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Tanzania Great Migration Photo Safari 2026
The annual migration boasts over two million ungulates, including Wildebeest, but also enormous groups of Zebra, Thomson’s Gazelle, Grant’s Gazelle and Eland, as they move through Serengeti National Park. It is without dispute the greatest annual wildlife spectacle. Although variations occur from year to year, the Serengeti migration follows a reasonably predictable annual cycle, dictated by local rainfall patterns. When the drought comes to the Southern Serengeti in May, the herd moves north, towards the Masai Mara in Kenya, chomping down the high green grass, quickly followed by the Gazelles and Zebras. The migration is not without risk: crossing rivers means facing about 3,000 Crocodiles, patiently waiting for a meal. Another apex predator that the herd must contend with are the infamous Serengeti Lion prides: by far the largest Lion population in Africa. Despite the abundance of hoofed animals in this area, life is not easy for these big cats in this unforgiving landscape. Watching a group of Lions collaborating to hunt down a Wildebeest is an unforgettable sight.
Witnessing the Great Migration is high on many people’s bucket lists. The images that often come to mind are the river crossings, the last obstacle before reaching the grass rich plains of the Masai Mara, however there is an immense amount of other wildlife encounters that you can expect during this safari including, Cheetah, Leopard, Rhinos and if we are lucky, maybe a Bat-eared Fox! There are thousands of different bird species that we will potentially photograph as well. Join us and witness for yourself a journey of life unlike any other in the world!
The breathtaking accommodations we will enjoy from the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater are something from a fantasy novel.
Spacious, comfortable accommodations at each location on the itinerary that are beautifully decorated and designed to let you relax and unwind after a day in the Serengeti.
Our longest stay is five nights on the banks of the amazing Mara River where we will capture the epic action of this incredible migration event.
ITINERARY
Tanzania Great Migration Photo Safari 2026
* In order to provide participants with the best photographic opportunities the itinerary is subject to change based on weather, lighting and other variables.
Day 1: August 7th, 2026
~ No Meals Provided
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, after clearing customs and immigration you will be met by your driver and transfer to Arusha. On arrival you will be assisted to check in to your room. Set in beautiful and tranquil surroundings, our Lodge for this evening is nestled between the Usa River and the wildlife sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to water buffalo, birds and monkeys, including the elusive Colobus monkey. Conveniently located just 30 minutes from Kilimanjaro International Airport, the lodge is an ideal starting point for your safari. Overnight in Arusha.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Lodge
Day 2: August 8th, 2026
~ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Provided – Tea, Coffee & Juices
After breakfast, check out and drive to Tarangire National Park, On clearing the paperwork at the entrance, you will head into the park for a game drive on route to the camp. We will plan to arrive in time for lunch. After our arrival you can relax in camp, as you wait for the day to cool before heading out on an afternoon game drive, returning to camp to share your stories by the campfire before enjoying dinner and retiring to bed. Tarangire National Park, situated within Tanzania’s spectacular Manyara Region, is an awe-inspiring national park comprising of granite ridges, river valleys, mixed vegetative landscapes, and free-roaming wildlife. During the annual dry season, the Tarangire River is a magnet for thirsty wildlife. Large herds of Elephants and migratory Wildebeest, Zebra, Buffalo, Impala, Gazelle, Hartebeest and Eland gather and not surprisingly the predators follow. With Lion being among the most commonly spotted animal, it is a rare day that a visitor does not spot this majestic animal prowling or relaxing. Tarangire is also the one place in Tanzania where dry-country Antelope such as Oryx and Gerenuk are seen regularly. This expansive area is also known for its spectacular Baobab Trees, its breathtaking views of the Masaai Steppe and the Wondrous Mountains to the south. Overnight at Tarangire National Park.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Safari Camp
Day 3: August 9th, 2026
~ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Provided – Tea, Coffee & Juices
After an early wake-up call you will head out to spend the whole day in the Tarangire National Park complete with picnic lunch. Evening return to the camp for dinner. Overnight at Tarangire National Park.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Safari Camp
Day 4: August 10th, 2026
~ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Provided – Tea, Coffee, Juices, Local Wine, Spirits, Beer & Soft Drinks (Premium Drinks Excluded)
After breakfast, check out with lunch boxes and drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. On arrival at the camp, you will be assisted to check in to your room. Located in Northern Tanzania, the Ngorongoro Crater is best known for its natural beauty and abundance of diverse wildlife; which makes it one of Africa’s most popular safari destinations. Surrounded by Tanzania’s highlands, this UNESCO-listed crater is said to be the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. Visitors can look forward to spotting the world-renowned Big Five and a host of other wildlife species including large herds of zebra and wildebeest. It is famed as one of Tanzania’s best tourist attractions offering visitors an array of wonderful activities including excellent birding and wildlife viewing. Overnight at Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆☆ Safari Camp
Day 5: August 11th, 2026
~ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Provided – Tea, Coffee, Juices, Local Wine, Spirits, Beer & Soft Drinks (Premium Drinks Excluded)
Depart with lunch boxes and drive down in the crater floor for a full day game drive, evening depart from the crater and drive to the camp for dinner and overnight. Overnight at Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆☆ Safari Camp
Day 6: August 12th, 2026
~ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Provided – Tea, Coffee, Juices, Local Wine, Spirits, Beer & Soft Drinks (Premium Drinks Excluded)
Today is another highlight of your safari as you head to the famous central region of Serengeti National Park with your lunch boxes prepared! Once we reach the camp, you will be escorted to Reception. After check in formalities and a short safari briefing, you will be assisted into your room.
