When and where to see the Great Migration

The Great Migration is the annual movement of vast numbers of wildebeest, zebra, and other animals within the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem between Tanzania and Kenya. It is a constant migration throughout the year as the animals look for fresh pasture, overcoming numerous obstacles along the way. But you may be wondering when and where to see the Great Migration in Africa…

The migration follows a reasonably predictable pattern, but the precise movement is dependent on rainfall patterns each year and can never be guaranteed. This means that the haste or delay of rains can either speed up or slow down vital parts of the process, such as river crossings. So, after speaking with our Kenyan and Tanzanian local experts, we offer a few suggestions of where the best places to experience the great wildebeest migration throughout the year are.

Where and when to see the Great Migration: month-by-month guide

The zebra and wildebeest migration is one of Africa’s most sought-after natural events. However, its reliance on rainfall patterns can make catching it at its peak quite tricky. But don’t despair; we’re here to help. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of the migration and what to expect.

January to March: calving season (southern Serengeti and Ndutu Plains)

The herds settle on the short grass plains of the southern Serengeti and the westernmost parts of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, particularly the Ndutu Plains, to give birth. The calving season sees approximately half a million calves born, nearly 8,000 daily over two to three weeks.

Usually, there’s safety in numbers, but on the calving grounds, that is not the case. The abundance of new, vulnerable life attracts many predators, from lions to leopards, cheetahs, and even hyenas. Later on, the herds move northwest through valleys to the southern and central Serengeti.

• January: From late January, the herds begin to gather in the southern Serengeti and Ndutu Plains—a fertile patch of nutrient-rich short grass plains, for calving season.
• February: It’s peak birthing season, with thousands of births each day. The circle of life dramatically plays out as big cats get the lion’s share while jackals, wild dogs, and hyenas scavenge. Sensitive visitors may not appreciate this predator-prey interaction.
• March: The herds start moving northwest towards the Kusini Plains and the Seronera Valley. If there’s good grazing from the last rainy season, the animals linger around the southern Serengeti for longer. As the south starts drying out, the wildebeest migrate, drawing with them thousands of zebras and other antelopes, such as gazelles.

April to June: north trek, breeding “rut”, and Grumeti River crossings

As the long rains arrive, the herds start their journey northwest, heading towards the Grumeti River in the western corridor of the Serengeti. This is one of the most dramatic phases of the migration, as the animals must cross the river, facing strong currents and lurking crocodiles.

There are many obstacles along the journey, but the wildlife take it slowly—leisurely grazing on the fresh plains and tending to their young. Additionally, the breeding season is in full swing, so expect to see contests among the testosterone-fueled males competing for the ideal mate.

• April: The herds begin a long trek to the northwest, through the central parts of the Serengeti National Park, leisurely heading towards the Grumeti River.
• May: Movement intensifies, and large columns of wildebeest stretch for several miles. You can catch the best sights as they congregate around the Moru Kopjes. A few camps in the Serengeti National Park, such as Dunia Camp, offer migration viewing.
• June: Huge groups of wildebeest and other animals gather on the southern banks of the river, preparing to cross the crocodile-infested Grumeti. By this time, some of the herd may have split up—smaller groups gone up via the Loliondo area or Seronera and Lobo.

July to October: Mara River crossings

One of the most iconic moments of the wildebeest migration occurs when the herds trek through the northern Serengeti to reach the Mara River. This is the geographic border between Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Kenya’s Masai Mara.

It is perhaps the most treacherous crossing the animals face, as lions linger along the banks and crocodiles lurk in the muddy waters—waiting for the unwary to stray across their path. Many of the million-plus animals will not make it past the river to reach the Masai Mara in Kenya.

If you take your trip between August and October, you’ll enjoy seeing the herds cross the Mara River back and forth as they search for fresh pastures in an effort to find food. You can also opt for booking into a mobile camp, a temporary lodging that moves with the wildebeest migration.

• July: The herds are in the Grumeti Reserve, pushing further up through the northern Serengeti. Their most difficult obstacle lies ahead—crossing the Mara River.
• August: This is generally believed to be the best time for dramatic river crossings. You’ll spot hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and other animals thundering through the river. Some wildlife remain in the northern Serengeti, while others cross over to the Masai Mara Reserve. You’ll need a passport to cross—the million-plus wildebeest are exempt.
• September: The herds move back and forth across the Mara River, dictated primarily by shifting rain patterns. Smaller groups can still be seen in the Serengeti National Park, but many wildebeest gather in the Masai Mara Reserve—an ideal place for wildlife viewing.
• October: It’s time for the Masai Mara migration, when herds cross the river cone more before trekking back south through the northern and eastern Serengeti. Indulge in a Kenyan safari at one of the many private conservancies within the Masai Mara.

November to December: return to the south, and the cycle begins

As the short rains begin, the herds start their southward trek, leaving the Masai Mara and heading back through the Serengeti National Park. By the end of the year, the wildebeest and other antelope have returned to the southern plains, completing their year-long migration cycle.

• November: The rains begin, and the herds venture south to the rejuvenated, grassy plains of the Serengeti National Park. Keep in mind that the rains could be early or late, so this return journey southward may occur in late November or earlier in the month.
• December: The wildlife scatters across the eastern parts of the Serengeti as they move further south. Once they arrive on the calving grounds—the southern plains north of the Ngorongoro Crater—the wildebeest start preparing for the birthing season once more.

