The Great Migration is a breathtaking natural phenomenon, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and antelopes traverse the vast plains of East Africa in search of better grazing. This annual pilgrimage is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, making it a must-see for every safari enthusiast. However, due to its mobile nature, planning a trip to witness this spectacle can be challenging. To ensure you’re in the right place at the right time, this article explores the best locations and seasons for viewing the Great Migration safari experience in Tanzania and Kenya.
What Is the Great Migration Safari Experience?
The Great Migration safari experience involves close to two million wildebeest, zebra, and other antelope gathering their young and embarking on a long trek north from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve. The journey is a clockwise circuit that spans approximately 1,800 miles (2,900 kilometers) and is fraught with peril. Each year, an estimated 250,000 wildebeest die during this epic migration.
River Crossings
One of the most dramatic moments in the Great Migration safari experience is the river crossings. Herds gather by the thousands to forge the Grumeti River in Tanzania and the Mara River in Kenya. These crossings are not for the faint-hearted, as strong currents and lurking crocodiles make the passage incredibly dangerous. Crocodile attacks and panicked stampedes create some of the most intense wildlife encounters Africa has to offer.
Beyond the Rivers: The Full Scope of the Great Migration Safari Experience
Even away from the rivers, the Great Migration safari experience is exhilarating. The sight of thousands of wildebeest, zebras, eland, and gazelles moving in unison across the plains is awe-inspiring. This abundance of prey also attracts Africa’s most iconic predators, including lions, leopards, hyenas, and wild dogs, offering safari-goers a unique opportunity to witness predator-prey interactions.
Note: The Great Migration is a natural event that varies slightly each year in timing and location. The information provided below serves as a general guideline.
The Great Migration Safari Experience in Tanzania
December – March: Calving Season in Northern Tanzania
During this period, the herds congregate in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation areas of northern Tanzania. This is calving season, making it an excellent time to witness newborns taking their first steps. It’s also a prime opportunity for spotting big cats, as the abundance of vulnerable young prey makes predator sightings (and kills) common.
The southern Ndutu and Salei plains are particularly good for spotting large herds during this time. Recommended places to stay include Ndutu Safari Lodge, Kusini Safari Camp, Lemala Ndutu Camp, and various mobile tented camps in the area.
April – May: Migrating to the Serengeti’s Western Corridor
As the rains begin, the herds start migrating west and north to the grassier plains and woodlands of the Serengeti’s Western Corridor. However, the seasonal rains can make following the herds difficult, and many smaller camps close due to impassable roads.
June: Mating Season and Congregation in the Western Serengeti
As the rains cease, the wildebeest and zebras gradually start moving north, with individual groups forming much larger herds. This is also mating season for the wildebeest. The Western Serengeti is the best place to watch the migration unfold at this stage, offering a quintessential Great Migration safari experience.
July: The Great Migration Reaches the Grumeti River
In July, the herds face their first major obstacle, the Grumeti River. Depending on the rainfall, the river can be deep, making it a perilous crossing. Drowning is a real threat, and the river’s crocodiles are quick to take advantage of struggling animals.
Staying at camps along the river offers an incredible safari experience. Serengeti Serena Lodge, Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp, Migration Camp, and Kirawira Camp are excellent choices for accommodations during this time.
Experience in Kenya
August: Crossing Into Kenya’s Maasai Mara
By August, the grasses of the western Serengeti begin to turn yellow, and the herds move northward. After crossing the Grumeti River in Tanzania, they head toward Kenya’s Lamai Wedge and the Mara Triangle. Before reaching the lush plains of the Mara, they must cross the Mara River, another dangerous obstacle teeming with hungry crocodiles.
To witness this dramatic crossing, stay at camps like Kichwa Tembo Camp, Bateleur Camp, or Sayari Mara Camp.
September – November: Thriving in the Maasai Mara
From September to November, the Mara plains are filled with large herds, naturally followed by predators. The Great Migration safari experience during this period offers some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities, with the potential for witnessing predator-prey interactions up close.
Recommended places to stay while the migration is in the Mara include Governors Camp and Mara Serena Safari Lodge.
November – December: The Return to Tanzania
As the rains begin again in the south, the herds start their long journey back to Tanzania’s Serengeti plains to give birth to their young. During the short rains of November, the best viewing of the migration is from Klein’s Camp, while campsites in the Lobo area also offer good vantage points.
Planning Your Safari
To maximize your Great Migration safari experience, it’s essential to plan carefully. The migration is a dynamic event that can vary in timing and location each year. However, with the right planning and timing, you can witness one of the most spectacular wildlife events on the planet.
The Great Migration safari experience is truly unparalleled, offering safari-goers the chance to witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events. Whether you’re watching thousands of animals traverse the plains or witnessing the drama of a river crossing, the Great Migration is an unforgettable experience that should be at the top of every wildlife enthusiast’s bucket list.
