Great Migration Calendar: Best Time to See Wildebeest in the Serengeti
Follow the Great Migration through the year. Learn where the herds are each month and the best time to see calving season and dramatic river crossings.
The Great Migration is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on earth. Over a million wildebeest, along with zebra and gazelle, move in a continuous loop between Tanzania's Serengeti and Kenya's Maasai Mara in search of fresh grazing. There is no single start or end, so the best time depends on what you want to see.
January to March: calving season
The herds gather on the southern plains near Ndutu, where thousands of calves are born, usually in February. Predators follow, so this is a dramatic time for action.
April to May: moving north
The herds begin travelling west and north. It is the rainy season, so lodges are quieter and landscapes are green.
June to July: Grumeti crossings
Herds often reach the Western Corridor and may cross the Grumeti River, where crocodiles wait.
July to October: Mara River crossings
In the north of the Serengeti, herds attempt the Mara River crossings. This is the most famous scene of the migration, though timing varies year to year.
November to December: heading south
The herds return to the southern plains as the short rains begin.
Tips for planning
- The herds follow rainfall, so always allow flexibility
- Stay in the area where the herds are expected during your dates
- Book early for peak months
New to safaris? Read our first-time Tanzania safari guide.
Where and how to experience the migration
The Great Migration is a year-round movement rather than a single event, and the herds shift as they respond to rainfall and fresh grazing. In the southern Serengeti and Ndutu area, calving commonly takes place around January to March, although exact timing varies. As the year progresses, herds may move through the western corridor and toward the northern Serengeti. River crossings can occur in the north, but they are unpredictable and should never be promised for a particular date or hour.
For the best chance of meaningful wildlife viewing, plan enough time in the relevant region instead of trying to cover too much ground in one day. A knowledgeable guide can adjust the game-drive route according to recent sightings, road conditions and animal movements. Choose accommodation based on the season and the area you most want to explore, and remember that wildlife is free-roaming: patience and realistic expectations make the experience more rewarding.