11 Days Wildebeest Migration Family Safari

From

$2,500

Tour Overview

This epic 11-day safari offers a dynamic mix of hiking, culture, and wildlife. Begin with a day hike on Mt. Kilimanjaro and spend time acclimating in Arusha. Then venture into classic safari terrain with visits to Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and the surreal Lake Natron, home of flamingos and volcanic beauty. The highlight includes time in both Central and Northern Serengeti (Kogatende) for potential Great Migration sightings, before descending into the stunning Ngorongoro Crater. This route is perfect for travelers wanting a deeper, off-the-beaten-path Tanzania experience.

Day by day

Day 1: Arrival – Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, your driver-guide will welcome you and transfer you to your lodge in Arusha. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a relaxed evening or explore the town’s vibrant markets or coffee shops.

Accommodation: Gran Melia Arusha
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Kilimanjaro Day Hike – Mandara Hut Route

Today you’ll hike the Marangu Route on Mt. Kilimanjaro. Start at Marangu Gate and trek through lush rainforest to Mandara Hut (2,700 m). Along the way, you may see colobus monkeys and enjoy breathtaking views. After lunch near the hut, descend and return to Arusha.

Accommodation: Gran Melia Arusha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Arusha – Tarangire National Park

Depart for Tarangire National Park, known for its ancient baobab trees and large elephant herds. Enjoy a full-day game drive with chances to see lions, giraffes, and a variety of birdlife. In the evening, settle into a lodge near the park.

Accommodation: Lemala Mpingo Ridge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Tarangire – Lake Manyara

After a short morning game drive, head to Lake Manyara National Park. Explore its diverse ecosystems—forest, lake, and grassland—and look for tree-climbing lions, hippos, flamingos, and monkeys. In the late afternoon, visit a local village or market in Mto wa Mbu.

Accommodation: Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Lake Manyara – Lake Natron

Drive to Lake Natron, one of Tanzania’s most dramatic and remote landscapes. Nestled beneath Ol Doinyo Lengai, the active volcano, the lake is known for its flamingos and surreal mineral shoreline. Arrive in time for a guided walk along the lake and cultural interaction with local Maasai.

Accommodation: Africa Safari Lake Natron
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Lake Natron Exploration

Rise early for a sunrise flamingo walk, followed by a visit to the stunning Ngare Sero Waterfalls—a short hike through a narrow gorge. Enjoy a peaceful afternoon at camp or engage in an optional Maasai cultural activity or volcano hike (strenuous, optional, prearranged).

Accommodation: Africa Safari Lake Natron
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Lake Natron – North Serengeti

Depart after breakfast and drive into the Serengeti National Park via the northeastern Loliondo route, with game viewing along the way. Arrive in North Serengeti by mid to late afternoon for your first exciting game drive in the Northern region.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9: Full Day in Northern Serengeti

Spend the full day exploring Kogatende. Depending on the season, you may witness dramatic river crossings, predators on the hunt, and herds in motion. If it’s not migration season, the region still offers excellent game viewing with elephants, lions, leopards, and more.

Accommodation: Serengeti Mara River Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8: North Serengeti – Central Serengeti (Kogatende)

Enjoy a morning game drive in North Serengeti, then head north toward Seronera area, central Serengeti. You will enjoy Game viewing en route. Arrive at camp in time for sunset.

Accommodation: Serengeti Sametu Luxury Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10: Serengeti – Ngorongoro Highlands

After a final Serengeti game drive, travel south through the park and into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Along the way, stop at scenic lookouts and possibly a Maasai boma. Arrive in Karatu, near the crater rim, for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 11: Ngorongoro Crater Safari – Return to Arusha / Departure

Descend into the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day safari. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the Big Five, including black rhino, lions, elephants, and more. After lunch, begin your return journey to Arusha or the airport for your flight home.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch