10-Day Ultimate Migration Safari (Northern Circuit Focus)

10-Day Ultimate Migration Safari (Northern Circuit Focus)

This itinerary is designed for travelers whose primary goal is to witness the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration, combining it with visits to other iconic Northern Circuit parks. The timing is crucial for this safari.

Best Time to Go:

The “ultimate” migration safari heavily depends on the time of year you travel, as the wildebeest migration is a year-round cycle.

  • January – March (Calving Season): Focus on the Southern Serengeti (Ndutu area) for newborn wildebeest and intense predator action.
  • June – July (Western Corridor): Witness the build-up and early river crossings in the Western Serengeti (Grumeti River).
  • August – October (Northern Serengeti & Mara River Crossings): This is often considered the peak time for dramatic Mara River crossings into Kenya. You’ll need to focus your time in the northernmost parts of the Serengeti.

Typical Itinerary Outline:

  • Day 1: Arrival in Arusha/Kilimanjaro. Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), meet your guide, and transfer to a lodge in Arusha for relaxation.
  • Day 2: Tarangire National Park. Drive to Tarangire, known for its massive elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Enjoy a full day of game drives.
  • Day 3: Lake Manyara National Park. Explore Lake Manyara, famous for its tree-climbing lions (though rare to spot them climbing) and abundant birdlife, especially flamingos when the lake level is right.
  • Day 4-7: Serengeti National Park (Migration Focus).
    • Travel to the Serengeti, stopping at a viewpoint over the Ngorongoro Crater.
    • Spend multiple days tracking the migration. Your camp location will be strategic:
      • Jan-Mar: Stay in the Ndutu area.
      • Jun-Jul: Stay in the Western Corridor.
      • Aug-Oct: Stay in the Northern Serengeti, close to the Mara River.
    • Enjoy full-day game drives, often with packed lunches, to maximize your chances of witnessing the herds and associated predators. Mobile tented camps are excellent for staying close to the action.
  • Day 8-9: Ngorongoro Conservation Area & Crater.
    • Drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
    • Spend a full day descending into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for unparalleled wildlife viewing in a condensed area (the “Big Five” are often seen here).
    • Optional: Visit a Maasai village or Olduvai Gorge.
  • Day 10: Departure. Drive back to Arusha for your onward flight from JRO, concluding your safari.

Logistics from Uganda: You’ll fly from Entebbe (EBB) to Kilimanjaro (JRO).