From $2,673 per person

Experience the Spectacular Wildebeest Calving Season and Predator Action on your 6 day great migration safari.

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6-Day Great Migration Safari

6 day great migration safari

Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 6 day great migration safari through the world-famous Serengeti National Park, where millions of wildebeest and zebras move in a timeless cycle across the plains in search of fresh pastures. This adventure takes you deep into Africa’s most spectacular ecosystem, where nature’s drama unfolds daily —from powerful river crossings to breathtaking predator hunts.

Depending on the season, you may witness the iconic Mara River crossings in the north, or experience the incredible calving season in the Ndutu area of the southern Serengeti, where thousands of young wildebeest are born every day. Along the journey, you’ll encounter diverse wildlife including lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and a dazzling variety of birdlife, all thriving in the vast landscapes that make the Serengeti one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa.

This 6 day great migration safari offers a carefully balanced mix of thrilling game drives, comfortable accommodations, and authentic African hospitality. Each day is planned to maximize your chances of witnessing the most exciting wildlife action while allowing time to relax and enjoy stunning views of the savannah, golden sunsets, and the serenity of the wilderness.

Your experienced safari guide will share deep insights about animal behavior, migration routes, and the delicate ecosystems of Tanzania’s national parks. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this itinerary promises an unforgettable connection with nature, filled with memorable moments, beautiful photography opportunities, and personalized service at every stage of your adventure.

From the endless plains of the Serengeti to the dramatic landscapes of the Mara River region, this 6 day great migration safari takes you closer to nature’s greatest story—an epic movement of life and survival that has captivated explorers for generations. Get ready to witness one of the most extraordinary spectacles on Earth, where every sunrise brings a new adventure and every sunset marks another day of wonder in the wild heart of Africa.

Detailed Itinerary: 6-Day Great Migration Safari

6 day great migration safari

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Arrival in Arusha

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, meet your driver-guide, and transfer to your hotel in Arusha. Relax after your journey and enjoy a safari briefing. Depending on your arrival time, explore the town or rest before starting your exciting migration safari.
Enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by the sounds of nature as you prepare for the start of your unforgettable 6 day great migration safari adventure.

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Day 2: Arusha – Central Serengeti
Central Serengeti

After breakfast, you will be picked up from Greenside Hotel and drive to Serengeti National Park. This day marks the real start of your 6 day great migration safari as you enjoy game drives en route, spotting giraffes, elephants, zebras, and predators. Central Serengeti offers year-round wildlife, with excellent chances to see lions, cheetahs, and leopards. Later, rest at your camp.
As the sun sets over the golden plains, the sights and sounds of the Serengeti truly mark the essence of your safari journey.

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Day 3: Central Serengeti – Northern Serengeti
Mara River crossing

After an early breakfast, journey north following the wildebeest herds. On this leg of your 6 day great migration safari, you may witness spectacular Mara River crossings as wildebeests and zebras risk crocodile-infested waters. Explore open savannahs filled with predators, before retiring to your camp overlooking migration pathways.
Each mile of your journey reveals another breathtaking chapter in Africa’s greatest wildlife movement.

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Day 4: Northern Serengeti – Full-Day Migration Safari
Full-day safari

Enjoy a full-day game drive along the Mara River, maximizing chances to witness dramatic river crossings. Lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and crocodiles lie in wait as herds cross. Picnic lunch in the wilderness ensures uninterrupted viewing of this extraordinary wildlife spectacle.
Capture once-in-a-lifetime photos as the Great Migration unfolds before your eyes during this 6 day great migration safari experience.

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Day 5: Northern Serengeti – Ngorongoro Highlands
6 day great migration safari Ngorongoro Highlands

After an early breakfast, enjoy a game drive while exiting Northern Serengeti, spotting elephants, giraffes, and antelopes along the way. Continue the scenic transfer south via Ngorongoro Conservation Area, stopping for views of the crater rim before heading to Karatu. Arrive at Highview Hotel to relax and unwind.
Reflect on the incredible diversity and vastness of Tanzania’s wilderness as your journey nears its grand finale.

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Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha – Departure
6 day great migration safari Ngorongoro Crater

After an early breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and descend into Ngorongoro Crater, home to lions, rhinos, hippos, elephants, and flamingos. Enjoy a half-day game drive with picnic lunch on the crater floor. In the afternoon, return to Arusha, relax in a dayroom, then transfer to the airport for your onward flight. This final day completes your 6 day great migration safari adventure.
Depart with memories of breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary wildlife encounters that will last a lifetime.

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Predators of Ndutu: The Hunters of the Plains

6 day great migration safari

Ndutu is a predator's paradise, especially during the calving season when vulnerable newborns provide abundant hunting opportunities. Visitors on a 6 day great migration safari often witness these dramatic predator-prey interactions in real time.

