Best Time to Visit Serengeti for the Great Migration

The Great Wildebeest Migration, centered in Serengeti National Park, is one of the most amazing wildlife events on the planet. Every year, more than 1.5 million wildebeest, along with zebras and gazelles, migrate continuously throughout the Serengeti ecosystem in search of fresh pasture.

Knowing the best time to visit the Serengeti for the Great Migration will help you choose the ideal season, location, and itinerary for an unforgettable safari in Tanzania.

What Is the Great Wildebeest Migration?

The Great Migration is a continuous, year-round movement of wildebeest, zebras, and antelopes between the Maasai Mara in Kenya and Tanzania’s Northern, Central, and Southern Serengeti. Unlike many wildlife events, it does not follow fixed dates; instead, it is driven by rainfall patterns and the growth of fresh grass.

This natural cycle includes dramatic river crossings, the calving season, intense predator activity, and long-distance wildlife movements.

Best Time to Visit Serengeti for the Migration (Month by Month)

The Serengeti is one of the finest sites in the world, especially for photographers and nature lovers.

January to March – Calving Season (Southern Serengeti & Ndutu)

During these months, wildebeest gather for calving in the Ndutu area and the southern Serengeti. This is why you should travel at this time:

• Thousands of calves are born every day
• Rare and exciting encounters with predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas
• Fewer visitors compared to the peak seasons of the year

This is the perfect time for travelers who want to experience nature without needing to cross the river

April to May – Green Season (Central Serengeti)

The long rains occur during these months, and the migration begins moving north as the landscape becomes green and verdant.

The main reasons to visit during this period are the stunning scenery and the low number of visitors.

• Reduced lodging costs
• Excellent bird viewing

This is a fantastic choice for budget-conscious travelers who prefer quieter safaris, even though some routes may be muddy.

June to July – Migration Movement & Predator Action

From June, the herds move through the Western and Central Serengeti, preparing for the dramatic river crossings.

Why visit during this time:

• Strong concentration of wildlife
• Increased predator activity
• Excellent overall game viewing

This is a popular season and ideal for travelers seeking a classic Serengeti safari experience.

August to October – Mara River Crossings (Northern Serengeti)

The Great Migration’s most well-known period occurred at this time. Wildebeest make dangerous attempts to cross the Mara River, facing crocodiles and strong currents.

Reasons to visit now:

• Spectacular river crossings

• High chances of witnessing migration behavior

• One of the best times for safaris

Due to high demand, early booking is essential during this period.

November to December – Return to Southern Serengeti

When the light rains begin, the herds return to the southern Serengeti.

Reasons to go now:

• Fewer visitors
• Lush, green landscapes
• Still, plenty of wildlife to see

This is the perfect time for travelers who want to explore remarkable places more freely and enjoy a quieter safari experience.

Best Serengeti Region by Migration Season

Is the Serengeti Worth Visiting Outside Migration Season?

Yes. Even when the migration is not in a specific area, the Serengeti still offers excellent game viewing throughout the year. You can see resident predators, elephants, giraffes, and large plains game at any time.

Many travelers prefer the quieter months, when wildlife remains abundant, and there are fewer crowds.

Planning the Best Migration Safari

Time and location are crucial to truly experiencing the Great Migration. With a well-organized itinerary, you arrive in the right part of the Serengeti at exactly the right time.

At Ron Adventure, our Serengeti migration safaris are carefully planned around:

• Travel dates

• Ideal standard of accommodation

• Budget and group size

Final Thoughts

The Great Wildebeest Migration is a year-round phenomenon, and there is no “wrong” time to visit the Serengeti. Whether you are interested in the calving season, dramatic predator action, or thrilling river crossings, the Serengeti delivers unforgettable wildlife experiences in every season.

Contact Ron Adventure today to help you plan your Serengeti safari at the perfect time to match your travel goals.