Fly to Kogatende for the Great Migration in Serengeti
Fly to Kogatende: Your Ultimate Guide to Northern Serengeti Flights
If you dream of witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration or exploring the wild, untouched beauty of the Northern Serengeti, then flying to Kogatende is the best way to begin your adventure. This hidden gem of Tanzania’s safari circuit is famous for its incredible proximity to the Mara River, where millions of wildebeests risk their lives crossing the crocodile-infested waters each year.
Unlike the busier central Serengeti, Kogatende feels remote and pure. It’s a place where nature dominates and travelers feel completely immersed in the wild heartbeat of Africa. Reaching it by air is not only fast but also breathtakingly scenic. As your plane soars above the golden plains and meandering rivers, you’ll catch a glimpse of elephants, giraffes, and even herds of wildebeests below — all before you’ve even landed.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about flights to Kogatende — including flight routes, airline options like Auric Air and Coastal Aviation, flight times from Arusha and Zanzibar, and what to expect when you arrive. Whether you’re planning a short fly-in safari or a full Northern Circuit adventure, this article will help you plan your journey with ease.
🦁 Why You Should Fly to Kogatende
There are many reasons why flying to Kogatende makes sense for safari travelers.
First, it saves you time. Instead of spending a full day on bumpy roads, you can arrive quickly and refreshed, ready to start your safari immediately. Second, the flight itself is an experience — an aerial safari where you can admire the vast Serengeti ecosystem from above.
But most importantly, Kogatende is where you’ll witness the most dramatic scenes of the Great Migration. Between July and October, hundreds of thousands of wildebeests gather at the Mara River, creating unforgettable moments as they leap across in search of greener pastures.
Flying here ensures you won’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime event. You’ll land right in the heart of the action, close to luxurious lodges and exclusive game drive areas.
Fly to Kogatende for the Great Migration in Serengeti Photo gallery
These are real photos from our clients on their Tanzania safaris. They show the wildlife, landscapes, and special moments you can experience on your own safari adventure.
Expert recommendation
As your safari experts at Tanzania Safari Experience, we always recommend flying to Kogatende if you want to witness the Great Migration at its most dramatic point. It’s an experience that captures the very essence of Africa — wild, raw, and awe-inspiring.
But beyond the wildlife, we believe a safari should also be about connection and renewal. Not everyone comes to Tanzania just to see animals; many come to unwind, to detox from their busy lives, and to reconnect with nature. That’s why we design unique safari packages that go beyond traditional game drives.
Whether it’s a fly-in safari to Kogatende, a sunset dinner overlooking the Mara River, or a quiet evening under the stars, our goal is to help you rediscover peace in the wild.
Laurent Karume
Tanzania Safari Specialist
Fly to Kogatende for the Great Migration in Serengeti Highlights
- Quick 1.5-hour flight to Northern Serengeti.
- See the Great Wildebeest Migration.
- Daily flights from Arusha & Zanzibar.
- Land at Kogatende Airstrip (GTZ).
- Stay near the Mara River crossings.
- Easy safari & beach combo trips.
At a glance
- Tanzania
- Safari Accommodation
Tailormade itineraries
Every Tanzania Safari Experience adventure is customized just for you—no fixed tours or set dates. Speak with our Tanzania Safari experts to help you plan your perfect Tanzania Safari itinerary.
Where Is Kogatende Located?
Kogatende sits in the northernmost part of Serengeti National Park, near the Mara River and just south of the Kenya-Tanzania border. This area is part of the migratory path of over two million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles, making it one of the best wildlife-viewing regions in Africa.
The landscape here is a mix of open grasslands, rocky kopjes, and riverine forests — all teeming with life. Kogatende is particularly famous for being close to the Mara River crossing points, where herds of wildebeests brave crocodile attacks to continue their annual migration. This makes it a dream destination for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.
🚗 Why Fly Instead of Drive?
Traveling to Kogatende by road from Arusha takes around 10 to 12 hours, covering more than 400 kilometers of rugged terrain. While the drive is scenic, it’s long and can be exhausting. On the other hand, a flight from Arusha to Kogatende takes just 1 hour and 30 minutes, saving you an entire day of travel.
Flying allows you to spend more time doing what you came for — exploring the Serengeti and spotting wildlife. Plus, the aerial views are simply unforgettable. From above, you’ll see Lake Manyara glistening in the sun, the green rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, and endless Serengeti plains stretching beyond the horizon. It’s like your safari starts the moment your plane takes off.
How to Fly to Kogatende
Getting to Kogatende is simple thanks to reliable domestic flights operated by Auric Air and Coastal Aviation, Tanzania’s leading safari airlines. These companies offer daily flights connecting Kogatende to Arusha, Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, and other airstrips within the Serengeti.
