The Great Migration

What is the Great Migration?

The Great Migration is the largest overland wildlife migration on Earth. Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, joined by hundreds of thousands of zebras and Thomson's gazelles, make a continuous circular journey across the Serengeti ecosystem in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya.

Driven by ancient instincts and the search for fresh grazing, this eternal cycle covers nearly 1,800 miles and is one of nature's most dramatic and emotionally powerful events. From the mass calving season on the southern plains to the harrowing river crossings of the Mara River, the migration offers constantly changing wildlife encounters throughout the year.

No two safaris during the migration are ever the same. The herds are always on the move, and the landscape shifts with them, creating a dynamic and ever-evolving safari experience.

Year-Round Spectacle

Migration Calendar

The migration is a year-round event, but each phase offers a unique experience.

January - March

Calving Season on the Southern Plains

The migration congregates on the short-grass plains of the southern Serengeti and Ndutu region. This is calving season, where over 8,000 wildebeest calves are born each day. The open plains attract predators, making this one of the best times for dramatic predator-prey interactions.

Best for: Predator encounters, newborn animals, Ndutu area

April - May

Northward Movement Begins

As the rains come, the herds begin their journey north and west through the Serengeti. They pass through the central Seronera region and into the western corridor, following the Grumeti River. This is a quieter period with fewer tourists and dramatic stormy skies.

Best for: Fewer crowds, lush landscapes, Grumeti River area

June - October

River Crossings & Mara River Drama

The most dramatic phase of the migration. The herds reach the northern Serengeti and attempt to cross the Mara River, where crocodiles and strong currents make every crossing a life-or-death struggle. July to September is peak crossing season and the most sought-after safari experience.

Best for: River crossings, Mara River, peak wildlife density

November - December

Return to the Southern Plains

The short rains trigger the herds to begin their return journey south. They pass through the eastern Serengeti and eventually settle back on the southern plains, completing the great circular journey. This is an excellent time for wide-angle shots of the vast herds spread across the landscape.

Best for: Return journey, fewer tourists, eastern Serengeti

Prime Locations

Best Parks for the Migration

Tanzania's Icon

Serengeti National Park

The heart of the Great Migration. The Serengeti's 14,750 square kilometers of savanna, kopjes and river valleys host the herds for most of the year. The park is divided into three key areas: the southern plains, central Seronera and northern Mara region.

Migration months: Year-round, with different areas active at different times.

UNESCO World Heritage

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Adjacent to the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area forms part of the broader migration ecosystem. The southern Serengeti plains extend into Ngorongoro, where calving season takes place on the Ndutu side.

Migration months: December to March (calving season on Ndutu plains).

Timing Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

The migration is always happening, but the experience varies by month and location.

Peak Migration Season

The most popular time for a migration safari. The dramatic Mara River crossings between July and September draw photographers and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world. Expect larger crowds but unmatched spectacle.

July - October

Calving Season

Witness the miracle of thousands of wildebeest calves taking their first steps. The predator activity is intense as lions, cheetahs and hyenas take advantage of vulnerable newborns on the open plains.

January - March

Green Season

The quieter months offer lush landscapes, dramatic skies and excellent birdwatching. Fewer tourists mean more intimate experiences and lower prices without missing the migration action.

April - May, November

Best Overall

For the full migration experience, June to October offers the widest variety of wildlife activity. However, the best time truly depends on what aspect of the migration interests you most.

June - October (overall best)

Plan Your Trip

Recommended Duration

How long should you spend on a Great Migration safari?

Short Safari

A focused 4-5 day safari in one area of the Serengeti during peak migration months. Ideal for travelers on a tight schedule who want to witness the herds and experience a condensed but thrilling safari.

Recommended

Complete Migration

An 8-day safari covering multiple regions of the Serengeti plus Ngorongoro. This gives you the best chance of seeing different phases of the migration and diverse wildlife across varied landscapes.

Grand Expedition

A 10-12 day journey that combines the Great Migration with other Tanzania highlights including Tarangire, Lake Manyara and even Zanzibar. The ultimate Tanzania experience for those with time to explore.

Featured Package

Our Signature Migration Safari

8 Days / 7 Nights Serengeti & Ngorongoro Luxury 4.9

Great Migration Luxury Safari

Eight days following the Great Migration through the Serengeti's most spectacular regions. Stay in exclusive luxury camps positioned in prime migration zones, enjoy private game drives with an expert guide and witness nature's greatest spectacle from the comfort of premium lodges.

Your journey includes the southern plains during calving season, the central Seronera region for big cat sightings and the northern Mara area for potential river crossings. Every day brings a new chapter of the migration story.

Luxury tented camps Private 4x4 vehicle Expert guide All meals included Park fees covered Bush dinner experience

Starting from

$4,500 / person

Book This Safari

Great Migration Safari