Lions

The apex predators of Ndutu, lions hunt in prides and take advantage of the calving season to target young wildebeest. Ndutu's open plains provide excellent visibility for lion hunts.

Hunting Strategy: Cooperative hunting in prides, often targeting weaker or isolated individuals.

Cheetahs

With their incredible speed, cheetahs thrive in Ndutu's open grasslands. They primarily hunt during daylight hours, relying on stealth and acceleration to catch prey.

Hunting Strategy: Stalking followed by high-speed chases over short distances.

Leopards

More elusive than other big cats, leopards in Ndutu often hunt from trees where they stash their kills. They are most active during dawn and dusk.

Hunting Strategy: Ambush predation using cover and stealth.

Spotted Hyenas

Highly intelligent social predators, hyenas hunt in clans and are skilled at taking down large prey. They also scavenge from other predators' kills.

Hunting Strategy: Endurance hunting, wearing down prey over long distances.

African Wild Dogs

Though less common, these highly efficient hunters occasionally pass through Ndutu. They hunt cooperatively with incredible stamina.

Hunting Strategy: Cooperative pursuit hunting with exceptional endurance.

Jackals & Smaller Predators

Black-backed jackals and smaller predators like servals and caracals play important roles in the ecosystem, often scavenging or hunting smaller prey.

Hunting Strategy: Opportunistic hunting of small mammals and scavenging.

Predator-Prey Dynamics During Calving Season

The wildebeest calving season (January-March) creates a unique predator-prey dynamic in Ndutu. With approximately 8,000 wildebeest calves born daily during peak season, predators have unprecedented hunting opportunities. However, this abundance also leads to intense competition between predator species.

Increased Predator Activity

Predator sightings increase dramatically as they take advantage of vulnerable newborns.

Round-the-Clock Action

Different predators are active at different times, creating nearly continuous wildlife action.

Photography Opportunities

The predator-prey interactions provide exceptional wildlife photography moments.

The Great Migration: Nature's Greatest Spectacle

6 day great migration safari

The annual migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, is driven by the search for fresh grazing and water. This 6 day great migration safari highlights this continuous clockwise movement through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.

Witnessing the migration is one of the most spectacular events in nature. The journey ensures you experience the very best of this natural wonder with unmatched opportunities for photography and adventure.

Why Do Wildebeest Migrate?

The annual migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, is driven by the search for fresh grazing and water. This continuous clockwise movement through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem is one of nature's most spectacular events.

Primary Reasons for Migration:

  • Seasonal Rainfall Patterns: Animals follow the rains to access fresh grass
  • Nutritional Needs: Different grasses provide varying nutritional content
  • Water Availability: Movement to areas with reliable water sources
  • Calving Requirements: Specific conditions needed for successful birthing
  • Predator Avoidance: Constant movement reduces parasite loads and predator pressure
6 day great migration safari Wildebeest migration

Annual Migration Cycle

January - March: Calving Season in Ndutu

Over 500,000 calves are born within a 2-3 week period. The short grass plains of Ndutu provide excellent visibility against predators and nutrient-rich soil for grass growth.

April - May: Movement Westward

As the southern plains dry out, herds move toward the Western Corridor following rainfall patterns.

June - July: Grumeti River Crossing

Herds face crocodile-infested river crossings in the Western Serengeti, one of the migration's most dramatic events.

August - October: Mara River Crossings

The herds move into Kenya's Maasai Mara, facing the perilous Mara River crossings where crocodiles await.

November - December: Return South

As rains begin in the south, the herds start their journey back to the calving grounds, completing the annual cycle.

The Ndutu Advantage

Ndutu's location in the southern Serengeti makes it the perfect destination to witness the calving season. The short grass plains provide:

Excellent Visibility

Unobstructed views of wildlife and predator-prey interactions

Nutrient-Rich Grass

Volcanic soil produces calcium-rich grass essential for lactating females

Water Sources

Permanent water holes and seasonal lakes support the herds

Predator Protection

Open terrain allows wildebeest to spot predators from a distance

Serengeti-Mara Ecosystem: A World Heritage

6 day great migration safari

The Serengeti-Mara ecosystem spans approximately 30,000 km² across Tanzania and Kenya, supporting the largest terrestrial mammal migration on Earth. Experiencing this wilderness on a 6 day great migration safari allows you to see how each region plays a vital role in the cycle.

Serengeti National Park

Covering 14,750 km², the Serengeti is Tanzania's oldest park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its name means "endless plains" in the Maasai language.

