The Great Migration is the movement of around 1.5 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, in a year-round loop through the Serengeti ecosystem. The herds follow the rains in search of fresh grass and water. It is not a single event but a constant journey, and where you should be depends on the month.
Why the herds move
The southern Serengeti’s short grass grows on volcanic soil rich in minerals, ideal for pregnant females and newborn calves. When the plains dry out, the herds move north and west towards permanent water. When the rains return, they head south again. Predators follow them all the way.
The migration month by month
| Months | Where the herds usually are | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| December–March | Southern Serengeti, Ndutu | Grazing on short grass; calving peaks late January to February |
| April–May | Central and western Serengeti | Herds move north-west during the long rains; rutting begins |
| June–July | Western corridor | Grumeti River crossings |
| July–October | Northern Serengeti and Masai Mara | Mara River crossings |
| November | Eastern and central Serengeti | Herds move south with the short rains |
Timing varies every year with the rain. Use the table as a guide, not a guarantee.
Calving season
From late January to February, hundreds of thousands of calves are born on the southern plains in a few weeks. Calves stand and run within minutes. Lions, cheetahs, hyenas and jackals take advantage, so predator sightings are frequent and dramatic. The weather is warm and the plains green. Calving Season, Ndutu is built around this period.
River crossings
Grumeti River
Around June, the herds cross the Grumeti in the western corridor. Crossings are smaller than at the Mara, but the river holds very large crocodiles.
Mara River
From July to October, the herds cross the Mara River in the far north, often several times as they move back and forth. Thousands gather on the bank before one animal jumps and the rest follow. Crossings can happen at any time of day, or not at all for several days. River Crossing Season places you close to the main crossing points.
Predators of the migration
- Lions ambush herds near water and in long grass.
- Cheetahs hunt calves and gazelles on the open plains.
- Spotted hyenas hunt in groups, especially at night.
- Nile crocodiles wait in the Grumeti and Mara rivers.
How to plan a migration safari
- Pick the event first: calving or crossings.
- Stay in the right area: choose a camp near the herds for your month. Mobile camps move to follow them.
- Stay long enough: three nights or more in the migration area.
- Book early: camps near the herds fill six to ten months ahead.
- Fly one way: the north and south are far from Arusha by road.
Is it worth seeing outside peak times?
Yes. In April and May, the herds are spread out in the central and western Serengeti, and there are few vehicles. In November, you can catch them moving south. Resident wildlife in the central Serengeti is excellent all year. Read our Serengeti guide and best time for a safari in Tanzania for more. For more about the park, see Serengeti facts.
Frequently asked questions
For calving and predators, late January to February in the southern Serengeti. For river crossings, August and September in the northern Serengeti.
Around 1.5 million wildebeest, plus hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, according to most estimates.
No. Crossings depend on the herds and the weather. Staying three nights or more near the Mara River gives you a good chance in peak season.
