4 Days Serengeti Migration Safari Mara River Crossing

Book a 4-day Serengeti Migration safari Mara River crossing. Witness the great wildebeest migration and river crossings in Northern Serengeti with experts.

4 Days Experience the Thrilling Serengeti Migration Safari Mara River Crossing

This 4-day Serengeti Migration safari Mara River crossing adventure takes you to the heart of the Northern Serengeti. Focus on the dramatic struggle for survival as thousands of wildebeest and zebras brave crocodile infested waters. Witness nature in its rawest form while enjoying luxury game drives and expert guiding. This package is specifically designed to maximize your chances of seeing a crossing during the peak migration season.

Tour Highlights:

Day 1
Arusha to – Northern Serengeti
Day 2
Northern Serengeti (Full Day Tour)
Day 3
Northern Serengeti (Full Day Tour)
Day 4
Northern Serengeti to Arusha
Duration 4 Days
🚙
Tour Mode Drive In – Drive Out
🎯
Main Tour Focus NIL
Tour Type Private Safari
Destination/Accommodation
Start/End
arusha
Tour Starting & Ending Point
1
Day 1
Northern Serengeti
Overnight: Mara Kati Kati Tented Camp
2
Day 2
Northern Serengeti
Overnight: Serengeti Simba Lodge
3
Day 3
Northern Serengeti
Overnight: Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge
4
Day 4
Northern Serengeti
Overnight: Legendary Lodge (coffee estate luxury)

Arrival Day: Arrival (Kilimanjaro Airport) – Arusha

Arrival (Kilimanjaro Airport) – Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will meet your professional driver for a transfer to your hotel in Arusha. This city serves as the gateway to the northern safari circuit and offers a cool climate to rest after your flight. You will have a short briefing about the upcoming tour and prepare your gear. The travel distance is 50 kilometers and takes about 1 hour. A positive and unexpected moment you might experience is seeing the playful blue monkeys in the hotel gardens while you enjoy your welcome drink.

Destination: Kilimanjaro Airport

Accommodation: The African Tulip

  mid rage 3 star lodge

Mid rage 3 star lodge

Meals & Drinks: Lunch, Dinner

Day 1: Arusha to – Northern Serengeti

Arusha to – Northern Serengeti

The journey begins early with a scenic drive toward the Northern Serengeti. You will pass through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area highlands, seeing Maasai bomas and vast landscapes along the way. Upon reaching the Northern Serengeti, you immediately start viewing the migration herds moving toward the river. The travel distance is about 330 kilometers and takes 8 hours. You might experience the unexpected joy of seeing hundreds of wildebeest stretching across the horizon like a moving grey carpet for the first time.

Destination: Northern Serengeti

Accommodation: Mara Kati Kati Tented Camp

  mid rage 3 star lodge

Mid rage 3 star lodge

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Northern Serengeti (Full Day Tour)

Northern Serengeti (Full Day Tour)

Spend the full day tracking the herds near the Mara River. This part of the 4-day migration safari focuses on the intense river crossings where animals brave crocodiles. Your guide will find the best viewing spots to watch the drama unfold. Activities include river crossing tracking and predator viewing. A positive surprise often happens when you hear the deep, resonant grunts of a hippo pool right next to your picnic lunch spot, adding a humorous sound to your meal.

Destination: Northern Serengeti

Accommodation: Serengeti Simba Lodge

  luxury 4 star lodge

Semi luxury 4 star lodge

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Northern Serengeti (Full Day Tour)

Northern Serengeti (Full Day Tour)

Another full day is dedicated to the remote northern tracks. This 4-day Serengeti Migration tour allows you to see predators like lions and leopards while they are most active. You will explore different habitats, from open plains to riverine forests. The activity involves roughly 60 kilometers of game viewing with a comfortable lunch break. You might experience the strange but positive moment of seeing a leopard lounging in a tree with its kill, completely undisturbed by the vehicle below.

Destination: Northern Serengeti

Accommodation: Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge

  luxury 4 star lodge

Semi luxury 4 star lodge

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Northern Serengeti to Arusha

Northern Serengeti to Arusha

After a final early morning game drive to catch the predators while they are still active, you begin the return journey to Arusha. This long drive allows you to reflect on the incredible sights of the past few days. The return trip covers 330 kilometers and takes about 8 hours. You may see a group of giraffes silhouetted against the rising sun as you leave the Northern plains, which is a beautiful sight to end the trip. You will arrive back in Arusha in the late evening.

Destination: Northern Serengeti

Accommodation: Legendary Lodge (coffee estate luxury)

  premium luxury 5 star lodge

Premium Luxury 5 star lodge

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

TOUR PRICE/COST

We offer two pricing options:

  •   Private Tour (Sharing Price)
  • The cost is shared within your private group. More people means a lower price per person.

  •   Group Joining Tour
  • Join others on a fixed-date tour at a set per-person rate—ideal for solo travelers or small groups.

    Private (Shared) Price

    No of pax Adult Child
    1 Pax $2,165 pp $1,624 pp
    2 Pax $1,540 pp $1,155 pp
    3 Pax $1,332 pp $999 pp
    4 Pax $1,228 pp $921 pp
    5 Pax $1,165 pp $874 pp
    6 Pax $1,123 pp $843 pp
    7+ Pax $1,094 pp $820 pp

    PRICE INCLUSIONS & PRICE EXCLUSIONS

    Inclusions
  •  Rescue fee
  •  Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
  •  All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
  •  All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
  •  All Taxes/VAT
  • Exclusions
  •  International flights to/from the start/end of the tour
  •  Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  •  Tips: tipping guideline
  •  Personal items
  •  Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
  • The Booking Form

    RELATED FAQS ABOUT 4 Days Serengeti Migration Safari Mara River Crossing

    What is the best month for a 4-day migration safari to see river crossings?

