11 Days Tanzania Mara River Safari
An extended journey timed for the Mara River crossings, with longer stays in the north for calmer, more intimate game viewing.
- Day 1
Arrival in Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport or Arusha Airport and transfer to your hotel in Arusha. Overnight: Arusha.
- Day 2
Arusha to Tarangire, then Karatu or Ngorongoro Rim
After breakfast, depart by road to Tarangire National Park for a game drive. Tarangire is known for large elephant herds, baobab trees and strong dry-season wildlife concentration. After the game drive, continue to Karatu or the Ngorongoro rim — Karatu for better value and easier lodge options, or the rim to save time for an early crater descent. Overnight: Karatu or Ngorongoro rim.
- Day 3
Ngorongoro Crater to Central Serengeti
Early morning descent into the Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day game drive, with chances of black rhino, lion, buffalo, hippo, hyena and dense resident wildlife. After lunch, drive onward to Central Serengeti — a long but very rewarding transfer day. Overnight: Central Serengeti.
- Day 4
Full Day Central Serengeti
A full day around Seronera and the surrounding plains. This area is excellent for big cats, general resident game, superb photography and year-round wildlife density. Overnight: Central Serengeti.
- Day 5
Central Serengeti to Northern Serengeti
After breakfast, depart for Northern Serengeti with game viewing en route. This is a long drive, so an early start matters. Arrive in time for an afternoon game drive depending on road conditions and lodge location. Overnight: Northern Serengeti.
- Day 6
Northern Serengeti — Mara River Crossing Focus
Full day game drive around the Mara River crossing zones, focusing on the main crossing sectors near Kogatende, the Lamai sector and Mara River viewpoints. The day is dedicated to waiting for herd build-up and possible river-crossing action. Overnight: Northern Serengeti.
- Day 7
Northern Serengeti — Second Crossing Day
Another full day in Northern Serengeti. This extra day matters because crossings are unpredictable: one day may be quiet while the next produces multiple herd movements. Overnight: Northern Serengeti.
- Day 8
Northern Serengeti to Central Serengeti
Drive back to Central Serengeti with game viewing en route. This breaks the long return journey and gives another chance for predator sightings in the central area. Overnight: Central Serengeti.
- Day 9
Central Serengeti to Karatu
After breakfast, depart the Serengeti and drive toward Karatu. Depending on pace, permits and lodge plans, this is mostly a transfer day with scenic views through the conservation area. Overnight: Karatu.
- Day 10
Karatu to Arusha
After breakfast, drive back to Arusha and relax for the final night before departure. Overnight: Arusha.
- Day 11
Departure
Transfer for your onward flight.
- All park fees
- Luxury camps & lodges
- Private 4x4 vehicle
- Professional guide
- Full board meals
- International flights
- Visa & insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips