Great Migration Safari – 5 Days in Serengeti, September

Planning a Great Migration safari in Tanzania? This 5-day adventure with Capable Africa Tours immerses you in the heart of Serengeti National Park for 3 nights, perfectly timed for September’s dramatic wildebeest river crossings. Witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles as millions of wildebeest and zebras brave the Mara River, pursued by predators like lions and crocodiles. With expert guides, comfortable lodges, and thrilling game drives, this Serengeti September tour offers an unforgettable Africa safari adventure. Read on for a detailed itinerary, pricing, and tips to make your dream safari a reality!

Book Your Safari Now

Great Migration Safari Highlights

Duration: 5 Days, 4 Nights (3 nights in Serengeti)
Destination: Serengeti National Park (14,763 km²)
Main Focus: Wildebeest migration, river crossings, predator safari tours
Tour Style: Guided safari, small groups (2–8 people)
Best Time: September for 98% river crossing sighting success
Ideal For: Wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, adventure seekers

Wildebeest crossing the Mara River in Serengeti

Why Choose a 5-Day Great Migration Safari in September?

A 5-day Great Migration safari in Tanzania with Capable Africa Tours is the ultimate way to experience the wildebeest migration in Serengeti National Park. September is prime time for river crossing safaris, as over 1.5 million wildebeest and 200,000 zebras navigate the Mara River, creating heart-pounding moments as they evade crocodiles and lions. Spending 3 nights in Serengeti ensures ample time to explore its vast plains, spot the Big Five, and witness predator-prey interactions. Our expert-guided Serengeti September tours combine thrilling game drives, eco-friendly accommodations, and cultural insights, making this Africa safari adventure perfect for wildlife lovers and photographers.

This itinerary focuses exclusively on Serengeti to maximize your chances of seeing the migration’s most dramatic moments. Optional activities like hot-air balloon safaris offer a bird’s-eye view of the herds, while small group sizes ensure a personalized experience. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of a river crossing or seeking a deeper connection with Tanzania’s wildlife, this safari delivers unforgettable memories.

Detailed 5-Day Great Migration Safari Itinerary

This 5-day Serengeti September tour is crafted to immerse you in the wildebeest migration, with 3 nights in Serengeti National Park. Below is a day-by-day breakdown of your Africa safari adventure with Capable Africa Tours.

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Your Great Migration safari begins in Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania’s northern circuit. Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and transfer to your hotel. Spend the day relaxing or exploring Arusha’s vibrant markets and coffee plantations. Your guide will brief you on the thrilling Serengeti adventure ahead.

Activities: Airport transfer, optional Arusha city tour
Highlights: Cultural introduction, safari preparation
Meals: Dinner at hotel
Accommodation: Arusha hotel or lodge

Day 2: Arusha to Serengeti National Park

Drive to Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning 14,763 km². Enjoy a game drive en route, spotting early signs of the wildebeest migration and predators like lions and cheetahs. Arrive at your camp in the northern Serengeti, near the Mara River, ideal for September river crossings.

Drive Time: Approx. 6–7 hours (with game drive)
Highlights: First Serengeti game drive, migration herds
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Tented camp or lodge in Northern Serengeti

Day 3: Full-Day Serengeti Migration Safari

Spend a full day in the northern Serengeti, focusing on the Mara River for dramatic river crossing safaris. Morning and afternoon game drives offer prime opportunities to witness wildebeest and zebras crossing the river, pursued by crocodiles and lions. Explore kopjes and plains for additional predator sightings.

Activities: Morning and afternoon game drives
Highlights: River crossings, predator safari tours, Big Five
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Tented camp or lodge in Northern Serengeti

Day 4: Serengeti Exploration & Optional Activities

Continue your Serengeti adventure with another full day of game drives. Visit different areas of the park to track the migration and spot leopards in acacia trees or cheetahs on the hunt. Optional activities like a hot-air balloon safari offer stunning aerial views of the herds. Spend your third night in Serengeti, soaking in the wilderness.

Activities: Full-day game drives, optional balloon safari
Highlights: Migration herds, aerial views, predator action
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Tented camp or lodge in Northern Serengeti

Day 5: Serengeti to Arusha

Enjoy a final morning game drive in Serengeti, capturing last-minute sightings of the wildebeest migration or predators. Drive back to Arusha, reflecting on your incredible 5-day Great Migration safari. Transfer to your hotel or Kilimanjaro International Airport for departure.

