The Great Migration in the Serengeti
The Great Migration in the Serengeti is the world’s most dramatic wildlife event — a timeless cycle of life, movement, and survival that defines the rhythm of Africa’s wilderness. Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeests, joined by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, journey through the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grass and water.
This endless journey across the plains of northern Tanzania and southern Kenya is a breathtaking display of instinct, endurance, and the raw power of nature. The Great Migration isn’t just a moment — it’s a year-round phenomenon that unfolds in stages, each offering unforgettable encounters.
Understanding the Great Migration
The migration follows the rains and the growth of new grass. It’s a natural survival strategy as wildebeests and their companions move across nearly 3,000 kilometers (1,900 miles) through the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya.
While the exact timing varies with rainfall patterns, the overall cycle remains the same. The animals move in a clockwise direction through the Serengeti, creating different highlights in different months.
At every stage, life and death play out before your eyes — from calving season and predator hunts to the treacherous river crossings that define the struggle for survival.
The Migration Route – Month by Month
December to March – Calving Season in Southern Serengeti
The migration begins on the Ndutu Plains in the southern Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The short rains have transformed the plains into lush grazing lands, perfect for calving.
In February, nearly 500,000 calves are born within a few weeks — a remarkable spectacle of life. The plains come alive with new energy as predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas move in, taking advantage of the vulnerable young.
This is the best time for witnessing dramatic predator-prey interactions and photographing baby wildebeests taking their first steps.
April to May – The Journey North Begins
As the rains subside, the herds begin their long trek northward. They leave the south and move into the central Serengeti (Seronera Valley), an area rich in predators and permanent water sources.
This period marks the start of the migration’s movement phase. The landscape turns green and stunning, with fewer tourists and great opportunities for photographers seeking dramatic skies and open plains.
While it’s the rainy season, the rewards are immense — it’s serene, wild, and bursting with life.
June to July – Grumeti River Crossings in the Western Corridor
By June, the migration reaches the western Serengeti, where the herds encounter their first major challenge — the Grumeti River.
Here, the water teems with crocodiles, waiting for their opportunity as wildebeests and zebras plunge into the river. This dramatic event is less crowded than the Mara crossings but equally intense and thrilling.
This is also the beginning of the dry season, with cooler temperatures and clear skies — one of the best times for safaris in the Serengeti.
August to October – The Mara River Crossings in Northern Serengeti
The herds continue their journey north to the Mara River, marking the most famous and spectacular phase of the migration.
Tens of thousands of animals gather on the riverbanks, hesitating before crossing. Then, in an explosion of movement, they leap into the water — a desperate race for survival. Crocodiles strike, currents pull them under, and yet, the herd pushes forward.
It’s one of nature’s most breathtaking moments — pure, raw, and unforgettable.
During this time, the northern Serengeti (Kogatende and Lamai regions) offers the best vantage points for witnessing the crossings. The weather is dry, clear, and perfect for photography.
November – Returning South
As the short rains return, the herds move back south through the eastern and central Serengeti. The plains refresh with new grass, attracting the animals back toward their calving grounds.
This period is quieter, with fewer tourists and vibrant green landscapes. It marks the completion of the migration cycle — and the beginning of another year of endless movement.
Wildlife During the Migration
The Great Migration supports a rich web of life. Alongside the wildebeests, zebras and gazelles move together, benefiting from mutual protection and feeding patterns.
Predators — lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and wild dogs — follow closely behind, making this the best time for seeing thrilling hunts. The sky also fills with birds such as eagles and vultures, drawn to the feast that follows the herds.
Every stage of the migration is full of drama and beauty, from the birth of life to the constant struggle for survival.
Best Time to See the Great Migration
The best time to witness the Great Migration depends on which stage you want to experience:
- January to March: Calving season in Southern Serengeti – best for baby animals and predator action.
- June to July: Grumeti River crossings – thrilling and scenic.
- August to October: Mara River crossings – the most dramatic and world-renowned event.
- November to December: Return journey – fewer crowds and fresh landscapes.
Each period offers unique highlights, and with proper planning, you can witness this spectacle up close year after year.
Safari Activities During the Migration
A Serengeti migration safari can be customized to your interests:
- Game Drives: Morning and afternoon drives reveal herds stretching across the plains, predators in pursuit, and incredible photo opportunities.
- Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Floating over the migration at sunrise offers an unforgettable view of the vast herds below.
- Guided Walking Safaris: Experience the landscape at ground level, learning about the ecosystem and animal behavior.
- Photographic Safaris: Specialized tours allow photographers to capture the perfect moments of river crossings, calving, or hunting scenes.
Where to Stay During the Migration
Many lodges and camps move seasonally to follow the herds, ensuring you’re always close to the action.
- Southern Serengeti (Dec–Mar): Ndutu Safari Lodge, Lake Masek Tented Camp.
- Central Serengeti (Apr–Jun): Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge, Kubu Kubu Tented Camp.
- Western Corridor (Jun–Jul): Grumeti Migration Camp, Kirawira Serena Camp.
- Northern Serengeti (Aug–Oct): Sayari Camp, Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge.
Mobile tented camps, such as Serengeti Wilderness Camp or Migration Camp, provide an authentic way to follow the movement of the herds.
Conservation and Sustainability
The Great Migration depends on the health of the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem. Organizations like TANAPA (Tanzania National Parks Authority) and Frankfurt Zoological Society work tirelessly to protect these habitats from poaching, overgrazing, and human encroachment.
Responsible tourism — using eco-lodges, minimizing waste, and supporting local communities — plays a vital role in preserving this extraordinary event for future generations.
Why the Great Migration Matters
The Great Migration is more than a natural wonder — it’s a symbol of life’s resilience. It represents the eternal rhythm of birth, survival, and renewal that defines the African wilderness.
Witnessing it is witnessing nature’s raw beauty and balance — where instinct drives life forward, and every moment tells a story of endurance and hope.
Conclusion
The Great Migration in the Serengeti is the heartbeat of Africa — a timeless journey that unfolds across golden plains and wild rivers. From the birth of calves in the south to the perilous river crossings in the north, every step is filled with wonder, danger, and survival.
Whether you dream of photographing the river crossings or watching newborn wildebeests take their first steps, the Serengeti promises the safari experience of a lifetime.
Plan your Great Migration safari today with GORILLATREKKINGEXPEDITIONS. Our expert guides and personalized itineraries ensure you follow the migration at its best — bringing you face to face with nature’s greatest spectacle.