Serengeti Migration Safari Guide
Begin a thrilling journey through the Serengeti's ever-changing landscapes with our Migration Safaris. The Great Migration, a mesmerising spectacle, features wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, and elands as they travel across the vast Serengeti, and even venture into Kenya's Masai Mara region for a bit during their journey. The Migration moves in a clockwise direction across the Serengeti in a pursuit of greener pastures and cleaner water sources.
As the seasons unfold, so does the epic migration story. Depending on when you visit, you may catch the migration braving the strong currents and the predators of Mara river, or you may catch them in the South, welcoming a new generation to the world. The migration unfolds like a natural drama, with different highlights throughout the year. To understand their movement better, you may check out our guide here.
In this article we will look into such details of this incredible journey. Discover when and where the migration unfolds, and the events that take place throughout the year. Our curated safaris offer you front-row seats to these awe-inspiring moments, providing an unforgettable experience as you witness the wonders of the Great Migration in all its glory. Get ready for an adventure that brings you closer to the heart of the Serengeti's wildlife spectacle.
November to Mid-March: Calving Season!
Between November to December the herds move into the Eastern regions of Serengeti. As the herds return from Masai Mara, Kenya, they begin shifting towards the Ndutu and southern Serengeti plains. Witnessing huge columns of these animals navigating the landscapes and slowly moving towards Southern Serengeti truly is a sight to behold.
The weather in Northern and Eastern Serengeti from November to December experiences the Short Rains season, characterised by humidity and approximately two to three daily thunderstorms. However, most rains occur at night, minimising concerns about interruptions during your tour.
It is towards late December, early January, that the Migration completely arrives in the South and the Ndutu region. Between January to March, a unique chapter within the Great Migration unfolds. The plains of Southern Serengeti and Ndutu become a canvas for the spectacle of thousands of wildebeests giving birth daily and nurturing their young ones! And as the babies arrive, drama of course, follows. The sheer magnitude of the herds attracts natural foes, setting the stage for thrilling wildlife interactions. So, you can expect some captivating encounters between predators and prey during this time.
February marks the prime time for those eager to witness the peak of the calving season, offering an ideal opportunity for a visit. With approximately 8,000 wildebeest calves born each day, February offers unparalleled opportunities to witness the miracle of new life unfolding before your eyes. Moreover, keep your gaze keen for other baby animals, including zebras, gazelles, and warthogs, adding to the enchantment of the Serengeti's vibrant ecosystem.
The landscape also transforms into a lush green paradise as Tanzania enters the Green Season between January to February,
Between January to February, Tanzania experiences Green Season as landscapes transform into a lush gree. offering pleasant weather with occasional light showers. This creates a rather refreshing atmosphere for your migration safari.
As March ushers in the Wet Season, the conditions become cloudier and more humid. Showers increase in frequency, punctuating the days with refreshing rain. While most showers occur at night, you may also encounter brief spells of rain during the day, adding to the dynamic ambiance of the Serengeti.
To fully immerse yourself in the splendor of the Great Migration during these months, we recommend a stay of at least two to three nights in Ndutu. Here, you'll have the opportunity to witness the migration at its peak, alongside the resident wildlife of Ndutu. Depending on your preferences and desired experiences, consider crafting an itinerary spanning 3 to 10 nights, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes and wildlife habitats of the Serengeti.
To check out a 6-day migration safari itinerary during these months, click here.
To check out an 8-day migration safari itinerary during these months, click here.
To check out all the migration itineraries that feature calving, click here.
Mid-March to April: Movement Towards West
In the transition from Mid-March to April, the Great Migration undergoes significant shifts in the Serengeti. Until the end of March, the migration predominantly remains in the South Serengeti and Ndutu region. While calving might continue until late March, the numbers diminish, and sightings of baby wildebeests learning the ways of life become more common. By early April, the herds begin their westward movement, with the young ones demonstrating strength and agility as they follow their mothers.
During early April, the migration spreads out across Ndutu, South, and South West Serengeti. By mid-April, it consolidates in the South and South West Serengeti, eventually reaching the South Western Serengeti by late April. Although this period lacks highlights like river crossings or intense calving, observing the young calves alongside their mothers is a fascinating experience. In March, the calves develop their "follower" instinct, staying close to their mothers, while by April, they start to gain strength, crucial for the journey ahead.
