The Great Wildebeest Migration: Nature’s Greatest Show on Earth

Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by zebras, gazelles, and other plains game, undertake a dramatic and cyclical journey through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in East Africa. Known as The Great Wildebeest Migration, this natural spectacle is one of the most awe-inspiring wildlife events on the planet—filled with drama, survival, and breathtaking beauty.

Spanning Tanzania and Kenya, the migration follows a roughly clockwise loop dictated by rainfall and the search for fresh grazing. Along the way, predators lurk, rivers must be crossed, and thousands of animals are born—and lost. Witnessing this phenomenon firsthand is a bucket-list experience for any safari lover.

The Migration Route: Month-by-Month Highlights

December – March: Calving Season in Southern Serengeti, Tanzania
Wildebeest gather on the short-grass plains near Ndutu and Ngorongoro to give birth. Over 500,000 calves are born within just a few weeks in February. This attracts predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, making it one of the best times to witness dramatic predator-prey action.

April – May: Western Serengeti and Central Corridor
As the rains end, the herds move northwest through Seronera and into the Western Corridor. These months are quieter for tourism but ideal for photographers and those wanting to avoid crowds.

June – July: Grumeti River Crossings & Move to Northern Serengeti
This is the beginning of the migration’s most famous phase. Wildebeest must cross the Grumeti River, where giant crocodiles lie in wait. This marks the build-up to the more dangerous Mara River crossings.

August – October: Mara River Crossings in Northern Serengeti and Masai Mara, Kenya
The Mara River crossings are the migration’s most iconic and dramatic scenes. Thousands of wildebeest plunge into crocodile-infested waters in a desperate bid to reach the greener pastures of the Masai Mara. Chaos, courage, and tragedy unfold in moments that are both heart-wrenching and unforgettable.

November: Return to Southern Serengeti
With the start of the short rains, the herds gradually begin their journey back to the southern Serengeti, where the cycle begins again.

What Makes the Migration So Special?

Massive Scale: Over 2 million animals move in unison across two countries.

Unpredictability: No two years are the same. Timing and river crossings are influenced by rainfall.

Dramatic Encounters: River crossings, predator attacks, and massive herds on the plains make for epic sightings.

Biodiversity: The migration supports a full spectrum of African wildlife—from big cats and elephants to vultures and insects.

Best Places to See the Migration

Serengeti National Park (Tanzania):
Offers year-round migration viewing, with different regions active at different times.

Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya):
Peak river crossings in August–October, excellent for action-packed safaris.

Grumeti Game Reserve (Tanzania):
Exclusive and remote, with dramatic crossings and fewer crowds.

Ndutu (Southern Serengeti):
Ideal from December to March for calving and predator sightings.

What to Expect on a Migration Safari

Stunning Scenery: Endless plains, acacia-dotted landscapes, and glowing sunsets.

Exciting Game Drives: Follow the herds and encounter Africa’s Big Five.

Luxury or Adventure: Choose from tented camps, lodges, or fly-in safaris.

Unpredictable Drama: No guarantee of river crossings, but when they happen—it’s unforgettable.

When to Go

Time of Year Location Highlight

Jan – Mar Southern Serengeti Calving Season & Predators
Apr – May Central/Western Serengeti Quiet, lush, scenic
Jun – Jul Grumeti/Northern Serengeti First River Crossings
Aug – Oct Masai Mara & Mara River Major River Crossings
Nov – Dec Southern Serengeti Return Migration Begins

How to Experience the Migration

To maximize your chances of witnessing the migration, it’s best to work with experienced safari planners who understand the herds’ movement and park regulations. You can choose from mobile tented camps, fly-in luxury lodges, or private game drives tailored to your interests.

Witness the Great Migration with WildHorn Africa

Let WildHorn Africa craft your dream safari around the Great Wildebeest Migration. Whether you want to see a river crossing in the Masai Mara, photograph calving season in Ndutu, or explore the remote Grumeti wilderness, we’ll make sure you’re in the right place at the right time.

Contact WildHorn Africa today to start planning your migration safari and be part of nature’s greatest show on Earth.