Quick Answer
The best time to see the Serengeti Great Migration depends on what you want to see. For dramatic river crossings, visit July–September. For calving season, visit December–March.
This guide gives you a month-by-month breakdown of the Great Migration, including where the herds are, what you can see and the best time to visit.
What Is the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is the annual movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras and gazelles across the Serengeti and Maasai Mara in search of water and grazing land.
It is one of the most spectacular wildlife events in the world and a major attraction for visitors to Tanzania.
Month-by-Month Guide
December–March: Calving Season
- Where: Southern Serengeti (Ndutu area)
- What you can see: Thousands of wildebeest giving birth
- Best for: Calving season and predator action
April–May: Herds Move West and North
- Where: Western and Central Serengeti
- What you can see: Large herds moving across the plains
- Best for: General wildlife viewing
June–July: Grumeti River Crossings
- Where: Western Corridor
- What you can see: Dramatic river crossings at the Grumeti River
- Best for: River crossings and crocodile action
July–September: Mara River Crossings
- Where: Northern Serengeti
- What you can see: Dramatic river crossings at the Mara River
- Best for: River crossings and crocodile action
October–November: Return to Serengeti
- Where: Northern and Central Serengeti
- What you can see: Herds returning to the Serengeti
- Best for: General wildlife viewing
River Crossings
The river crossings are the most dramatic part of the Great Migration. Thousands of wildebeest and zebras cross the Grumeti and Mara Rivers, facing crocodiles and strong currents.
- Grumeti River: June–July
- Mara River: July–September
Calving Season
The calving season is a special time in the southern Serengeti, when thousands of wildebeest give birth.
- Where: Southern Serengeti (Ndutu area)
- When: December–March
- What you can see: Thousands of wildebeest giving birth and predator action
Where to See the Great Migration
- Southern Serengeti: Calving season (December–March)
- Western Corridor: Grumeti River crossings (June–July)
- Northern Serengeti: Mara River crossings (July–September)
Best Time to Visit
- For river crossings: July–September
- For calving season: December–March
- For general wildlife viewing: June–October
How to Plan Your Migration Safari
- Decide what you want to see (river crossings or calving season)
- Choose the right time of year
- Choose the right area of the Serengeti
- Book accommodation in advance
- Combine with Ngorongoro or other parks for a full experience
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time for the Great Migration?
For river crossings, visit July–September. For calving season, visit December–March.
Where can I see the Great Migration?
Southern Serengeti (calving), Western Corridor (Grumeti River), Northern Serengeti (Mara River).
What is the calving season?
It is the time when thousands of wildebeest give birth in the southern Serengeti (December–March).
What are the river crossings?
They are dramatic crossings of the Grumeti and Mara Rivers by wildebeest and zebras.
When are the river crossings?
Grumeti River: June–July. Mara River: July–September.
Can I see the Great Migration year-round?
Yes — the migration happens year-round, but the location changes with the seasons.
Can I combine the Great Migration with Ngorongoro?
Yes — many visitors combine the Great Migration with Ngorongoro in a single safari itinerary.
What should I pack?
Light clothing, warm layers, comfortable shoes, safari gear, hygiene items and documents.