Complete guide to the Great Migration in Tanzania including monthly wildlife movements, Mara River crossings, calving season, best safari locations and travel planning.
What is the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on Earth. Every year more than two million wildebeest, together with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, move through the Serengeti ecosystem following seasonal rainfall and fresh grazing.
Unlike many people believe, the migration is not a single journey. It is a continuous circular movement that takes place throughout the year across different regions of Serengeti and into Kenya's Masai Mara before returning to Tanzania.
Why is the Great Migration Famous?
The migration is famous because of its enormous scale and the dramatic interactions between predators and prey. Lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas and crocodiles all follow the herds.
- Over two million migrating animals.
- Thousands of calves born every day during calving season.
- Famous Mara River crossings.
- Excellent predator action.
- Outstanding wildlife photography opportunities.
Great Migration by Month
| Months | Location | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| January - March | Southern Serengeti & Ndutu | Calving season and predators. |
| April - May | Central Serengeti | Green season and moving herds. |
| June - July | Western Corridor | Grumeti River crossings. |
| July - October | Northern Serengeti | Mara River crossings. |
| November - December | Central & Southern Serengeti | Returning migration. |
Calving Season
Between January and March, most wildebeest gather on the short grass plains of southern Serengeti and Ndutu. During this period nearly half a million calves are born within a few weeks.
This attracts many predators, making it one of the best times to witness dramatic wildlife behaviour.
Mara River Crossings
The famous Mara River crossings usually occur between July and October in northern Serengeti, although timing changes each year depending on rainfall.
Thousands of wildebeest hesitate at the riverbanks before making dangerous crossings while crocodiles wait below.
Best Time to See the Great Migration
The best time depends on what experience you want.
| Experience | Recommended Months |
|---|---|
| Calving | January - March |
| River Crossings | July - October |
| General Migration | June - November |
| Photography | Year Round |
Where to Stay
Choosing accommodation close to the migration is one of the most important parts of planning your safari.
- Southern camps for calving season.
- Central Serengeti for year-round wildlife.
- Western camps for Grumeti crossings.
- Northern camps for Mara River crossings.
Planning Tips
- Choose travel dates before booking accommodation.
- Book migration camps early.
- Stay at least four nights if focusing on river crossings.
- Travel with an experienced local guide.
- Remember migration timing changes every year.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Great Migration is the annual movement of more than two million wildebeest, zebras and gazelles across the Serengeti ecosystem.
Most river crossings occur between July and October, although exact timing depends on rainfall.
Calving usually occurs between January and March in southern Serengeti and Ndutu.
Yes. The migration is always somewhere within the Serengeti ecosystem, but its location changes throughout the year.
For migration-focused safaris, four to six days usually provide a better chance of witnessing major wildlife events.
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