This 3-day fly-in safari in Northern Serengeti is tailor-made for those chasing the Great Migration river crossings. Taking place between July and early September, these dramatic scenes unfold as thousands of wildebeest and zebras plunge into the Mara River, facing strong currents and lurking crocodiles.
Crossings don’t follow a schedule – which is part of the thrill! You’ll overnight at a camp just a short drive from key crossing points, so you’ll find yourself in a fron-row seat to the wildest events and ready to move quickly when it begins. And even beyond the migration, this area is packed with classic safari magic: open savannahs, dramatic views, and rich resident wildlife, including big cats.
Please note: This safari starts in a remote Kogatende region of Northern Serengeti, which is best reachable by a bush plane. You can fly to Serengeti from all key airports in Tanzania – Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Dar-es-Salaam or Zanzibar. The tour does not include domestic flights, but we can book those for you as well – just let us know your pre- and post-safari plans.
Highlights
Private Group safari
Full day Game drive
Authentic Safari Accommodation
Professional Safari Guide
Itinerary
Day 1 :
Fly Into Serengeti National Park
Your adventure begins with a flight to the Kogatende airstrip, located in the northern Serengeti. Flights are not included in the tour price - please let us know the port of your departure for safari, and we will assist with the flight booking. Most flights arrive in the first half of the day, and your driver-guide will be waiting for you right on the airstrip.
After a short transfer to your tented lodge, you’ll settle in, enjoy a delicious lunch, and take a moment to soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Then it’s time to head out on your very first game drive – get your camera ready and safari spirit on! The action starts right away.
From July through September, this region becomes the stage for one of nature’s most dramatic shows: the Great Migration. Wildebeest and zebra herds cross the Mara River in search of fresh grazing – and with them come predators.
You’ll be exploring in open-sided safari vehicles, which allow for the immersive experience – especially during exciting moments like river crossings or predator sightings. If you'd like to have a closed-type vehicle, let us know in advance!
Kogatende is rich in resident wildlife, apart from the migrating herds. You may spot elegant antelope species like the spiral-horned kudu, massive eland, and tiny dik-diks, along with giraffes, buffaloes, and zebras gathering near the river. Your guide will help you spot and understand the behavior of each species – making this more than just sightseeing, but a true learning journey.
Meal Plan: Full board
Day 2 :
Serengeti National Park — Kogatende
Your second day in Kogatende takes you to the Mara River, which forms a natural border between the Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara. Here, you can witness one of the most iconic events in the animal kingdom: the river crossing, when wildebeests, zebras, and other grazers navigate the waters during the Great Migration. This dramatic spectacle has drawn National Geographic, Animal Planet, Discovery Channel, and other renowned wildlife programs to document it, and is part of what makes the Serengeti a World Heritage Site.
Your Altezza Travel guide will bring the story to life with local insight, sharing their knowledge as a Tanzanian who deeply understands the connection between the wildlife and the land of Tanzania. They’ll make sure you appreciate not just the spectacle itself, but the rhythm of life behind this incredible natural phenomenon.
Day 3 :
Bush Flight from Serengeti
This morning is yours to enjoy at a relaxed pace. Have a peaceful breakfast at the lodge and take some time to soak in the surroundings before your departure.
Most flights usually depart around 10-11 AM, so you will leave the lodge at a comfortable time, typically around 9 AM, to reach the airstrip. Please note that you need to be at the airstrip about one hour before departure for check-in and boarding procedures.
From there, you will continue your journey to your next destination.
If you would like to extend your safari activities and depart on a later flight in the afternoon, this can be arranged for an additional cost. If this is something you would like to consider, please contact your travel expert in advance to check availability.
Flights are not included in the tour price - please let us know the port of your departure for safari, and we will assist with the flight booking.
Cost
The Cost Includes
Pick-up or Drop-off service from and to Airport(in our own vehicle)
Transportation to and from!!
Food all along the trip(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and a cup of coffee or tea) and accommodations during the trip in hotels with family environment
Transportation, food, accommodation and insurance of Guide during the trip
First Aid Medical Kit(Your guide will carry the Medical Kit but we also advise to bring yourself for your own use, as far as possible)
All the required permits and paperwork
The Cost Excludes
International Airfare
Visa Charges
Hotel Expenses
Your travel and medical insurance
Personal Expenses such as shopping, bar bills, hot shower, telephone, laundry, titbits etc
Food and accommodations
Services not mentioned or not promised by the agent/agency
Emergency expenses such as expenses on chartered helicopter.
All About Your Trek
Experience one of the world’s greatest wildlife spectacles on the Great Migration River Crossing Safari, an extraordinary journey into the heart of the Northern Serengeti, where thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles make their dramatic crossing of the Mara River. This safari offers exceptional opportunities to witness one of nature’s most remarkable events as massive herds brave strong river currents and predators in search of greener grazing lands.
Beyond the migration, you’ll explore the vast Serengeti ecosystem, renowned for its incredible biodiversity, large predator populations, and breathtaking landscapes. Depending on your itinerary, the adventure may also include visits to Ngorongoro Crater and other iconic Northern Circuit destinations. With expert safari guides, comfortable accommodations, and carefully planned game drives, this safari provides an unforgettable African wildlife experience for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and first-time visitors alike.
