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The crossing everyone dreams of.
From July to October the herds gather on the banks of the Mara River in the far north of the Serengeti, and plunge across. It is the most famous wildlife moment on earth.
Great Migration · July to October
The bucket-list moment.
In the dry season the migration reaches the northern Serengeti around Kogatende. To keep moving the herds must cross the Mara River, often back and forth, past crocodiles and waiting lion. It is a long way north, so most guests fly at least one way.
“Nothing prepares you for a Mara crossing. Fly in, give yourself at least three days at the river, and be patient.”
Three reasons the Mara River is worth the journey.
The crossings
Thousands of wildebeest gather on the bank, hesitate, then pour into the river. A single crossing can last minutes or hours.
The northern Serengeti
Rolling hills, rocky kopjes and far fewer lodges than the centre. Even in peak season it feels wild.
Lion and leopard between crossings
The herds bring the predators. Between crossings there are big cats on the plains all around.
Fly in and out: your 4 days, hour by hour
4 days. Straight to the river by light aircraft. Our recommendation.
- Arusha airport
Light aircraft north.
- Land at Kogatende
Your guide is waiting.
- First afternoon at the river
Straight to the herds.
- Out early
To wherever the herds are massing.
- Waiting at the bank
Engine off, cameras ready.
- Picnic lunch
Close to the river.
- Afternoon crossing watch
Often quieter than the morning.
- Out early
Following the herds.
- Picnic lunch
In the field.
- The river
Another chance at a crossing.
- Final drive
One last river visit.
- Kogatende airstrip
Fly to Arusha or on to Zanzibar.
Other ways to do it
7 days by road through the crater and the whole Serengeti. An epic, but a lot of driving.
6 days. Drive north through the crater and Serengeti, then fly home.
Also available: Drive or Drive in, fly out. Pick it in the price builder and we will tailor the days. Build your price ↓
When to go
Crossing season
July to October
The herds are in the north and crossing the Mara River, often several times.
Herds heading south
November
The herds start moving back south. Late crossings are still possible.
Herds elsewhere
December to June
The migration is in the south or west. Pick a different migration safari for these months.
Build your price
Choose how long, how many of you, and how comfortable. Prices are per person and update as you go.
- LengthFly in and out
- Group2 travellers
- ComfortSignature
High season, per person, sharing a twin or double room.
How we price
Estimate, not a final quote. This is an estimate based on high-season rates for each comfort level. Once we know your dates, arrival times and flight times, we send you an exact quote in writing, with your lodges confirmed at your chosen standard, before you pay anything. Park permits run for 24 hours, so your timings can change the final price, as can park fees, lodge rates and exchange rates. Hotel pick-up in Moshi or Arusha is included; airport transfers and extra hotel nights are added to your quote.
Check dates and get your quote
No payment now. Jack replies within 12 hours with an exact quote and your lodges confirmed.
Rather talk it through? WhatsApp Jack or email jack@legendexpeditions.com.
How it fits your trip
Summit, a night in Moshi, then fly north to the river.
The Mara River crossings in the northern Serengeti.
Fly direct from Kogatende to Zanzibar (July to mid-January). We book the flight, hotel and transfers.
Add the Ngorongoro Crater on the way for the Big Five as well as the crossings.
Good to know
Crossings depend on the herds, so no one can promise one. Three days at the river gives you very good odds in peak season.
Fly at least one way. The north is two long days from Arusha by road. Fly in and out is our recommendation.
August and September are usually the most reliable, but the herds move with the rain each year.
Popular crossing points can draw vehicles. Your guide works the quieter spots and the afternoons.
Yes, with the drive-in options or by adding a night before your flight.