Great Migration Tanzania: Complete Month-by-Month Guide

Big Migration in Tanzania

Comprehensive Month-by-Month Guide to Africa's Greatest Natural Spectacle

If there is one event that epitomises the essence of wild Africa, it is undoubtedly the Great Serengeti Migration.

Every year, more than two million animals cross the vast plains of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of fresh pasture and water, creating one of the most spectacular natural phenomena on the planet.

Gnus, zebras and gazelles travel thousands of kilometres followed by lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas and crocodiles, creating a unique spectacle that attracts travellers and photographers from all over the world.

One of the questions we receive most often is:

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"When to see the Great Migration in Tanzania? "

The answer è more complex than you think. 

Migration does not follow a fixed calendar, but depends on rainfall and the availability of pastures. However, there are areas and periods that are more likely to witness the most spectacular phases of the phenomenon.

In this guide you will find out where the migration is month by month and what is the best time to plan your safari.

What'è the Great Migration?

The Great Migration involves approximately:

every year.

• 1.5 million wildebeests
• 300,000 zebras
• over 500,000 gazelles

These animals move continuously between Tanzania and Kenya following a circular route that repeats itself every year.

This is the largest land migration of mammals in the world.

Making the event even more spectacular is the constant presence of predators that accompany the herds throughout their journey.

Great Migration Month by Month

January Serengeti South and Ndutu: At the beginning of the year the herds concentrate on the southern plains of the Serengeti and the Ndutu area. Huge herds, first births and very active predators can be seen. One of the best times for wildlife photography.

February - Birth Season: February is considered by many to be the most exciting month of the entire migration cycle.The immediate consequences are great lion activity, frequent sightings of cheetahs and groups of hyenas on the prowl.

For those who enjoy watching animal behaviour, it is one of the most spectacular times of the year.

March - Herds Begin to Move: Births decrease and animals gradually begin to move westwards. The plains of the southern Serengeti remain very active. Good time for photo safaris, honeymoons and safaris with fewer tourists.

April - Towards the Central Serengeti: With the arrival of the rains the herds move slowly towards the central Serengeti, the columns of wildebeest can stretch for kilometres.

May - The Great Migratory Columns: May è the month of the immense caravans, the herds advance towards the western corridor of the Serengeti, è one of the most impressive times to observe the migration in motion. Ideal for photographers, experienced travellers and those seeking less crowding

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June - Serengeti West and Grumeti: The migration reaches the Western Corridor. Here the first watercourse crossings begin. The crocodiles of the Grumeti River await the passage of the herds. The scenes can be spectacular.

July -The Race to the North begins: The herds continue to move towards the northern Serengeti.July represents the start of the high safari season.

August - Mara River Crossing: August is one of the most popular months as the herds reach the north of the Serengeti and the famous Mara River crossing begins. The images of thousands of wildebeest jumping into the river amid strong currents and crocodiles have become a symbol of the Great Migration.

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September -The Best Month? For many experts, September is the ideal time, herds continue to move between Tanzania and Kenya, Mara crossings can occur several times. The climate è excellent, great animal activity and excellent photographic conditions

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October - North Serengeti: The herds remain concentrated in the northern area, the crossings continue. Perfect month for those looking for predators, great migration and exclusive safaris

November - The Journey Back: With the first rains the herds begin to return south, the animals cross the eastern Serengeti, è a lesser known but very interesting period.

December - Back to Ndutu: The herds gradually return to the southern plains, the cycle begins again, preparation for the new calving season è already begun.

What è the Best Time to See the Great Migration?

Depends on the experience you wish to have.

For Births: January – March in the Ndutu and Serengeti South area

For Large Moving Herds: April – June in the Central and West Serengeti

For Mara River Crossings: July – October in the North Serengeti

Where to Sleep to Follow the Migration?

The choice of lodge è fundamental. Many travellers book excellent facilities but in the wrong area.

To follow the migration you must choose lodges or camps in the correct location according to the month of travel.

For example:

• January-February →Ndutu
• June → Western Corridor
• August-September → North Serengeti

This is why we always offer customised itineraries based on actual travel dates.

Great Migration or Ngorongoro?

These are not alternatives.

• .
• Serengeti
• Ngorongoro
• Tarangire
• Lake Manyara

thus gaining a complete experience of northern Tanzania.

How much does a Great Migration Safari cost?

Depends on:

• Period
• Serengeti area
• Lodge category
• Type of safari

Indication:

• Safari Classic: 4,000 € – 6,000 €
• Safari Luxury: 6,000 € – 12,000 €+

August and September are generally the most expensive months.

Whyé Rely on South African Dream?

The Great Migration is constantly changing location.

Don't just book a safari in the Serengeti.

You need to know:

• where the herds are located
• .
• which area to choose
• .
• which lodges to use
• how much time to dedicate to each area

With South African Dream we design itineraries based on the actual time of travel, maximising the chances of witnessing the most spectacular stages of migration.

FAQ – Great Tanzania Migration

• When to see the Mara River crossings?  Generally between July and October.
• What è is the best month?  September è often considered the most complete.
• Where are the births?  In Ndutu and the southern Serengeti between January and March.
• Migration è guaranteed?  No. È a natural and unpredictable phenomenon.
• How long does a safari for the Great Migration last?  We recommend at least 7-9 days.

Do you want to witness the Great Migration?

Each year we help dozens of travellers choose the best time and area on the Serengeti to experience this extraordinary natural spectacle.

Tell us:

• month of travel
• .
• number of participants
• budget available
• preference between private safari or group tour

and we will prepare a customised proposal for you.

Galleria fotografica