Nature's Greatest Spectacle
The Great Migration sees over 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and 350,000 gazelles moving in a continuous cycle through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. Understanding their movement patterns helps you plan the perfect safari to witness this incredible phenomenon.
January to March: Calving Season in Southern Serengeti
During these months, the herds gather on the short-grass plains of the southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This is calving season, with approximately 8,000 wildebeest born daily. Predators are abundant, taking advantage of the vulnerable newborns.
- Best locations: Ndutu area, Southern Serengeti
- Highlights: Thousands of births, intense predator action, green landscapes
- Weather: Short rains, warm days, cool nights
April to May: The Green Season Migration
As the rains intensify, the herds begin moving northwest toward the central Serengeti. The landscape is lush and beautiful, with fewer tourists due to the rains.
- Best locations: Central Serengeti (Seronera area), Western Corridor
- Highlights: Lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, dramatic skies
- Weather: Long rains, afternoon showers typical
June: The Rutting Season
The herds continue moving west, with the wildebeest rut (mating season) in full swing. Male wildebeest compete for females, creating dramatic encounters.
- Best locations: Western Serengeti, Grumeti River area
- Highlights: Grumeti River crossings begin, mating displays, fewer tourists
- Weather: Dry season begins, pleasant temperatures
July to October: River Crossing Season
This is the most dramatic period of the migration, with the herds crossing the crocodile-infested Mara and Grumeti rivers. These crossings are among the most sought-after wildlife spectacles on earth.
- Best locations: Northern Serengeti (Kogatende, Lamai), Mara River
- Highlights: Dramatic river crossings, crocodile attacks, large herds gathering
- Weather: Cool, dry, perfect game viewing conditions
November: Short Rains and Southward Movement
As the short rains begin, the herds start their journey back south, spreading across the eastern and northern Serengeti. This is a beautiful time with green landscapes and fewer tourists.
- Best locations: Northern and Eastern Serengeti, Loliondo area
- Highlights: Scattered herds, newborn zebras, green landscapes
- Weather: Short rains, afternoon showers
December: Return to the Southern Plains
The herds complete their cycle, returning to the southern short-grass plains where the next calving season will soon begin.
- Best locations: Southern Serengeti, Ndutu area
- Highlights: Herds gathering, beginning of calving, excellent predator viewing
- Weather: Warm days, occasional showers
Planning Your Migration Safari
Contact our safari specialists to plan your Great Migration experience. We recommend booking at least 6-12 months in advance for prime river crossing season (July-October), as lodges in the northern Serengeti fill quickly.