The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth—often called “The Greatest Show on Earth.” Each year, over 1.5 million wildebeests, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, move in a massive circular journey through Tanzania and Kenya in search of fresh grazing and water.
This natural phenomenon is not a single event, but a continuous movement that follows a predictable pattern across the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem. Knowing when and where to go will help you catch the most dramatic moments—calving, river crossings, predator action, and more.
What Exactly Is the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is an annual cycle where huge herds move through the Serengeti (Tanzania) and Masai Mara (Kenya) following rainfall and fresh grass.
It involves:
+1.5 million wildebeests
250,000 zebras
400,000 gazelles
Dozens of predators (lions, hyenas, cheetahs, leopards)
It’s a journey full of danger—river crossings, predators, storms, and long distances.
Tanzania hosts the migration for about 9–10 months of the year, making it the best country to experience it.
Migration Calendar: Month-by-Month Guide
This guide shows exactly where the herds are and what experiences you can expect.
January – February: Calving Season (Southern Serengeti / Ndutu)
This is the most dramatic time for predator action.
What Happens:
Over 500,000 baby wildebeests are born
Calves stand and run within minutes
Lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are very active
Herds spread across Ndutu and Southern Serengeti
Why Go:
✔ Best time to see newborn animals
✔ Easy predator sightings
✔ Beautiful green landscapes
March: Preparing to Move (Southern & Central Serengeti)
The herds slowly gather and begin drifting northwards.
What Happens:
Calving ends
Grass gets shorter
Rains start increasing
Herds start forming larger groups
Why Go:
✔ Fewer tourists
✔ Excellent photography
April – May: Long Rains (Central Serengeti / Seronera)
The herds move toward Central Serengeti during the rainy season.
What Happens:
Massive columns of wildebeest stretch for kilometers
Grass is abundant
Predator–prey interactions are constant
Why Go:
✔ Lowest safari prices
✔ No crowds
✔ Huge herds everywhere
June: The Western Corridor & Grumeti River
This is where the migration becomes exciting.
What Happens:
The herds reach Grumeti River
First river crossings begin
Giant crocodiles wait in the waters
Why Go:
✔ Excellent river crossings
✔ Great for adventure lovers
✔ Cooler, dry-season weather begins
July – August: Mara River Crossings (Northern Serengeti)
This is the most famous and dramatic part of the migration.
What Happens:
Herds attempt to cross the Mara River
Stampedes, crocodiles, chaos
Not all animals make it
Why Go:
✔ The most iconic migration experience
✔ High adrenaline, unforgettable viewing
✔ Big cats everywhere
This is peak season—book early!
September – October: Northern Serengeti / Masai Mara
The herds spread out between Tanzania and Kenya.
What Happens:
More river crossings
Calm grazing across the plains
Excellent predator sightings
Why Go:
✔ Good weather
✔ Great wildlife diversity
✔ Perfect for photography
November: Short Rains & Return South
The migration begins to circle back into Tanzania.
What Happens:
Herds move from Mara to Serengeti
Short rains freshen the plains
Landscapes turn green
Why Go:
✔ Fewer tourists
✔ Beautiful scenery
December: Southern Serengeti (Calving Begins Soon)
The cycle completes as the herds return south.
What Happens:
Herds gather in Ndutu
Preparing for calving season
Young predators practice hunting skills
Why Go:
✔ Excellent wildlife density
✔ Big cats are active
Best Places to See the Migration in Tanzania
1. Southern Serengeti (Ndutu)
Best for: Calving season (Jan–Feb)
2. Central Serengeti (Seronera)
Best for: Year-round game and April–May herds
3. Western Corridor (Grumeti)
Best for: June river crossings
4. Northern Serengeti (Kogatende, Lamai)
Best for: Mara River crossings (July–Oct)
Best Time to See the Migration
For Calving:
January–March (Southern Serengeti)
For Grumeti River Crossings:
June
For Mara River Crossings:
July–October
For Fewer Crowds & Lower Prices:
March–May & November
For Perfect Weather:
June–October
Is Tanzania or Kenya Better for the Migration?
Tanzania
✔ Hosts the migration for most of the year
✔ Better for calving, Grumeti, and early river crossings
✔ Larger protected area (Serengeti is huge)
Kenya
✔ Best in July–September when herds cross into Masai Mara
Winner: Tanzania for a full migration experience.
Tips for Planning Your Migration Safari
1. Book Early
Especially for July–October and February.
2. Stay in Migration-Focused Camps
Mobile camps move with the herds.
3. Use an Experienced Safari Operator
They know the precise seasonal movements.
4. Bring Proper Gear
Binoculars, cameras, lightweight clothing.
5. Be Flexible
Nature is unpredictable—movement can shift slightly depending on rain.
