8-Day Lake Natron & Great Migration River Crossing Safari

Safari Overview

This 8-day adventure safari combines the dramatic landscapes of Lake Natron with the world-famous Great Wildebeest Migration river crossing in Northern Serengeti.

Explore flamingo-filled soda lakes, hike to waterfalls, experience Maasai culture, and then witness thousands of wildebeests attempting to cross the crocodile-infested Mara River.

A perfect safari for travelers seeking both raw adventure and world-class wildlife action.


 Detailed Itinerary


 Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

  • Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

  • Meet & greet by Life For Africa representative

  • Transfer to your lodge in Arusha

  • Safari briefing

🏨 Overnight: Mid-range lodge in Arusha
(Meals: Bed & Breakfast)


 Day 2: Arusha – Lake Natron

  • Early breakfast

  • Scenic drive through Maasai villages

  • Off-road adventure toward Lake Natron

Destination Highlights:

  • Rift Valley escarpment views

  • Active volcano Oldoinyo Lengai (Sacred Mountain)

  • Vast alkaline lake landscape

🏕️ Overnight: Tented camp near Lake Natron
(Meals: Full Board)


 Day 3: Lake Natron Exploration

Morning Activities:

  • Guided walk to Ngare Sero Waterfalls

  • Optional hike near Oldoinyo Lengai

  • Visit to Maasai village

Wildlife & Attractions:

  • Thousands of flamingos (seasonal breeding area)

  • Unique volcanic terrain

  • Stunning sunrise photography

Afternoon relaxation at camp.

🏕️ Overnight: Lake Natron camp
(Meals: Full Board)


 Day 4: Lake Natron – Central Serengeti

  • Early breakfast

  • Drive via remote Loliondo route

  • Enter Serengeti National Park

Afternoon:

  • Game drive en route to Central Serengeti camp

Wildlife:

  • Lions

  • Cheetahs

  • Giraffes

  • Elephants

  • Resident wildlife populations

🏕️ Overnight: Mid-range tented camp in Central Serengeti
(Meals: Full Board)


 Day 5: Central Serengeti – Northern Serengeti (Migration Zone)

  • Morning game drive

  • Continue north toward Kogatende / Mara River

Afternoon:

  • Begin migration tracking

  • Visit river crossing points

🏕️ Overnight: Migration camp in Northern Serengeti
(Meals: Full Board)


 Day 6: Full Day Migration Safari – Mara River

Full-Day Game Drive

  • Early morning departure to riverbanks

  • Follow herd movements

  • Visit multiple crossing points

Possible Sightings:

  • Thousands of wildebeests gathering

  • Dramatic river crossings

  • Nile crocodiles

  • Lions, hyenas & cheetahs

  • Elephant herds

  • Leopards (occasionally)

🏕️ Overnight: Northern Serengeti
(Meals: Full Board)


 Day 7: Northern Serengeti – Another Migration Day

Extra day increases your chance of witnessing dramatic crossing action.

Activities:

  • Early sunrise game drive

  • Explore Lamai Wedge

  • Predator tracking

  • Optional hot air balloon safari (extra cost)

🏕️ Overnight: Northern Serengeti
(Meals: Full Board)


 Day 8: Northern Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha

  • Early breakfast

  • Drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

  • Descend into Ngorongoro Crater

Crater Highlights:

  • Big Five (including black rhino)

  • Hippo pool

  • Dense wildlife concentration

  • Flamingos (seasonal)

Afternoon return to Arusha.
Drop-off at hotel or airport.

(Meals: Breakfast & Lunch)


 Key Destinations Included

✔️ Lake Natron
✔️ Ngare Sero Waterfalls
✔️ Serengeti National Park (Central & Northern)
✔️ Mara River Migration Area
✔️ Ngorongoro Crater


 Accommodation Examples (Mid-Range)

Arusha:

  • Planet Lodge

  • Kibo Palace Hotel

Lake Natron:

  • Lake Natron Tented Camp

  • Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge

Central Serengeti:

  • Serengeti Kati Kati Camp

  • Serengeti Heritage Camp

Northern Serengeti:

  • Mara Kati Kati Camp

  • Serengeti River Camp

  • Baobab Mara Camp


 Package Includes

  • Private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof

  • Professional English-speaking guide

  • All park & conservation fees

  • 7 nights accommodation

  • All meals as per itinerary

  • Drinking water

  • Airport transfers


 Not Included

  • International flights

  • Visa fees

  • Travel insurance

  • Balloon safari (optional)

  • Tips & personal expenses

  • Alcoholic beverages

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