The Ultimate Guide: The Great Migration
If seeing the Great Migration on safari is on your bucket list, you’re in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know to plan your dream trip—whether you're a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned traveler. We’re safari specialists, and having personally witnessed the Great Migration in both Kenya and Tanzania, we’ve got a lot of experience in crafting unforgettable experiences around this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon.
The Migration Moves—And So Should You
It’s in the name, but it’s worth repeating: the Great Migration moves. You’d be surprised how many travelers show up thinking the wildebeest will be waiting at a specific location year-round. Sadly, it doesn’t work like that. The herds are constantly on the move in search of food and water, following the seasonal rains.
There Are No Guarantees: Nature Calls the Shots
While there are general patterns for where the migration will be at specific times of the year, nature is unpredictable, especially in recent years. Climate change has altered weather patterns, and the migration isn’t always as predictable as it once was. So while we can give you a good estimate of where the herds are likely to be, there are no guarantees.
What we can offer you is a strategy to maximize your chances of seeing the migration in all its glory. Let’s break it down by season.
When and Where to See the Migration
January to March: Calving Season in the South
From January to March, the herds are concentrated in the southern Serengeti in Tanzania, where thousands of wildebeest calves are born. February is peak calving season, and it’s a spectacular time to witness new life coming into the world. The drama doesn’t stop there—predators like lions and hyenas follow close behind, looking for an easy meal. You might witness a wildebeest calf being born, only to become the next meal for a predator moments later. It’s intense, raw, and part of the magic of nature.
This season also coincides with the rainy season, which means you can expect wet and muddy conditions. For some, this adds to the adventure, but if you’re not a fan of getting a bit dirty, you might want to consider other months. That said, when we talk to hardcore safari enthusiasts, this is their favorite time to view the migration.
April TO JUNE: The Migration Moves North
As the herds start their northward trek in April, they begin spreading out across the central and western Serengeti. While it’s still a stunning time to witness the migration, this is when the herds become more dispersed. So, you won’t get the dense, dramatic scenes of thousands of wildebeest all in one place like you would in other seasons.
July to October: The River Crossings in the North
July marks the arrival of the herds in the northern Serengeti and the Maasai Mara in Kenya, where the famous river crossings take place. This is what most people picture when they think of the Great Migration—wildebeest surging across crocodile-infested rivers, their hooves pounding the water in dramatic fashion.
However, the river crossings aren’t always as instant as you might expect. One time, our founder spent three days sitting by the Mara River, watching wildebeest gather near the banks, only to see them hesitate and retreat without crossing. So, patience is key. If you're traveling with young children or a short attention span, this might not be the most rewarding experience.
July to October also happens to be the peak season for migration-related safaris, meaning more crowds and higher prices. But for those willing to splurge, it’s the best chance for dramatic wildlife action.
November to December: The Herds Move South
As the weather cools, the herds begin to migrate back through the eastern Serengeti to the south again. While this is a quieter time of year without the dramatic megaherds, it still offers a great opportunity to witness the migration without the peak season crowds.
How to Maximize Your Chances of Seeing the Migration
The key to seeing the Great Migration in all its glory is flexibility and planning. Here’s how we recommend you approach it:
Focus on the Best Seasons:
If you’re looking for the highest odds, aim for the two windows with the most dramatic action and concentrated numbers:
January to March in the southern Serengeti for the calving season, or
July to October in the northern Serengeti and Maasai Mara for the river crossings.
These periods are when the wildebeest are most likely to be in concentrated areas, providing the best opportunities for dramatic sightings.
Split Your Stay Between Different Locations:
Migration patterns can shift, and there’s no one-size-fits-all. To increase your chances of seeing the migration, split your stay between two or three different camps in different regions. For example, if you’re traveling in July, we’d recommend booking a lodge for 2-3 nights in the north and another for 2-3 nights in the west. This strategy maximizes your chances of being in the right place, even if the herds arrive earlier or later than expected.
Consider Migration Camps:
For the ultimate flexibility, consider staying in migration camps—light-footprint camps that move with the herds. These camps are designed to be mobile, so they can respond quickly to changes in the migration’s timing or location, giving you the best shot at witnessing the wildebeest in action.
Let Us Handle the Details
Planning a trip to see the Great Migration can feel overwhelming with so many variables to consider. But that’s where we come in. As specialists, we’ve got the local knowledge and experience to help you craft the perfect safari, tailored to your preferences and timeline.
If you're ready to start planning, submit an inquiry with us, and we’ll take care of the logistics so you can focus on the adventure ahead.
