What is the Best Time to See the Great Migration in Serengeti?

August to September, The Great Migration is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth, drawing thousands of travelers to Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park each year. This awe-inspiring natural phenomenon involves over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras, gazelles, and other herbivores, traversing the vast plains in search of fresh grazing grounds. The migration is a year-round cycle, but the timing of your visit will determine which dramatic events you witness—whether it’s the calving season, river crossings, or predator action.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best time to see the Great Migration in the Serengeti, breaking down the annual movement patterns and highlighting the most thrilling moments to plan your safari around.

Understanding the Great Migration Cycle

The Great Migration is a continuous journey driven by rainfall and the availability of fresh grass. Unlike a fixed event, it follows a cyclical pattern that shifts slightly each year depending on weather conditions. Here’s a general breakdown of the migration’s annual route:

1. December – March (Southern Serengeti & Ngorongoro Conservation Area)

   • Calving Season: Over 500,000 wildebeest calves are born within a few weeks.

   • Predator Activity: High numbers of lions, cheetahs, and hyenas take advantage of vulnerable newborns.

2. April – May (Central & Western Serengeti)

   • Start of the Northward Journey: Herds begin moving toward the Western Corridor.

   • Rainy Season: Lush landscapes but challenging road conditions.

3. June – July (Western Serengeti & Grumeti River)

   • First Major River Crossing: Crocodile-infested waters create dramatic scenes.

4. August – September (Northern Serengeti & Mara River)

   • Peak River Crossings: The most iconic (and dangerous) part of the migration.

5. October – November (Return to Southern Serengeti)

   • Herds Move South: Preparing for the calving season again.

Now, let’s dive into the best times to visit based on what you want to experience.

1. December – March: Calving Season & Predator Action (Southern Serengeti)

Why Visit During This Period?

• Witness Mass Births: Around February, approximately 8,000 wildebeest calves are born each day, creating a spectacle of new life.

• Predator-Prey Interactions: Lions, leopards, and cheetahs are highly active, hunting the vulnerable young.

• Excellent Game Viewing: The short grass plains make spotting wildlife easier.

Best Locations:

• Ndutu Area (Ngorongoro Conservation Area)

• Southern Serengeti (Seronera Valley)

Considerations:

• Crowds: This is a popular time, so book lodges early.

• Weather: Warm days with occasional rain.

Verdict: Best for those who want to see newborn animals and intense predator action.

2. April – May: The Green Season & Start of the Northward Trek

Why Visit During This Period?

• Fewer Tourists: The rainy season means lower prices and secluded safaris.

• Lush Landscapes: The Serengeti is vibrant green, perfect for photography.

• Migration Movement: Herds start moving toward the Western Corridor.

Best Locations:

• Central Serengeti (Seronera)

• Western Corridor (Grumeti Region)

Considerations:

• Rain: Roads can be muddy, and some camps may close.

• Fewer River Crossings: Major crossings happen later in the year.

Verdict: Ideal for budget travelers and photographers who don’t mind rain.

3. June – July: Grumeti River Crossings (Western Serengeti)

Why Visit During This Period?

• First Major River Challenge: Crocodiles await wildebeest at the Grumeti River.

• Fewer Crowds Than Mara River: A slightly less congested alternative to the northern crossings.

• Great Wildebeest Congregations: Massive herds gather before crossing.

Best Locations:

• Grumeti Reserve

• Western Serengeti

Considerations:

• Timing Varies: Crossings depend on rainfall, so flexibility is key.

Verdict: A fantastic time to see river drama without the peak-season crowds.

4. August – September: The Iconic Mara River Crossings (Northern Serengeti)

Why Visit During This Period?

• Most Dramatic Wildlife Spectacle: Thousands of wildebeest plunge into crocodile-infested waters.

• High-Energy Predator Action: Lions and hyenas lurk nearby.

• Bucket-List Experience: The most famous phase of the migration.

Best Locations:

• Kogatende (Mara River)

• Lobo Area (Northern Serengeti)

Considerations:

• Peak Season: High demand means premium pricing.

• Unpredictable Timing: Crossings can happen at any time of day.

Verdict: The absolute best time for adrenaline-pumping river crossings.

5. October – November: The Return South (Central & Eastern Serengeti)

Why Visit During This Period?

• Herds on the Move: Witness the migration’s southward journey.

• Fewer Tourists: Another good time for budget safaris.

• Mixed Wildlife Sightings: Elephants, buffalo, and big cats remain active.

Best Locations:

• Seronera Valley

• Eastern Serengeti

Considerations:

• Short Rains Begin: Possible afternoon showers.

• Migration Spread Out: Herds are less concentrated.

Verdict: A quieter time with good wildlife viewing but fewer dramatic events.

Final Verdict: When is the Absolute Best Time?

If you want to see:

• Newborn Wildebeest & Predators → February

• River Crossings → August-September (Mara River) or June-July (Grumeti River)

• Lush Landscapes & Fewer Crowds → April-May or October-November

For most travelers, late July to September offers the most thrilling experience, with the Mara River crossings being the ultimate highlight. However, if you prefer intimate wildlife encounters with newborns and predators, January to March is unbeatable.

Tips for Planning Your Great Migration Safari

1. Book Early – Lodges near river crossings fill up fast.

2. Choose the Right Camps – Mobile camps follow the migration for the best views.

3. Hire an Expert Guide – They know where and when the herds will move.

4. Pack for All Weather – Mornings can be cold, and rain is possible.

5. Bring Quality Binoculars & Cameras – You’ll want to capture every moment.

The Great Migration is a year-round spectacle, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience. Whether it’s the heart-pounding river crossings, the tender moments of calving season, or the serene beauty of the green season, the Serengeti offers unmatched wildlife drama.

For the ultimate bucket-list adventure, August and September deliver the most iconic scenes, but every phase of the migration has its magic. Plan wisely, and you’ll witness one of nature’s greatest shows in all its raw, untamed glory.

Would you prefer the calving season or the dramatic river crossings? Let us know in the comments!