  • Home to the famous Seronera Valley with high predator densities
  • Diverse habitats including grasslands, woodlands, and riverine forests
  • Protects the southern calving grounds and central river systems

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

This multiple land-use area allows wildlife coexistence with semi-nomadic Maasai pastoralists. The Ngorongoro Crater is often called "Africa's Eden."

  • Contains the world's largest intact volcanic caldera
  • High density of lions and other predators
  • Important archaeological sites including Olduvai Gorge

Maasai Mara National Reserve

Kenya's most famous wildlife reserve forms the northern extension of the Serengeti ecosystem, famous for the dramatic Mara River crossings.

  • Smaller but with exceptionally high wildlife densities
  • Famous for big cat populations and the annual migration
  • Offers unique cultural experiences with Maasai communities

Ndutu Region

Located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Ndutu is the critical southern Serengeti area where the wildebeest calving occurs each year.

  • Short grass plains ideal for calving season
  • Mix of acacia woodlands and open grasslands
  • Seasonal lakes that attract flamingos and other waterbirds

Why This Ecosystem is Unique

Biodiversity Hotspot

The ecosystem supports over 70 large mammal species and 500 bird species, creating one of the most complex food webs on Earth.

Ancient Geological History

Volcanic activity created the rich soils that support the grasslands, while the Great Rift Valley formation shaped the landscape.

Cultural Significance

The area has been inhabited by Maasai people for centuries, maintaining a pastoralist lifestyle in harmony with wildlife.

UNESCO World Heritage Site
One of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa
World's Largest Terrestrial Mammal Migration

Exploring the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem on a 6 day great migration safari offers a deeper appreciation of its landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage.

Safari Pricing: 6 day great migration safari

6 day great migration safari

6 day great migration safari

$2,673 per person

Based on double occupancy | Single supplement: $120

Best Price Guarantee

What's Included:

  • 1 night accommodation at Untamed Migration Camp
  • All meals as specified in itinerary
  • Professional safari guide
  • 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
  • All park fees and conservation charges
  • Transportation from Arusha and back
  • Bottled water during game drives

Price is subject to change based on seasonality and availability

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Special Packages

Extended Ndutu Safari

2 Day Ndutu Safari

Save 10%
Save 10%

Safari Destination Map: 6 day great migration safari

6 day great migration safari

Explore Your Safari Journey

This interactive map shows the route from Arusha to the Ndutu region in the southern Serengeti ecosystem, near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. You'll experience Tanzania's spectacular wildlife in this unique calving ground.

Key Locations:

  • Arusha - Starting point
  • Ndutu Plains - Calving season spectacle
  • Ngorongoro Conservation Area - UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Southern Serengeti - Wildlife abundance

Safari Route:

The journey covers approximately 300km through Northern Tanzania's most iconic landscapes, with game drives through diverse ecosystems and overnight stay at a luxury tented camp.

What's Included & Excluded in Your 6 day great migration safari

6 day great migration safari

Included

Game Drives

Guided game drives in Ndutu and surrounding Serengeti areas

Park Fees

Park entry and conservation fees

Water

Bottled water during game drives

Guide

Services of a professional safari guide

Transport

Transport from Arusha to Ndutu and back in a 4x4 safari vehicle

Accommodation

Accommodation at Untamed Migration Camp (or similar)

Meals

All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Excluded

International Flights

International and domestic flights

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel and medical insurance

Personal Expenses

Personal expenses (souvenirs, tips, phone/internet)

Beverages

Beverages and alcoholic drinks

Optional Activities

Optional activities outside the itinerary (hot air balloon safaris, cultural visits)

Frequently Asked Questions: 6 day great migration safari

6 day great migration safari

When is the best time to visit Ndutu?

The wildebeest calving season (January–March) and migration period (June–July) provide the most spectacular wildlife experiences. The 6 day great migration safari is ideal during these times.

For the best wildlife action, the 6 day great migration safari ensures you are in the right place at the right time.

What wildlife can I expect to see?

Wildlife Highlights

Expect lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and abundant birdlife including flamingos and secretary birds.

What is included in the safari package?

Safari Package Inclusions

Accommodation, meals, park fees, guided game drives, 4x4 transport, bottled water, and an experienced safari guide.

How should I prepare for the safari?

Preparation Tips

Pack neutral colored clothing, a hat, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera, and a warm jacket for early mornings.

Is Ndutu suitable for children and families?

Family Suitability

Yes, children can enjoy the safari, though those under 6 may have limited participation on game drives.

What type of accommodation is provided?

Accommodation Details

You'll stay at Untamed Migration Camp or similar, which offers comfortable tented accommodation with en-suite facilities while maintaining an authentic safari experience.

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Ready for Your 6 day great migration safari?

6 day great migration safari