5-Day Grumeti River Migration Safari
A private 5-day safari from Arusha to the western Serengeti in the months when the migration herds move through the Western Corridor, about late May to July, with two nights near the Grumeti River and a game drive in the Ngorongoro Crater on the way back.
Where the Herds Go Before the Mara
Before the wildebeest and zebras reach the Mara River in the north, many of them pass through the Western Corridor of the Serengeti, where the Grumeti River winds through the plains and the forest. Large Nile crocodiles live in its pools, and when the herds cross, it can be dramatic.
Be clear about one thing before you book: the Grumeti crossings are usually smaller than the famous Mara River crossings, the timing changes from year to year with the rain, and no one can promise a crossing on a given day. What the west does offer in these months is large herds, fewer vehicles than in the centre, and the chance of a crossing with your own guide and vehicle.
Travelling from July to October? See the 6-Day Mara River Crossing Safari →
Why Travellers Choose It
- Two nights in the Western Corridor in the migration season
- Game drives along the Grumeti River, home to large crocodiles
- A night in the central Serengeti on the way
- A game drive on the Ngorongoro Crater floor
- Private vehicle and driver-guide
Read our park guides: The Great Migration month by month, Serengeti National Park
An early start for the long drive over the Ngorongoro highlands and down onto the Serengeti plains, with a game drive on the way to your lodge in the centre of the park.
Overnight: Lodge or tented camp in the central Serengeti
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
A game drive west along the corridor towards the Grumeti River, following the news of where the herds are.
Overnight: Tented camp in the western Serengeti
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A full day with the herds: game drives along the river and the plains, with a picnic lunch. If the herds are gathering at the river, your guide waits with you for a crossing. Elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, impalas, wildebeest and hippos are common. Lions are seen often and leopards more rarely. Wild animals move freely, so no sighting can be guaranteed.
Overnight: Tented camp in the western Serengeti
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A morning game drive, then the long drive back across the Serengeti and up to the Ngorongoro highlands.
Overnight: Lodge in Karatu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
An early descent to the crater floor for a game drive, then the drive back to Arusha, arriving in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Price Per Person — Private Safari
| Group Size | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $4,235 |
| 2 People | $3,155 |
| 3 People | $2,795 |
| 4 People | $2,620 |
| 5 People | $2,510 |
| 6 People | $2,440 |
Same price on every date this trip runs.
Price per person in US dollars, by the number of people travelling together, sharing rooms. Groups of more than 6: price on request.
Trip Notes
- Start & end: your hotel in Arusha
- Season: about late May to July
- Private safari: your group only, on the dates you choose
- Camps named when we confirm availability
- Prices may change if park fees change
Includes
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof and a professional driver-guide
- All park entry and concession fees, and the Ngorongoro Crater vehicle fee
- 4 nights in lodges and a tented camp, full board
- Drinking water
- Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Arusha
Excludes
- International flights and visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tanzania's compulsory inbound travel insurance for foreign visitors (44 US dollars per person, from 1 October 2026)
- Tips for your guide and lodge staff
- Drinks not included in the meal plans
- Any government increase in park fees or taxes after booking
Questions Travellers Ask
Will we see a river crossing?
We cannot promise one. The Grumeti crossings are smaller and less regular than those at the Mara River, and their timing depends on the rain. You will be where the herds are, with time to wait at the river.
When is the best time?
Usually from late May to July, when the herds move through the Western Corridor. We check the latest news before your trip.
Is the driving long?
Yes. The western Serengeti is far from Arusha, so days 1 and 4 are long drives with game viewing on the way. Flying in and out is possible; ask us for a price.
Can we add more days?
Yes. You can add nights in the central Serengeti or in Tarangire, or continue to Zanzibar.
