Serengeti Migration: Best Time & Tips for Your Tanzania Safari
The Great Serengeti Migration is one of the most spectacular wildlife events in the world, attracting thousands of travelers to Tanzania each year. If you’re planning a safari with Tanzania Exploration, here are answers to the most common questions tourists ask about this breathtaking natural wonder.
1. What is the Great Serengeti Migration?
The Great Serengeti Migration is the annual movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, as they search for fresh grazing land and water. This migration takes place within Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and extends into Kenya’s Maasai Mara. However, the majority of the migration happens in Tanzania, making it the ultimate safari destination for this phenomenon.
2. When is the best time to witness the migration in Tanzania?
The migration happens year-round, but different seasons offer unique experiences:
January – March: Calving season in Southern Serengeti and Ndutu Plains. Witness thousands of baby wildebeest being born and predators in action.
April – June: The herds move northwest towards the Grumeti River. This is a quieter time to visit with fewer tourists.
July – October: The Mara River crossing is the most dramatic part of the migration. This is peak safari season, and Tanzania offers the best viewing opportunities before the herds briefly move into Kenya.
November – December: The herds return to Serengeti’s central and eastern plains, offering excellent game viewing with lush landscapes.
At Tanzania Exploration, we help you choose the best time based on your safari goals!
3. What route does the migration follow?
The migration follows a circular pattern:
- It starts in the Ndutu Plains (Southern Serengeti) for calving.
- The herds move northwest to the Western Corridor and Grumeti River.
- The wildebeest then head north to the Mara River for the famous crossings.
- After grazing in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, they return south to Tanzania.
4. Where is the best place to see the migration in Tanzania?
Ndutu Plains (January – March): Best for calving season.Western Serengeti (May – June): Amazing river crossings at the Grumeti River.Northern Serengeti (July – October): Best for dramatic Mara River crossings.Central Serengeti (November – December): Excellent wildlife viewing as herds return.
With Tanzania Exploration, we design your itinerary based on migration patterns to give you the best safari experience!
5. Why do the wildebeest migrate?
The migration is driven by the search for fresh grazing and water. Seasonal rains determine the movement, ensuring the survival of the herds.
6. How many animals take part in the migration?
Over 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and 300,000 gazelles participate in the migration, followed by predators like lions, cheetahs, and crocodiles.
7. What are the main dangers for the animals during the migration?
- Predators: Lions, hyenas, and cheetahs hunt weak or young animals.
- River crossings: Crocodiles attack wildebeest as they cross the rivers.
- Exhaustion & Starvation: Some animals fail to survive the journey.
8. What are the best ways to experience the migration?
At Tanzania Exploration, we offer multiple ways to witness this natural wonder:
Guided game drives: Led by expert guides in 4×4 safari vehicles.
Hot air balloon safaris: Experience a bird’s-eye view of the herds.
Tented camps: Stay in camps near migration hotspots.
Private safaris: Personalized itineraries for an exclusive experience.
9. How can I book a Serengeti Migration safari with Tanzania Exploration?
You can book your safari directly with Tanzania Exploration:
Contact us: Send an inquiry via our website or email.
Choose your package: We offer custom itineraries based on your budget and travel dates.
Let us handle everything: We arrange transport, accommodation, park fees, and expert guides.
10. Is the migration guaranteed to happen every year?
Yes! The migration is a natural event that happens annually. While the exact timing varies based on rainfall, our guides at Tanzania Exploration track the movement to ensure you don’t miss it.
Book Your Serengeti Migration Safari Today!
Don’t just dream about the Great Migration—experience it with Tanzania Exploration! Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable Serengeti safari.
