Best Places to See the Great Migration
Tanzania Safari Source Tours reveals the prime locations to witness nature's greatest wildlife spectacle - from dramatic river crossings to calving grounds teeming with newborn wildebeest.
Prime Locations to Witness the Great Migration
The Great Migration moves through Tanzania and Kenya in a continuous cycle, offering different viewing opportunities throughout the year. Our expert guides have identified these prime locations as the best places to see the Great Migration at its most spectacular:
Top 5 Migration Viewing Locations
Ndutu Calving Grounds (Jan-Mar)
Southern Serengeti/Ndutu area becomes the stage for over 500,000 wildebeest births in just 2-3 weeks. The abundance of vulnerable calves attracts predators, creating exceptional wildlife viewing.
Seronera Valley (Apr-May)
Central Serengeti's heart offers open plains where the herds gather before moving west. Excellent for seeing predators following the migration through this transitional zone.
Grumeti River (Jun-Jul)
The migration's first major obstacle where crocodile-infested waters create dramatic crossings. Less crowded than the more famous Mara River with equally spectacular action.
Mara River (Aug-Oct)
The most famous crossing point where thousands of wildebeest brave crocodiles and strong currents. Multiple crossing points along the Tanzania-Kenya border offer front-row seats to the action.
Lobo Valley (Nov-Dec)
As herds move south, the scenic Lobo Valley in Northern Serengeti offers beautiful backdrops for photography with fewer vehicles than other areas.
Location Comparison Guide
| Location | Best Time | Highlights | Crowd Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ndutu Calving Grounds | Jan-Mar | Births, predator action | Moderate |
| Seronera Valley | Apr-May | Transitional grazing, big cats | Low |
| Grumeti River | Jun-Jul | First river crossings | Low-Moderate |
| Mara River | Aug-Oct | Dramatic crossings | High |
| Lobo Valley | Nov-Dec | Scenic landscapes | Low |
Great Migration Route Map
Best Viewing Tips for Each Location
Ndutu Calving Grounds
- Focus on areas with newborn calves (vulnerable to predators)
- Early mornings for cheetah hunts
- Look for hyena clans following the herds
Mara River Crossings
- Arrive before 7am to secure best viewing positions
- Patience is key - crossings can take hours to initiate
- Watch for zebras - they often lead the crossings
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Choose from our specially designed Great Migration safaris that position you in the best locations at the right times:
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Our Popular Migration Safaris
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Why Trust Our Recommendations?
With over 15 years of experience operating Great Migration safaris, our team has intimate knowledge of:
Our Migration Expertise
- Precise timing for each location's peak activity
- Lesser-known crossing points with fewer crowds
- Best camps and lodges for migration viewing
- Strategies for photography and wildlife viewing
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