5 Days Serengeti Migration Safari in January

Join our 5-day Serengeti Migration safari in January. Witness the calving season, see the Big Five, and explore Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania.

Experience the Great Migration on a Serengeti Migration Safari In January

This 5-day Serengeti Migration safari in January takes you to Northern Tanzania during the spectacular calving season. Witness thousands of wildebeests on the lush plains, explore Tarangire elephant herds, and descend into the Ngorongoro Crater. Enjoy vibrant green landscapes and high predator activity as the migration settles into the southern and central regions for a unique winter adventure.

Tour Highlights:

Day 1
Arusha to Tarangire (Full Day Tour)
Day 2
Tarangire to Serengeti Central (Half-Day Game Drive)
Day 3
Central Serengeti to Northern Serengeti (Full Day Tour)
Day 4
Northern Serengeti (Full Day Tour) to Central Serengeti
Day 5
Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater (half day tour) to Arusha
Duration 5 Days
🚙
Tour Mode Drive In – Drive Out
🎯
Main Tour Focus Serengeti Migration
Tour Type Private Safari
Destination/Accommodation
Start/End
Arusha
Tour Starting & Ending Point
1
Day 1
Tarangire
Overnight: Tarangire Safari Lodge
2
Day 2
Central Serengeti
Overnight: Serengeti Safari Lodge
3
Day 3
Northern Serengeti
Overnight: Mara Kati Kati Tented Camp
4
Day 4
Northern Serengeti
Overnight: Serengeti Safari Lodge
5
Day 5
Ngorongoro Crater
Overnight: Mount Meru Hotel

Arrival Day: Arrival (Kilimanjaro Airport) to Arusha

Arrival (Kilimanjaro Airport) to Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, a driver from Burigi Chato Safaris CO LTD will meet you and provide a transfer to your hotel in Arusha. The journey covers about 50 kilometers and takes roughly one hour. This day is dedicated to resting after your flight and receiving a brief orientation about your upcoming adventure. You will meet your guide to discuss the 5-day January safari and check your gear. Arusha is a peaceful city at the base of Mount Meru, offering a cool climate to start your trip. A positive moment to enjoy is the first clear view of Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru from the aircraft or the hotel gardens.

Destination: Kilimanjaro Airport

Accommodation: Mount Meru Hotel

  luxury 4 star lodge

Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images

Meals & Drinks: Lunch, Dinner

Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire (Full Day Tour)

Arusha to Tarangire (Full Day Tour)

The journey begins with a drive to Tarangire National Park, which takes about 2 to 3 hours over 120 kilometers. In January, Tarangire is exceptionally green and the giant baobab trees are covered in fresh leaves. You will spend the full day on a game drive along the Tarangire River. This park is famous for having a large elephant population. A positive unexpected moment might be seeing a large elephant family feeding on the fresh green grass or watching them interact playfully near the water. You will head to your accommodation in the late evening for dinner.

Destination: Tarangire

Accommodation: Tarangire Safari Lodge

  luxury 4 star lodge

Tarangire Safari Lodge Images
Tarangire Safari Lodge Images
Tarangire Safari Lodge Images
Tarangire Safari Lodge Images
Tarangire Safari Lodge Images
Tarangire Safari Lodge Images
Tarangire Safari Lodge Images
Tarangire Safari Lodge Images
Tarangire Safari Lodge Images
Tarangire Safari Lodge

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Tarangire to Serengeti Central (Half-Day Game Drive)

Tarangire to Serengeti Central (Half-Day Game Drive)

After breakfast, you will drive toward the Central Serengeti, a journey of approximately 250 kilometers taking about 6 hours. You will pass through the scenic Ngorongoro Highlands, which look like rolling green hills during this time of year. Once you enter the Serengeti, you will begin a half day game drive in the Seronera Valley. This area is known for its high concentration of leopards and lions. A surprising moment could be seeing a cheetah using a termite mound as a vantage point to scout for prey in the tall grass. You will stay at a lodge or camp in the heart of the park.

Destination: Central Serengeti

Accommodation: Serengeti Safari Lodge

  mid rage 3 star lodge

Budget 2 star lodge

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Central Serengeti to Northern Serengeti (Full Day Tour)

Central Serengeti to Northern Serengeti (Full Day Tour)

Today you travel north to track the great herds. The drive covers 140 kilometers and takes about 5 hours through woodlands and hills. This 5-day January safari in Serengeti Migration focuses on reaching the northern reaches where the landscape is exceptionally beautiful and quiet. You will spend the afternoon watching resident wildlife such as giraffes, buffaloes, and topis grazing on the fresh grass. A powerful moment for many is seeing a dramatic afternoon storm roll across the plains followed by a spectacular rainbow over the horizon. You will stay at a camp near the northern hills.

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 4: Northern Serengeti (Full Day Tour) to Central Serengeti

Northern Serengeti (Full Day Tour) to Central Serengeti

The morning is dedicated to exploring the northern areas and observing the interaction between predators and resident animals. After a picnic lunch, you will begin the game drive back toward the Central Serengeti, which takes another 5 hours. Along the way, you might spot a pride of lions reclaiming their territory or hyenas patrolling the plains. An unexpected positive moment might be witnessing a rare caracal or a serval cat hunting in the lush vegetation. You will return to your central lodge for your final night in the Serengeti, surrounded by the sounds of the wilderness.

