A Serengeti Migration Safari is one of the most spectacular wildlife experiences on earth, offering the chance to witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles—the Great Migration. Each year, over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move across the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing, accompanied by predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. Whether you’re watching the dramatic river crossings, the herds on the move, or the predators hunting, this safari offers unforgettable moments.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect Serengeti Migration Safari.
The Great Migration refers to the continuous movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest, 250,000 zebras, and hundreds of thousands of gazelles across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. This movement is driven by the search for fresh grazing and water and is a year-round journey, but certain parts of the migration are more dramatic and intense than others. The migration follows a circular route, and different parts of the Serengeti offer unique experiences throughout the year.
The timing of your safari will determine what aspect of the migration you’ll witness. The migration follows a cyclical path through the Serengeti, with key moments happening at different times of the year.
January to March – Calving Season (Southern Serengeti):
The wildebeest give birth during this period, especially in the Southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This is an excellent time to witness dramatic predator-prey interactions as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas prey on vulnerable newborns. The Southern Serengeti is home to vast plains that provide perfect grazing grounds for the herds.
April to May – The Long Rainy Season:
These months are typically quieter with fewer tourists, but the migration is still present in the Serengeti. The rains make access to some areas more difficult, but this can also be a good time for those looking for a more peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience. The herds move from the Southern Serengeti to the western corridor.
June to July – The River Crossings Begin (Western Serengeti):
The migration moves north toward the Western Serengeti and Grumeti River, where the herds must cross crocodile-infested waters. This is one of the most dramatic and thrilling times to be in the Serengeti, as the migration’s dramatic river crossings take place, and predators like lions, crocodiles, and hyenas are in hot pursuit.
August to October – The Mara River Crossings (Northern Serengeti):
This is the peak season for witnessing the Mara River crossing, as the herds reach the Northern Serengeti near the Mara River. The crossings, often dramatic and dangerous, are the highlights of many safaris, with animals leaping into the river to avoid predators, only to be met by crocodiles waiting below. This is a top time for wildlife photography.
November to December – The Return to the South:
After the herds spend time in the northern Serengeti and Maasai Mara, they start to head south again toward the Serengeti for calving season, bringing them full circle. This is also the start of the short rains, and game viewing is still excellent during this time, especially in the southern Serengeti.
