Witness a journey of life and death – the Greatest Show on Earth
In the northeastern reaches of Tanzania, the Great Migration unfolds as one of Earth’s most awe-inspiring spectacles. Each year, around 2 million wildebeest and zebras embark on a dramatic journey of approximately 1,000 kilometers, moving in a clockwise circuit in search of fresh pastures and breeding sites. This epic trek generates a colossal interaction between predators and prey, offering an unparalleled safari experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Witnessing the raw, emotional drama of this migration is not just an adventure—it’s a profound encounter with one of nature’s grandest wonders.
The wildebeest migration in northern Tanzania and southwest Kenya has gained recognition thanks to incredible documentaries capturing the imagination of nature enthusiasts everywhere. If the sight of numerous wildebeest crossing wild rivers filled with five-meter-long hungry Nile crocodiles has been etched in your memory since childhood, then this safari is a perfect fit for you.
The wildebeest migration travels through Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve and Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. The most popular time to see the migration is from around June to October when the river-crossings take place. The famous river crossings occur at the Grumeti River from mid-May and at the Mara River in July. The wildebeest calving season during January and February and the wildebeest rut from May to June occur in the southern Serengeti.
The Great Migration can be observed throughout the year, with the herds moving to different parts of the expansive ecosystem depending on the season. In northern Tanzania, the prime time to witness this breathtaking spectacle is from June to October, aligning with the dry season. During this period, animals gather around water sources, and the open landscapes provide ideal conditions for spotting wildlife. The migration follows a clockwise route from the southern plains to the northern areas, offering numerous opportunities to catch a glimpse of this natural wonder. While the iconic river crossings are unpredictable, your best chance to witness them is during these dry months.
June to October is Tanzania’s dry season. During this season daytime temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 28°C (82°F) in the Serengeti National Park. Humidity levels are low, and the chance of rain is minimal. Evenings and early morning temperatures can be cold, especially if you are at a higher altitude like the rim of Ngorongoro Crater. Warm clothes are essential for early morning drives and for stargazing at night. It is the most popular time for a Tanzania migration safari.
Tanzania experiences a prolonged rainy season with heavy daily rainfall, particularly in April and May. Despite the rain, the daytime temperature remains warm. This season presents excellent photography opportunities with stunning thunderstorms, towering cloud formations, and lush green landscapes. Fewer visitors are in the Serengeti National Park during this season, making it a preferred time for some visitors to plan their visit.
The wildebeest migration is a spectacular natural phenomenon involving various events throughout the migration calendar. If you’re considering a migration safari, you can reach out to our travel experts with a list of your preferences, and they’ll collaborate with you to plan an ideal Tanzania migration safari for you.
In Serengeti National Park, you’ll find a variety of accommodations, ranging from campsites to luxurious lodges with breathtaking views and top-notch service. For a truly one-of-a-kind adventure, consider our Mobile Explorer Camp. Located in some of the most secluded yet wildlife-rich areas of the park, this camp provides all the comforts of home. You’ll stay in a 3×3 meter tent complete with proper beds and linens, and enjoy a hot shower before savoring a candlelit dinner. With access to private campsites, you’ll experience the migration in a serene and exclusive setting, away from the crowds.
It’s impossible to express in words the feeling of seeing the migration firsthand. The sheer magnitude of the event is breathtaking. An endless horizon of grasslands, long columns of wildebeest making their way through the landscape and an abundance of predators on the ground, in the air, and in the rivers is truly remarkable.
The wildebeest migration attracts thousands of visitors to East Africa each year, making migration safaris highly sought after and often fully booked well in advance. To secure your spot, we recommend booking your safari at least six months ahead, or even a year prior to your desired travel date. If you’re flexible with accommodations, however, you might find some last-minute availability.
For wildlife enthusiasts, witnessing a river crossing is as exhilarating as a World Cup final. Keep in mind, though, that this thrilling event draws numerous 4×4 vehicles to the riverbanks, as many wait to catch a glimpse of the spectacle. Since the migration aligns with the peak safari season in Tanzania, parts of the park can become quite crowded. For a more tranquil yet equally incredible experience, consider visiting during the wildebeest calving season in January and February, when the park is less busy but still teeming with life.
There is no single perfect time or place to witness the wildebeest migration—it all depends on what specific moments you’d like to experience. Once you have a general idea of what you want to see and when you’d like to visit, we can help customize your safari to make it unforgettable.
