Best Time to See the Great Migration
Tanzania Safari Source Tours reveals the optimal months to witness nature's greatest wildlife spectacle - from calving seasons to dramatic river crossings.
When is the Best Time to See the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is a year-round phenomenon, but certain months offer more spectacular viewing opportunities than others. Based on 15+ years of experience tracking the herds, we've identified these as the best times to see the Great Migration:
Month-by-Month Migration Highlights
January-March: Calving Season
Southern Serengeti and Ndutu area witness over 500,000 wildebeest births in just 2-3 weeks. The abundance of vulnerable calves attracts predators, creating exceptional wildlife viewing.
April-May: Central Serengeti
As the rains begin, herds move through Central Serengeti's lush plains. Fewer crowds and beautiful green landscapes make this an excellent time for photography.
June-July: Grumeti River
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.
August-October: Mara River
The most famous crossing point where thousands of wildebeest brave crocodiles and strong currents. Peak season offers the highest chance to witness multiple crossings.
November-December: Return South
As the herds move south through Lobo Valley and Central Serengeti, beautiful landscapes and fewer vehicles make for excellent photographic opportunities.
Great Migration Timing Comparison
| Time Period | Location | Highlights | Viewing Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| January-March | Southern Serengeti/Ndutu | Calving season, predator action | Easy (predictable locations) |
| April-May | Central Serengeti | Green season, fewer crowds | Moderate (herds more spread out) |
| June-July | Western Corridor/Grumeti | First river crossings | Moderate (timing can vary) |
| August-October | Northern Serengeti/Mara River | Peak crossing season | Difficult (crowds, unpredictable crossings) |
| November-December | Central to Southern Serengeti | Return migration, scenic landscapes | Easy (predictable movement) |
Great Migration Route Map
Migration Tracker
Expert Viewing Tips by Season
Calving Season (Jan-Mar)
- Focus on areas with newborn calves (vulnerable to predators)
- Early mornings for cheetah hunts
- Look for hyena clans following the herds
- Ndutu area offers the most concentrated viewing
River Crossings (Jun-Oct)
- 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
- Multiple crossing points reduce crowding
Recommended Safari Packages by Season
Choose from our specially designed Great Migration safaris timed perfectly for each season's highlights:
6 Days Great Migration Adventure
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Experience the Great Migration on this 6-day budget safari through Northern & Central Serengeti and ...
4 Days Private Wildebeest Migration Safari – Northern Serengeti
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Step into the heart of the Great Migration with this exclusive 4-day private safari to Northern Sere...
6 Days Private Migration Adventure
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Follow the legendary migration route on this private 6-day safari designed for comfort and affordabi...
5 Days Private Migration Safari – Northern Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater
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Experience the Great Migration from two iconic destinations on this 5-day private safari through Nor...
4 Days Wildebeest Migration Safari – Northern Serengeti Adventure
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Embark on an unforgettable 4-day wildebeest migration safari in the northern Serengeti, where nature...
5 Days Wildebeest Migration Safari
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Discover the Drama of Nature's Greatest Show – From the Mara River to the Ngorongoro Crater!
This...
Seasonal Migration Safaris
Need Help Choosing the Best Time?
Why Our Timing Recommendations Matter
With over 15 years of experience tracking the Great Migration, our team offers unparalleled insights into:
Our Migration Expertise
- Precise timing for each season's highlights
- Lesser-known viewing spots with fewer crowds
- Optimal camps and lodges for each migration phase
- Strategies for photography and wildlife viewing
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