
4-Day Mara River Crossing Safari (Jul–Oct)
Position yourself on the Mara River as over one million wildebeest surge through crocodile-infested waters.
About this safari
Position yourself on the Mara River as over one million wildebeest surge through crocodile-infested waters. One of the world's most dramatic wildlife spectacles — pure adrenaline.
This 4 days private safari starts in Arusha and takes you to Mara River crossings, 1M+ wildebeest, Predator action, Prime positioning, July-October timing. Your own vehicle and guide set the pace, and every stay and transfer is confirmed around your dates.
Safari snapshot
A quick look at the route, day by day.
| Day | Place | Highlights | Hotel options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arusha to Northern Serengeti | Guided exploration | Confirmed when quoted |
| Day 2 | River Crossing Vigil | Guided exploration | Confirmed when quoted |
| Day 3 | Northern Serengeti Predators | Guided exploration | Confirmed when quoted |
| Day 4 | Return to Arusha | Guided exploration | Departure |
Ways to customise this trip
- Add a night in the bush, a cultural visit or a balloon flight
- Upgrade your stays or finish with beach time in Zanzibar
Route
- Stop 1Arusha
- Stop 2Northern Serengeti
- Stop 3Northern Serengeti
Day by day
Here is how the days run. We can adjust the route around your dates and the pace you want.
1Day 1Arusha to Northern Serengeti

Drive or fly to Northern Serengeti (Kogatende). Afternoon game drives near the Mara River.
- Main stop
- Arusha to Northern Serengeti
2Day 2River Crossing Vigil

Full day positioned at prime crossing points. Watch over 1 million wildebeest surge across the Mara River.
- Main stop
- River Crossing Vigil
3Day 3Northern Serengeti Predators

Follow predator activity. Lions and cheetahs following the migration herds.
- Main stop
- Northern Serengeti Predators
4Day 4Return to Arusha

Final morning game drive. Drive or fly back to Arusha.
- Main stop
- Return to Arusha
Accommodation
Where you stay on this trip. We can move the comfort level up or down when we plan your dates.
Tour rates
Your price depends on your dates, group size and the stays you choose. We confirm it in writing once we have checked availability.
Prices are per person and assume shared rooms. Season, park fees, group size, flights and lodge availability all affect the final quote.
Get my exact quoteWhat’s included
Included
- Park fees
- Safari vehicle
- Expert guide
- Accommodation
- Full board meals
- Transfers
Not included
- Flights to Arusha
- Insurance
- Tips
Travellers who explored Tanzania with us
From the journal

Mara River Crossing Tanzania: When, Where & How to Witness It
Witness the Mara River crossing in Tanzania — the world's most dramatic wildlife event. Complete guide to timing, location, and booking.
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Northern Circuit vs Southern Circuit Tanzania — complete comparison of parks, wildlife, accessibility, and cost.
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A Foodie’s Guide to Forodhani Night Market
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Read guideFrequently asked questions
Can this 4 days itinerary be changed?
Yes. We can review your dates, daily pace, room preferences and interests, then build a specific proposal. Changes to flights, activities or park nights may affect cost and availability.
Which accommodation will I stay in?
Your proposal will name the properties and room categories for each night. Any stays shown here are planning options and remain subject to availability; alternative properties are agreed before confirmation.
What wildlife will we see?
Wildlife sightings depend on season, weather and the animals themselves. Your guide plans around local conditions, but particular species, migration movements and river crossings cannot be guaranteed.
Can I change the route and accommodation?
Yes. The published routes are starting points. Tell us your dates, interests and preferred comfort level so we can adjust nights, transfers and activities before quoting.
What determines the final price?
The travel season, number of travellers sharing a vehicle, park fees, room arrangements, lodge availability and domestic flights all affect cost. Your written proposal will identify inclusions and optional extras.
Can the safari finish in Zanzibar?
A mainland safari can connect with Zanzibar by a separately arranged domestic flight. Leave enough time for the transfer and confirm baggage allowances before booking flights.
When is the best time for a Tanzania safari?
Wildlife can be seen all year. June to October is dry, with animals gathering near water. January to March brings the calving season in the southern Serengeti. April and May are the long rains: greener, quieter and often better value. We match the parks and camps to the month you travel.
How many days do I need?
Two or three days suit Tarangire and Ngorongoro. Four to six days let you add the Serengeti without rushing, and seven or more give time for extra parks, a cultural visit or the coast. Fewer long drives usually means a better trip.
Is the safari private?
Our tailor-made safaris are private: your own vehicle and guide, and a daily pace set around your group. Shared departures can sometimes be arranged for solo travellers — ask us and we’ll explain the options.
What vehicle will we travel in?
Game drives are in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for viewing and photography. Your proposal confirms the vehicle and seating for your group size.
Is a safari suitable for children?
Yes, with the right planning. We keep drives shorter, choose family-friendly rooms and build in rest time. Some camps and activities have minimum ages, so please share each child’s age when you enquire.
Can you cater for dietary needs?
Most lodges and camps can prepare vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and other meals with notice. Tell us about allergies or requirements when you enquire and we’ll pass them to every property on your route.
Do I need vaccinations or malaria tablets?
Requirements depend on your nationality and recent travel, and a yellow fever certificate may be needed if you arrive from certain countries. Malaria precautions are generally advised. Please check with a travel health clinic before you go.
What should I budget for tips?
Tipping is not compulsory but is customary for guides and lodge staff. We include current guidance with your proposal so you can plan for it in advance.
Will there be Wi-Fi and charging?
Many lodges and camps offer charging points and some Wi-Fi, but the connection can be slow or limited to main areas in remote parks. A spare power bank is useful on game drives.
How far in advance should I book?
For July to October and the holiday season, three to nine months ahead gives the best choice of camps. Shorter notice is often possible — send us your dates and we’ll check availability.
A few details.
A good beginning.
Tell us who is coming and what you would love to find here. We’ll send back a route you can read, question and make your own.
- Planned around your dates and interests
- Midrange or luxury, at your pace
- A personal conversation with our local team





