4 days - Northern and central Serengeti
Four days following the Great Migration from the northern Serengeti down to the central plains, with Mara River crossings and big cat sightings.
The journey
The first herds reach the Mara River and the crossings begin, with lions, cheetahs and crocodiles taking their chances. Dry, cold at dawn and lively. A strong month for this itinerary.
A flight from Zanzibar to Kogatende and two days with the migration near the Mara River.
Fly from ZNZ to Kogatende Airstrip, 08:00 – 11:00. Departure times vary with seat availability.
An English-speaking guide meets you on arrival with a gift of champagne and fresh fruit, and your safari begins at once as you leave the airstrip for the northern Serengeti.
The Great Migration reaches the northern Serengeti between July and October: vast numbers of wildebeest, zebra and antelope on the move across the plains, heading for Kenya’s Maasai Mara. The Mara River crossing is the most dramatic moment, as the herds face the current and the crocodiles. If the timing is right, you may see predators waiting as the wildebeest plunge into the water.
Begin with a sunrise game drive at 06:00, when the animals are most active. You return to camp around 09:00 for breakfast and a rest, then head out again in the afternoon to follow the migration.
A game drive south to Seronera, a last morning among the big cats and the flight back to Zanzibar.
An early start for another morning of migration viewing around the Mara River. After breakfast you travel to the central Serengeti, known for its big cats, with a game drive on the way.
You arrive at camp for a hot lunch and a rest. If you would like more time out, we can arrange another game drive in the afternoon.
Early in the morning you make a last game drive in the Serengeti, with a bush breakfast in the Seronera area. Your guide will make sure you see the best of what the park offers.
Afterwards you transfer to the airstrip for the flight back to Zanzibar, 11:30 – 14:15.
The detail
Four days in the northern and central Serengeti, timed for the Great Migration. Between July and October, vast herds of wildebeest, zebra and antelope gather on the northern plains and face the Mara River, where lions, cheetahs and crocodiles wait.
You fly in from Zanzibar to the Kogatende airstrip, spend two nights near the river with an expert guide, then travel south to the central Serengeti, known for its big cats, before flying home from Seronera. You stay in selected lodges or camps that balance comfort with an authentic bush setting.
Good to know
Photographs from the route, not stock library scenery.
Work down the list. Each step depends on the one above it.
The practical detail that decides whether a trip runs smoothly.
Herds can stand at the river for hours before crossing, or turn back. Your guide positions you with patience in mind, but no crossing can be promised. Expect long waits in the vehicle.
Open vehicles are cold at first light, especially in July and August. Wear layers you can shed by mid-morning, and bring a warm hat and gloves for the 06:00 starts.
The dry months are dusty and the sun is strong. Bring a scarf or buff, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen and a dust cover for your camera.
A 200 to 500mm lens suits the river banks, where the crossings are often seen from a distance. A bean bag steadies long lenses on the vehicle frame. Bring spare batteries and cards.
Tips are part of the local custom for guides, drivers and camp teams. We can give you current guidance before you leave, and small notes are easier to hand over.
Plan this journey
Every journey is planned around your dates and your party. Tell us who is travelling and when, and a specialist will come back with a tailored itinerary and a quote. Payment is by invoice.
