Every year, nearly two million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle thunder across the Serengeti and into Kenya’s Masai Mara in what is known as the Great Migration—one of the most epic wildlife spectacles on Earth.
If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing this breathtaking event, timing your visit is key. While the animals migrate in a circular path all year long, each month brings a new chapter—calving, crossings, grazing, and moving.
This guide walks you through when and where to go in Tanzania to catch the migration in full swing.
🧭 What Is the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is the year-round movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and antelope through the Serengeti ecosystem in Tanzania and into the Masai Mara in Kenya. Following the rains and fresh grasses, these animals cover roughly 1,200 miles in search of food and water.
But the journey isn’t easy. Predators lurk at every turn—lions, leopards, crocodiles, and hyenas follow the herds in dramatic encounters.
Whether it’s witnessing babies take their first steps in Ndutu or the nail-biting river crossings in the north, every month offers something unique.
📅 Month-by-Month Migration Guide (Tanzania Focused)
January–February
📍 Ndutu, Southern Serengeti + Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- Calving season begins, with over 400,000 wildebeest giving birth
- Great for predator action—big cats are active!
- The plains are lush, with excellent photographic light
March–April
📍 Southern + Central Serengeti
- Herds start moving slowly northwest
- Calves grow stronger, predators still follow
- Wet season begins—lush scenery, but fewer tourists
May
📍 Western Corridor + Grumeti Reserves
- Wildebeest move through woodlands and begin heading toward river crossings
- Mating season begins for many species
June–July
📍 Grumeti + Northern Serengeti
- Famous Grumeti River crossings occur
- Herds mass near the Mara River
- Excellent chance to see crocodile-infested crossings
August–September
📍 Masai Mara (Kenya) + Northern Serengeti
- Animals spread into Kenya’s Masai Mara, but many stay on Tanzania’s side
- Best time for dramatic Mara River crossings
- Ideal game viewing, peak dry season
October
📍 Northern Serengeti
- Herds slowly begin heading back south
- Scenery begins to change as rains return
November–December
📍 Central Serengeti to Ndutu
- Short rains begin, rejuvenating the plains
- Wildebeest push south toward Ndutu
- Migratory loop begins again
🦓 Best Month to Visit Based on Your Goals
| Goal | Best Time |
|---|---|
| See Calving Season | Jan–Feb (Ndutu) |
| Witness River Crossings | June–Aug (Grumeti, Mara) |
| Avoid Crowds / Budget Travel | April, November |
| Pair Climb + Safari Easily | June, October |
| Great Weather + Big 5 Views | July–Sept |
🧭 Combine Kilimanjaro + Safari
Want to summit Kilimanjaro and see the migration? Here’s a tip:
- Best combo window: June, July, August, and October
- Climb first → relax on safari second
- Add Zanzibar beach time if you want the full experience
👣 What Climb Kili Clients Say:
“We timed our Kilimanjaro climb to finish right before the Grumeti River crossings—and it was the most incredible wildlife experience we’ve ever had. Thank you, Climb Kili!”
— Amy S., USA, 2023 climber and safari guest
“Seeing thousands of wildebeest cross the Mara River after summiting Kilimanjaro? Unreal. The trip of a lifetime.”
— David M., Canada
📌 What’s Included in a Climb Kili Safari
✅ Customizable itinerary (2–7+ days)
✅ Private vehicle & professional safari guide
✅ Lodges or luxury tented camps
✅ National Park entry fees
✅ Airport transfers + logistics
📥 Download Your Free Migration Calendar
Want a quick reference of where the herds will be each month? Download our 2026 Great Migration Calendar PDF to start planning.
🦁 Start Planning Your Tanzania Adventure
Whether you want to witness the calving season in Ndutu or see thousands of wildebeest dive into crocodile-infested rivers, the Great Migration promises a front-row seat to the wild.
Let Climb Kili help you build the ultimate safari and Kilimanjaro adventure.
