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.
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.
Day photos
Accommodation & Meals
- Private Safari Transport: Exclusive use of a customized 4x4 safari Land Cruiser equipped with a pop-up roof, high-spec suspension, power outlets, and a cooler with chilled drinks.
- Expert Local Guide: Services of a highly experienced, professional English-speaking safari guide-naturalist.
- Internal Flight: One-way domestic flight from Serengeti (Seronera/Kogatende) back to Arusha on Day 6, including aviation taxes and fuel surcharges.
- All Accommodations: 6 nights of hand-picked luxury lodging as specified in the itinerary (double/twin sharing).
- Full Board Meals: All breakfasts, lunches (including hot lunches or gourmet picnic boxes on game drives), and dinners.
- Park & Conservation Fees: All national park entry fees, Ngorongoro Crater descent fees, and local community conservation fees.
- Private Airport Transfers: Meet-and-greet services and private vehicle transfers for both arrival and departure at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
- Amref Flying Doctors Coverage: Emergency medical evacuation insurance to Arusha/Nairobi during the safari.
- Mineral Water: Unlimited bottled drinking water in the safari vehicle.
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