Tanzania Serengeti National Park, established in 1952, is an emblem of the African wilderness. Its name, ‘Serengeti’ from the Maasai language, translates to ‘Endless Plain ’, aptly describing its vast landscapes. Encompassing 14,763 square kilometers, the Central Serengeti, (designated as a game reserve in 1929), is a mosaic of diverse ecosystems and a sanctuary for an array of wildlife. The surrounding landscapes are covered in sweeping grasslands which provide the perfect habitat for the migratory route for hundreds of thousands of Wildebeest, Antelope and Zebra. You can look forward to discovering an array of wildlife. Commonly spotted species include: Leopard, Lion, Cheetah, Caracal, Serval, African Wildcat, and a variety of prolific birdlife. Overnight in Seronera.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆☆ Safari Camp
Day 7: August 13th, 2026
~ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Provided – Tea, Coffee, Juices, Local Wine, Spirits, Beer & Soft Drinks (Premium Drinks Excluded)
Enjoy a full day, with morning and evening games drives in Central Serengeti National Park. Enjoy quiet evenings by the camp fire and the exclusivity of absolute comfort combined with the authenticity of a night spent in the African bush, an extraordinary experience for all nature lovers. Overnight in Seronera.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆☆ Safari Camp
Day 8: August 14th, 2026
~ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Provided – Tea, Coffee, Juices, Local Wine, Spirits, Beer & Soft Drinks (Premium Drinks Excluded)
This morning wake to the sounds of the African bush, and head out on an early morning game drive to catch the animals at their most active time of day! On return to your camp, enjoy a typical safari breakfast surrounded by local wildlife. Later, on your afternoon game drive, the chances to spot Africa’s famous Big Five abound, thanks to the park’s density of both predators and prey. Overnight in Seronera.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆☆ Safari Camp
Day 9: August 15th, 2026
~ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Provided – Tea, Coffee, Juices, Local Wine, Spirits, Beer & Soft Drinks (Premium Drinks Excluded)
After breakfast and check out, make your way slowly to the central part of Serengeti, game driving as you go. On arrival at the camp you will be escorted to reception, given a short safari briefing, before being shown your tent. Our river camp’s property is prized due to its excellent location in the north of the Serengeti, adjacent to the famous Mara River. It’s here that one can witness the great Mara River crossings, a world-renowned event of millions of Wildebeest and Zebras crossing the treacherous Mara River. This fight for survival is keenly evident as the herds toss themselves into the river overcrowded by the ever-patient Crocodile ready to feast on them. Resident Lions and Hyenas are also found in great numbers as they also seek to feast upon the weak links in this ferocious race. Overnight at Kogatende.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆☆ Safari Camp
Day 10-13 August 16th – 20th, 2026
~ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Provided – Tea, Coffee, Juices, Local Wine, Spirits, Beer & Soft Drinks (Premium Drinks Excluded)
Enjoy a full days, with morning and evening games drives in the Northern Serengeti National Park. Enjoy a quiet evenings by the camp fire near the banks of the Mara River and the exclusivity of absolute comfort combined with the authenticity of a night spent in the Serengeti, an extraordinary experience for all nature lovers with endless potential for bird and wildlife sightings on safari car or even off your own patio! Overnights at Kogatende.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆☆ Safari Camp
Day 14: August 16th, 2026
~ Breakfast Provided – Tea, Coffee, Juices
After breakfast and check out, you will be driven the short distance to the Airstrip where you will board your scheduled flight to Arusha. On arrival at Arusha Airstrip, you will be met by our private driver and from here, travel the short distance to Arusha Coffee Lodge ‘Shanga experience’ for lunch. Then visit the Shanga Shangaa Workshops, located near the lunch venue. Here you will be given a guided tour of the premises educating you on all the aspects relating to this wonderful project. The aim of Shanga Shangaa is to provide full time employment and training to help the locally disabled Tanzanian’s by creating unique bead work and glass work. There is also the opportunity to give it a go yourself, and indeed purchase some of their products at their shop on site. Depending on your International flight times, you will meet our driver at reception and from here you will be transferred to the airport with a new group of friends, wonderful experiences and memory cards loaded full of image files to remember it all by. Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport you will check in for your flight home or continue on to the next destination. Bon Voyage!
