Destination

The Great Wildebeest Migration

1.5 Million Animals. The World's Greatest Wildlife Event.

The Greatest Show on Earth

Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebra, and 300,000 Thomson’s gazelle make a continuous clockwise circuit through Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Maasai Mara — following the rains and the fresh grass growth in a cycle of survival that has continued for millions of years.

The Mara River crossings — when thousands of wildebeest plunge simultaneously into the crocodile-infested river in a desperate stampede — are the Migration’s most dramatic moments and among the most spectacular wildlife events on earth. Our guides have spent years studying the exact crossing locations and timing to maximise your chances of witnessing this extraordinary event.

Migration Calendar — Month by Month

Migration Calendar — Month by Month

Calving Season, Southern Serengeti (Tanzania). Approximately 500,000 wildebeest calves born within a 2–3 week period. Exceptional predator activity — cheetahs, lions, leopards, and hyenas hunt constantly.

April – May

Western Serengeti (Tanzania). The herd begins moving north and west. Green season — beautiful landscapes, fewer tourists, and excellent wildlife despite the rains.

June – July

Grumeti River Crossings (Tanzania). First Grumeti River crossings — famous for enormous Nile crocodiles. The herd begins approaching the Kenyan border.

July – October

Maasai Mara, Kenya — PEAK SEASON. The herd crosses into Kenya. Dramatic Mara River crossings throughout August–October. This is the Migration’s most spectacular phase. Book well in advance.

November – December

Short Rains — Return South (Tanzania). Herd begins moving back south through Tanzania’s Serengeti following the short rains. December sees the herd return to the southern Serengeti calving grounds.

Year-Round

Resident Wildlife in the Mara. The Maasai Mara offers outstanding wildlife all year — resident lion prides, cheetah families, leopard, elephant, and hippo are present regardless of the Migration timing.

Migration Safari Packages

1 day amaboseli

Amboseli National Park
Starting From

3 Days 4 Nights

3 Days 4 Nights

3 Days 4 Nights

Franz Josef Glacier

Starting From
$39 $45

3 Days 4 Nights

3 Days 4 Nights

Cathedrale de Paris

Masai Mara Safaris
Starting From
$79

Tips for the Best Migration Experience

  • Book early: Peak Migration season (August–September) camps and lodges fill up 12–18 months in advance
  • Stay flexible: River crossings are impossible to predict exactly. We recommend a minimum of 3 nights in the Mara for the best crossing chances
  • Mara Triangle vs. Mara National Reserve: The Mara Triangle (western sector) is less crowded and often has crossings at the Mara River’s northern bends. Our guides know both sectors intimately
  • Private conservancies: Staying in a Mara conservancy camp (e.g., Ol Kinyei, Naboisho, Mara North) gives exclusive game drives away from the crowds and often better wildlife sightings

Witness the Great Migration

Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime wildlife event. Contact us now to check availability for your travel dates.