Follow the Migration Across the Mighty Mara River

Itinerary Overview

This 8-day journey is the ultimate adventure for travelers who want a full-circle Northern Tanzania experiencewithout backtracking and without crowds. It starts where few safaris dare to begin: in the dramatic volcanic region of Lake Natron, home to flamingos, lava flows, and the mysterious Ol Doinyo Lengai, the only active carbonatite volcano in the world.

From there, you’ll travel north into the remote Kogatende area of Serengeti to witness the Great Migration crossing the Mara River, then descend into the heart of the Serengeti plains before entering the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater and the elephant-dotted Tarangire National Park.

This is an itinerary that blends volcanic landscapes, authentic Maasai culture, world-class game viewing, and scenic diversity, all while avoiding crowded routes and repeating roads. Each day brings a new terrain, new animals, and a new perspective of Tanzania’s unmatched beauty.

Itinerary Detail

Day 1: Arusha to Lake Natron via Longido

After breakfast at your hotel in Arusha, begin the journey heading northeast toward Lake Natron. The first leg of the drive takes you through Longido, a small Maasai town nestled beneath Mount Longido (2,600m). From there, the road becomes more rugged as you continue for 120 kilometers into remote volcanic terrain.

Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by an awe-inspiring series of extinct and active volcanoes: Mount Kitumbeine (2,850m), Mount Kirimasi (2,602m), Mount Gelai (2,948m), and the legendary Mount Lengai (2,962m), still active today.

Enjoy a picnic lunch en route and arrive at your lodge near Lake Natron in the afternoon. After some rest, head out for an evening drive to witness the sun setting over the soda lake — a surreal and peaceful experience in a place few tourists ever reach. Overnight at Lake Natron.

Day 2: Lake Natron Exploration

Today begins with a morning visit to the shores of Lake Natron, one of East Africa’s most alkaline lakes and a critical breeding ground for thousands of flamingos. The lake’s shallow waters and mineral-rich environment make it a haven for these birds.

After observing the flamingos and learning about their life cycle, you’ll visit a local Maasai village to gain insights into the traditions and daily lives of people native to this arid region. Return to the lodge for lunch and some rest.

In the afternoon, embark on a short hike to the nearby waterfalls — a hidden gem in the otherwise dry landscape. Swim in the natural pools before heading back to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 3: Lake Natron to Northern Serengeti (Kogatende)

After an early breakfast, depart Lake Natron and head west toward Serengeti via Kleins Gate. The journey takes around 1.5 hours to the gate, followed by a scenic route north toward Kogatende, one of the least crowded regions of Serengeti.

Enjoy lunch along the way and arrive in time for a game drive around the Mara River area, where you may witness dramatic river crossings if traveling during migration season. This region is teeming with big cats, elephants, crocodiles, and migrating herds. Overnight at a lodge or tented camp in Kogatende.

Day 4: Full Day Game Drive in Northern Serengeti

Spend a full day exploring the northern reaches of Serengeti National Park. With picnic lunch packed or an optional return to your lodge for hot lunch, your game drives will focus on migration herds, predators on the hunt, and iconic Serengeti landscapes.

The Mara River is the centerpiece of this region, often alive with drama as wildebeest and zebra attempt risky crossings while crocodiles wait below. Even outside of migration, this area is rich with wildlife and dramatic scenery. Overnight again in Kogatende.

Day 5: Kogatende to Central Serengeti via Lobo

After breakfast, start your journey south through the beautiful Lobo area, known for rolling hills, rocky kopjes, and fewer safari vehicles. This region offers excellent sightings of lions, leopards, and elephants, especially in the dry season when animals congregate near water sources.

You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch on the way and arrive at your camp or lodge in Central Serengeti by late afternoon. This area is the heart of the park, where wildlife activity is constant throughout the year. Overnight at Central Serengeti.

Day 6: Central Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater to Karatu

After an early breakfast, drive westward to Nabi Gate and continue toward Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa.

Your picnic lunch will be enjoyed near a hippo pool, and the rest of the day will be spent exploring the crater floor where lions, rhinos, buffalo, elephants, and hyenas are frequently spotted.

In the late afternoon, ascend from the crater and drive to Karatu, a small town on the outer slopes of the highlands. Overnight at a lodge in Karatu.

Day 7: Karatu to Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, you’ll drive for about an hour to reach Tarangire National Park — known for its stunning baobab trees, ancient termite mounds, and large elephant populations.

Spend the day on a game drive, with picnic lunch inside the park. Tarangire is also home to lions, leopards, giraffes, wildebeest, and over 500 bird species. The park is especially magical during the dry season when the Tarangire River becomes a magnet for wildlife.

Enjoy your final safari sunset and overnight at a lodge or tented camp in Tarangire.

Day 8: Tarangire to Airport (Departure)

After breakfast, depending on your flight time, you’ll begin the journey back to Arusha or directly to the airport. This marks the end of your unforgettable safari circuit, full of raw beauty, remote landscapes, and exceptional wildlife moments.

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