Witnessing the Great Migration: follow the trekking pattern

The Great Migration follows a clockwise direction, making it sort of predictable. Your biggest challenge will be the rain patterns, as they affect this movement. However, the age-old route remains the same, so you are likely to catch the migration by following the trekking pattern.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the southern Serengeti

Encompassing the Ngorongoro Crater, this area is a prime location for witnessing the early stages of birthing season. The lush plains provide ample grazing, attracting large herds.

The southern parts of the Serengeti National Park are closely located in the Ngorongoro Area, presenting an ideal opportunity to catch the calving season due to the incredible concentration of wildlife. Many of the wildebeest, zebra, and other antelopes settle around the Ndutu Area.

The Serengeti National Park

Spanning vast landscapes, the Serengeti National Park offers exceptional viewing year-round, with the central, western, and northern regions playing host to different migration phases.

• The central Serengeti: The heart of the Serengeti sees hundreds of thousands of newborns in a short space of two weeks (sometimes three), attracting predators such as lions, leopards, and other big cats. It’s a great place to see the herds moving during transitional months and to spot resident predators.
• The western Serengeti: It’s famous for being the preparation spot for the Grumeti River crossings in June or July, depending on the conditions. Crocodiles lie in wait as herds attempt the tough crossing.
• The northern Serengeti: From June to July, this region hosts dramatic river crossings, marking the journey toward the Mara Region. Note that the herds here may be smaller as others opt for an alternative route.

Masai Mara National Reserve and eastern Serengeti

Offering perhaps the best opportunity to catch the Great Migration in Africa, the Masai Mara in Kenya offers a host of new grass for the animals and luxury mobile camps for eager visitors.

Herds cross and re-cross the Mara River multiple times, dictated by shifting rain patterns. Expect smaller groupings of wildebeest and zebra, though, as many remain in the Serengeti.

Once the wildlife crosses the river again, the eastern Serengeti, including the Namiri Plains, become a vital corridor for the return south between early November and December.

How to experience the Great Migration

There are a number of ways to experience the Great Migration. You could go on a classic Kenya-Tanzania multi-country trip, but you may not catch the migration if you don’t time it well. The best way to see these magnificent events is by planning, planning, and more planning.

Our local experts in Kenya and Tanzania can craft a tailored trip that will exceed your expectations. Have a look at some of the main ways you can watch the Great Migration without any hassle…

Great Migration safaris in Kenya

A 7-day Kenya wildlife safari could be your opportunity to catch the migration. You’ll enjoy a lovely drive through the country’s finest parks, spotting Africa’s wildlife. This trip includes a visit to the famous Masai Mara and a lap of luxury at a safari lodge inspired by Noah’s Ark.

Wildebeest migration safari across Tanzania and Kenya

Since the Serengeti National Park and the Masai Mara are neighbors, taking a trip that includes both sides of the border is a no-brainer. Enquire about a wildebeest migration safari, and book your spot to see the migration of over a million wildebeest, zebra, gazelles, and elands.

Serengeti migration safari in Tanzania

Experience the magical migration in Tanzania, with all bases covered by your expert local guide. This is a safari focused solely on the country, allowing you to witness both the Grumeti and Mara River crossings, along with the calving season. You’ll explore other national parks, spotting the Big Five in the Ngorongoro Crater and elephant herds in Tarangire National Park.

Hot air balloon rides in Tanzania

A game drive is the quintessential way to see the migration, but have you thought about what it would look like from the skies? Wonder no more—book a luxury Tanzania safari with a balloon trip and experience the Great Migration from a bird’s-eye view.

FAQs about the Great Migration, Africa’s must-see gem

You may still have some lingering questions about the Great Migration, so we’ve put together a list of some of the most commonly asked questions and their answers to put your queries at bay.

What is the Great Migration?

The Great Migration is the year-long, cyclical movement of over 1.5 million-plus wildebeest, along with zebras and gazelles, across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing.

When is the Great Migration in Africa?

The migration happens year-round, with different highlights each month. The most dramatic events include the calving season (January to March), the Grumeti River crossings (June), and the Mara River crossings (July to October). At the end of the year, the animals can be seen in the northern and eastern Seregenti as they trek back to the south to begin the cycle once more.

What is the best month to see the Great Migration?

It depends on what you want to experience. For river crossings, July to late October is ideal. For calving season and predator action, visit between January and March. Regardless of when you take your trip, you are certain to catch the Great Migration at play; the question is only which part.

How much does it cost to see the Great Migration in Africa?

The cost varies based on the level of accommodation and safari experience. Expect prices to start from around $2,900 and $3,500 per person for a quality, luxurious safari experience.

Is the Great Migration worth seeing?

Absolutely! The sheer scale, drama, and wildlife interactions make it one of the most spectacular natural events on Earth. You probably won’t ever experience anything like it.

Make it happen

If you’re ready to experience the Great Migration, our local experts in Tanzania and Kenya can craft the perfect tailor-made safari for you. Their in-depth knowledge and experience ensure you enjoy the best possible wildlife encounters at the right time of year. Whether you’re looking for a wonderful wildlife vacation or simply seeking a luxurious getaway in the heart of East Africa, the perfect migration safari awaits you—bells and all.