March and April coincide with the long rainy season, bringing substantial rainfall and lush vegetation that may obstruct views of wildlife. However, the verdant landscapes create breathtaking scenery, enhancing the overall safari experience.
To check out all the migration itineraries that occur during this period, click here.
May to June: Grumeti River Crossings
In the May to June stretch, the Great Migration embarks on its westward journey through the Serengeti. By mid-May, the herds sprawl across South West and West Serengeti, culminating their arrival in the West by late May and June. A highlight during this period is the awe-inspiring Grumeti river crossing, adding a thrilling dimension to the spectacle. Although not as challenging as the Mara river, the Grumeti river holds its dangers with predators lurking, creating a gripping scene.
As the migration reaches the West and gears up for the move into the North, the Grumeti river crossings become a focal point. The prime time to witness this spectacle is late May and June, aligning with the concentration of the entire migration, amplifying the intensity of the river crossings. Notably, during this time, the calves display impressive strength and mobility, enhancing the overall dynamism of the migration.
During April and May, falling within the Long Rains season, anticipate thunderstorms and daytime rainfall. While heavier showers are more prevalent at night, brief interruptions in daytime game drives may occur. Conditions notably improve in June, transitioning to a dry and pleasant climate.
For an immersive experience, a suggested stay of at least two to three days in the region is recommended. This duration allows for optimal viewing of river crossings, engaging game drives, and participation in activities like hot air balloon rides and walking safaris.
The peak time to witness Grumeti river crossings is from mid-May to late June. This period aligns with the concentration of the herd in the Western corridor, making it the ideal window to observe the dramatic river crossings.
During this period in the Western Serengeti, expect to witness the riveting river crossing approximately two to three times, providing ample opportunities to experience this captivating natural event.
To check out a 7-day Western Serengeti Migration Safari itinerary, click here.
To check out an 8-day Western Serengeti Migration Safari itinerary, click here.
To check out all the Western Serengeti Migration Safari itineraries, click here.
July to October: Mara River Crossings
From July to October, during the Dry Season, the herds move from western Serengeti to the northern regions, and eventually arrive in the north-eastern region by late October.
The major highlight of the migration during these months is the awe-inspiring river crossings across the mighty Mara River. These iconic crossings, documented in captivating worldwide documentaries, showcase the sheer courage of herbivores facing challenging waters, overcoming obstacles, and navigating amidst lurking predators, developing into quite a dramatic natural event.
For the best chances of witnessing this river crossing during your visit, mid-July to late September marks the peak period as herds reach the Northern Serengeti and prepare to move into Masai Mara, Kenya. In October, as the herds return and prepare to travel to Easter and Southern ends of the Serengeti, yet another opportunity is provided to spot the dramatic river crossings.
The Dry Season ensures pleasant weather and dry conditions. Temperatures may dip at night, so packing warmer clothing is advisable. The landscape features dry and dusty roads, providing excellent visibility for observing the wildlife in its natural habitat.
To fully immerse yourself in the different stages of the Great Migration, we recommend a stay of at least two to three days in this region. This duration allows you to witness the breathtaking river crossings, indulge in thrilling game drives, and partake in various activities such as hot air balloon rides and walking safaris.
Please note that while the excitement of witnessing river crossings is unparalleled, natural and wildlife events are unpredictable in nature. Chances of witnessing the river crossing ranges from 40-50%, with some fortunate observers experiencing multiple crossings in a single day. The key lies in spending more time and days at the riverbank, increasing the odds of encountering this mesmerising spectacle.
To check out an 8-day Northern Serengeti Migration Safari itinerary, click here.
To check out a 9-day Northern Serengeti Migration Safari itinerary, click here.
To check out all the Northern Serengeti Migration Safari itineraries, click here.
Conclusion:
Embark on an incredible journey through the Serengeti's diverse landscapes with our Migration Safaris. Experience the natural wonders of the Great Migration as herds move across the plains, encounter river crossings, and witness the circle of life unfold. Our curated safaris provide an authentic and unforgettable exploration of the Serengeti's wildlife, promising a thrilling adventure.