Best Time to Visit for the Great Migration

The Great Migration is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, traverse the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing. This cyclical journey takes place throughout the year, moving between Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Kenya’s Masai Mara.

 

Understanding the different phases of the migration can help you choose the best time for your safari based on what you want to experience be it dramatic river crossings, predator action, or the beauty of calving season. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of the Great Migration to help you plan your perfect safari adventure.

 

January – March: Calving Season in Southern Serengeti

 

What to Expect:

 

• Over 500,000 wildebeest calves are born within a short span of weeks, offering a breathtaking sight.
• Predators such as lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and leopards are highly active due to the abundance of vulnerable newborns.
• Lush green landscapes, thanks to the recent short rains, create picturesque scenery and a thriving ecosystem.
• Excellent photographic opportunities with dramatic predator-prey interactions.

 

Best Safari Locations:

 

• Ndutu Plains, Southern Serengeti
• Ngorongoro Conservation Area

 

Pros & Cons:

 

✅ Ideal for witnessing new life and predator activity ✅ Lush, green landscapes enhance photography ✅ Fewer crowds compared to peak seasons ❌ No dramatic river crossings

 

April – May: The Green Season and Migration Build-Up

 

What to Expect:

 

• As the rains continue, the herds begin moving towards the central and western Serengeti.
• The landscape remains lush, providing breathtaking scenery and excellent photographic opportunities.
• The low season means fewer crowds and more affordable safari accommodations.
• Some areas may become difficult to access due to muddy roads.

 

Best Safari Locations:

 

• Central Serengeti
• Western Serengeti

 

Pros & Cons:

 

✅ Beautiful, lush landscapes and fewer tourists ✅ Lodges and camps offer discounted rates ❌ Heavy rains may make some roads impassable ❌ Less predictable animal movements

 

June – July: The First River Crossings Begin

 

What to Expect:

 

• The herds reach the Western Corridor, preparing to cross the Grumeti River.
• Large Nile crocodiles lurk in the waters, waiting to ambush migrating animals.
• Predator activity increases as big cats take advantage of the herds' movement.
• Cooler, drier weather makes for comfortable game drives.

 

Best Safari Locations:

 

• Western Serengeti (Grumeti River crossings in June)
• Northern Serengeti (Mara River crossings in late July)
• Central Serengeti

 

Pros & Cons:

 

✅ First river crossings at the Grumeti River ✅ Cooler temperatures and clearer skies ✅ Excellent predator sightings ❌ Beginning of peak tourist season, meaning higher prices

 

August – October: The Dramatic Mara River Crossings

 

What to Expect:

 

• The most famous and dramatic river crossings occur at the Mara River in the Serengeti and Masai Mara.
• Thousands of wildebeest plunge into the water, dodging crocodiles, strong currents, and predators.
• The Masai Mara offers superb game viewing, with large lion prides, leopards, and cheetahs in action.
• This is the peak safari season, so expect higher accommodation rates and more visitors.

 

Best Safari Locations:

 

• Northern Serengeti (August)
• Masai Mara, Kenya (August – October)

 

Pros & Cons:

 

✅ Most dramatic and iconic migration scenes ✅ High predator activity ✅ Perfect weather conditions for game drives ❌ Peak season means crowded parks and higher costs

 

November – December: The Journey Back to the Serengeti

 

What to Expect:

 

• The herds begin their southward journey back to the Serengeti as fresh grazing lands emerge after the short rains.
• Less crowded safari experiences compared to the peak migration season.
• Early calving preparations start as females get ready to give birth again.
• The landscapes remain green and scenic, offering fantastic photographic opportunities.

 

Best Safari Locations:

 

• Northern and Central Serengeti
• Masai Mara (early November)

 

Pros & Cons:

 

✅ Quieter, less crowded safaris ✅ Beautiful landscapes with plenty of wildlife ✅ Good predator action as the herds move south ❌ No dramatic river crossings

 

Final Tips for Planning Your Great Migration Safari

 

• Best time for river crossings: July – October (Grumeti and Mara Rivers)
• Best time for predator action: January – March (Calving Season) and August – October
• Best time for a crowd-free experience: April – May and November – December
• Best time for budget-friendly safaris: Green season (April – May)

 

The Great Migration is a year-round spectacle, offering incredible wildlife experiences at every stage. Whether you're drawn to the heart-pounding river crossings, the beauty of the calving season, or the thrill of predator action, there's a perfect time for you to witness this natural wonder. By planning your safari around the migration’s movements, you’ll ensure an unforgettable adventure in Africa’s breathtaking wilderness.