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Great Migration Safari in Serengeti

Great Migration Safari

Nature’s Greatest Wildlife Show

The Serengeti Great Migration is one of the most remarkable natural events on Earth—an endless, awe-inspiring cycle of movement involving over 1.5 million wildebeests, 200,000 zebras, and hundreds of thousands of gazelles. This annual migration spans the vast Serengeti ecosystem in Tanzania and stretches into the Masai Mara in Kenya, covering nearly 3,000 kilometers in search of fresh grazing and water.

The journey is filled with drama and wonder. In January to March, herds gather in the southern Serengeti, where thousands of calves are born each day during the calving season. From April to June, the herds begin moving northward, navigating vast plains and facing predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.

By July to September, the migration reaches its most iconic phase—the Grumeti and Mara River crossings. These crossings are legendary for their intensity, as herds plunge into crocodile-infested waters, creating unforgettable scenes of survival and strength. Finally, from October to December, the herds make their way back south to begin the cycle again.

Why Visit During the Great Migration?

Unmatched Wildlife Viewing

The Serengeti is home to one of the densest populations of large mammals in the world. During the Great Migration, you'll witness immense herds of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles moving across open plains—often numbering in the hundreds of thousands. Nowhere else offers such raw, immersive wildlife viewing in such vast, untouched landscapes.

Dramatic Predator Action

The migration draws predators in large numbers. Lions stalk the herds, cheetahs sprint across the grasslands, and crocodiles lie in wait at river crossings. Each day brings powerful moments of life and death—real, unscripted drama that highlights nature's delicate balance.

Photographic Paradise

Golden sunrises, endless savannahs, dust trails rising behind galloping herds, and heart-stopping moments at river crossings create an unparalleled canvas for photography. Whether you're a professional photographer or a traveler with a smartphone, every scene is picture-perfect.

Bucket List Safari

The Great Migration is recognized as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa and is often called "the greatest wildlife show on Earth." For many, it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience—a dream safari that brings together breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a true sense of Africa’s wild heart.

Best Time to Witness the Great Migration in Tanzania

The Great Migration is a year-round event, but different phases of the migration offer unique experiences depending on the season and location within the Serengeti ecosystem. Here’s a detailed month-by-month guide:

January – March: Calving Season in Ndutu (Southern Serengeti & Ngorongoro Conservation Area)

This is the most dramatic and heartwarming time to witness the migration. Over 500,000 wildebeest calves are born within a short span, attracting predators like lions, hyenas, and cheetahs. The southern plains are lush and green, offering excellent photographic conditions and high predator-prey interactions.

Highlights:

Calving season
Predator action
Lush green scenery
Great for families and photographers

April – June: Migration Through Central and Western Serengeti

As the rains end, the herds begin their journey northward through the Seronera (Central Serengeti) and into the Grumeti region (Western Corridor). This period offers less crowded safari experiences, with dramatic scenes of thousands of animals on the move and the first major river crossing at the Grumeti River.

Highlights:

Large herds on the move
Fewer tourists
Grumeti River crossings
Excellent birdwatching

July – September: Mara River Crossings in Northern Serengeti

This is the most iconic phase of the Great Migration. As herds reach the Northern Serengeti, they must cross the crocodile-infested Mara River—an unforgettable scene of chaos, bravery, and survival. This period is peak safari season, with excellent weather and world-class wildlife viewing.

Highlights:

Spectacular Mara River crossings
High predator activity
Ideal weather and clear skies
Prime time for luxury camps and balloon safaris

October – December: Return South Through the Serengeti

As the short rains begin, the herds start their slow journey southward, passing back through the Central Serengeti and returning to the Ndutu region by year-end. Wildlife viewing remains strong, with scattered herds and active predators throughout the region.

Highlights:

Scenic landscapes with fresh vegetation
Good wildlife concentrations
Quieter safari experience
Start of the calving return journey

Witness the Wild. Follow the Herds. Live the Migration

Plan your Great Migration safari with local experts who know the patterns, timing, and best viewing spots. Whether by game drive, hot air balloon, or luxury mobile camp, we help you experience this natural wonder at its most powerful.