The Great Migration is not a single event on a single date. It is a year-round circle of more than a million wildebeest, along with zebra and gazelle, following the rains and fresh grass across the Serengeti. If you know where the herds are in each month, you can pick the right part of the park and the right dates for your safari.
January to March: calving in the south
The herds gather on the short-grass plains of the southern Serengeti and the Ndutu area. This is calving season, and thousands of calves are born in a few weeks. Predators such as lions, cheetah and hyenas follow, so it is a favourite for wildlife photographers. February is usually the peak.
April and May: moving north-west
As the long rains arrive, the herds drift north-west through the central Serengeti. It is green, quiet and good value, though some tracks are muddy and a few camps close. A good choice if you prefer fewer vehicles.
June and July: the Western Corridor and the Grumeti
The dry season starts and the herds gather along the Grumeti River in the Western Corridor, where early river crossings can happen. By July many herds are heading north.
July to October: the northern Serengeti and the Mara River
This is the famous part of the migration. The herds reach the Mara River near Kogatende, and dramatic crossings are possible from late July through September. They are never guaranteed, so we plan a few days in the north to improve your chances.
November and December: heading south again
The short rains bring the herds back through the eastern and central areas towards the southern plains. By December they are close to Ndutu again, ready for the next calving season.
So when should you go?
- Newborn animals and predators: January to March, southern Serengeti and Ndutu.
- River crossings: late July to September, northern Serengeti.
- Fewer crowds and lower prices: April, May and November.
- Best all-round weather: June to October.
Read our full Serengeti National Park guide for distances from Arusha, Karatu and Ngorongoro, plus FAQs. Ready for the migration? Have a look at our 7-day Great Migration and Northern Circuit safari or the 3-day Serengeti and Ngorongoro safari. You may also like our best time to visit Tanzania guide.
Plan it with a local team
Tell us your dates and what you want to see, and we will reply within 24 hours with a tailor-made private itinerary and a clear price. Send us your questions or message us on WhatsApp. Let’s Wander Tanzania is locally owned and TALA licensed (#036127).