1. Arusha to Kogatende Flights
Most travelers begin their safari adventure in Arusha, the main safari hub in northern Tanzania. Flights from Arusha to Kogatende depart from Arusha Airport (ARK) and take approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Both Auric Air and Coastal Aviation operate daily flights on this route.
This is the ideal option if you’re starting your journey after visiting the Ngorongoro Crater or Tarangire National Park. It’s fast, scenic, and connects perfectly with onward flights to other parts of Tanzania.
2. Zanzibar to Kogatende Flights
If you’re enjoying the turquoise waters and white sands of Zanzibar and want to add a safari to your beach escape, you can fly directly from Zanzibar to Kogatende. The flight takes about 2 hours 15 minutes and is a popular route during the migration season.
Many travelers love this route because it combines the best of both worlds — a relaxing beach holiday followed by thrilling wildlife encounters in the Serengeti. You can literally have breakfast by the ocean and lunch among wildebeests in the savannah.
3. Dar es Salaam to Kogatende Flights
For international travelers arriving in Tanzania’s largest city, Dar es Salaam, there are connecting flights to Kogatende via Arusha or Serengeti airstrips. The total flight time is around 3 hours. This route is great for those who want to skip the long road transfers and start their safari immediately after landing in Tanzania.
4. Serengeti to Zanzibar Flights (via Kogatende)
For those already exploring the Serengeti, it’s easy to fly from Kogatende to Zanzibar after your safari. Many itineraries include this as a final leg — ending your wildlife adventure with relaxation on the beach. It’s one of the most seamless safari-to-beach connections in East Africa.
📍 Kogatende Airstrip Details
Kogatende doesn’t have a traditional airport; instead, it has a small bush airstrip designed for light aircraft.
Airport Code: GTZ
Runway: Gravel
Facilities: Small shaded waiting area, luggage handling zone, and safari vehicle pickup area
Location: Right in the wilderness, close to the Mara River
Landing at Kogatende Airstrip is a unique experience. As your plane descends, you may see giraffes walking nearby or elephants grazing in the distance. When you step off the plane, there are no fences or concrete terminals — just pure African wilderness.
Your guide from Tanzania Safari Experience will be waiting by the airstrip in a private safari vehicle, ready to take you straight into the wild. It’s the most exciting airport arrival you’ll ever have.
Kogatende Safari Highlights
Once you arrive in Kogatende, the adventure begins immediately. This area offers some of the most thrilling wildlife encounters in the entire Serengeti ecosystem.
The Mara River crossings are the main attraction, where wildebeests and zebras gather in their thousands, facing strong currents and lurking crocodiles. Watching this spectacle in person is something that no documentary can truly capture.
Beyond the migration, Kogatende also boasts incredible predator activity. Lions hunt across the open plains, leopards lounge in the trees, and cheetahs sprint after gazelles. Elephants and giraffes roam freely, and birdlife is abundant, with eagles and vultures circling above.
Nearby attractions include the Lamai Triangle, known for its rugged beauty, and the Lobo Valley, where lush hills provide scenic backdrops and plentiful wildlife.
🧳 From Kogatende to Zanzibar – The Perfect Safari & Beach Combo
One of the best ways to end your safari is by flying directly from Kogatende to Zanzibar. This route is popular with travelers who want to enjoy both Tanzania’s wilderness and its world-class beaches.
Typically, flights from Kogatende to Zanzibar stop briefly in Arusha before continuing to the coast. The total travel time is about 2.5 hours, allowing you to enjoy a morning game drive and still make it to Zanzibar in time for an afternoon swim.
At Tanzania Safari Experience, we specialize in crafting these seamless safari-to-beach itineraries. We handle all logistics — from your bush flights to transfers and accommodations — so your trip flows effortlessly from adventure to relaxation.
4 Days Serengeti Tanzania Safari From Zanzibar
- Fly in to Kogatende From Zanzibar
Starting From
On Request
Per Person On Twin Sharing
7 Days The Great Serengeti Migration Safari From Zanzibar
- Fly in to Kogatende From Zanzibar
Starting From
On Request
Per Person On Twin Sharing
💼 Travel Tips for Flying to Kogatende
Book Early: Especially during the migration season. Flights and lodges fill quickly.
Pack Light: Most airlines have a 15–20 kg baggage limit, and soft duffel bags are preferred.
Dress in Layers: Mornings are cool, afternoons can be hot.
Bring Binoculars: You might spot wildlife during your flight.
Carry Cash: There are no ATMs or shops near the airstrip.
Stay Connected: Mobile signal is weak, but most lodges provide satellite Wi-Fi.
Where to Stay Near Kogatende
Kogatende is home to some of the most beautiful lodges and tented camps in the Serengeti. Many are perfectly positioned near the Mara River to offer front-row seats to the migration.
Some top picks include Mara River Camp, Sayari Camp, Lemala Kuria Hills, and Nomad Lamai Serengeti. These properties combine comfort and luxury with an authentic wilderness experience.
