6 Days Crocodile And Wildebeest Mara Crossing Safari
Serengeti National Park is well known for its open savannahs and endless grasslands. In reality, the Serengeti ecosystem is much more varied than that. Serengeti National Park, the most well-known park in Africa, which is home to many wonders like the great wildebeest migration, the African Big Five, the greatest number of predators.
When to Go?
August– October: This is when the wildebeest are in the northern Serengeti plains, and you have a chance of seeing up to thousands crossing the great Mara River. As the sight of the wildebeest crossing the so dramatic, it is considered by many the most desirable time to see the migration.
Day 1: Arrival at Tarangire National Park - A Gateway to the African Wilderness
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Arusha to Tarangire National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. As you approach the park, the sight of towering baobab trees and vast open spaces sets the stage for your safari. Tarangire is renowned for its large elephant herds, especially during the dry season when thousands of elephants congregate around the Tarangire River in search of water. But it’s not just elephants—wildebeest, zebras, giraffes, and buffalo also call the park home. The diversity of wildlife and the park’s beauty make it an ideal first stop on your journey. After a rewarding day of game viewing, you’ll head to Country Lodge in Karatu for dinner and an overnight stay, where you can relax and prepare for the upcoming days in the Serengeti.
Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater - The Garden of Eden
On day two, you’ll visit the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the most unique ecosystems on the planet. Formed by the collapse of an ancient volcano, the Crater is home to some of the densest populations of large mammals in Africa. The spectacular scenery and abundance of wildlife make it a must-see destination. Expect to encounter the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards—as well as numerous other species, including flamingos on the soda lakes. After a few hours of exploring the Crater floor, you’ll drive to the Serengeti for dinner and an overnight stay at a comfortable tented lodge, where the sounds of the African wilderness will lull you to sleep.
Day 3: Journey to the Northern Serengeti - Tracking the Migration
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll embark on a morning game drive in the central Serengeti, home to an incredible array of predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs. You’ll also encounter large herds of wildebeest and zebras, setting the stage for the Great Migration. After lunch, you’ll drive north towards the Serengeti’s northern plains, where the wildebeest herds are migrating during the months of August to October. Depending on your arrival time, you might have the opportunity to take an evening game drive in the northern Serengeti, where the Mara River awaits. Afterward, settle into your lodge for dinner and a peaceful overnight stay in the heart of the Serengeti.
Day 4: Full Day Game Drive Along the Mara River - Wildebeest Crossings and Crocodiles
Day four is dedicated to exploring the northern Serengeti and witnessing one of the most dramatic natural events on Earth: the wildebeest migration and river crossings. The Great Mara River, which marks the border between Tanzania and Kenya, is the ultimate hurdle for the migrating herds. During your game drive, you’ll follow the herds and watch as thousands of wildebeest attempt the treacherous crossing, often coming face to face with the river’s deadly predators, including crocodiles. The sight of wildebeest swimming across the river and crocodiles lying in wait is a truly heart-pounding spectacle. After an exhilarating day, return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, reflecting on the raw beauty of the migration.
Day 5: Final Chance to Witness the Wildebeest Crossing
On your fifth day, you’ll embark on a morning game drive in the northern Serengeti, continuing your search for the wildebeest crossing. If you haven’t witnessed a crossing on the previous day, this is your last opportunity to see one of the most awe-inspiring sights in the animal kingdom. The Mara River can be unpredictable, and while the crossings are most likely to happen in the peak months of the migration, you’ll have a good chance of observing this dramatic event with the guidance of your expert safari guide. After lunch, you’ll begin your journey back to the Serengeti’s central region for a final evening game drive and overnight stay at your lodge.
Day 6: Farewell to the Serengeti - Departure
On your final day, enjoy a relaxing breakfast before departing for Seronera Airstrip for your flight or beginning the drive back to Arusha. Depending on your flight time, you may have a final opportunity for a brief game drive on your way out of the Serengeti. The journey back offers a chance to reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had—watching the wildebeest migration, witnessing crocodiles in action, and immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Serengeti. Your safari comes to a close with fond memories of one of the most spectacular wildlife shows on Earth, as you make your way back to Arusha.
The ideal time to visit Tanzania for a safari is during the dry season, from late June to October. The peak months for witnessing the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti are June and July, while the wildebeest calving period occurs from late January to February. The southern and western circuit parks are best explored during the dry season (June to October), while the more popular northern circuit parks can be visited year-round. However, Tarangire stands out as the only park where wildlife viewing is significantly better during the dry season.