Destination: Northern Serengeti

Accommodation: Serengeti Safari Lodge

  mid rage 3 star lodge

Budget 2 star lodge

Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater (half day tour) to Arusha

Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater (half day tour) to Arusha

You will leave early for the Ngorongoro Crater, which is a 3 hour drive. You will descend into the caldera for a half day tour of this unique ecosystem. In January, the crater floor is covered in wildflowers and the soda lake is often filled with flamingos. This is the best place to find the rare black rhino and see the Big Five in a single day. A highlight is having lunch near the hippo pool while watching the giant animals interact in the water. Afterward, you will drive 190 kilometers back to Arusha, arriving in the late evening for your departure.

Destination: Ngorongoro Crater

Accommodation: Mount Meru Hotel

  luxury 4 star lodge

Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images
Mount Meru Hotel Images

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 $2,472 pp $1,854 pp
    2 Pax $1,822 pp $1,367 pp
    3 Pax $1,605 pp $1,204 pp
    4 Pax $1,497 pp $1,123 pp
    5 Pax $1,432 pp $1,074 pp
    6 Pax $1,389 pp $1,042 pp
    7+ Pax $1,358 pp $1,018 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 5 Days Serengeti Migration Safari in January

    What is the weather like during a 5-day January safari?

    January is part of the green season in Tanzania, meaning you will see lush landscapes and clear skies. While there may be short afternoon showers, they usually do not interfere with game drives. The air is very crisp and clean, making it perfect for photography.

    Will I see the calving season on a 5-day January safari in Serengeti Migration?

    While the peak calving usually happens in February, the herds start gathering in the southern plains during January. You will see many pregnant wildebeests and the very first newborns of the season. This is a great time to witness the start of the life cycle.

    Are the roads muddy during this 5-day January safari in Serengeti Migration?

    Some tracks in the parks can become wet, but we use professional 4x4 Land Cruisers to handle these conditions. Our drivers are highly experienced in navigating the terrain during the green season. You will still be able to reach the best viewing spots safely and comfortably.

    Is it possible to customize my 5-day January safari to include more days?

    We offer many options for package customization if you want to stay longer or add extra activities. You can add a hot air balloon flight or spend an extra night in the southern Ndutu area. Simply let us know your preferences and we will adjust the itinerary.

    What kind of clothes should I pack for this 5-day January safari in Serengeti Migration?

    You should pack light clothing for the day and warm layers for the early mornings and evenings. A waterproof jacket is also important for the occasional afternoon rain. Breathable fabrics are best for the warm and humid afternoons in the bush.

    Are the lodges open during the green season in January?

    All major lodges and tented camps remain open throughout January because it is a popular time for wildlife viewing. You will enjoy high quality service and excellent food at each of our selected accommodations. Most places also have power for charging your electronic devices.

    What is the benefit of booking a 5-day January safari in Serengeti Migration?

    One of the biggest benefits is seeing the huge concentration of animals without the massive crowds of the dry season. The scenery is also much more beautiful with green grass and wildflowers. It is a fantastic time for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

    Can I see the rare black rhino on this 5-day January safari?

    The Ngorongoro Crater is the most reliable place to see the endangered black rhino during your tour. Our guides are experts at tracking these animals within the crater floor. Seeing a rhino completes the Big Five list for many travelers.

    Is birdwatching good during a 5-day January safari in Serengeti Migration?

    January is a prime time for birdwatching because migratory birds from Europe and North Africa are present. You will see a huge variety of colorful species in every park you visit. The birds are often in their vibrant breeding plumage during this season.

    Is it safe to travel on a 5-day January safari in Serengeti Migration?

    Tanzania is a very safe destination for tourists and our team ensures your safety at all times. Our vehicles are well maintained and our guides are trained to handle any situation in the wild. You will be in professional hands throughout your entire journey.

    REVIEWS FOR Experience the Great Migration on a Serengeti Migration Safari In January

    Write a Review

    the most amazing safari

    5/5

    The green landscapes in January were absolutely beautiful and we saw so many elephants.

    By: Johann Fischer
    From: Flag DE

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    well organized safari

    5/5

    Burigi Chato Safaris CO LTD organized everything perfectly and the 4x4 vehicle was very comfortable even on wet roads. Our guide knew exactly where to find the lions.

    By: Sarah Jenkins
    From: Flag GB

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    the best safari ever

    5/5

    Seeing the Serengeti in January was a dream come true for my whole family.

    By: Matteo Rossi
    From: Flag IT

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    wildlife at it's best

    5/5

    I loved the quiet atmosphere and the lack of other tourists during our safari. The landscapes were so vibrant and beautiful for photos.

    By: Elena Petrov
    From: Flag RU

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    well organized safari

    5/5

    Our guide from Burigi Chato Safaris CO LTD was very knowledgeable about the birds and trees in Tarangire. We saw a lot of elephants and a rhino in the crater.

    By: David Thompson
    From: Flag CA

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    good service, good safari

    5/5

    The food was delicious and the lodges were very cozy even when it rained in the afternoon.

    By: Chloe O'Sullivan
    From: Flag AU

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    the best safari ever

    5/5

    A very well planned 5-day Serengeti Migration safari in January with great service from start to finish. We felt very safe and well looked after by the team.

    By: Hans Müller
    From: Flag GE

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    fantastic adventure

    5/5

    The sunrise over the green plains of the Serengeti is a memory I will keep forever.

    By: Sofia Fernandez
    From: Flag ES

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    the most amazing safari

    5/5

    I was surprised by how much wildlife we saw despite the tall grass. The migration herds were massive and stretched as far as the eye could see.

    By: Robert van den Berg
    From: Flag NL

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    wildlife at it's best

    5/5

    Everything was professional and the logistics were handled perfectly from the airport pick up. I highly recommend visiting Tanzania in January.

    By: Kenji Tanaka
    From: Flag JP

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