5 Day Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari – Witness the Iconic River Crossings

5 Day Wildebeest Migration Safari – Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 – Arusha to Central Serengeti

Upon your arrival in the Serengeti North (Kogatende region), you will be met by your friendly and professional driver-guide. Your safari adventure begins immediately with a full-day game drive in the northern plains of the Serengeti one of the best areas to witness the breathtaking Great Wildebeest Migration.This region is famous for dramatic river crossings (season-dependent), large herds of wildebeest and zebra, and superb predator activity. The Serengeti is also home to a thriving population of lions estimated at more than 3,000 individuals. Prepare for an inspiring start to your wildlife journey.

Accommodation:

✓ Serengeti Heritage Tented Camp

✓ Tented Lodge

Day 2 – Central Serengeti to Northern Serengeti

Today offers two flexible start times:

• Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and begin game drives around 9:00 AM, or

• Opt for an early morning start at 6:00 AM to catch predators at their most active hours.You’ll explore the central region before making your way north. As you travel, the landscape transforms into rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and broken terrain. Wildlife sightings may include zebras, gazelles, buffalo, and more. A picnic lunch will be enjoyed en route. If time allows, you may also spend time along the Mara River, observing potential migration activity.Afterward, you will head back to camp for a delicious dinner and restful night.

Accommodation:

✓ Sero Tented Camp

✓ Tented Lodge

Day 3 – Northern Serengeti to Central Serengeti

Once again, you may choose between a relaxed morning beginning at 9:00 AM with packed lunch or an early 6:00 AM departure for sunrise game viewing.After breakfast and some leisure time at the camp, you’ll begin your journey back to Central Serengeti, a scenic drive of around four hours. Wildlife viewing continues along the way, and as you reenter the Seronera area, the terrain transitions back to wide-open grassland—prime habitat for spotting lion prides.Lunch will be taken on the drive, followed by an evening of relaxation, a warm dinner, and a comfortable night at camp.

Accommodation:

✓ Sero Tented Camp

✓ Tented Lodge

Day 4 – Central Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Following breakfast, enjoy a final morning game drive in Serengeti National Park before beginning your journey toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. A picnic lunch will be provided along the way.Ngorongoro is one of Africa’s most unique ecosystems, featuring the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, the largest unbroken caldera on Earth. This natural sanctuary supports roughly 30,000 animals, including an impressive range of predators and herbivores. After a rewarding day, continue to your camp for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation:

✓ Rhino Tented Camp

✓ Tented Lodge

Day 5 – Ngorongoro Crater Tour to Arusha

Your final safari day begins early, around 6:30 AM, with a quick breakfast before descending into the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day game drive. This vast natural amphitheater is home to elephants, buffalo, hippos, cheetahs, black rhinos, lions, and many other species.After exploring the crater floor, enjoy a scenic picnic lunch near the Hippo Pool. Later, ascend the crater walls and begin your return drive to Arusha, with arrival expected around 6:00 PM.Your safari concludes with lifelong memories of the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and the awe-inspiring Great Migration.

What’s Included in Your 5-Day Serengeti Migration Safari

Fully paid park fees for Serengeti and Ngorongoro
All safari activities and game drives as listed in the itinerary
Comfortable accommodation throughout the safari itinerary
A certified, professional safari guide
Private 4x4 land cruiser transportation during the entire trip
All government taxes, VAT, and service charges
Complimentary round-trip airport pick-up and drop-off
All meals during the safari (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

What’s Not Included

International flights to and from Tanzania
Additional hotel nights before or after your Serengeti safari
Tips for guides and camp staff (approx. US$20 per person per day)
Personal purchases such as souvenirs, travel insurance, and visas
Unexpected increases in park fees or government taxes

Best 5 Day Wildebeest Migration Safari in Serengeti – River Crossings & Big Cats

This unforgettable 5-day Serengeti and Wildebeest Migration safari takes you through the world famous Serengeti National Park and the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater. Throughout the journey, your chances of encountering the legendary Big Five are remarkably high, and depending on the season, you may also witness the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration unfolding across the Serengeti plains.