Route & Terrain: The safari typically begins in Arusha, with a scenic drive or domestic flight to the Northern Serengeti, where the Mara River crossings occur during the migration season.
The journey includes a variety of landscapes, including:
Endless savannah plains
Rolling grasslands
Acacia woodlands
Riverine forests
Rocky kopjes
The Mara River ecosystem
Road travel combines paved highways with well-maintained safari tracks designed for wildlife viewing..
Duration & Pace: The itinerary generally ranges from 5 to 8 days, allowing travelers enough time to maximize their chances of witnessing the Great Migration River Crossing. Game drives are conducted at a relaxed pace with experienced guides who track wildlife movements throughout the day. Flexible schedules allow extra time near river crossing points whenever herds are gathering.
Accommodation & Facilities: Accommodation is carefully selected to provide comfort while keeping you close to the migration.
Depending on your itinerary, you may stay in:
Luxury tented camps
Safari lodges
Permanent tented camps
Mobile migration camps following the herds
Facilities typically include:
Stunning views overlooking the Serengeti wilderness
En-suite bathrooms
Comfortable beds
Restaurant and dining facilities
Lounge areas
Hot showers
Solar-powered electricity
Wi-Fi at selected properties
Cultural Experience: Along your journey, you’ll travel through communities rich in Tanzanian culture. Optional cultural experiences may include visits to Maasai villages, where you can learn about traditional customs, livestock keeping, music, dance, and daily life.
These experiences offer valuable insight into one of East Africa’s most iconic cultures while supporting local community tourism initiatives.
Best Time to Visit: The best time for the Great Migration River Crossing is generally:
July to September: Peak Mara River crossing season in the Northern Serengeti.
October: Late migration as herds remain in the northern Serengeti before moving toward Kenya or returning south.
Although river crossings are most common during these months, the migration is a natural event influenced by rainfall and grazing conditions, so exact crossing dates cannot be guaranteed.
Preparation & Packing Tips:
To make the most of youFor the best safari experience, we recommend packing:
Lightweight neutral-colored clothing
Warm jacket for cool mornings and evenings
Comfortable walking shoes
Wide-brimmed hat
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Camera with zoom lens
Extra batteries and memory cards
Binoculars
Personal medications
Passport and travel documents
Small daypack for daily essentials
Soft-sided luggage is recommended, especially if domestic flights are included.r trek, pack wisely. Essential items include sturdy trekking boots, layered clothing for fluctuating temperatures, rain gear, sun protection such as hats and sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and personal medication. It’s advisable to keep your backpack light and prioritize comfort and functionality.
Health & Safety: Your safety and comfort are our highest priorities.
We recommend:
Consulting your healthcare provider regarding recommended vaccinations and malaria prevention.
Carrying comprehensive travel insurance.
Drinking bottled or purified water.
Following your safari guide’s instructions at all times.
Remaining inside the safari vehicle unless instructed otherwise.
Respecting wildlife by maintaining safe viewing distances.
Our professional safari guides are highly trained in wildlife behavior, first aid, and emergency procedures.
Environmental Responsibility: We are committed to sustainable tourism and wildlife conservation.
Guests are encouraged to:
Respect wildlife and avoid disturbing natural behavior.
Stay on designated safari roads.
Dispose of waste responsibly.
Minimize the use of single-use plastics.
Support local conservation initiatives.
Respect local cultures and traditions.
Responsible travel helps preserve the Serengeti ecosystem and the Great Migration for future generations.
Additional Support: From the moment you arrive until your departure, our experienced safari team is dedicated to ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.
Our services include:
Airport and hotel transfers
Professional English-speaking safari guide
Private 4×4 safari vehicle
Accommodation arrangements
Domestic flight assistance (where applicable)
Dietary requirement coordination
Emergency assistance throughout your safari
Personalized customer support before, during, and after your journey
Our mission is to deliver an unforgettable Great Migration safari, combining exceptional wildlife encounters, outstanding service, and the natural beauty of Tanzania’s world-famous Serengeti.
FAQs
General
This safari focuses on one of the world's greatest natural spectacles—the Great Wildebeest Migration. During the river crossing season, thousands of wildebeest and zebras attempt to cross the Mara River while facing strong currents and waiting crocodiles, creating one of Africa's most dramatic wildlife events.
The best time is generally from July to early September, although wildlife movements depend on rainfall and grazing conditions. Because the migration is a natural event, exact crossing dates cannot be predicted.
No. River crossings are completely natural events and cannot be guaranteed. Herds may gather for hours or even days before crossing, or they may change direction unexpectedly. Your guide will monitor wildlife movements to maximize your chances of witnessing this incredible spectacle.
Accommodation is typically in luxury or comfortable tented safari camps located close to the migration routes, allowing quick access to the Mara River crossing areas while providing an authentic wilderness experience.
Daily game drives generally last between 6 and 8 hours, depending on wildlife activity. During migration season, your guide may spend extended time near the Mara River waiting for crossing opportunities.
No. This safari is suitable for most travelers. Game viewing is done from a safari vehicle, although long drives and extended periods of sitting may be expected.
Meal Plan: Full board