The Great Migration is the largest overland movement of wildlife on Earth — a continuous, circular journey of over two million wildebeest, hundreds of thousands of zebra, and countless gazelle across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. Understanding its patterns is key to witnessing this awe-inspiring spectacle.

The Annual Cycle

January to March — Calving Season: The southern Serengeti’s short-grass plains become a nursery as hundreds of thousands of wildebeest calves are born in a concentrated period. Predators — lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and wild dogs — converge for the easy pickings, creating intense wildlife drama.

April to June — The Long March North: As the southern plains dry out, the herds begin their northward trek through the central Serengeti and western corridor. Massive columns of wildebeest stretch across the landscape, crossing the Grumeti River where enormous Nile crocodiles await.

July to October — River Crossings: The most dramatic phase. Herds gather on the banks of the Mara River before plunging into the crocodile-infested waters in chaotic crossings. This is the spectacle most people picture when they think of the migration — and it is every bit as intense as the documentaries suggest.

November to December — The Return South: Short rains draw the herds back towards the Serengeti’s southern plains, completing the circle. The journey is less dramatic but offers excellent game viewing with fewer tourists.

Best Viewing Locations

The northern Serengeti and Masai Mara offer the best river crossing viewing between July and October. The southern Serengeti is ideal for calving season from January to March. The western corridor around the Grumeti River provides dramatic crossings in June and July.

Tips for Visitors

Book well in advance — prime migration camps sell out months ahead. Be patient at river crossings; herds may gather for hours before crossing. Work with expert guides who track herd movements daily. And remember, the migration is unpredictable — flexibility in your itinerary is essential.