The Greatest Wildlife Show on Earth

Every year, 2 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and hundreds of thousands of gazelles complete a 1,000 km clockwise loop across Tanzania and Kenya. Nine months of this epic journey happen in Tanzania—making it the best country to witness the full drama.

SerengetiNexus keeps you front-row, away from the crowds.

The Great Migration Calendar: When to Go Where

The Migration follows a fluid, rain-driven circuit. While unpredictable, here’s the 2025 guide based on historical patterns and expert forecasts:

December–March: Calving Season (Southern Serengeti/Ndutu)

• Where: Ndutu Plains (northwestern Ngorongoro Conservation Area) and southern Serengeti.
• What to See: Synchronized births of ~8,000 calves daily (January–February), overwhelming predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. Tender maternal moments and newborn energy.
• Highlights: Golden grasslands, storm clouds, and intimate predator chases.
• Crowds: Less busy than peak season; ideal for photography.

April–June: Western Corridor & Grumeti River Crossings

• Where: Western Serengeti and Grumeti River.
• What to See: Herds moving northwest, facing dramatic Grumeti River crossings with Nile crocodiles. Resident leopards and lions in woodland habitats.
• Highlights: Quieter, diverse landscapes; excellent game viewing.
• Crowds: Moderate; shoulder season value.

July–October: Mara River Crossings (Northern Serengeti)

• Where: Northern Serengeti and Mara River.
• What to See: Explosive river crossings with massive crocodiles and strong currents. Herds concentrate, creating predator feasts (lions, cheetahs).
• Highlights: Iconic drama; golden-hour photography.
• Crowds: Busy; book early for mobile camps.

November: Short Rains and Southern Return

• Where: Southern Serengeti/Ndutu.
• What to See: Herds fragmenting southward as rains green the plains. Transitional sightings with resident wildlife.
• Highlights: Shoulder-season deals; dramatic storm lighting.
• Crowds: Low; great for value.

Where to Stay for the Great Migration

Kilisherpas Travel’s mobile camps follow the herds for optimal viewing:

• Olakira Migration Camp: Relocates seasonally—Ndutu (Dec–Mar) for calving, northern Serengeti (Jun–Oct) for crossings. Intimate (12–20 guests), eco-friendly.
• Ubuntu Migration Camp: Lightweight tents relocate for exclusive access; focuses on Grumeti and Mara.
• Dunia Camp: Central Serengeti base for western migration (Apr–Jun); year-round resident wildlife.
• Namiri Plains: Eastern Serengeti for cheetahs; ideal November returns.

Tip: Mobile camps (12–20 guests) avoid large-lodge crowds (100+), offering flexibility and immersion.

Avoiding the Crowds: When & How

• Shoulder Seasons: Early July/late October for northern crossings; early June for Grumeti; early March for calving (pre-Easter).
• Mobile Camps: Smaller than permanent lodges; follow herds to quieter spots.
• Expert Guides: Kilisherpas’ guides know secondary crossings and alternative routes for intimate views.
• Early Mornings: Golden hour (dawn) drives spot action before crowds arrive.

Tip: Book 6–12 months ahead for July–October; shoulder seasons offer 20–30% discounts.

How Long Should You Stay?

• Minimum: 4–7 nights for focused migration viewing, accounting for unpredictable movements.
• Ideal: 7–10 nights for multiple regions (e.g., Ndutu calving + northern crossings).
• Multi-Region: 2–3 nights per area (south, west, north) for diverse experiences.
• Kilisherpas Recommendation: 5–7 days Serengeti + 2–3 days Ngorongoro for a complete migration safari.

What to Pack for a Great Migration Safari

• Clothing: Neutral tones (khaki, olive) for blending in; layered for mornings/evenings (lightweight shirts, fleece, windbreaker).
• Photography: Telephoto lens (400–600mm), wide-angle, waterproof bags, extra batteries.
• Essentials: Binoculars, DEET repellent, SPF 50+ sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, comfortable walking shoes.
• Other: Insect net, lightweight rain jacket (shoulder seasons).

Tip: Pack for variable weather; early mornings can be cool (10–15°C).

Best Add-On Destinations

• Ngorongoro Crater: Big Five in a volcanic caldera; 1–2 days post-southern Serengeti.
• Zanzibar: Beach relaxation and diving; 3–5 days after northern Serengeti.
• Ruaha/Tarangire: Remote wilderness with elephants and lions; for off-season extensions.

Why Book with SerengetiNexus?

• Camps move with the herds – you’re always in the right place
• Private vehicles & expert guides who know every hidden crossing
• No middlemen – direct rates, better value
• Carbon-offset flights & community projects included

Ready to witness 2 million hooves thunder across the Mara River?

Book your 2025–2026 Great Migration safari now.

Start Planning | View 2025–2026 Itineraries | Chat with a Migration Expert

See you in the wild! 🦓💚