Great Migration River Crossing Safari
Travel privately from Tarangire and Ngorongoro to the northern Serengeti, where we position your safari for the best available chance of witnessing a Mara River crossing.
Adapt this safari to my datesA private safari planned around the Mara River
River crossings are unpredictable, so timing and camp location matter. We place you in northern Serengeti National Park during the strongest seasonal window, then combine it with Tarangire and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area for a varied private safari.
- River-crossing focused travel
- Couples and private groups
- Wildlife and photography
- Private, flexible game drives
- Northern Serengeti camps
- Optional beach extension
When are river crossings most likely?
Crossings cannot be guaranteed, but the northern Serengeti is usually strongest from July to October. We still tailor camp location to your exact dates.
Herds move north
Season begins
Northern Serengeti
Crossing season
Mara River area
Strong window
Herds move south
Route changes
Day-by-day itinerary
This seven-day route is a starting point. Nights, camps and activities can all be adjusted.
Day 1Tarangire National Park
Meet your private guide in Arusha and travel to Tarangire for an afternoon game drive among baobabs, elephants and seasonal wildlife concentrations.
Day 2Lake Manyara National Park
Morning walking safari where appropriate, followed by Lake Manyara game viewing and an overnight near Karatu.
Day 3Northern Serengeti
Travel through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and central Serengeti to the northern plains, with game viewing throughout the journey.
Day 4Mara River area
A full flexible day in northern Serengeti, positioned for river activity and migration sightings. Choose a picnic lunch or split morning and afternoon drives.
Day 5Serengeti National Park
Morning game viewing as you travel south towards central Serengeti, arriving at camp in the late afternoon.
Day 6Ngorongoro Highlands
Final Serengeti game viewing before entering Ngorongoro, with an optional crater-rim walk depending on timing.
Day 7Ngorongoro Crater and Arusha
Descend to the crater floor for wildlife viewing, then return to Arusha or continue to Kilimanjaro Airport for an evening departure.
Choose the level that suits you
We are not tied to particular camps. Recommendations are based on location, guiding, atmosphere and current value for your dates.
Classic
Comfortable, characterful tented camps and lodges in strong wildlife locations.
Explore Classic SafariLuxury
High-quality camps with excellent locations, polished service and added comfort.
Explore Luxury SafariUltra-luxury
Outstanding camps, private experiences and seamless logistics using the finest available options.
Typically included
- Private 4WD safari vehicle
- Experienced English-speaking guide
- Accommodation and meals as proposed
- Park and conservation fees
- Unlimited game-drive kilometres
- Drinking water in the vehicle
Usually not included
- International flights and visas
- Travel and medical insurance
- Premium drinks and personal purchases
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional activities not in the proposal
Local knowledge, private guiding and three decades of experience
Adapt this river-crossing safari to your dates
Tell us when you want to travel, who is coming and the experience you have in mind. We’ll recommend the right migration area, accommodation level and current price.
Plan My Private Safari