Curator’s statement
The Great Migration is by far one of the most magnificent wildlife phenomena to experience in all of Africa. Every year, over two million wildebeest, zebra and gazelle migrate in a clockwise motion from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Maasai Mara in Kenya, creating a circular migratory pattern across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem that attracts an abundance of predators. Experience the migration both through daily game drives and in the air in a luxurious hot air balloon safari. This itinerary starts in Nairobi where you will fly to Maasai Mara Reserve before crossing into Tanzania to experience the heart of the migration in Serengeti. You will then make your way south to the Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park, where many of the animals give birth before ending in Arusha (near Mt. Kilimanjaro.)
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Days 1-2: Nairobi & Giraffe Manor
After arriving in Nairobi, you will be transported to the luxurious Giraffe Manor where you will stay in one of twelve individually decorated rooms. Guests have the unique opportunity to encounter a herd of giraffes that freely roam the grounds and often appear for breakfast and dinner before retreating to the forest. Some rooms even offer direct access to feeding giraffes.
During your stay in Nairobi, both historical and cultural tours can be arranged. Alternatively, guests can relax at the manor or enjoy the spa prior to embarking on their great migration safari.
Day 3-5: Masai Mara Game Reserve
Today you will fly into the Masai Mara Game Reserve, the northern extension of the Serengeti that sits along the southern border of Kenya. After settling into your luxury tent, you will enjoy your first game drive.
While in Masai Mara, you will stay in Sala's Camp, one of the most luxurious safari camps in the region. You will have an unforgettable experience in this magical retreat, including private plunge pools, all-inclusive food and drinks and twice-daily game drives in customized safari vehicles with ultimate comfort.
Interested in a private safari experience? This can be arranged to tailor your great migration journey at not only Sala's Camp, but all camps. This ensures a completely tailor-made trip to venture a little more off the beaten track.
Days 6-8: Serengeti
From Masai Mara you will be transferred to the Serengeti, where you will witness the heart of the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeests, zebra, and gazelle will trek across the plains in search of natural resources (along with a myriad of hungry predators.)
While in the Serengeti, you will stay at the Nyasi Migrational Camp, which is set up in two different locations depending on the time of year, giving visitors an optimal chance to catch The Great Migration. During your stay, you will stay in a luxury tent with all the modern amenities you have at a lodge. You will enjoy your very own private safari vehicle, two daily game drives (or all-day safaris) and a hot air balloon safari. Authentic cultural experiences with a local tribe can also be added on.
Day 9-10: Ngorongoro Crater
After witnessing The Great Migration, you will descend further south into Ngorongoro Crater to explore panoramic views like none other. Due to the unique landscape of this region, it's often possible to encounter the Big Five in a days' visit (including the black rhino. )
During your visit, you will stay at Gibb's Farm, a unique coffee plantation founded in the 1900's offering a remote paradise of gorgeous cottages just outside the Crater, where you will enjoy farm-to-table delicacies.
Day 11-13: Tarangire National Park
Next you will head southwest toward Tarangire National Park, which is known for having an abundance of lions, elephants and buffalo. While there, you will stay in a luxury room at Chem Chem Lodge as you explore the area on your final game drives on this gorgeous property.
Day 14: Arusha / Kilamanjaro
Today will depart on a flight to Arusha, where you will be taken to Legendary Lodge either for a lunch before your flight (if flying out that day) or an overnight stay with a tour of a nearby coffee plantation if adding on an extension.
Possible Extensions
Kilamanjaro Hiking Tour
Zanzibar Beach Break
Uganda Gorilla Trekking
Victoria Falls Experience
Let's talk about customizing this itinerary for you. Or, about other destinations.
Travel Advisor
Jeff Willy
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For more travel inspiration, check out my guide 5-Day Itinerary for Exploring the Natural Beauty of Croatia, Two Week Safari in South Africa and Cape Town with Victoria Falls, 10-Day Cultural Adventure Through Spain and more.