The Great Wildebeest Migration: Where and When to See It
The Great Migration is one of the most spectacular natural events on Earth. Over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, make a continuous, circular journey through the Serengeti in Tanzania and Maasai Mara in Kenya in search of fresh grazing and water. Following this migration is a dream for wildlife lovers and photographers.
The Migration Cycle: Month-by-Month Breakdown
January – March: Calving Season (Southern Serengeti/Ndutu)
During these months, herds gather in the Ndutu region of the southern Serengeti. It’s calving season, and more than 500,000 baby wildebeest are born in a span of weeks. Predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are active, making it an intense time for wildlife drama.
April – May: Migration Begins (Central and Western Serengeti)
As rains move northward, so do the herds. The central Serengeti and western corridor begin to see large numbers of wildebeest heading toward the Grumeti River. Though less popular with tourists due to the wet season, this is a beautiful time with lush landscapes and fewer crowds.
June – July: Grumeti and Mara River Crossings Begin (Western and Northern Serengeti)
Herds face their first big challenge crossing crocodile-infested rivers like the Grumeti and Mara. This is the beginning of the most dramatic scenes of the migration, with huge herds piling into the water under predator pressure.
August – October: Peak River Crossings (Northern Serengeti)
This is the most sought-after time for migration safaris. Massive crossings occur in the northern Serengeti and across the Kenyan border into Maasai Mara. Sightings of panic-stricken wildebeest leaping into the river with predators in pursuit make this a wildlife photographer’s paradise.
November – December: Return South (Eastern Serengeti)
As the rains return to the south, the herds begin their long journey back to Ndutu and the southern plains. This transitional period offers quieter safari experiences and beautiful green landscapes.
Where to Stay to Catch the Migration
| Time of Year | Best Location |
|---|---|
|
Jan–Mar |
Ndutu (Southern Serengeti) |
|
Apr–May |
Seronera & Western Corridor |
|
Jun–Jul |
Grumeti or Central to Northern Serengeti |
|
Aug–Oct |
Northern Serengeti (Kogatende, Lamai) |
|
Nov–Dec |
Eastern & Southern Serengeti |
Tips for Planning a Migration Safari
- Book early, especially for July–October peak season.
- Combine regions if your trip is over 7 days to catch different migration stages.
- Use a safari company like Social Adventure Safari that tracks movement patterns and offers flexible, customized itineraries.
Staying in mobile tented camps or seasonal lodges that move with the migration ensures you’re in the heart of the action.
