Great Migration Itinerary (Northern Circuit, July-Sept)

Great Migration Itinerary (Northern Circuit, July-Sept)

The northern circuit in Tanzania include some of the best wildlife sightings in East Africa and also some of the best accommodations. In this classic route, usually starting from Arusha, you can explore a number of national parks and reserves like: Lake Manyara, Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater and Norongoro Conservation Area and, finally, the famous Serengeti.

Sample Itinerary 11 nights

Day 1 Arrive in Arusha (Kilimanjaro International Airport). Overnight in Arusha.

Days 2-4 Drive to Tarangire National Park. Stay 3 nights at Oliver’s Camp. Magnificent for Elephants; also many antelopes and predators.

Days 5-7 Drive to the Ngorongoro Crater, the African Noah’s Ark. With some luck and a good guide you can see the “big five” (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion, leopard) in a single game drive. Descend to the crater for a full day game drive on day 6. On day 7 explore and hike the much less visited neighboring craters (Empakai and Olmoti) Stay 3 nights at the The Highlands.

Days 8-11 Drive to Manyara airstrip for your flight to Kogatende in the norther Serengeti. Arrive to Olakira Migration Camp, which at this time of the year is settled in the north, to watch the famous Mara river crossings during the Great Migration. Alternatively stay at Kimondo, Ubuntu or Sayari camps. While staying here (4 nights) there is an opportunity for a hot-air balloon sunrise flight over the Serengeti (additional fee)

Day 12 Last early morning drive in Serengeti. After breakfast game-drive to Kogatende for your flight back to Arusha.

PHOTO GALLERY: NORTHERN CIRCUIT GREAT MIGRATION CAMPS AND LODGES