May to July (Western Corridor)
From May to July the herds push westward through the Grumeti area. The Western Corridor brings dramatic river crossings at the Grumeti River, where massive Nile crocodiles lie in wait. This is raw, unscripted nature at its most intense.
This safari takes you through the Central Serengeti and deep into the Western Corridor, where fewer vehicles and wilder landscapes create a more exclusive experience. Midrange lodges and tented camps throughout provide comfortable bases for long days tracking the herds.
Depart Arusha after breakfast and drive to Tarangire National Park (approximately 2.5 hours). Full day of game driving among the massive elephant herds, tree-climbing lions, and ancient baobab trees. The Tarangire River draws wildlife from across the region. Overnight at Marera Valley Lodge or Farm of Dreams Lodge in Karatu.
Drive through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and descend into the Serengeti. Afternoon game drive in the Central Serengeti, home to excellent year-round wildlife including large lion prides and resident herds. Overnight at Serengeti Heritage Camp or Thorn Tree Camp.
Drive westward following the migration herds toward the Grumeti area. The landscape shifts from open plains to wooded river valleys. Game driving en route with a focus on tracking the migration columns. Overnight at Mbalageti Tented Lodge or Serengeti Kati Kati Camp.
A full day tracking the herds with packed lunch. The Western Corridor is where the migration meets the Grumeti River, and predator encounters near the river banks are frequent and dramatic. Massive Nile crocodiles, lions, and hyenas all converge on the crossing points. Overnight at the same camp.
Morning game drive in the Western Corridor before heading back east toward the Central Serengeti. Continued wildlife viewing through varied Serengeti landscapes. Afternoon game drive around the Seronera area. Overnight at Serengeti Heritage Camp or Thorn Tree Camp.
Final morning game drive in the Serengeti before driving to the Ngorongoro Highlands. Arrive in the late afternoon with spectacular views from the crater rim. Overnight at Rhino Lodge or Ang'ata Ngorongoro Camp.
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater early in the morning for a half-day safari on the crater floor. The crater is home to approximately 25,000 large animals including lion, elephant, buffalo, hippo, and the endangered black rhino. After lunch, drive back to Arusha. Drop-off at your hotel or Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Embalaka Camp, Ngorongoro
Farm of Dreams, Karatu
Into Wild Camp, Serengeti
Exact lodges and camps may vary depending on availability. You will always stay at accommodation of equal or better standard.
We can adjust the duration, accommodation level, or add extra parks. Every itinerary is flexible.
Dec–Mar
From $2,300
Witness hundreds of thousands of wildebeest calving.
Jul–Oct
From $2,900
Three nights at the Mara River for dramatic crossings.
Year-round
From $3,600
Ten days following the herds across every region.