adventures gave us the best safari in Africa! From witnessing the Great Migration in Maasai Mara to the stunning elephants of Amboseli, it was truly an unforgettable journey. The service was impeccable, and we felt well taken care of throughout the trip. Highly recommend!"
"The Kenya safari tour we experienced was everything we hoped for and more. From witnessing the Great Migration to incredible game drives across the Maasai Mara, every moment was magical. A big thank you to The Big Elephant Adventures for organizing such a spectacular trip!"
"We had the most incredible Kenya safari tour, exploring the Big Five in Maasai Mara and the wonders of Ngorongoro Crater. The wildlife was abundant, and the lodges were perfectly located. I’d recommend this safari to anyone seeking an authentic, unforgettable African experience."
"I can't thank The Big Elephant Adventures enough for the incredible safari experience. From Arusha to Serengeti and Maasai Mara, every detail was perfectly planned. The guides were knowledgeable, and the wildlife sightings were beyond words. A fantastic company to travel with!"
"This Kenya safari tour was beyond amazing! We saw lions, elephants, and more, and the scenic beauty was breathtaking. The trip was well-organized, and our guides were exceptional. If you want to experience Kenya’s wildlife like never before, this safari is the way to go."
Customizable Itinerary
Frequently Asked Questions .
What is the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is the annual movement of over 1.5 million wildebeests, along with zebras and gazelles, across the Serengeti in Tanzania and Maasai Mara in Kenya. It’s one of the most spectacular wildlife events in the world, driven by the search for fresh grazing and water.
When is the best time to witness the Great Migration?
The best time depends on what you want to see:
- Calving Season (January to March): Witness the birth of thousands of wildebeest calves in Tanzania’s southern Serengeti.
- Grumeti River Crossing (June to July): Experience the dramatic crossing of wildebeest through the crocodile-infested waters of the Grumeti River.
- Mara River Crossing (July to August): The most iconic crossing, where wildebeest brave the perilous Mara River, often facing crocodiles.
Where can I see the Great Migration?
The Great Migration primarily takes place in Serengeti National Park (Tanzania) and Maasai Mara National Reserve (Kenya), though it can extend into surrounding areas depending on the season.
How long does the Great Migration last?
The Great Migration is a year-round cycle, with the herds constantly on the move in search of food and water, but the most dramatic moments, like river crossings, occur between June and October.
What animals can I see during the Great Migration?
In addition to wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, the migration attracts predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, as well as a variety of bird species.
Can I witness the Great Migration on a safari?
Yes, the best way to experience the Great Migration is on a guided safari. Professional guides will take you to the prime locations to witness these spectacular events.
Are there accommodations near the Great Migration?
Yes, there are numerous safari lodges, tented camps, and luxury accommodations in both Serengeti and Maasai Mara offering proximity to the migration routes. Accommodations vary from basic to luxury, providing options for all types of travelers.
Is the Great Migration a guaranteed experience?
While the migration is a natural event, it’s always dependent on climate and other variables. However, the herds are usually easy to track with the help of experienced guides during the peak migration months.
How do I book a Great Migration safari?
Booking a Great Migration safari is simple through a safari operator or tour agency, where you can tailor your trip based on your preferred travel dates and desired safari experience. Be sure to book well in advance, especially during peak migration times.