6-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari: Wildebeest Migration Tour

Summary

Wildebeest Migration Safari & Maasai Village Experience in Tanzania

You’ll witness Africa’s greatest wildlife spectacle—the wildebeest migration—plus meet Maasai villagers and explore legendary parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. This trip is packed with real moments: sunrise game drives, local encounters, and nights under canvas in wild Tanzania.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me stepping out at Kilimanjaro Airport was the warm, slightly dusty air—so different from home. Our driver was waiting, holding a sign with my name. The drive to the lodge in Arusha took us past little roadside fruit stalls and kids waving as we passed. I spent the afternoon by the pool at Ilboru Safari Lodge, just listening to birds and letting the travel buzz wear off. If you’re up for it, you can wander into town or even check out the Arusha Declaration Museum—there’s always something going on in these streets.

The next morning started early with a strong cup of Tanzanian coffee before we set off toward Serengeti National Park. The road wound through the Ngorongoro Highlands—patches of mist still clinging to the trees. We stopped at a Maasai village (totally optional, but honestly worth it). The elders showed us their traditional homes and explained how they live with their cattle. Kids peeked shyly from behind their mothers’ skirts, and I tried my hand at jumping in one of their dances (not my finest moment). By midday, we rolled into the Northern Serengeti. Our guide knew every twist of those dusty tracks and pointed out giraffes nibbling acacia leaves before we even reached camp.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to see thousands of wildebeest gathering by the Mara River, here’s your answer: chaos and anticipation all at once. We parked near a bend where crocs lurked just below the surface. For hours, herds would edge closer to the water—then suddenly turn away for no reason anyone could see. Our guide said even he couldn’t predict when they’d cross; it’s just something you have to wait for. The air was thick with dust and that wild animal smell you only get on safari.

Moving between Northern and Central Serengeti felt like crossing into another world—open plains stretching forever, dotted with zebras and sometimes a lone elephant lumbering along. We had some flexibility here: either stick around up north for more migration action or head south for new scenery. Lunch was usually picnic-style under a scraggly tree; there’s nothing quite like eating while watching warthogs trot by.

Ngorongoro Crater is something else entirely—a massive bowl teeming with life. Early morning fog made everything look mysterious as we descended those winding roads into the crater itself (it’s about 600 meters down). Within minutes we spotted black rhinos grazing not far from buffalo herds, lions lounging in patches of sun, and flamingos clustered on shallow lakes. Our guide rattled off facts about each animal—he seemed to know every bird call too. After hours exploring this natural wonderland, we headed back to Arusha for one last night at Ilboru Safari Lodge before catching our flight home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival in Arusha

• Arrival and transfer to lodge
• Leisure time or optional day tours

Day 2 — Northern Serengeti National Park

• Drive to Serengeti via Ngorongoro
• Optional Maasai Village visit
• Afternoon game drive

Day 3 — Game Drive at Mara River

• Full day game drive searching wildebeest migration

Day 4 — Northern to Central Serengeti

• Full day game drive between Northern and Central Serengeti

Day 5 — Ngorongoro Crater Visit

• Descend into Ngorongoro Crater
• Full day game drive (6-9 hours)
• Return to Arusha

Day 6 — Departure from Arusha

• Transfer to airport

Top questions

Is this safari suitable for families with young children?

Yes! Kids are welcome—just note that infants need to sit on an adult’s lap during transfers and game drives.

Can I visit a Maasai village during this tour?

Absolutely—it’s an optional stop in the Ngorongoro Highlands where you can meet Maasai families and learn about their traditions firsthand.

What kind of accommodation will I stay in?

You’ll stay in comfortable safari lodges in Arusha and tented camps right inside Serengeti National Park—think cozy beds with all basic amenities surrounded by nature.

Are airport transfers included?

Yes—all airport pick-ups and drop-offs are included for your convenience.

What’s included

Your arrival transfer from Kilimanjaro or Arusha Airport is covered, plus all park fees and comfy accommodation as listed in your itinerary. Transfers between locations are sorted too—you just show up ready for adventure!