7-Day Great Wildebeest Migration Safari in the Western & Central Serengeti

An unforgettable 7-day great wildebeest adventure across the Western Corridor, Grumeti, and Mbalageti to Central Serengeti through Tanzania’s wilderness with our 7-day safari. This extraordinary journey takes you to some of the country’s most renowned national parks and conservation areas, where you will witness incredible wildlife, diverse landscapes, and the annual spectacle of the great migration. From the vast plains of the Serengeti to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, each day promises exhilarating game drives, encounters with majestic animals, and immersive experiences in the heart of nature. Let us guide you on this extraordinary safari, where the beauty of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes will leave you awe-inspired and with memories to last a lifetime.

7-Day Great Wildebeest Migration Safari in the Western Corridor Highlights

Explore the Western Corridor of the Serengeti, known for its two rivers, the Grumeti and the Mbalageti, and a diverse wildlife population.
Witness the Great Migration of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores as they cross the crocodile-rich waters of the Grumeti River.
Encounter a permanent wildlife population, including predators like lions, as well as zebras and wildebeest.
Enjoy game drives in Tarangire National Park, famous for its large elephant herds and a wide variety of other animals.
Experience the breathtaking landscapes of the Serengeti National Park, spanning grassy plains, savannah, swamps, lakes, and mountains.
Discover the beauty of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with a chance to observe the Ngorongoro Crater, an incredible UNESCO World Heritage site.
Visit the Maasai village and learn about their customs and traditions, including fire-making and beadwork.
Enjoy walking safaris on the rim of the crater at sunset, exploring extinct volcanoes and stunning highland landscapes.
Stay in a range of accommodations, from luxury lodges to mid-range camps, ensuring comfort and relaxation throughout your safari.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Lake Manyara National Park, with its diverse landscapes, abundant birdlife, and opportunities to see monkeys, giraffes, zebras, and more.

These safari highlights promise an unforgettable journey through Tanzania’s wildlife-rich destinations, providing a remarkable experience and lasting memories.

Day-by-Day Itinerary Summary:

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – Transfer to your chosen accommodation in Arusha for overnight stay and relaxation.

Day 2: Tarangire National Park – Depart for Tarangire National Park. Enjoy a game drive, spotting elephants, zebras, wildebeests, and more. Overnight stay at partner lodges.

Day 3: Serengeti National Park (Central) – Journey through Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Serengeti National Park. Experience the diverse landscapes and witness the great migration. Stay overnight in the Seronera Valley.

Day 4: Serengeti National Park (Western Corridor) – Head to the Western Corridor for thrilling game drives and witnessing the wildebeest migration. Overnight stay in the Western Corridor.

Day 5: Serengeti National Park (Central) – Explore the central region of Serengeti with extensive game drives. Encounter resident wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, and leopards. Overnight stay in the central area.

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater – Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for an incredible wildlife experience. Spot various animals, including wildebeests, zebras, and the endangered black rhino. Overnight stay in Karatu.

Day 7: Lake Manyara National Park to Arusha – Visit Lake Manyara National Park, observing its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. Enjoy a memorable game drive before returning to Arusha in the late afternoon.

This day-to-day itinerary summary provides an overview of the activities and destinations included in the 7-day safari, allowing you to immerse yourself in Tanzania’s remarkable wildlife and natural beauty.

Day 1

Arrival in Arusha

As you arrive in Arusha for 7 days wildebeest migration safari in the Western Corridor of Mbalageti and Grumeti, a Tranquil Kilimanjaro representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your accommodation. Take this day to relax and prepare for the upcoming adventure. Choose from a range of accommodation options, including luxury, mid-range, or budget, based on your preferences.

Accommodation:

Luxury: Grand Melia Lodge / Mount Meru Hotel / Arusha Coffee Lodge
Mid-range: Ilboru Safari Lodge / Arusha Planet Lodge/ Airport Planet Lodge
Budget: Outpost Lodge / Tulia Boutique Hotel / Green Mountain Hotel

Day 2

Arusha - Tarangire National Park

Start your day with a transfer from Arusha to Tarangire National Park. As you journey through the scenic Masai plains, keep an eye out for Masai people and their vibrant attire. Explore the park’s diverse landscapes, including seasonal swamps, savannah, and the Tarangire River. Encounter a multitude of wildlife, such as elephants, zebras, wildebeests, buffalo, and giraffes. After an exciting game drive, enjoy dinner and overnight stay at one of the partner lodges.