CANCELLATION POLICY
Tanzania Great Migration Photo Safari 2026
This cancellation policy protects our business losses and as such is strictly adhered to. Exceptions will not be made. We strongly encourage participants to purchase travelers insurance through an agency like Global Rescue so that you’ll have coverage should you unexpectedly need to cancel your trip. At his discretion, Nathaniel may lead the tour even if it does not meet the minimum number of participants required.
1). Cancel more than one year prior to the original tour start date:
Full refund, minus any initial deposit and all PayPal transaction fees. Refunds will be paid via PayPal and processed within 72 hours of the request being approved. 2).
2).Cancel less than one year prior to the original tour start date:
A refund will only be issued if the tour is sold out and your vacated spot filled by another participant signing up. This refund would exclude your initial deposit, single supplement payments and any PayPal transaction fees.
* Should you fail to complete the payments as scheduled for this tour you will forfeit your deposit, all payments and your spot on this tour.
TRAVEL PLANNING
Tanzania Great Migration Photo Safari 2026
• Participants must arrive in Arusha, Tanzania prior to 6:00pm on August 7th, 2026!
• We strongly encourage participants to purchase travelers insurance through an agency like Global Rescue so that you’ll have coverage should you unexpectedly need to cancel your trip.
• Traveling in remote locations can present challenges that may require slight changes to the itinerary. We will always try to run the tour as the initial itinerary. In the event, beyond our control, such as political unrest, natural disasters, over bookings by the lodge, where a change is required, we will do our best to keep you close to the original shooting location. It is our intention for you to have the best possible experience. We will try to notify you of any changes as soon as we are made aware of them. If, however these changes cause an increase to the price, the increase will be passed on to the participant.
PAYMENTS & REGISTRATION
Tanzania Great Migration Photo Safari 2026
August 7th, 2026 – August 20th, 2026
SOLD OUT! (Maximum 8 Participants)
16,995 USD – Based on Shared Occupancy- $3,500 Non-refundable deposit is required to secure your spot
- $4,000 Single Supplement charged to any participant not sharing
* A late fee of $250 may be added to the balance for any payments not received by the due date.
Fill Out Registration Form (Required To Secure Booking)
Fill Out Flight Itinerary Form (Due 60 Days Prior To Tour)
HIGHLIGHTS
• 14 Day/ 13 Night world-class itinerary covering the best regions of Tanzania to experience the incredible Wildebeest Migration
• Exclusive safari limited to a maximum of 8 guests
• Accommodations in beautiful safari camps & lodges for duration of the Safari (Minimum ☆☆☆)
• Gourmet, delicious meals for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (Please see daily itinerary for meals included on this safari)
• Itinerary that’s structured to maximize photographic opportunities and limit time wasted with travel and transfers
• 1 Liter of water per person/per day while on the operator’s safari vehicles
• Current Government taxes and levies
• Private ground transfers for our group through duration of the Safari
• Professional photographic guidance by Nathaniel Smalley for the entire safari
• Private safari vehicles with plenty of space for your gear and single row for each guest
• Premiere drivers and guides for the duration of the Safari
• Professional in field mentoring, editing instruction and image critique with Nathaniel Smalley
• New friends, incredible images and memories that will last a lifetime!
