The Great Migration in Serengeti – Complete Month-by-Month Calendar
Introduction to the Great Migration
The Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth. Each year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, move in a continuous cycle across the Serengeti National Park ecosystem in search of fresh grazing and water.
This movement is not a single event—it is a year-round journey, making the Serengeti one of the best safari destinations at any time of year.
Serengeti Great Migration Calendar (Month-by-Month)
January – February (Calving Season in Ndutu)
Location: Southern Serengeti & Ndutu plains
Highlights:
- Over 500,000 wildebeest calves are born
- High predator activity (lions, cheetahs, hyenas)
- Excellent photography opportunities
This is one of the best times for a honeymoon safari and dramatic wildlife scenes.
March (End of Calving Season)
- Herds remain in southern Serengeti
- Grass is still rich, but movement begins
- Predator activity remains high
Great for fewer crowds and lush landscapes.
April – May (Green Season Migration Movement)
Location: Central Serengeti moving northwest
What to expect:
- Fewer tourists
- Beautiful green scenery
- Lower safari costs
Ideal for budget and mid-range safaris.
June (Start of River Crossings – Western Corridor)
- Migration moves toward the Grumeti River
- First dramatic crossings begin
Transition into peak safari season.
July – August (Peak Migration – Mara River Crossings)
Location: Northern Serengeti
Highlights:
- Famous Mara River crossings
- Crocodile encounters
- Massive herd movement
This is the most popular and iconic safari period.
September – October (Northern Serengeti)
- Continued river crossings
- Herds spread across the north
Excellent wildlife viewing with slightly fewer crowds than July/August.
November (Return South Begins)
- Short rains begin
- Herds start moving back toward central Serengeti
Good for quieter safaris.
December (Back to Southern Serengeti)
- Migration returns to Ndutu plains
- Cycle prepares to repeat
Perfect time before calving season begins again.
Migration Route Overview
- South (Jan–Mar) → Calving season
- Central (Apr–May) → Movement phase
- West (Jun) → Grumeti River crossings
- North (Jul–Oct) → Mara River crossings
- Return (Nov–Dec) → Back to the south
Why the Great Migration Happens
The migration is driven by:
- Rainfall patterns
- Grass availability
- Survival instincts
It’s a natural cycle of life, survival, and renewal.
📊 Best Time to See the Great Migration
| Experience | Best Months |
|---|---|
| Calving | Jan – Feb |
| Predator Action | Jan – Mar |
| River Crossings | Jul – Sep |
| Green Landscapes | Apr – May |
Travel Tips for the Great Migration
- Book early for July–October (high demand)
- Consider Ndutu (Jan–Mar) for fewer crowds
- Combine your safari with Zanzibar for a complete experience
- Choose a private safari for flexibility