Accommodation:

Luxury: Kitela Lodge / Lake Manyara Kilima Moja / The Retreat at Ngorongoro
Mid-range: Eileen’s Tree Inn / Endoro Lodge / Karatu Simba Lodge
Budget Camping: Lilac Campsite/ Panorama Campsite

Day 3

Central Serengeti National Park

Depart from Tarangire and head towards the fertile highlands, passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Admire the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater before continuing to Serengeti National Park. Experience the vastness of Serengeti, covering 15,000 square kilometers and offering diverse landscapes and habitats. Witness the great migration of wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes, depending on the season. After a game drive, enjoy an evening meal and overnight stay at your chosen accommodation.

Accommodation:

Luxury: Kubu Kubu Tented Camp / Melia Serengeti Lodge / Four Season Serengeti
Mid-range: Serengeti Heritage Tented Camp / Embalakai Camp / Acacia Central Camp
Budget Camping: Nyani Campsite

Day 4

Western Serengeti National Park

Embark on a morning game drive and proceed to the Serengeti Western Corridor. From April to June, witness the impressive wildebeest migration as they gather in the Western Corridor, preparing for the challenging Grumeti River crossing. Keep an eye out for predators like leopards and hyenas, as well as the enormous Nile crocodiles in the river. Reach your accommodation in the Western Corridor for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation:

Luxury: Lahia Tented Lodge / Kirawira Serena Camp
Mid-range: Serengeti Heritage Tented Camp / Tukaone Camp

Day 5

Back to Central Serengeti

Spend the day exploring the Western Serengeti, observing the abundant wildlife, including impalas, buffaloes, crocodiles, and hippos before to returning to Central Serengeti. The Serengeti is renowned for its migrating herds and resident predators, such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards. Enjoy game drives and soak in the beauty of Serengeti’s endless plains. Return to your accommodation for a hearty dinner and another night under the African stars.

Accommodation:

Luxury: Kubu Kubu Tented Camp / Melia Serengeti Lodge / Four Season Serengeti
Mid-range: Serengeti Heritage Tented Camp / Embalakai Camp / Acacia Central Camp
Budget Camping: Nyani Campsite

Day 6

Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

Depart from the Serengeti and head towards the majestic Ngorongoro Crater. Descend into the crater and witness the pristine wilderness teeming with wildlife, including wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, and over 500 bird species. Keep an eye out for the elusive black rhino, which finds refuge in the open grasslands. After a full day of exploration, drive to Karatu for dinner and an overnight stay at your chosen accommodation.

Accommodation:

Luxury: Kitela Lodge / Lake Manyara Kilima Moja / The Retreat at Ngorongoro
Mid-range: Eileen’s Tree Inn / Endoro Lodge / Karatu Simba Lodge
Budget Camping: Lilac Campsite/ Panorama Campsite

Day 7

Lake Manyara National Park to Arusha

On the final day, journey to Lake Manyara National Park, known for its diverse landscapes and abundant birdlife, including flamingos. Encounter monkeys, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes, and if you’re lucky, lions lounging in the trees. Explore the park’s grassy plains, woodlands, and cliffs adorned with baobab trees. After a memorable game drive, return to Arusha in the late afternoon, filled with lasting memories of the African wilderness.

The cost for the whole 1 week Great wildebeest migration safari includes and excludes the following items

Tanzania Safari Price includes

Park fees

Game drives and activities

All accommodation

A professional driver/ safari guide

All transportation

All Taxes/VAT

Roundtrip airport transfer

Meals

Water / Coffee / Tea or Soft Drinks

Price Excludes

International flights

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

Tanzania Visa

Gratuity

Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)

Meals not listed above

Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

The best time for this safari is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to October. During this period, the weather is generally pleasant, with lower chances of rain and comfortable temperatures. The dry season is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources, making it easier to spot them during game drives. Additionally, the Great Migration of wildebeest and other herbivores occurs in the Serengeti from June to July, offering a remarkable spectacle to witness. However, it’s important to note that wildlife sightings can still be excellent during other months, and each season has its own unique advantages. It’s recommended to consult with a local safari expert or tour operator to plan your trip based on specific preferences and wildlife interests.