Traveling to this region of the Serengeti in June offers a compelling reason: witnessing the immense herds of the Great Migration crossing the Grumeti. The Grumeti River presents the first significant challenge for the herds, but it also provides thrilling sightings, with the added advantage of fewer tourists at the crossing points. Although these river crossings are less renowned than the Mara River crossings to the north, where the river is more perilous, wider, and attracts more onlookers.

For the chance to experience a sunrise game drive on the Serengeti plains, waking up early is essential. Leopards, lions, and hyenas hunt for their morning meal as the sun sets, creating an absolutely breathtaking visual spectacle.

As the herd travels north, the Grumeti River flowing through the Western Corridor becomes their first major obstacle. If you're fortunate, you might find yourself in the front row, observing wildebeest and zebras bravely crossing the Grumeti River amidst lurking crocodiles!

Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, you'll depart Arusha for a two-hour drive to Tarangire National Park. Along the journey, you'll pass bustling Masai settlements and vast open grasslands synonymous with images of Africa.

Upon reaching Tarangire, your game drive will commence, offering breathtaking views of the endless golden savannah surrounding the Tarangire River. The river flows throughout the year, serving as a vital water source for the local animals during the dry season. Elephants, zebras, and other herbivores frequent the river, which is lined with acacia and Baobab trees.

Enjoy a delightful picnic lunch by the river, but be on guard as the local monkey population may attempt to share your meal!

Throughout the park drive, you can spot lions, leopards, Cape buffalo, and various antelope species. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of threatened species like the Greater Kudu or the fringe-eared oryx. After concluding the day's drive, retire to your lodging for the night.

Day 2: Tarangire National Park to Serengeti Central

An early breakfast sets the tone for a full day of exploration and adventure ahead.

Embark on a scenic journey to the Serengeti, passing through the mist-covered rainforests of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. If luck favors you, you might spot elephants, leopards, or Cape buffalo in the dense undergrowth.

During the approximately four-hour drive to the Serengeti park gates, you have the option to include extra activities:

The Olduvai Gorge Museum: Honoring some of the earliest discoveries of human settlement, it is often referred to as the Cradle of Mankind. Explore the museum to learn about human history and discover some of the oldest fossil evidence of human habitation.

Visit to a Maasai boma: Experience a Maasai dance performance, observe a real Maasai village, and explore the local market for souvenirs.

Both activities incur additional costs. Consult your safari specialist to include them in your itinerary.

After a delightful lunch at the Serengeti National Park picnic area, venture into the famous savannah environment of Africa, marveling at the diverse wildlife.

Dinner and overnight accommodation will be provided within the Serengeti National Park, as per your chosen level and type of lodging.

Day 3 and 4: Serengeti Western Corridor

Following breakfast, enter the Western Corridor region of the Serengeti.

The Grumeti River crossing in the Western Serengeti is as stunning as the Mara River crossing, which is renowned as the highlight of the Wildebeest Migration.

As the herd is drawn westward by the promise of rain and better grazing near Lake Victoria, Africa's largest lake becomes the only obstacle separating them from the Grumeti River.

The Nile crocodiles and big cats seize this opportunity to prey on the increasingly vulnerable individuals of the herd, resulting in some breathtaking predator-prey dynamics. The Grumeti is home to the largest concentration of Nile crocodiles in the area, and these opportunistic predators take full advantage of the situation.

Dinner and an overnight stay in the Serengeti will be arranged, based on your preferred level and type of lodging.

Day 5: Western Corridor - Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Embark on an early morning game drive to make the most of your final opportunity to observe the wildebeests. After a delicious lunch, depart for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

The afternoon drive through the stunning Ngorongoro Highlands offers numerous opportunities to encounter wildlife. You might spot muscular African elephants, tall and graceful giraffes, leaping antelopes and gazelles, and the revered predators: cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, and lions.

Dinner and accommodation will either be on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater or nearby in Karatu Town, depending on your chosen level and type of lodging.

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater - Arusha

Following breakfast, you'll head to the Ngorongoro Crater, often considered the eighth wonder of the world. The moment you catch sight of this vast, lush caldera from the panoramic vista, you'll understand why it has earned such a prestigious reputation.

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to over 120 species of mammals, including the renowned Big Five. It offers an excellent opportunity to observe numerous hippos enjoying the cool water and endangered black rhinos grazing on the grassy plains.

From the comfort of your open-top vehicle, you can capture some of Africa's most iconic faces. The crater houses predators like lions, leopards, cheetahs, jackals, and hyenas, as well as a large population of wildebeests, zebras, antelopes, Cape buffalo, and other animals. Undoubtedly, it stands among the top safari destinations in Africa.

After an eventful day, enjoy a picnic lunch near the renowned hippo pool before returning to Arusha.