Understanding the Great Migration: When and Where to Go

The Endless Cycle of the Savanna

The Great Wildebeest Migration is a continuous, year-round search for fresh grazing pastures and water, traversing the Serengeti-Masai Mara ecosystem. Over 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and 350,000 gazelles move in a massive circular pattern across Tanzania and Kenya.

Understanding where the herds are at any given time of the year is key to planning a successful migration safari:

• January - March (Southern Serengeti/Ndutu): Calving season. Hundreds of thousands of calves are born, attracting high predator activity.
• April - May (Central/Western Serengeti): The herds move northwest, following the rains. High grass and dramatic green plains.
• June - July (Grumeti/Northern Serengeti): The herds prepare for the iconic river crossings. Tension builds as they approach water.
• August - October (Mara River Crossings & Masai Mara): The famous river crossings where animals brave crocodile-infested waters.
• November - December (Eastern Serengeti): The herds move back south, closing the loop.