The Great Wildebeest Migration - when, where and how

Posted on Sunday 26th January, 2025
Category: Travel
Author: Pippa

Table of content

Witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration is a bucket-list adventure, often dubbed the “Greatest Wildlife Show on Earth.” Each year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, 400,000 zebras, and thousands of gazelles traverse 3,000 kilometers across East Africa’s savannas, pursued by predators like lions, leopards, and crocodiles. This guide dives into the when, where, and how of experiencing this natural wonder.

When to Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration

The migration follows a cyclical pattern driven by rainfall, but timing varies slightly yearly. Here’s a general breakdown:

December–March: Herds graze on the nutrient-rich plains of the southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area, calving season peaks (February).
April–May: As rains begin, herds move northwest toward the central Serengeti (Seronera and Moru Kopjes).
June–July: Massive columns gather at the Grumeti River for perilous crossings. Crocodile ambushes create dramatic photo opportunities.
August–September: Herds surge into Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve, crossing the Mara River a highlight for safari-goers.
October–November: Animals graze in the Mara before returning south to the Serengeti.

Pro Tip: Partner with local experts to track herds in real-time, as weather and grazing conditions can shift their path.

Where to Go: Key Migration Hotspots

Serengeti National Park (Tanzania): The migration’s heart. Key zones:
- Southern Plains (Ndutu): Calving grounds (Jan–Mar).
- Western Corridor (Grumeti): River crossings (Jun–Jul).
- Northern Serengeti: Mara River crossings (Aug–Sep).
Maasai Mara National Reserve (Kenya): Lush grasslands host herds from August–October.
Loliondo Game Controlled Area & Grumeti Reserves: Lesser-crowded routes with intimate wildlife encounters.

Insider Tip: Combine your safari with visits to Ngorongoro Crater or Tarangire National Park for diverse ecosystems.

How to Experience the Migration: Lodges vs. Mobile Safaris

Permanent Lodges:
Ideal for comfort, offering amenities like pools and gourmet dining. Prime locations include Serengeti’s central lodges and Mara’s riverside camps.
Mobile Tented Safaris:
Follow the herds daily for front-row access. Enjoy luxury tents, private guides, and meals under the stars—perfect for photographers and adventurers.

Why Trust Us? With 15+ years crafting safaris, our guides leverage deep local knowledge to position you perfectly.

Accomodation

Central Serengeti, Tanzania Four Seasons Safari Lodge From $1200 per person sharing

Deep within Africa's finest game reserve, Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti welcomes you to a sanctuary of Four Seasons comfort. Get up close and intimate with lions, leopards and elephants yet always feel safe and pampered. ..

Accomodation

Serengeti,Tanzania. Serengeti Bushtops From $2800 per person sharing

Boasting a majestic setting with the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Serengeti National Park, Serengeti Bushtops is one of the northern region’s most celebrated camps...

Accomodation

Central, Serengeti Roving Bushtops Tented Camp From $1980 per person sharing

Some camps are set in magnificent surroundings but fixed: others offer game viewing on the move, at the expense of five star facilities. As its name implies, Roving Bushtops offers the best of both worlds. Rate start from $790 per person..

Accomodation

Central Serengeti One Nature Nyaruswiga Serengeti Tented Camp From $1500 per person sharing

Immerse yourself in unparalleled luxury at One Nature Nyaruswiga, Serengeti's premier safari camp. Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration while indulging in sophisticated comfort...

Accomodation

Masai Mara, Kenya Angama Mara Tented Camp From $1250 per person sharing

Welcome to the Real World! A remarkable new safari lodge balanced on the rim of Africa's Great Rift Valley, where the sky melts into the endless plains in a vista so wide it takes your breath away. ..

Planning Your Migration Safari: 5 Expert Tips

Book Early: Top lodges and mobile camps sell out 12+ months ahead.
Stay 4+ Days: Maximize chances to witness river crossings and predator action.
Pack Smart: Bring binoculars, a DSLR camera, and neutral-toned clothing.
Combine Destinations: Add Lake Manyara for tree-climbing lions or cultural visits with Maasai tribes.
Travel Responsibly: Choose eco-certified camps supporting conservation.

Why Choose Us for Your Migration Adventure?

Expertise: Our Tanzania-born guides have tracked the migration for decades.
Tailored Itineraries: From luxury lodges to mobile camps, we match your style.
360° Support: Flawless logistics, 24/7 in-country assistance, and ethical partnerships.