Drive Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
Highlights: Final migration sightings, scenic drive
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Transfer to Arusha hotel or airport

Why This 5-Day Great Migration Safari Stands Out

This 5-day Serengeti September tour is designed for maximum immersion in the wildebeest migration, with 3 nights in Serengeti National Park. You’ll witness heart-stopping river crossings, track predators like lions and cheetahs, and stay in eco-friendly lodges that support conservation. Small group sizes (2–8 people) ensure personalized attention, while expert guides with years of experience enhance your Africa safari adventure. With a 98% success rate for spotting river crossings in September, this itinerary delivers thrill, comfort, and unforgettable wildlife moments.

Great Migration Safari Gallery

What to Pack for Your Great Migration Safari

Packing smart is key for your 5-day Great Migration safari in September. Neutral-colored clothing helps you blend into the Serengeti’s environment, while binoculars and a zoom camera capture distant wildlife. Below is a detailed packing list for your Serengeti September tour.

Neutral Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts and pants in beige/khaki for sun protection.
Binoculars: 8x42 or 10x42 for spotting distant wildebeest and predators.
Sunscreen & Hat: SPF 50+ and a wide-brimmed hat for open savannah drives.
Insect Repellent: DEET-based for evenings near the Mara River.
Camera with Zoom: 200mm+ lens for capturing river crossings.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during 4–6-hour game drives.
Light Jacket: For cool mornings in Serengeti (September avg. 15°C).
Comfortable Shoes: Closed-toe shoes for light walks and vehicle transfers.

How Much Does a 5-Day Great Migration Safari Cost?

A 5-day Great Migration safari in Tanzania typically costs between $1,500 and $4,000 per person, depending on accommodation type, group size, and inclusions. Budget options start lower, while luxury safaris with premium lodges can exceed this range. Here’s a breakdown of costs for your Serengeti September tour:

Budget Safari: From $1,500 per person (shared camps, group tours).
Mid-Range Safari: $2,200–$3,200 per person (lodges, private vehicles).
Luxury Safari: From $3,500 per person (premium lodges, exclusive experiences).

Great Migration Safari Price Inclusions & Exclusions

The price of your 5-day Great Migration safari includes Serengeti park fees, expert-guided game drives, full-board meals, and 3 nights in Serengeti accommodations. Exclusions typically cover international flights, optional activities, and personal expenses. Below is a detailed breakdown to plan your Africa safari adventure.

Price Inclusions

Round-trip transfers from Arusha
4WD safari vehicle with pop-up roof
Professional English-speaking guides
Serengeti National Park entry fees
Full-board meals and eco-friendly lodging
Bottled water during game drives
3 nights in Serengeti camps/lodges

Price Exclusions

International flights to Tanzania
Travel or medical insurance
Tips for guides (~$10–15 pp/day, optional)
Personal expenses (souvenirs, etc.)
Optional activities like balloon safaris
Alcoholic beverages

Ready for Your Great Migration Safari?

Join Capable Africa Tours for a 5-day Serengeti September tour, spending 3 nights in Serengeti National Park. Witness the wildebeest migration’s thrilling river crossings and spot predators in action with expert guides.

98% success rate for river crossing sightings
Expert-guided game drives in 4WD vehicles
Eco-friendly lodges with full-board meals
Small groups for personalized experiences
Supports Serengeti conservation efforts

Limited spots for this 5-day Great Migration safari in September—book now to secure your adventure!

Book This Safari Now

Book Your 5-Day Great Migration Safari

Frequently Asked Questions about Great Migration Safari

1. Why is September ideal for a Great Migration safari in Tanzania?

September is peak season for witnessing dramatic wildebeest river crossings in Serengeti, as herds move north across the Mara River, with clear skies and excellent visibility.

2. What wildlife can I expect to see on this safari?

You’ll likely see wildebeest, zebras, lions, cheetahs, crocodiles, and possibly leopards, plus over 500 bird species during the migration.

3. Is this Great Migration safari safe?

Yes, Capable Africa Tours ensures safety with expert guides, secure vehicles, and strict protocols during game drives and river crossings.

4. What is included in the safari price?

The price includes park fees, 4WD vehicle, expert guides, full-board meals, 3 nights in Serengeti lodges/camps, and Arusha transfers.

5. Can children join this 5-day safari?

Children aged 5 and above can join, with family-friendly vehicles and activities tailored for safety and enjoyment.

6. What is the cancellation policy for this safari?

Free cancellation up to 14 days before departure. Contact Capable Africa Tours for detailed terms.

7. What should I pack for a September safari?

Pack neutral-colored clothing, binoculars, a zoom camera, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and a light jacket for cool Serengeti mornings.

8. How do I get to Serengeti for this safari?

Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Capable Africa Tours arranges transfers from Arusha to Serengeti.