The Great Migration is the largest overland animal movement on Earth, involving approximately 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras and several hundred thousand gazelles moving across the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem in an endless search for rain-fresh grass and water.
Following the rhythm of the seasons, the herds travel in a continuous cycle between Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Maasai Mara. There is no single moment when the migration begins or ends. Instead, it is an ever-changing spectacle that unfolds throughout the year, with each season revealing a different chapter in this extraordinary journey.
Exceptional Migration Safari Lies in Knowing Where to Be and When.
Timing and location are everything. From December to March, the southern Serengeti’s short-grass plains become the stage for the calving season. Thousands of wildebeest calves are born each day during the peak period, transforming the landscape into a scene of remarkable abundance and vulnerability. With newborns come predators, creating unforgettable opportunities to witness the intricate drama of life in the wild.
Between July and October, the northern Serengeti takes center stage as the herds gather around the Grumeti and Mara rivers. Here, the anticipation of a river crossing builds as vast herds approach the water, navigating strong currents and the ever-present threat of crocodiles. These dramatic encounters are among Africa’s most captivating wildlife experiences, although crossings are unpredictable and never guaranteed on a particular day.
Where you stay can make all the difference.
A February safari is best centered on the southern Serengeti, where the calving season offers exceptional wildlife viewing. In August, the northern Serengeti provides a strategic base for following the herds towards the Mara River. Choosing the right camp or lodge for the season can place you closer to the action, minimize unnecessary travel and transform a remarkable safari into an extraordinary one.
The Great Migration is not simply an event to witness, it is a journey to experience. With carefully considered timing, expert local knowledge and the right location, you can discover the Serengeti at its most compelling, immersed in one of nature’s greatest spectacles.
Calving Season or River Crossing
The Great Migration offers two remarkable spectacles, each revealing a different side of the African wilderness. The first is the drama of new life on the southern plains, the second is the breathtaking uncertainty of the great river crossings. Both are unforgettable, but each offers a distinct safari experience. The key is to choose the spectacle that speaks to you most, then plan your journey around the season and location.
Calving Season
Experience new life and thrilling predator encounters in the Serengeti. From late December to March, the Ndutu area and southern Serengeti host vast wildebeest herds, with thousands of calves born during the peak calving period.
Newborn calves attract lions, cheetahs and hyenas, creating exceptional wildlife viewing and photography opportunities across the lush grasslands.
Hints:
- Season – Late December to March
- Peak period – Late January to mid-February
- Where to stay – Ndutu and the southern Serengeti
- Best for – Predator encounters, wildlife photography and witnessing new life
River Crossing
Witness the breathtaking drama of the Great Migration River Crossings. From June to October, wildebeest herds move through the western and northern Serengeti towards the Grumeti and Mara rivers.
As herds gather along the riverbanks, the challenge of crossing crocodile-inhabited waters creates some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife encounters. However, crossings are unpredictable, making patience, flexibility and several nights in the right location essential.
Hints:
- Season – June to October
- Peak period – July to September
- Where to stay – Western Serengeti near the Grumet River and northern Serengeti near the Mara River
- Best for – Dramatic wildlife encounters, migration photography and unforgettable river crossings
Which Experience Is Right for You?
Choose calving season for newborn wildebeest, predator encounters and wildlife photography. For dramatic river crossings and vast herds, visit the northern Serengeti between July and October.
The best Great Migration safari depends on your interests, travel dates and location. Plan your journey around the experience you want most.
Best Time to Experience the Great Migration – Where the herds are, month by month
The Great Migration follows seasonal rainfall and fresh grass across the Serengeti. Although its movements follow a general pattern, exact locations and timing can change. This guide highlights where the herds are most likely to be throughout the year, helping you plan your safari with expert local guidance.
December to March | The Calving Season
Witness newborn wildebeest, dramatic predator encounters and exceptional wildlife photography. During the green season, herds gather in Ndutu and the southern Serengeti, with calving peaking from late January to February. Newborn calves attract lions, cheetahs and hyenas, creating unforgettable safari experiences.
Where to go – Ndutu and the southern Serengeti
- Peak wildebeest calving
- Exceptional predator encounters
- Lush landscapes for photography
April to May | The Green Season
Enjoy lush scenery, fewer crowds and excellent safari value. During the long rains, herds move north and west through the central Serengeti towards the Western Corridor. Rain and muddy tracks are possible, but green landscapes and seasonal rates make this an appealing time to visit.
Where to go – Central and western Serengeti
- Lush landscapes and dramatic skies
- Fewer vehicles in many areas
- Attractive safari rates
June to July | The Grumeti River Crossings
Follow the Great Migration through the western Serengeti as wildebeest herds approach the Grumeti River. Some attempt river crossings, while others continue across the plains, offering excellent wildlife viewing.
Where to go – Western Corridor and Grumeti region
- Grumeti River crossing opportunities
- Vast migrating herds
- Improving dry-season conditions
August to October | The Mara River Crossings
Experience the iconic Great Migration River crossings in the northern Serengeti. Herds gather near Kogatende and Lamai before approaching the Mara River, where strong currents and crocodiles make crossings dramatic but unpredictable. Book early to secure well-positioned safari camps and lodges.
Where to go – Northern Serengeti, particularly Kogatende and Lamai
- Mara River crossing opportunities
- Large wildebeest and zebra herds
- Excellent dry-season wildlife viewing
November | The Return to the Southern Plains
As the short rains arrive, herds move south through the eastern and central Serengeti towards the calving grounds. Fresh vegetation, migratory birds and quieter safari experiences make November an attractive time to visit.
Where to go – Eastern and central Serengeti, following the herds south
- Herds returning towards calving grounds
- Fresh green scenery and birdwatching
- A quieter alternative to peak season
Great Migration questions we are asked most
1. Am I guaranteed to see a Great Migration River crossing?
No. River crossings are unpredictable, and herds may wait or turn back. We position you in the right area at the right time, with enough days to improve your chances. Staying three or more nights in the northern Serengeti between late July and September increases your opportunities.
2. Is calving season better than river crossings?
Both offer unique experiences. Calving season (December–March) brings newborn wildebeest, intense predator activity and lush scenery. River crossings (July–October) offer dramatic wildlife encounters but require patience. February suits photography and value, while August appeals to travelers seeking iconic crossings.
3. How far ahead should I book a Great Migration safari?
Book northern Serengeti safaris 12 months ahead for July–September, as popular camps fill quickly. For calving season, booking six to nine months ahead is generally sufficient. Early booking helps secure the best safari camps and migration locations.
4. Should I choose a mobile camp or permanent lodge?
Mobile safari camps move with the herds, offering better access to migration activity. Permanent lodges provide comfort but remain in fixed locations. For a Great Migration safari, we recommend combining a mobile camp near the herds with a permanent lodge elsewhere.
5. Can I see the Great Migration in Kenya?
Yes. The herds enter Kenya’s Masai Mara around July–October, offering excellent opportunities to witness river crossings. Tanzania offers migration experiences throughout more of the year, including calving season. We operate in both destinations and can recommend the best option for your travel dates.