5-Day Luxury Fly-In Safari: The Great Mara River Crossing5 Days Ultimate Wildlife Experience
A thrilling 5-day luxury fly-in safari to the northern Serengeti, centred on witnessing the dramatic Great Migration Mara River crossings — one of the most breathtaking natural spectacles on Earth.
The Safari Experience
A meticulously planned adventure through the heart of the wild.
Witness one of nature's most dramatic events — the Great
Wildebeest Migration Mara River crossing — on this exclusive 5-day luxury
fly-in safari to Tanzania's northern Serengeti. Soar above the sweeping plains
by private bush plane to Lemala Kuria Hills, a luxurious tented camp perfectly
positioned to observe the thundering herds as they brave crocodile-infested
waters. Expert guides in open safari vehicles offer unobstructed front-row
views of the crossings, while all-inclusive dining, private plunge pools, and
personalized service ensure every comfort. With VIP airport arrival and
departure, this meticulously crafted safari delivers the ultimate combination
of adrenaline, luxury, and unforgettable wildlife drama.
Key Expedition Advantages
Exceptional encounters and exclusive services provided on this journey.
Inclusions & Logistics
What's Included
- • Luxury tented accommodation at Lemala Kuria Hills (all meals, activities, beverages)
- • 1 night at Arusha Gran Melia Hotel with breakfast
- • VIP arrival and departure transfers
- • Return bush flights Arusha to Kogatende Airstrip (Northern Serengeti)
- • All game drives in open safari vehicles
- • Professional English-speaking guide
- • Park entrance fees and conservation levies
- • Flying Doctors Emergency Evacuation Service
- • Laundry service
Safari Exclusions
- • International flights to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport
- • Tanzania tourist visa fees
- • Travel insurance
- • Gratuities for guides and camp staff
- • Personal expenses and souvenirs
- • Mandatory Travel Insurance – Tanzania & Zanzibar; Adults USD $44 per person, Children (3–17) $22
- • Passengers Facilitation Fee (PFF)/VI-Tax for international air travel USD $90 per person
Daily Safari Experience
Explore the vast landscapes from sunrise to sunset as we take you through our exclusive paths.
Day 1: VIP Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport – Arusha
Receive a VIP welcome at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer in style to the Arusha Gran Melia Hotel — a five-star oasis where elegance sets the tone for your safari ahead. Enjoy a lavish breakfast the following morning before preparing for your flight into the Serengeti
Daily Highlights
Dining & Meals
All Inclusive
Day 2: Bush Flight to Northern Serengeti – First River Crossing
Board your VIP bush plane for a scenic flight over the Serengeti's vast, golden plains to Kogatende Airstrip in the northern Serengeti. Welcomed by the Lemala Kuria Hills team, settle into your luxurious tented suite before an afternoon game drive in search of the iconic Mara River crossing — where wildebeest bravely plunge into crocodile-filled waters in one of nature's most dramatic spectacles.
Daily Highlights
Dining & Meals
All Inclusive
Day 3: Full-Day Serengeti Safari
Dedicate the entire day to immersive Serengeti wildlife encounters aboard a luxurious open game vehicle. Expert guides track the migrating herds, big cats, and resident wildlife across the rolling northern plains. The Mara River corridor offers thrilling predator-prey interactions and multiple river crossing opportunities throughout the day.
Daily Highlights
Dining & Meals
All Inclusive
Day 4: Mara River Crossing – Prime Wildlife Viewing
Position yourself at prime river crossing points as thousands of wildebeest, driven by instinct, plunge into the Mara River. Nile crocodiles lurk in the rushing waters while lions and leopards patrol the banks. Witness the raw power and resilience of nature in a spectacle that will leave you speechless — all from the comfort of your exclusive open safari vehicle.
Daily Highlights
Dining & Meals
All Inclusive
Day 5: Final Game Drive & Departure
Enjoy a final sunrise game drive across the Serengeti before transferring to Kogatende Airstrip for your bush flight back to Arusha. Freshen up at the Gran Melia Hotel before your VIP transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport, carrying the essence of the Serengeti with you as you depart.
Daily Highlights
Dining & Meals
Breakfast • In-Bush Lunch • 5-Course Dinner
Safari Navigation
A visual representation of your journey across the majestic African landscapes.
Captured Moments
Verified Reviews
"A truly magnificent experience. The tour showed us parts of the wild we never expected to see."
Luxury Traveler
Verified Traveler
"Professionalism at its peak. The guides were exceptionally knowledgeable about the heritage of the plains."
Global Explorer
Verified Traveler
"Hands down the best tour company. They respect the wildlife while providing an intimate view."
Wildlife Enthusiast
Verified Traveler
Guest Satisfaction Rating
"Our service is defined by the stories told after the sun has set. We are proud to maintain a 98% satisfaction rate."
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Safari Details
Adventure Information
Have questions about this tour?
+255 787 MAASAI-1Essential Safari FAQ
When does the Mara River crossing typically occur?
The Mara River crossings typically occur between July and October when the Great Migration moves from the Serengeti into Kenya's Masai Mara. The exact timing varies each year based on rainfall and herd movement.
How close will I get to the river crossings?
At Lemala Kuria Hills, you are positioned in the prime northern Serengeti corridor. Your expert guide will take you to the best crossing points in open safari vehicles for unobstructed, front-row views.
Is this safari suitable for first-time visitors to Africa?
Absolutely. The itinerary is designed for both first-time and returning safari-goers. Professional guides handle all logistics so you can simply immerse yourself in the extraordinary wildlife experience.
What other wildlife can I see besides the migration?
Beyond the wildebeest herds, the northern Serengeti is home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species — ensuring incredible sightings every day.
Can this safari be extended to include Zanzibar or other parks?
Yes. This itinerary can be combined with a Zanzibar beach extension, Ngorongoro Crater, or Tarangire National Park. Contact us to customize your perfect East African journey
Still Have Questions?
Our guides are available to answer your questions and help you plan your journey.