Each of these lodges can be included in tailor-made safari packages organized by Tanzania Safari Experience. Our team ensures every detail is handled, from your flight arrangements to your game drives, so all you have to do is enjoy the magic of the Serengeti.
Mara River Camp – Kogatende
Starting From
On Request
- Standard | Mid-range Comfort
- Kogatende - Northern Serengeti
Sero Tented Camp – Kogatende
Starting From
On Request
- Standard | Mid-range Comfort
- Kogatende - Northern Serengeti
Safari Haven Migration Camp – kogatende
Starting From
On Request
- Standard | Mid-range Comfort
- Kogatende - Northern Serengeti
Looking for Fly to Kogatende for the Great Migration in Serengeti for your dates ?
Receive a free Tanzania safari quote straight to your email within 6 hours! Customize your preferences, and we’ll craft a unique experience just for you. Prices vary based on group size and accommodation choice.
We've got you covered
Our tours are top-notch but give you great value. The price we tell you upfront covers most of the costs for one person, like flights and all transfers.
- Park fees
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- Air Ambulance Service by AMREF Flying Doctors;
- At Least 1 Pair Of Binoculars;
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips to your safari guide ($30-50 per day per car).
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Alcohol drinks
- Visas and visa fees where relevant
- Additional activities not offered as scheduled by the accommodation
- Lunch and dinner in hotel (only before and after safari);
Connect with our local experts for personalized travel planning
Plan your Fly to Kogatende for the Great Migration in Serengeti Stay today
Looking for more?
We can design a safari for you from scratch, or you can choose from our tailor-made safari proposals below. You’ll receive a free Tanzania safari proposal with no obligation, featuring trips created for nature lovers, families, and adventure seekers.
5 Days Ndutu Migration Safari Calving Season
- Ndutu Migration Safari Calving Season
Starting From
On Request
Per Person On Twin Sharing
8 Days Tanzania Classic Safari Itinerary
- Tanzania Classic Safari
Starting From
On Request
Per Person On Twin Sharing
8 Days Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari
- Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari
Starting From
On Request
Per Person On Twin Sharing
3 Days Ndutu Migration Safari Calving Season
- Ndutu Migration Safari Calving Season
Starting From
On Request
Per Person On Twin Sharing
Everything You Need to Know About Your Safari
Every safari adventure begins with a question. Whether it’s your first or second time, it’s natural to wonder about the best time to visit, what to pack, or how the journey works. Here, we’ve answered the most common questions travelers ask before booking their Tanzania safari, so you can plan with confidence and look forward to unforgettable memories.
Kogatende is in the northern part of Serengeti National Park, close to the Mara River and the Kenya border. It’s one of the best places in Africa to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, especially from July to October. The area is remote, which is why most travelers prefer to fly to Kogatende instead of driving long distances from Arusha.
You can easily fly to Kogatende with daily scheduled flights from Arusha, Zanzibar, and Dar es Salaam. Major local airlines like Auric Air ,Coastal Aviation and Miracle Air operate these routes, landing at Kogatende Airstrip (airport code GTZ). The flight takes about 1.5 hours from Arusha or 2 hours from Zanzibar, making it the fastest way to reach the northern Serengeti.
The best time to fly to Kogatende is between July and October, during the Great Migration season. This is when millions of wildebeests and zebras cross the Mara River, attracting lions, crocodiles, and other predators. Flying at this time ensures you’re right in the action. However, the area is still beautiful year-round for game drives and scenic flights.
Several local carriers offer Kogatende flights, including Auric Air, Coastal Aviation, and Regional Air. These airlines provide reliable daily services connecting Arusha, Seronera, Manyara, Zanzibar, and Dar es Salaam. Both one-way and return flights are available, and travelers can easily connect to Zanzibar for a post-safari beach holiday.
Prices for flights to Kogatende vary by route and season. On average, expect to pay $250–$400 per person one way from Arusha or $350–$500 from Zanzibar. Booking in advance and traveling with Tanzania Safari Experience can help secure the best rates and flight times, especially during the busy migration months.
Yes! You can take a direct flight from Kogatende to Zanzibar, which makes it easy to combine your Serengeti safari with a relaxing Zanzibar beach holiday. The flight takes about 2 hours and is operated by Auric Air and Coastal Aviation. It’s one of the most convenient ways to end your safari on a tropical note.
Yes, Kogatende Airstrip is well-maintained and regularly used by all major safari airlines. The airstrip is located within Serengeti National Park and staffed by experienced crews who coordinate closely with pilots. Safety standards are high, and flights operate daily throughout the year, weather permitting.
At Tanzania Safari Experience, we handle every detail — from flight bookings to camp transfers — ensuring your journey to Kogatende is smooth and stress-free. Our team tailors your itinerary around migration movements and your travel style, offering a truly personalized safari. We believe not everyone travels just to see wildlife — some come to reconnect, detox, and rediscover themselves — and that’s exactly what we design for you.