Big Migration

The best time to see the Great Migration in Tanzania depends on what you want to experience. From the dramatic calving season in the southern Serengeti to the spectacular crossing of the Mara River in the north, the migration follows a continuous cycle throughout the year.

There is no single "best" month to see the Great Migration.

January–March is ideal for the calving season, while July–October offers some of the best opportunities for witnessing the dramatic Mara River crossings. The migration is a natural phenomenon, and its exact location changes with rainfall and the availability of fresh grazing.

Let nature set the schedule

The Great Migration is wild and unpredictable. No safari company can guarantee exactly where or when the herds will cross a river. That is part of what makes the experience so special. Our local guides follow the seasonal movements of the herds and help you choose the right areas and time of year for your safari.

January – March: Calving Season

Southern Serengeti & Ndutu

This is one of the most special periods of the migration. Large herds gather in the southern Serengeti and around Ndutu, where thousands of wildebeest calves are born. The abundance of young animals also attracts predators such as lions, cheetahs and hyenas.

Best for:
🐃 Calving season
🦁 Predator action
📸 Wildlife photography
🌱 Green landscapes

April – June: The Journey Begins

As the grass becomes less abundant, the herds begin moving north and west. From around May to July, the migration passes through the Western Corridor, where the Grumeti River becomes one of the major obstacles on their journey.

Best for:
🐃 Huge herds on the move
🌿 Green scenery
🐊 Grumeti River area
🚙 A quieter safari experience than the peak northern season

July – October: Mara River Crossings

For many travellers, this is the most exciting period to try to witness the Great Migration in northern Tanzania.

The herds move towards the northern Serengeti and the Mara River. Some animals cross into Kenya, while others remain in Tanzania and cross the river in both directions. The exact timing cannot be guaranteed because the animals respond to rainfall and grazing conditions.

Best for:
🐃 Mara River crossings
🐊 Dramatic wildlife encounters
🦁 Predator sightings
📸 Spectacular photography

September – October: Northern Serengeti

The northern Serengeti and Lobo area can be particularly interesting around September and October, when parts of the migration begin their journey south again.

This can also be an excellent option for travellers who want to experience the migration while avoiding some of the busiest areas.

November – December: The Return South

With the short rains, the herds gradually move south again towards the Serengeti plains and eventually the calving areas.

By December, the migration cycle begins to come full circle.