CROSSING OF THE MARA RIVER
Amazing test of instinct and survival of the fittest
See tens of thousands of wildebeests gather at the riverbanks of the Mara River and attempt a crossing of the river. The animals cross to follow their food – grass – which grows all along the path of the Great Migration. Happens 2 to 3 times a day in 10 specific points of the river.
WHAT TO EXPECT
- A NatGeo adventure of a lifetime!
- Stunning sunrises and sunsets
- See thousands of wildebeest and zebras attempt to Cross the Mara River.
- Crossings happen 2 to 4 times a day
ITINERARY
DAY 1: ARRIVAL – JRO TRANSFER TO ARUSHA
Your unforgettable safari adventure begins the moment you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where you’ll be warmly welcomed by the Miguu Expeditions Team. From there, enjoy a scenic 40–45minute drive (33 km/21 miles) to Ngaresero Mountain Lodge, a peaceful retreat nestled at the foothills of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest mountain. Ngare Sero is one of our Favorite places to stay in Arusha sprawling, serene, and surrounded by lush greenery. The lodge is renowned for its warm hospitality, delicious food, and tranquil ambiance, making it the perfect place to relax, recover from your long journey, and ease into the rhythm of Tanzania. The food is very good too! Order a private African dinner in advance.
Accommodation: Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge
Board Basis: Half Board
DAY 2: MORNING SAFARI DRIVE ARUSHA TO TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK
After a restful night and a leisurely breakfast, you will check-out from Ngaresero, we set off for Tarangire National Park, a scenic 2.5 to 3hour drive covering around 130 km (80 miles). The journey offers captivating views of northern Tanzania’s landscapes and glimpses of Maasai village life along the way.
In the late afternoon, we’ll check in at Burunge Tented lodge for dinner and a relaxing overnight stay, unwinding and embracing the serenity of the African night skies.
Accommodation: Burunge Tented Lodge
Board Basis: Full Board
DAY 3: HALF-DAY GAME DRIVE IN TARANGIRE- KARATU
After an early delicious breakfast, we’ll begin the day with a half-day game drive in Tarangire National Park renowned for its massive baobab trees, large elephant herds, and seasonal swamps that attract diverse wildlife. This Park is famously called “Elephant’s Paradise”. We will explore the park’s rich ecosystems and enjoy a bush picnic. After lunch we will set off on a scenic 2.5-to-3-hour drive covering around 130 km (80 miles) towards the charming town Karatu nestled in the fertile Ngorongoro Highlands where we will check in at our next lodge for sundowners, dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation: Masailand Coffee Lodge
Board Basis: Full Board
DAY 4: CULTURAL IMMERSION AT LAKE EYASI
We’ll begin with an early morning and delicious breakfast, then drive from the Lodge to Lake Eyasi which is approximately 60–80 km and typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours by road, depending on road conditions especially when the last stretch near Lake Eyasi turns bumpy to where you’ll meet the Hadzabe tribe, one of the last remaining hunter gatherer communities in East Africa.
You will hear their stories and experience their traditional practices, including fire-making and hunting, and gain insight in their unique click language and way of life. After the Hadzabe you will visit the nearby Datoga tribe, skilled blacksmiths known for crafting handmade tools and ornaments using ancient methods. The Datoga village is located in short distance from the Hadzabe making it convenient to explore both tribes in one trip. After these fun and enriching experiences, you will return to your lodge for a late lunch and relaxation.
Accommodation: Masailand Coffee Lodge
Board Basis: Full Board
DAY 5: KARATU DRIVE TO NGORONGORO CRATER – KARATU
Start your day early with a delicious breakfast before checking out from your accommodation to Ngorongoro Crater, the drive covers approximately 15 km and will take around 30-45 Minutes. We will have time for a rich, upon arrive you'll embark on a thrilling half-day game drive within the Ngorongoro Crater.
The game drive will last around 3 to 4 hours, giving you ample time to explore the spectacular landscapes and encounter the diverse wildlife. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ngorongoro Crater boasts the highest density of mammalian predators in Africa. During our half-day game drive, expect sightings of lions, elephants, zebras, buffalo, and if lucky the critically endangered Black Rhino. Rare species like the African golden cat and wild dogs are also occasionally seen here. We’ll pause for a picnic lunch inside the crater, surrounded by breathtaking views and wildlife, before heading back to the lodge at Karatu for dinner and relaxation.
Accommodation: Masailand Coffee Lodge
Board Basis: Full Board
DAY 6: KARATU DRIVE TO LAKE MANYARA AIRSTRIP FLY TO KOGATENDE
After an early breakfast, you will be driven from Karatu to Lake Manyara Airstrip, a scenic 30minutes journey passing through the lush highlands and traditional farming villages along the way. Upon arrival at the airstrip, you will board your 1 hour scheduled flight to Kogatende, located in the remote northern region of the Serengeti.
This area is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and seasonal wildebeest migration crossings along the Mara River. On landing, you will be met by your safari driver-guide and enjoy a game drive en route to your lodge, with opportunities to spot predators, elephants, giraffes, and the great herds that make this region so spectacular.
Accommodation: Maramara Tented Lodge
Board Basis: Full Board
DAYS 7, 8, 9: MARA RIVER CROSSING
It can take hours of waiting to see actual crossings so these next three days will be dedicated to seeing at least 1 crossing in the Mara River area, plus game drives throughout the Northern Serengeti all the way to the border of Kenya. We recommend staying out as long as possible to see as much as possible. We will arrange picnic lunches for these full days, or if you wish, you may head back to the lodge at any time during the day.
Accommodation: Maramara Tented Lodge
Board Basis: Full Board
10: DRIVE TO KOGATENDE AIRSTRIP FLY TO ARUSHA
We will have an early breakfast then drive to Kogatende Airstrip for our one-hour flight to Arusha. Upon arrival in Arusha you’ll be met and transferred to the Cultural Heritage Centre, if you wish, for a relaxed afternoon of exploration, shopping, and lunch. This iconic destination is more than just a craft market it’s a showcase of Tanzanian culture, art, and design. You’ll browse an impressive selection of high-quality Tanzanian crafts, gemstones (including tanzanite), carvings, fabrics, and fine African art in the gallery. After lunch we will continue to Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge, where you can unwind in style and comfort, with views of Mount Meru and the perfect blend of luxury and tranquility after your amazing safari experience.
Accommodation: Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge
Board Basis: Half Board (breakfast only)
DAY 11: DEPARTURE
After a peaceful morning and a leisurely breakfast, we will check out from Ngaresero and begin our 45minutes drive to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your onward flight. As your Tanzanian adventure comes to a close, you'll take with you memories of untamed beauty, heartfelt hospitality, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Note: Our departure time from Arusha will depend on the departure of your international flight time.