Recognized as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Great Migration offers travelers an extraordinary look at nature on a grand scale. Imagine sweeping plains filled with thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles moving in harmony. Along the riverbanks, massive Nile crocodiles wait patiently for their opportunity as the herds make dangerous crossings. This world renowned ecosystem made up of volcanic grasslands, endless savannahs, forested patches, and rocky kopjes provides some of the most exceptional safari experiences anywhere on Earth.Following the path of the migrating herds also leads you straight into predator territory. Lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, and crocodiles follow the movement of the animals closely, creating a thrilling and dramatic wildlife spectacle at every turn. With the right timing and location, travelers are rewarded with unforgettable encounters throughout the safari.

Safari Highlights

Day 1: Arusha to Central Serengeti

Begin your adventure with a scenic drive or flight into the heart of the Serengeti, arriving in the Central region one of the best places for year-round wildlife viewing.

Day 2: Central Serengeti to Northern Serengeti

Continue your journey north toward the famous Mara River area, known for its dramatic migration activity and big-cat sightings.

Day 3: Northern Serengeti to Central Serengeti

After a morning exploring the northern plains, return to the central region for more wildlife encounters and classic Serengeti vistas.

Day 4: Central Serengeti to Ngorongoro

Travel to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, arriving near the crater rim in time for stunning views and a relaxing evening.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater Tour to Arusha

Spend the morning descending into the Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive in one of Africa’s most impressive wildlife sanctuaries, then return to Arusha.

5 Day Wildebeest Migration Safari – Price & Cost Breakdown

Safari Rates Per Person

$4,200 per person – when traveling solo (1 person)
$2,995 per person – when 2 people travel together
$2,695 per person – when 3 people travel together
$2,544 per person – when 4 people travel together
$2,455 per person – when 5 people travel together
$2,390 per person – when 6 people travel together

Frequently Asked Questions About the 5-Day Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari

1. What is the best time to visit the Serengeti for the Wildebeest Migration?

The ideal time to witness the Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti is from June through October. These months offer some of the most dramatic moments of the migration cycle, including the legendary Grumeti and Mara River crossings. During this season, enormous herds move northward in search of fresh grazing, creating unforgettable wildlife spectacles. Keep in mind that migration movements depend heavily on rainfall patterns, so dates can shift slightly each year. For the best experience, it’s helpful to check current migration updates or consult your safari planner.

2. What wildlife can I expect to see during the migration safari?

A 5-day migration safari provides exceptional wildlife viewing. Beyond the massive herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, the Serengeti is home to an impressive array of animals. Travelers often spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) along with cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, hippos, and majestic birdlife. During river-crossing months, you’ll also see enormous Nile crocodiles lying in wait along the riverbanks, making this period especially action-packed for photographers and wildlife lovers.

3. How is the accommodation during the 5-day safari?

Accommodation varies based on your selected safari package, offering options for every travel style.

Budget Camping: A basic yet adventurous option, ideal for travellers wanting an authentic bush experience.
Mid-Range & Luxury Tented Camps: Comfortable en-suite tents with excellent service, dining areas, and stunning views of the wilderness.
Luxury Lodges: For travellers seeking top-level comfort, these lodges offer spacious rooms, fine dining, and premium amenities.Many tented camps are strategically located near migration routes, enhancing your chances of witnessing the movement of the herds right from camp.

4. What should I pack for the Serengeti migration safari?

Pack light but smart. The Serengeti has warm days and cool mornings/evenings.

5. Is going on a migration safari in the Serengeti safe?

Yes, the Serengeti is considered a safe destination for safari travel. Professional guides are well-trained, highly experienced, and knowledgeable about wildlife behaviour. They follow strict safety protocols to ensure you enjoy the safari without risk. As long as you follow your guide’s instructions such as staying inside the vehicle during game drives you can enjoy a safe, smooth, and extraordinary safari experience.