The Great Migration in the Serengeti

Published on 26 June 2026 at 16:09

The Great Migration in East Africa is one of the most impressive natural spectacles in the world.

The animals follow the rainfall: they constantly move to areas with fresh grasslands and water sources, meaning the migration is in motion all year round.

* Predators such as lions, cheetahs, and crocodiles lie in wait, making the journey dangerous.

* July – October: during these dry months, the migration is located in the north of the Serengeti, near the border with Kenya. Here, the herds must cross the notorious Mara River – a spectacular spectacle in which thousands of wildebeest and zebras trek through the churning, crocodile-filled water.

* Due to the drama of this river crossing, this period is considered by many to be the best time to see the migration.

* It is an impressive natural phenomenon: thousands of hooves splashing water, panicked wildebeest crossing rivers, predators hunting prey, and young calves learning to run. The crossing of the Mara River is one of the most iconic moments, where the animals sometimes hesitate for days before attempting the crossing.

The Great Migration makes your safari in Tanzania unforgettable.

Where and when can you see migration in Tanzania?

*South Serengeti & Ndutu (December – March)

The migration takes place on the short grasslands of South Serengeti and the adjacent Ndutu region. This is where the calving season occurs.

Approximately 500,000 calves will be born.

*Central & West Serengeti (April – June)

From April, the great migration to the North begins.
In June, the first major crossing takes place at the Grumeti River in West Serengeti.

*North Serengeti (July – October)

This is the phase of the famous Mara River crossing. This crossing is known for its dramatic scenes. Danger from strong currents and hungry crocodiles await the animals.

*Return to the South (October – December)

With the onset of the short rains, the migration returns to the south of the Serengeti,

Completing the circle and starting the pattern of the circle of life anew

If you want to experience the spectacular Mara River crossing, a visit to North Serengeti is ideal. It is a wondrous event that is etched on your retina forever.

 

Add comment

Comments

There are no comments yet.