Activity Guide
Great Migration Safari
A Great Migration Safari
Experience of a Lifetime
From witnessing the breathtaking spectacle of the Great Migration of Wildebeest on the move to immersing yourself in the rich Maasai culture, there’s an adventure for everyone. This guide outlines a range of exciting activities to enhance your safari experience, ensuring you make the most of your time on the African savanna.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, adrenaline seeker, or culture vulture, there’s something to inspire you. Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey!
Hot Air Ballooning
Experience the grandeur of the Great Migration of Wildebeest from a unique vantage point with a hot air balloon safari. As the sun paints the horizon with vibrant colors, you’ll gently ascend above the savanna in a hot air balloon. Enjoy panoramic views of vast herds of wildebeest and zebra stretching as far as the eye can see. Spot iconic landmarks like the Mara River and capture breathtaking photographs. These flights typically last 1-2 hours, but be prepared for early mornings due to wind patterns and weight restrictions. Pre-booking this unforgettable experience is essential.
Walking Safari
Feel the thrill of being on foot in the African bush with a walking safari. A skilled guide will transform the environment into an open classroom, teaching you about animal tracks and signs, and uncovering the fascinating world of insects and smaller creatures often missed on game drives. Prepare for potential encounters with animals on their terms, creating a genuine sense of adventure. Walking safaris can range from short nature walks to multi-hour excursions.
Night Game Drive
Discover the hidden secrets of the African bush with a night game drive. Experience the nocturnal world coming alive after dark! Spot predators like lions, with their reflective eyes stalking prey, and observe fascinating nocturnal creatures such as springhares and bat-eared foxes emerging from their hiding spots. The starry African sky adds another layer of wonder to this unique adventure. Night game drives typically last 2-3 hours, so dress warmly as nights can be cool. Bring a camera with good night photography capabilities to capture these elusive creatures in their natural habitat.
Birding
Don’t overlook the birding opportunities during the Great Migration of Wildebees! The Serengeti and Masai Mara are not only havens for mammals but also teem with incredible birdlife. Expert guides will help you identify a vast array of avian wonders, from majestic eagles and hawks soaring overhead to vibrant migratory birds that follow the wildebeest herds. Birding can be seamlessly incorporated into game drives, or you can opt for a dedicated birding excursion for a more in-depth exploration.
4×4 Game Drives
Morning and afternoon 4×4 game drives are the cornerstone of any safari experience, offering prime viewing opportunities for the Great Migration and Tanzania’s incredible wildlife. Skilled rangers tailor game drives to follow the migration patterns. Mornings might be ideal for witnessing wildebeest herds on the move, especially during dramatic river crossings. Afternoons can be perfect for spotting predators near watering holes as animals gather to drink. Beyond the wildebeest, expect to see a wide variety of animals such as elephants, giraffes, and lions. These game drives typically last 2-3 hours each, providing ample time for observation and photography. Dress in comfortable clothing with neutral tones to blend with the environment, and bring a hat and sunscreen during the summer months.
Cultural Village Visit
Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Maasai people, who have co-existed with the migration for centuries, with a cultural village visit. Learn about their traditions, way of life, and deep connection to the land. Witness traditional dances, see how they build their homes (manyattas), and interact with community members through a translator. Cultural village visits can range from a few hours to a full-day excursion, offering a profound and enriching experience.
Ngorongoro Descent
Experience the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife. Enjoy a dramatic descent into the crater floor, where you’ll encounter a unique ecosystem brimming with animals, including the critically endangered black rhinoceros. Expect to see elephants, lions, zebras, and many other species that thrive due to the permanent water source within the crater. A Ngorongoro Crater descent can be done as a day trip or incorporated into a longer itinerary with accommodations near the crater rim.
Bush Dining
Don’t overlook the birding opportunities during the Great Migration! The Serengeti and Masai Mara are not only havens for mammals but also teem with incredible birdlife. Expert guides will help you identify a vast array of avian wonders, from majestic eagles and hawks soaring overhead to vibrant migratory birds that follow the wildebeest herds. Birding can be seamlessly incorporated into game drives, or you can opt for a dedicated birding excursion for a more in-depth exploration.
Sundowners
End your safari day perfectly with sundowners, a quintessential safari tradition. Enjoy drinks and snacks as the sun sets over the savanna, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Relax and unwind with a refreshing beverage and light bites while witnessing this breathtaking spectacle. Sundowners are typically short social gatherings before dinner, lasting about 30 minutes to an hour, providing a serene and picturesque conclusion to your day.