The Best Time for the Great Migration in Kenya & Tanzania

The Great Migration—one of nature’s most spectacular wildlife events—is a year-round phenomenon, but the best time to witness it depends on where you go in Kenya and Tanzania. This guide breaks down the migration’s timeline, key viewing areas, and what to expect each season.

Great Migration Calendar: Month-by-Month Breakdown

January–March: Calving Season in Tanzania’s Serengeti (South & Ndutu)

  • Why Visit? Over 500,000 wildebeest calves are born in the southern Serengeti and Ndutu region.
  • Wildlife Highlights:
    • Dramatic predator action (lions, cheetahs, and hyenas hunting vulnerable calves).
    • Huge herds grazing on fresh grass.
  • Best Locations: Ndutu, Southern Serengeti.

April–May: Long Rains & Movement to Central Serengeti

  • Pros: Fewer tourists, lush landscapes.
  • Cons: Heavy rain may make roads muddy.
  • Where to Go: Central Serengeti (Moru Kopjes, Seronera).

June–July: The Mara River Crossing Begins (Grumeti, Tanzania & Kenya Border)

  • Peak Action: Herds move north toward Kenya’s Masai Mara.
  • Key Spots:
    • Grumeti River (Tanzania) – Early crossings (June).
    • Mara River (Serengeti/Kenya border) – July kicks off dramatic river crossings.

August–October: Prime Time in Kenya’s Masai Mara

  • Why This is the Best Time?
    • Epic river crossings (crocodile attacks, wildebeest chaos).
    • Highest concentration of wildlife in the Mara.
  • Best Locations: Masai Mara Reserve & Northern Serengeti.

November–December: Herds Return to Tanzania’s Serengeti

  • Migration Loop: Wildebeest head back south via Lobo and Seronera.
  • Good for: Avoiding crowds while still seeing large herds.

Where to See the Great Migration? Kenya vs. Tanzania

Factor Kenya (Masai Mara) Tanzania (Serengeti)
Best Months August–October January–March & June–July
Key Experience Mara River crossings Calving season & Grumeti crossings
Crowds Busy (peak season) Less crowded (except June–July)
Cost Expensive (high demand) More options (budget to luxury)

Verdict:

  • For river crossings → Kenya (Aug–Oct).
  • For calving & predators → Tanzania (Jan–Mar).

Planning Tips for the Best Migration Safari

✔ Book Early – Lodges near river crossings sell out 6–12 months in advance.
✔ Choose the Right Camp – Mobile camps (like Serengeti Under Canvas) follow the herds.
✔ Combine with Gorilla Trekking – Fly from Serengeti to Rwanda for a dual wildlife experience.

Final Answer: When Should You Go?

  • Best for drama: July–October (Kenya’s Mara River crossings).
  • Best for predators: January–March (Tanzania’s calving season).
  • Best for fewer crowds: November or April–May (shoulder seasons).

Ready to witness the Greatest Show on Earth? Let me help you plan your perfect migration safari!