    The peak season for witnessing the wildebeest crossing the Mara River is usually between July and October. During these months, the herds are concentrated in the Northern Serengeti. This period provides the highest probability of seeing the intense struggle between the herds and crocodiles.

    Are the drives very long during this 4-day Serengeti Migration adventure?

    The initial drive from Arusha and the return trip on the final day are approximately eight hours long. Once you are in the Northern Serengeti, the daily drives are focused on wildlife viewing near the river. We ensure the vehicles are comfortable to make the travel time enjoyable for everyone.

    Is it possible to see the Big Five during this safari?

    While the migration is the main focus, the Northern Serengeti is home to lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes. The rare black rhino is also present but more elusive to find. Your guide will work hard to track these iconic animals while you wait for the wildebeest action.

    What kind of vehicle is used for the Mara River crossing tour?

    We use heavy duty 4x4 Land Cruisers that are specifically modified for the rugged Tanzanian terrain. These vehicles feature pop-up roofs for better wildlife viewing and photography. Each car is equipped with a fridge for cold drinks and charging ports for your electronic devices.

    Can I customize this 4-day safari to include a balloon flight?

    Yes, you can add a sunrise hot air balloon flight to your itinerary for an additional cost. This provides a unique aerial perspective of the migration herds and the Mara River. It is a popular addition that we can easily coordinate with your ground game drives.

    What should I pack for the Northern Serengeti in the dry season?

    We recommend packing light, breathable clothing in neutral colors and a warm jacket for the cool morning drives. Do not forget your camera, extra batteries, and a good pair of binoculars. Since the tracks are unpaved, bringing a scarf to protect your face from dust is very helpful.

    Are meals included in the 4-day Serengeti Migration package?

    All meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided during the tour. You will enjoy fresh meals at your lodge or camp, and high quality picnic lunches are provided for the full days in the bush. We also accommodate specific dietary requirements if you inform us in advance.

    How close do we get to the Mara River crossings?

    Our guides prioritize both your safety and the welfare of the animals. We position the vehicle at designated vantage points that offer clear views of the river without disturbing the crossing. This allows you to witness the event clearly while respecting the natural behavior of the wildlife.

    Is internet access available in the remote Northern Serengeti?

    Most luxury lodges and permanent camps provide Wi-Fi in the common lounge areas. However, the connection can be slow because of the remote location of the camps. There is generally no internet access while you are out on game drives in the park.

    Why should I book with Burigi Chato Safaris CO LTD for this trip?

    We have years of expertise in the Tanzania tourism industry and employ professional guides who know the migration patterns intimately. Our vehicles are well maintained and our itineraries are designed to maximize your viewing time. We prioritize your comfort and the quality of your wildlife experience.

    REVIEWS FOR 4 Days Experience the Thrilling Serengeti Migration Safari Mara River Crossing

    Write a Review

    The river crossing was the most intense thing I have ever seen

    5/5

    The river crossing was the most intense thing I have ever seen in nature. Burigi Chato Safaris CO LTD provided an excellent guide who was very patient during the long wait at the river.

    By: Lucas Schmidt
    From: Flag DE

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    : Our 4-day Serengeti Migration safari Mara River crossing was perfectly

    5/5

    : Our 4-day Serengeti Migration safari Mara River crossing was perfectly organized from start to finish. We saw thousands of wildebeest and several lions on the hunt.

    By: Sarah Jenkins
    From: Flag US

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    I was surprised by how much wildlife we saw even before reaching the river

    5/5

    I was surprised by how much wildlife we saw even before reaching the river. The leopard sighting on the third day was a highlight for our entire group.

    By: Chloe Thompson
    From: Flag UA

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    The long drive was worth every minute to see the Great Migration

    5/5

    The long drive was worth every minute to see the Great Migration in person. Burigi Chato Safaris CO LTD made sure we were comfortable throughout the whole journey.

    By: Marco Rossi
    From: Flag IT

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Watching the crocodiles wait for the wildebeest was terrifying and fascinating

    5/5

    : Watching the crocodiles wait for the wildebeest was terrifying and fascinating at the same time. The guide explained the behavior of the animals very clearly.

    By: Jean Dupont
    From: Flag FR

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Everything was top tier, from the vehicle to the food at the camp

    5/5

    Everything was top tier, from the vehicle to the food at the camp. We felt very safe and well taken care of by the professional staff.

    By: Emily Watson
    From: Flag CA

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Unforgettable safari experience

    5/5

    I have been on many safaris, but seeing the Mara River crossing was a completely unique experience. The timing of our tour was perfect for the action.

    By: Lachlan Murray
    From: Flag AU

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Incredible safari.

    5/5

    Burigi Chato Safaris CO LTD knows the Serengeti very well. We found a great spot at the river without too many other cars around us.

    By: Elena Martinez
    From: Flag ES

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    Exceptional safari experience

    5/5

    The landscape in the North is beautiful and the amount of animals is mind blowing. I would recommend this 4-day migration safari to anyone.

    By: : Bram Van Dijk
    From: Flag NL

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image

    : A very professional team that really cares about the experience of the guests

    5/5

    : A very professional team that really cares about the experience of the guests. The wildlife sightings were constant and the river crossing was the perfect finale.

    By: Thomas O'Brien
    From: Flag US

    Photos related to the place visited

    Review Image
    Review Image
    Review Image