Best Time to Visit Serengeti for Migration

The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is world-famous for the Great Migration, a spectacular movement of over a million wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, in search of fresh grazing and water. Witnessing this natural phenomenon is a dream for safari enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers.

Timing is crucial: the migration moves throughout the Serengeti ecosystem depending on the season, rainfall, and availability of water. Understanding the migration pattern allows travelers to plan their safari for maximum wildlife sightings and unforgettable experiences.

Understanding the Great Migration

What is the Great Migration?

The Great Migration is an annual wildlife movement across the Serengeti in Tanzania and Maasai Mara in Kenya. It involves:

• Wildebeest: The main species, numbering over 1.5 million.

• Zebras and Gazelles: Travel alongside wildebeest for grazing.

• Predators: Lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas follow the herds, creating dramatic wildlife encounters.

Why it happens

• Driven by rainfall and seasonal grass growth.

• Wildebeest and zebras move to find fresh grazing areas.

• Predators benefit from the abundant prey during their journey.

Migration Timeline by Month

January – March: Southern Serengeti (Ndutu & Ngorongoro Plains)

• Location: Southern Serengeti, near Ndutu and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

• Activities: Calving season begins; newborn wildebeest provide exciting predator action.

• Highlights: Lions, cheetahs, and hyenas hunting calves.

• Best for: Wildlife photography, predator action, and family-friendly safaris.

April – May: Moving North (Central Serengeti)

• Location: Central Serengeti, plains around Seronera and Lobo areas.

• Activities: Wildebeest start moving northwards as the rains return.

• Highlights: Herds on the move, predator-prey interactions.

• Consideration: Wet season may bring muddy roads; fewer tourists and lower prices.

June – July: Western Corridor and Grumeti River

• Location: Western Serengeti, near Grumeti River.

• Activities: Major river crossings begin; crocodiles wait in the rivers.

• Highlights: Thrilling river crossings, dramatic wildlife interactions.

• Best for: Adventure seekers and photographers seeking action-packed scenes.

August – September: Northern Serengeti (Mara River)

• Location: Northern Serengeti, approaching Maasai Mara border.

• Activities: Peak of river crossings at Mara River.

• Highlights: Spectacular wildebeest crossings, predator hunts along the riverbanks.

• Best for: Classic migration photography and safari adventure.

October – November: Northern Serengeti to Eastern Plains

• Location: Northern Serengeti, moving toward eastern Serengeti plains.

• Activities: Herds start dispersing; smaller crossings may occur.

• Highlights: Less crowded, opportunity to see fewer tourists and undisturbed wildlife.

December: Southward Migration

• Location: Southern Serengeti and Ndutu plains.

• Activities: Herds return to southern Serengeti; calving season may start again.

• Highlights: Young calves, predators hunting, and fresh scenery.

Best Months to Witness the Migration

• June – September: Optimal for dramatic river crossings at Grumeti and Mara Rivers.

• January – March: Ideal for witnessing calving season and predator-prey interactions.

• Avoid: Heavy rains in April and May may make some areas less accessible.

Advantages of Visiting During Migration

Spectacular wildlife viewing

• Big herds of wildebeest and zebras create awe-inspiring scenery.

• Increased predator activity due to abundant prey.

Photography opportunities

• Dramatic river crossings and predator interactions provide unique photo opportunities.

• Golden hours for sunrise and sunset over vast plains.

Less crowded experiences

• Some months have fewer tourists, allowing intimate safari encounters.

Planning Your Migration Safari

Choose your focus

• Calving season: Early-year months.

• River crossings: Mid-year months.

• General migration: Anytime, depending on your location.

Select safari parks carefully

• Serengeti National Park: Central hub, excellent for mid-year migration.

• Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Southern Serengeti and calving season.

• Maasai Mara (Kenya): Northern Serengeti crossings.

Accommodation options

• Tented camps: Close to migration hotspots for immersive experiences.

• Lodges: Comfortable options with family-friendly facilities.

• Luxury lodges: Premium services, private guides, and exclusive game drives.

Tips for a Successful Migration Safari

Hire experienced guides

• Expert guides know animal behavior and migration patterns.

• Increase chances of witnessing predator-prey interactions and river crossings.

Book early

• Peak migration months are highly sought after; plan months in advance.

Be flexible

• Migration moves with rainfall; sometimes routes vary slightly from year to year.

Prepare for weather

• Dry months: dusty and sunny, lightweight clothing recommended.

• Wet months: rainy, waterproof gear, and 4×4 vehicles necessary.

Stay safe

• Always follow guide instructions near rivers and wildlife.

• Children should be supervised during game drives.

Family-Friendly Migration Safari Considerations

• Opt for shorter daily drives for younger children.

• Stay in lodges with pools or play areas to balance game drives.

• Include cultural village visits or educational activities for variety.

Combining Migration Safari with Other Experiences

Ngorongoro Crater

• Easy access to abundant wildlife; great for families and first-time safari-goers.

Lake Manyara

• Tree-climbing lions and hippos; adds diversity to your safari experience.

Zanzibar Beach

• Relax after intense safari days with beach time, snorkeling, and cultural exploration.

Conclusion

The best time to visit Serengeti for migration depends on your priorities:

• January – March: Witness newborn calves and predator action.

• June – September: Experience iconic river crossings at Grumeti and Mara Rivers.

• December: Return of herds to the south, combined with calving season.

Understanding the migration timeline, park locations, and seasonal conditions ensures an unforgettable Tanzanian safari experience. With careful planning, travelers can witness one of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife spectacles—the Great Migration in the Serengeti—and capture memories that last a lifetime.