Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles come together in Tanzania’s Serengeti for one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles – The Great Wildebeest Migration. This epic journey is known as The Great Wildebeest Migration and takes place across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.

Wildebeest migrate from the southern Serengeti’s short-grass plains towards Ndutu in Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Witness some of the largest herds ever as they traverse vast plains and cross rivers. This journey promises to be truly memorable!

The timing of the migration varies annually and depends on water and grazing availability. For the best viewing opportunities, wait until late June or August to witness this incredible spectacle!

When is the best time to visit Serengeti?

If you’re thinking about taking a safari in Tanzania, June to October is the ideal time to witness the wildebeest migration. The Great Migration peaks during this period, and you can expect to spot herds of these animals in Seronera Valley, Moru Kopjes, and Lobo region.

It’s also a great month to witness rutting season and males clanging their horns as they compete for top spots near watering holes that attract females. Unfortunately, this is also the busiest month for river crossings – so make sure you book ahead of time. Click here to uncover a wealth of in-depth information about the Serengeti National Park and the Wildebeest Migration!

Sneek-peek into The Great Migration

·  April – June

From late April to early June, Serengeti National Park becomes the backdrop for one of nature’s greatest displays – a wildebeest migration. More than one million animals, along with thousands of zebra, make their way north and west in search of water and food.

Typically, herds begin their annual migration in April or May; however, there are exceptions. At this time, they begin to disperse in search of new grazing areas and water sources.

In June, the herds are on the move, and you have two locations within the park (Grumeti and Lobo) where you can maximize your chances of seeing them. Plus, it’s an ideal time to explore the Ngorongoro region, Lake Manyara, as well as the nearby beaches in Kenya.

·  July – October

July to August is the prime wildlife safari season at Serengeti Mara Camp. These months mark the annual migration of wildebeest across Masai Mara as they make their epic river crossings – an exciting safari experience sure to tick off your bucket list!

August is the busiest safari month in Serengeti when millions of herds from the Great Migration are migrating north and crossing over the Mara River. This spectacular sight should not be missed during any Serengeti safari!

·  December – March

In Late October and November, herds of wildebeest migrate south towards Lake Ndutu and its calving grounds around Ndutu. At this time of peak calving is underway (february), over 8,000 calves are born daily – making them prime prey for predators such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas, who will stalk these helpless newborns through the grasslands.

Visitors should expect to witness many wobbly calves and predators such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, and wild dogs hunting them down. This in our opinion is the best time to see the migration as the wildebeest congregate in one area and preditors come here from afar. It is also the only area in Serenteti and Ngorongoro where off-road driving is allowed meaning that you can meander through the heard in search of predators or move to get the best photos and viewing positions.

·  November

November marks the return of herds into Tanzania from Kenya after rains have brought green grass back into the park. At this time of year, it is less busy in the park than in other months, making November an ideal safari month if you are seeking some peace and quiet.

November is one of the best months to witness Tanzania’s Serengeti migration. The short rains during this month provide a natural incentive for wildebeest to move from Maasai Mara to the rejuvenated grassland plains of central and southern Serengeti.

Find out What Month Is Best To See The Wildebeest Migration?