The Great Migration is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth, with over 1.5 million wildebeest, hundreds of thousands of zebras, and gazelles moving across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing. To witness this breathtaking phenomenon, timing and location are key!

Best Time to See the Great Migration

📆 The migration is a year-round event, but different stages happen in different locations:

1️⃣ Calving Season (January – March)
📍 Southern Serengeti & Ndutu Plains
🐃 Why Go?
Over 500,000 wildebeest calves are born within a few weeks
Big cat action! Lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are drawn to the vulnerable newborns
Best for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts who want to see predator-prey interactions

2️⃣ The Journey North (April – June)
📍 Serengeti’s Western Corridor & Grumeti River
🐃 Why Go?

Wildebeest move toward the Grumeti River, encountering massive crocodiles
Best for off-the-beaten-path safaris, as fewer tourists visit this region
A great time to experience the migration without the crowds.

3️⃣ The Dramatic River Crossings (July – October)

📍 Northern Serengeti & Maasai Mara (Kenya)
🐃 Why Go?

Most famous & thrilling stage of the migration!
Wildebeest must cross the Mara River, facing huge Nile crocodiles and strong currents
Best time for action-packed safari drives and breathtaking photography.

4️⃣ The Return South (November – December)
📍 Eastern & Central Serengeti
🐃 Why Go?

Herds start migrating back to the lush Serengeti plains
Less crowded safari experiences, with excellent wildlife sightings
A great time for value-for-money safaris before peak season
Where to Stay for the Best Migration Views.

🏕 Top Lodges & Camps in Key Locations:

Ndutu Plains (Jan-Mar): Ndutu Safari Lodge, Serengeti Under Canvas
Western Serengeti (Apr-Jun): Grumeti River Camp, Kirawira Serena Camp
Northern Serengeti (Jul-Oct): Sayari Camp, Lamai Serengeti, Migration Tented Camp
Mara River (Aug-Sep): Singita Mara River Camp, Governors’ Camp (Kenya side)
Pro Travel Tips
✅ Book in Advance! The best camps fill up quickly, especially for river crossings.
✅ Consider a Fly-In Safari to maximize time and avoid long drives.
✅ Combine with Other Parks like Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, or Lake Manyara for a complete Tanzanian safari experience.