INCLUDED
1. Pick up at Kilimanjaro International Airport and hotel transfer
2. All transportation throughout the safari itinerary (ground and air)
3. 14 Day / 13 Night photo safari
4. Deluxe accommodations for entire safari (Minimum ☆☆☆ and ☆☆☆☆)
5. Gourmet, delicious meals for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (Please see daily itinerary for meals included on this safari)
6. One liter of water per person/per day while on the operator’s safari vehicles
7. All National Park fees, Game Reserves entrance fees, VAT and taxes
8. Pro photographer mentoring by Nathaniel Smalley
9. Editing sessions with Nathaniel
10. Lightroom and Photoshop workflow with Nathaniel
11. Image reviews and critique with Nathaniel
12. Return to Kilimanjaro International Airport at end of Safari.
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EXCLUDED
1. International flights to and from Africa
2. Travel, evacuation or other associated insurance
3. Visas and passport fees (where applicable in preparation for your travel)
4. Any meals or beverages not listed in the itinerary
5. Accommodations enroute or returning from Africa
6. Any additional transfers not mentioned in the Safari itinerary
7. Optional activities (balloon rides, guided walking safaris, etc.)
8. Gratuities for the guides, staff at accommodations, and airport transfers
9. Personal expenses (souvenirs, liquor, telephone calls, internet, laundry etc.)
10. Pre and post-safari tours or activities, accommodations or meals before or after the safari
11. Items of a personal nature
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WHAT TO BRING
1. Camera with manual mode capability
2. Camera lenses of your choice (minimum 400mm recommended)
3. Cable release for your camera (Timers or Exposure Delay will also work)
4. Lens filters of your choice (ND, CPL, GRAD, etc.)
5. Extra batteries for your camera & charger
6. Extra memory cards and external Hard Drive for file backup
7. Laptop with latest version of Lightroom Classic and/or Photoshop
8. Beanie hat and light gloves for cool morning game drives
9. Sunhat and sunscreen
10. Long pants – 3 pairs
11. Shorts and/or skirts – 2 pairs
12. Lightweight, breathable sleeved shirts to protect you from the sun
13. Underwear & socks
14. Sports bra for women. (Not all roads are well maintained and can be rough)
15. Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
16. Light weight, warm jacket (Temps will average 45°f in the early morning and 90°f at mid-day)
17. Waterproof shell for any possible rain showers
18. Polarized sunglasses
19. Guests that wear contact lenses are encouraged to bring along a pair of eye glasses in case you get irritated by the dust
20. Personal toiletries
21. Medications
22. Malaria Tablets if needed (Please check with your physician first!)
23. Antihistamine tablets or eye drops for any allergies
24. Anti-nausea & anti-diarrhea medicine
25. Moisturizing cream and sunblock
26. Insect repellent
27. Tissues/’Wet Wipes’
28. Passport, applicable Visas, tickets, money etc.
29. A great attitude!
* We recommend layering with light clothing. Early morning game drives can be cool. At mid-moring the sun will increase the temperature rapidly, and then cool off quickly once the sun goes down. Please pack earth toned clothing. Avoid packing bright colors and camouflage. *Due to military restrictions, camouflage is not allowed in some parts of Africa.
DIFFICULTY
This is an outdoor nature photography safari, so being fit and in good health will allow you to enjoy the trip more comfortably. However, our planned activities should be within the ability of most people in moderate to good shape. Conditions can be cool in the evening and hot at mid-day, so please pack appropriate clothing for both conditions. Temps will average 45°f in the early morning and 90°f at mid-day.
Participants are required to sign a standard personal indemnity and waiver of liability form. Every effort is made to keep participants safe during all stages of the safari, but each person is solely responsible for avoiding personal injury or damaging their equipment during the trip.
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TESTIMONIALS
“As an art nature photographer and animal conservationist who has always dreamt of an African safari, choosing Nathaniel’s Best of Botswana Safari in 2022 was one of the best decisions of my life. Every aspect of the tour was planned allowing just enough flexibility to ensure we were in the right locations with optimal lighting. Not only did we see all the animals, reptiles and birds but were able to spend time observing their behaviors and learning from our guide about them. This preparation along with shooting from a boat equipped with swivel chairs and camera mounts, provided more opportunities for truly unique photos. To top it off, the accommodations were superb, including world class inspiring photography decor, and gourmet meals prepared by an entertaining talented chef named Robson.”
