The Great Mara River Crossing Tanzania & Kenya

10 days/ 9 nights

This route features Northern Serengeti Mara River Crossing as the heart of the safari, while enriching the journey with cultural encounters, and cross-country experience. The Mara River crossing is the climax of the Great Migration safari. It is more than a spectacle, it’s a raw story of survival, courage, and the brutal beauty of nature. This safari is crafted for everyone offering adventure for photographers, inspiration for storytellers, and unforgettable memories for all guests.

Safari Route Flow

Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) ➝ Arusha ➝ Northern Serengeti ➝ Ol Pejeta Conservancy ➝ Nairobi ➝ Departure

Best time to travel:

July – October

Safari pricing: USD 11,100 per person on a sharing basis

What happens at the crossing?

  • Herd Behavior: Thousands of wildebeest and zebra gather at the river’s edge, pacing nervously before one brave animal leaps in. Within seconds, chaos erupts as the herd follows.
  • Predators: Crocodiles lie in wait in the water, while lions and leopards position themselves along the banks and rocky outcrops.
  • Photographic Drama: Dust clouds, splashing water, and predator action make this one of the most sought-after wildlife photography moments in the world.

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania and transfer to Arusha

Guests arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), briefed and are transferred to their lodge in Arusha town. Arusha, nestled at the foot of Mount Meru, is known as the safari capital of Tanzania. It is a vibrant town with bustling markets, gemstone shops, and cultural heritage, serving as the gateway to the northern safari circuit. A warm welcome dinner awaits, followed by an overnight stay.

  • Accommodation: Katambuga House
  • Meal Plan: Dinner & Breakfast
Day 2: Flight to Northern Serengeti

After breakfast, guests board a scenic flight to the Northern Serengeti (Kogatende/Lamai area). It is a remote wilderness where the Mara River winds through rolling savannahs. It is the stage for the Great Migration’s most dramatic chapter, the river crossing. Enjoy an Afternoon game drive along the Mara River, with chances to spot big cats, spot large herds and may be witness an early crossing.

  • Accommodation: One Nature Mara River Lodge
  • Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 3-5: Mara River Crossing Drama

Spend three full days in the Northern Serengeti. Game drives focus on the Mara River crossings, where wildebeest and zebra plunge into crocodile‑filled waters and cross over to Maasai Mara in Kenya every year. Expect predator action from lions and leopards.

After you are fulfilled with the awe and drama of the river crossing top up your safari experience by an Optional sunrise hot‑air balloon safari, adds a breathtaking aerial perspective of the Serengeti.

  • Accommodation: One Nature Mara River Lodge
  • Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 6: Flight to Kenya – Ol Pejeta Conservancy

After breakfast, fly from Kogatende airstrip across the border into Kenya. Transfer to Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Afternoon relaxation followed by a guided introduction to the conservancy.

  • Accommodation: Ol Pejeta Bush Camp
  • Meal Plan: Full Board

Logistics Note – Transfer from Nairobi to Ol Pejeta

After flying from the Northern Serengeti (Kogatende Airstrip) into Nairobi’s Wilson Airport for customs/immigration, guests have two options for reaching Ol Pejeta Conservancy:

  • By Air (Recommended): A short 40–45-minute flight from Wilson Airport to Nanyuki Airstrip, located just outside Ol Pejeta. This option ensures a seamless, time‑efficient transfer and maximizes time spent in the conservancy.
  • By Road (Alternative): A scenic 3.5–4-hour drive from Nairobi to Ol Pejeta via Nanyuki. This route passes through fertile highlands and offers views of Mount Kenya. It is ideal for guests who enjoy road journeys and wish to experience Kenya’s countryside.
Day 7–8: Premium Ol Pejeta Experiences

Ol Pejeta Conservancy, located in Laikipia county in central Kenya, is a pioneering conservation area famous for its rhino sanctuary and innovative wildlife protection programs. It combines Luxury safari experiences with meaningful conservation.

  • Accommodation: Ol Pejeta Bush Camp
  • Meal Plan: Full Board

Spend two full days exploring the conservancy and participate in activities including:

  • Rhino Sanctuary visit – home to the last northern white rhinos.
  • Night game drives – spotlighting nocturnal predators.
  • Walking safaris – intimate encounters with plains wildlife.

Cultural immersion – meet local communities and learn traditions.

Day 9: Flight to Nairobi City

Morning flight from Nanyuki Airstrip (near Ol Pejeta) to Nairobi. Guests check into their hotel for an overnight stay, with time to relax or explore the city. Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling capital, is a dynamic city where modern skyscrapers meet African heritage. It is home to vibrant markets, cultural centers, and Nairobi National Park, the only city in the world with a safari park at its doorstep.

  • Accommodation: Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Airport Hotel
  • Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Day 10: Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for onward international travel.

Day 8 – Departure

Breakfast, drive back to Arusha. Enjoy farewell lunch at Coffee Lodge before transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for departure.

  • Accommodation: None
  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Safari Includes:

  • Luxury accommodation in prime locations as listed in the itinerary
  • All meals as per meal plan (Full Board / Bed & Breakfast)
  • Private safari vehicle and professional guide
  • All scheduled flights and transfers between destinations
  • Park fees and conservancy fees
  • Game drives, walking safaris, and cultural visits as outlined
  • Complimentary bottled water during game drives

Safari Excludes:

  • International flights to/from Tanzania & Kenya
  • Visa fees and travel insurance
  • Optional activities (e.g., hot‑air balloon safari)
  • Personal expenses (laundry, telephone calls, alcoholic beverages)
  • Tips and gratuities for guides and lodge staff

Important Safari Reminder

  • Pack neutral clothing, sunscreen, and a light jacket for evenings.
  • Bring binoculars and a zoom lens for photography safaris.
  • Carry cash for local handcrafts and gemstone purchases.
  • Respect cultural traditions during community visits.
  • Small Aircraft Luggage Restrictions: For the domestic flight between national parks and towns. Maximum baggage allowance: 15 kg (33 lbs.) per person this includes hand luggage and camera equipment. Excess baggage may incur additional charges or may require separate arrangements.

 

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