Every year, around 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebra and gazelle, move in a vast loop through the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing and water. The route is driven by rainfall, so timings shift from year to year — but the broad pattern is reliable, and knowing it is the key to planning a migration safari.
December to March: calving in the southern Serengeti
After the short rains, the herds gather on the nutrient-rich short-grass plains of the southern Serengeti and the Ndutu area of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Around February, some 8,000 calves are born each day over a few weeks. Predators follow: this is one of the best times of year for lion, cheetah and hyena action.
April and May: the long rains
As the long rains arrive, the herds start moving north-west through the central Serengeti. Some camps close, but those that remain open are quiet, green and good value.
June and July: the western corridor
The migration pushes into the western Serengeti, where the Grumeti River presents the first major crossing and its huge crocodiles lie in wait. By July the leading herds are usually approaching the northern Serengeti.
July to October: the Mara River
This is the famous crossing season. The herds reach the northern Serengeti and spill into Kenya’s Maasai Mara, crossing the Mara River back and forth. Crossings can happen at any time of day and are impossible to predict precisely, so we recommend at least three nights near the river. The Maasai Mara and the Kogatende area of the northern Serengeti both offer superb viewing.
November: heading south
With the short rains, the herds move rapidly south through the eastern Serengeti and Loliondo, returning to the southern plains to start the cycle again.
How to plan
- Choose your month first, then your camp location — mobile camps move with the herds.
- Allow three or more nights in one area to give yourself the best chance of a crossing.
- Book early for July–September, the busiest period.
See our Tanzania wildlife safaris, Kenya safaris and the 10-Day Kenya & Tanzania Migration Safari.
FAQs
Can I guarantee seeing a river crossing?
No one can guarantee a crossing, but staying three or more nights near the river between late July and early October gives you a very good chance.