~ Joanne W. | Arizona, USA
“Earlier in 2021 I traveled with Nathaniel on my first trip to Africa to attend the NOW Tours Migration Safari in Kenya. I simply can’t seem to find the right words to adequately describe the amazing experience we shared. It really was truly magical on all levels. Highly recommended!”
~ Lois C. | Oregon, USA
“This trip was amazing I have wanted to see the animals in Africa in their own habitat long before we called it a bucket list. I made a last minute decision to join the 2019 tour and am so glad I did. Seeing those animals kept me in awe! I couldn’t have asked for a better guide, or a better photography teacher. Nathaniel is a professional and attentive guide from the day you meet him until departure from his tour. I can’t wait to go along with him on another adventure!”
~ Karen B. | California, USA
“I had the pleasure of being a participant in Nathaniel Smalley’s Elements Of Africa Safari in 2017, where we spent time in Namibia, Botswana and Victoria Falls. The images I returned with are truly amazing and I learned quite a bit, including some new shooting techniques. Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks?! The trip was a blast, the camaraderie was off the charts. Nathaniel is a great teacher and photographer and loves to share the beauty of nature and his talents with his participants.”
~ Don D. | Arizona, USA
“A journey to the Masai Mara is a dream come true and laden with anticipation and expectations that in reality are hard to match. Nathaniel exceeded them, turning dreams into a lifetime of memories, images. Perfect planning and the right amount of improvisation consistently put us in the right places at the right time. Nathaniel was always there to provide assistance and guided when wanted or needed without smothering. The Mara really is magical and this is a trip with Nature Odyssey Worldwide not to be missed!”
~ Dan N. | Oregon, USA
“I had the pleasure of participating in an African safari with Nathaniel. I came away with amazing images, new skills, and a new friend and mentor in Nathaniel. He is forever upbeat and cheerful, and has a deep love for nature and a willingness to share his considerable talents with others.”
~ Larry K. | California, USA
“Earlier this year I traveled with Nathaniel on my first trip to Africa to attend the NOW Tours Migration Safari in Kenya. I simply can’t seem to find the right words to adequately describe the amazing experience we shared. It really was truly magical on all levels. Highly recommended!”
~ Lois C. | Oregon, USA
“In 2016 I attended an African Safari with Nathaniel, he listens to his clients and goes out of his way to accommodate their special requests. He is also very helpful in demonstrating his processing workflow and the different types of processing tools he uses. The overall plan for the trip was EXCELLENT! The accommodation, food, driver/guides could not have been better. I particularly appreciated the long time we spent on each game drive, using our precious time on the trip as much as possible. It was perfect. His choice of where to stay and for how long reflected your experience in the area. The structure gave us the best possible opportunities for photography. We had exceptional opportunities for photographing a variety of animals and amazing action! Cheetah kills, wildebeest and zebras crossing the river with crocodiles lying in wait, lionesses and cheetahs feeding their cubs. Awesome!”
~ Gillian S. | Maryland, USA
“I traveled with Nathaniel in September to the Masai Mara. My experience shooting wildlife is limited so I was in learning mode. Nathaniel was unfailingly helpful, generous with his time and open to other perspectives and shooting styles. We had a lot of fun and many laughs. I look forward to my next trip with him.”
~ Judith F. | Canada
“We experienced a wonderful safari in Kenya with Nathaniel in 2016. He offered excellent teaching and leadership throughout the trip!”
~ Anne C. | Florida, USA
“This was my first safari and I felt so fortunate to have Nathaniel as our trip leader. He is a patient, knowledgeable, talented, and enthusiastic photographer. I appreciated his on-the-fly advice and his editing tips as well as good humor. He is able to work with all levels of photographers. I look forward to future trips with Nature Odyssey Worldwide!”
~ Mindy R. | California, USA
“I recently returned from an African Migration Safari with Nathaniel Smalley in the Masai Mara. A fantastic trip. My wife and I are still editing madly. We’re not wildlife photographers so we found the trip challenging, but learned an amazing amount from Nathaniel. We would highly recommend traveling with him!”
~ Keith P. | Canada