When planning, remember that nature is unpredictable, especially with events like river crossings. You may spend hours watching as thousands of wildebeest gather at the riverbank, hesitant to make the dangerous plunge. Yet, the spectacle of crocodiles, hippos, and other wildlife surrounding the scene ensures there’s never a dull moment while you wait.
Though the iconic migration is most famous from June to October, the journey of wildebeest in search of breeding grounds and fresh pastures continues year-round. Here are some other key moments in the migration calendar worth considering.
January to February
During the wildebeest calving season, which occurs in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and southern Serengeti National Park, ~500,000 newborn calves are born. This attracts a large number of predators.
March to April
In March, the calving season draws to a close, and the wildebeest commence their journey northwards towards Central Serengeti.
May to June
The wildebeest rut, or mating season, takes place in May. As long columns of wildebeest make their way through the landscape, males clash heads in a battle for a group or corral of females. Often distracted, with more than two males in the mix, they can be taken prey. By mid-May, the wildebeest start to mass in Western Serengeti and the river crossings at the Grumeti River begin.
July to October
In July, the wildebeest migrate to the northern Serengeti and the renowned Mara River crossings commence. Subsequently, crossings over the Talek River also take place. The timing of these events is believed to be contingent upon the onset of the rains. As the months pass, the wildebeest make their way into Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve.
November to December
During this period the short rains create a flush of green growth and trigger the wildebeest in the Masai Mara to return to the Serengeti National Park.
In July, the wildebeest push further north, eventually crossing the border into Kenya and arriving at the Masai Mara National Reserve. Our sister company, Kenya-Experience, can seamlessly help you continue your migration journey into Kenya.
After exploring the Serengeti, you’ll make a stop at the peaceful shores of Lake Victoria, where a traditional canoe trip lets you observe local fishermen at work. From there, you’ll head to the Masai Mara National Reserve for an immersive wildlife experience, following the path of the wildebeest.
During your time in the Masai Mara, you’ll witness incredible wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffalo, and leopards. After a few unforgettable days, you can either journey to Nairobi to conclude your adventure or return to Arusha.
A cross-border migration safari through both Tanzania and Kenya offers you the ultimate chance to witness river crossings and fully experience the Great Migration in all its splendor.
Large Herds
Zebras are part of the Great Migration just as wildebeest.
Extensive Game Drives
Explore the Serengeti together with your experienced guide.
Many Predators
The large herds attract a large number of predators.
The Great Migration is the annual movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras, gazelles, and other herbivores, across the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya. It is driven by the animals’ search for fresh grazing and water.
The best time to witness the Great Migration depends on what part of the migration you want to see. From June to October, the migration crosses the Mara River in Kenya. In Tanzania, the calving season happens from January to March in the southern Serengeti.
In Tanzania, Serengeti National Park is the best place to witness the migration, especially during the calving season and when the herds move north. In Kenya, Maasai Mara National Reserve is ideal for viewing the river crossings from July to October.
The Mara River crossings are one of the most dramatic parts of the Great Migration, where wildebeest and zebras cross the crocodile-infested Mara River. This occurs between July and October as the herds move from Tanzania’s Serengeti into Kenya’s Maasai Mara.
Yes, you can see the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino) in both Tanzania and Kenya during the Great Migration, especially in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara, where predators follow the herds.
The calving season occurs from January to March in the southern Serengeti and Ndutu Plains in Tanzania. During this period, over 500,000 wildebeest calves are born, attracting predators like lions and cheetahs.
The Great Migration is a year-round event. The herds move in a circular pattern between the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya, following seasonal rainfall. Different stages of the migration can be seen throughout the year.
Both countries offer unique experiences. Tanzania’s Serengeti provides vast landscapes and the chance to witness the migration almost year-round. Kenya’s Maasai Mara offers the thrilling river crossings and easier accessibility for those seeking shorter safari trips.
The cost of a Great Migration safari varies based on the duration, accommodation, and whether you are in Tanzania or Kenya. On average, a 5-7 day safari can range from $2,500 to $6,000 per person, depending on the level of luxury.
When packing for a Great Migration safari, bring lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, a hat, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes. Also, pack layers for cooler mornings and evenings, especially in Kenya’s Maasai Mara.
