Safari Overview

The 8 Day Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Maasai Mara Migration Safari is one of East Africa’s most sought-after wildlife journeys, following the world-famous migration ecosystem across two of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations.

Beginning in Arusha, the safari explores the wildlife-rich plains of Serengeti National Park and the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater before crossing into Maasai Mara, home to some of the most dramatic wildlife encounters on the continent.

This itinerary is designed for travelers seeking exceptional wildlife density, predator activity, Big Five sightings, and opportunities to witness the seasonal movement of wildebeest and zebra herds through the greater Serengeti–Mara ecosystem.

By combining three world-renowned safari destinations within one journey, travelers experience an extraordinary diversity of landscapes, wildlife habitats, and safari experiences.

Why Choose This Safari?

This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want:

• Great Migration experiences
• Big Five wildlife viewing
• Serengeti game drives
• Ngorongoro Crater exploration
• Maasai Mara safaris
• Cross-border adventure travel
• Outstanding wildlife photography opportunities
• Diverse ecosystems within one safari

Safari Highlights

• Explore Serengeti National Park
• Descend into Ngorongoro Crater
• Experience Maasai Mara National Reserve
• Search for the Big Five
• Seasonal migration viewing opportunities
• Cross-border safari via Isebania
• Scenic East African landscapes
• Exceptional predator sightings
• Professional safari guiding throughout

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arusha to Serengeti National Park

Depart Arusha and travel through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area before entering Serengeti National Park.

Enjoy an afternoon game drive en route to your accommodation.

Wildlife may include:

• Lions
• Elephants
• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Wildebeests

Overnight in Serengeti.

Day 2: Full Day Serengeti Safari

Spend the day exploring one of the world’s most celebrated wildlife destinations.

Depending on the season, visitors may encounter:

• Migration herds
• Lions
• Leopards
• Cheetahs
• Hyenas
• Buffalo

Overnight in Serengeti.

Day 3: Serengeti Wildlife Exploration

A second day in Serengeti allows for deeper exploration and increased wildlife viewing opportunities.

This flexibility often results in exceptional sightings and photography opportunities.

Overnight in Serengeti.

Day 4: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Enjoy a morning game drive before traveling toward Ngorongoro.

Arrive at the crater rim and enjoy panoramic views of one of Africa’s most remarkable natural landmarks.

Overnight near Ngorongoro.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater Safari

Descend into the crater for a full morning game drive.

Ngorongoro offers one of the highest wildlife concentrations in Africa and is among the best places to search for black rhinos.

Wildlife commonly encountered:

• Rhinos
• Lions
• Elephants
• Buffalo
• Hippos

Overnight near Ngorongoro.

Day 6: Ngorongoro to Maasai Mara via Isebania Border

Depart early and travel toward the Isebania border crossing.

After immigration formalities, continue toward Maasai Mara.

Arrive in the evening.

Overnight in Maasai Mara.

Day 7: Full Day Maasai Mara Migration Safari

Spend the day exploring Maasai Mara.

Depending on migration timing, opportunities may include:

• Wildebeest herds
• Predator interactions
• Mara River wildlife activity
• Big Five sightings

Optional hot air balloon safari available.

Overnight in Maasai Mara.

Day 8: Maasai Mara to Nairobi

Enjoy a final morning game drive before departing for Nairobi.

Arrive in the afternoon, marking the end of your safari.

Wildlife You May Encounter

This safari provides opportunities to see:

Big Five

• Lion
• Leopard
• Elephant
• Buffalo
• Rhino

Other Wildlife

• Cheetah
• Hyena
• Wildebeest
• Zebra
• Hippo
• Crocodile
• Giraffe
• Gazelle
• Topi
• Eland

Best Time to Travel

July to October

Peak migration season with strong chances of witnessing migration activity and river crossings.

January to March

Excellent predator viewing and calving season in southern Serengeti.

June to October

Ideal wildlife viewing due to dry conditions.

November to December

Fewer crowds and lush landscapes.

Estimated Safari Price Range

Final pricing depends on season, accommodation standards, group size, and migration location.

What’s Included

• 4×4 safari vehicle
• Professional safari guide
• Park entrance fees
• Accommodation throughout the safari
• Meals as specified
• Bottled drinking water
• Cross-border transfer assistance
• Daily game drives

What’s Excluded

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Visa fees
• Personal expenses
• Optional activities
• Tips and gratuities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this safari focused on the Great Migration?

Yes. The itinerary is designed around the Serengeti–Maasai Mara migration ecosystem and offers seasonal opportunities to witness migration movements.

Can I see the Big Five?

Yes. Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Maasai Mara collectively offer excellent Big Five viewing opportunities.

Which border crossing is used?

The safari crosses via the Isebania border between Tanzania and Kenya.

Is this safari suitable for photographers?

Yes. It is one of the strongest photography-focused itineraries due to wildlife density and varied landscapes.

Can this safari be extended?

Yes. Popular extensions include Zanzibar, Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, and Kenya Coast beach holidays.