14-Day Tanzania Mara River Crossing Safari & Northern Serengeti
This 14-day Serengeti Mara River Safari is a thoughtfully designed journey through Tanzania’s most iconic landscapes, created by Lille Bille Safari for travelers who value authenticity, wildlife ethics, and meaningful experiences from the very first day. From the opening paragraph, our focus is clear: fewer crowds, local knowledge, and deep respect for nature.
Lake Natron – Remote Beginnings
The adventure begins at Lake Natron, one of Tanzania’s most dramatic and least-visited regions. Framed by volcanic scenery and Maasai lands, this area offers flamingo habitats, cultural encounters, and a peaceful introduction far from busy safari routes. Starting here allows you to connect with the land before entering the great parks.
Northern Serengeti – Mara River Migration
The heart of the journey unfolds in the Northern Serengeti, home to the legendary Mara River crossings of the Great Migration. Timing and patience matter, which is why our experienced local guides carefully plan each game drive to avoid congestion while maximizing wildlife behavior. The Serengeti National Park remains one of Africa’s most important ecosystems, supporting vast herds and top predators.
Central Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater
Moving south, the Central Serengeti delivers year-round big-cat sightings among kopjes and open plains. The safari continues to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for exceptional wildlife density within a collapsed volcanic caldera.
Zanzibar Nungwi – Ocean & Reflection
The journey ends in Nungwi, Zanzibar, where white-sand beaches and the Indian Ocean provide the perfect balance after intense safari days. You may also explore our Zanzibar beach extensions or other Tanzania safari experiences offered by Lille Bille Safari.
Why Travel with Lille Bille Safari
Our local crew lives this landscape. We travel consciously, avoid unnecessary crowds, and believe that protecting wildlife and respecting communities is the only way forward.
Optional Add-ons:
- Flight from Oslo (+ NOK 8,500 – 20,000 depending on season)
Included
Guided Safari Experiences
Accommodation
Transportation
Park Fees & Permits
Activities & Experiences
Meals & Drinks (varies by lodge)
Luggage Handling & Support
Not Included
International Flights
Visas & Travel Insurance
Tips & Gratuities
Optional Activities Not Listed in Itinerary
Personal Expenses
Vaccinations or Medication
-
Departure/Return Location
Departures and returns available from all major European and American hubs -
Included
All accommodations (as per selected tier)All ground transportationAll meals during safariAll park entrance and conservation feesDomestic flightsSafari in private 4x4 vehicle with English-speaking guide -
Not Included
International flightsSafety equipment (first aid)Summit certificateTips & personal expensesTravel insuranceVisa for Tanzania
Tour Plan
Day 1: Departure from Oslo – Overnight Flight to Kilimanjaro
Route: Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL) → Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Begin your adventure with an overnight international flight to Tanzania. Rest on board and prepare for the journey ahead.
Overnight: In-flight
Day 2 – Arrival in Kilimanjaro & Transfer to Arusha
Driving Distance: ~45 km / 1 hour
Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your lodge in Arusha. Spend the afternoon relaxing or exploring the local surroundings.
Overnight: Arusha Planet Lodge
Day 3 – Tarangire National Park
Driving Distance: Arusha → Tarangire ~120 km / 2.5 hours
Start your safari with a game drive in Tarangire National Park, known for its elephants, giant baobabs, and abundant wildlife. Morning and afternoon drives offer excellent photography opportunities.
Overnight: Marera Valley Lodge, Karatu
Day 4: Lake Natron Adventure
Driving Distance: Karatu → Lake Natron ~200 km / 5–6 hours
Journey to the dramatic landscapes of Lake Natron. Photograph flamingos, explore volcanic terrain, and hike to waterfalls. Lake Natron’s remote setting offers unique safari experiences.
Overnight: Rustic camp near Lake Maasai giraffe eco lodge
Day 5 – Lake Natron → Northern Serengeti (Great Migration)
Driving Distance: Lake Natron → Northern Serengeti ~300 km / 6–7 hours
Depart early for the Northern Serengeti, arriving in time to witness the Mara River crossings. Enjoy an afternoon game drive spotting predators and herds in action.
Overnight: Mara Kati kati Camp, Northern Serengeti
Day 6: Full-Day Safari – Mara River & Migration Crossings
Spend the day photographing wildlife at the Mara River. Observe dramatic wildebeest crossings, predator interactions, and the vast savannah landscapes. Full-day game drives maximize sightings and photography opportunities.
Overnight: Mara Kati Kati
Day 7 – Transfer to Central Serengeti
Driving Distance: Northern → Central Serengeti ~150 km / 4–5 hours
Travel south into the Central Serengeti, famous for year-round wildlife and big cats. Enjoy en-route game drives to spot lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
Overnight: Shuhudia Adventure Camp – Central Serengeti
Day 8 – NGorongoro Crater → Karatu
Driving Distance: Central Serengeti → Ngorongoro → Karatu ~180 km / 4–5 hours
After breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day game drive. See rhinos, lions, hyenas, elephants, and diverse birdlife. Continue to Karatu in the late afternoon.
Overnight: Marera Valley Lodge, Karatu
Day 9 – Fly to Zanzibar & Transfer to Nungwi
Return to Arusha Airport for your scheduled flight to Zanzibar. Transfer to Nungwi Beach for relaxation by the Indian Ocean.
Overnight: Amaans Bungalows
Days 10–12 – Nungwi Beach Retreat
Enjoy three full days in Nungwi with optional activities:
Snorkeling and diving
Dhow sailing excursions
Sunset cruises
Fishing trips
Spa treatments
Or simply relax on the beach and enjoy tropical views and fresh seafood.
Overnight: Amaans Bungalows
Day 13 – Stone Town Half-Day Tour
Take a guided tour of Stone Town, visiting spice markets, historic alleys, and cultural landmarks. Return to your hotel for relaxation.
Overnight: Golden Tulip Zanzibar Stone Town
Day 14 – Departure from Zanzibar
Transfer to the airport for your international flight home, bringing unforgettable memories of Tanzania’s wildlife and Zanzibar’s beaches.