The Great Migration calendar — month-by-month
A month-by-month look at where the wildebeest herds actually are, so you can time your trip to the drama you want to see.
Great Migration Safari · wildebeest migration · Serengeti safari
If the Great Migration is your reason for visiting East Africa, timing is everything. This year-round circuit, driven by rainfall, requires precise planning to ensure you are actually where the herds are located.
Dennis Njoroge and our team suggest this monthly guide to help you choose the right region for your safari adventure.
Choosing your migration window
| Travel window | Where the herds are | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| January–March | Southern Serengeti/Ndutu plains | Calving, open plains, strong predator action, fewer visitors |
| June–July | Western Corridor (Grumeti) | Early crossings, rutting season, moderate crowds |
| August–October | Northern Serengeti/Maasai Mara | Mara River crossings, peak demand, book far ahead |
Highlights
- The Seasonal Rhythm
- Planning Your Logistics
- Kenya or Tanzania?
01
The Seasonal Rhythm
From December to March, herds congregate on the southern Serengeti plains for calving. This period offers dramatic predator action as thousands of wildebeest are born daily. By April, the herds push northwest as the plains dry, moving toward the Western Corridor.
June sees the first river crossings at the Grumeti, while July through October represents the peak season. During these months, herds cross the Mara River into Kenya’s Maasai Mara. By November, short rains trigger the southward journey back toward the Serengeti’s eastern reaches.
02
Planning Your Logistics
Because rainfall dictates movement, we recommend mobile camps or split-location itineraries to hedge against shifts in timing. Stay at least three nights in one area to maximise sighting opportunities, especially for river crossings.
- Book 9–12 months ahead for the July–September peak season.
- Visit in February for calving season with fewer crowds.
- Combine your migration stay with Zanzibar or the Ngorongoro Crater.
03
Kenya or Tanzania?
Between July and October, both the northern Serengeti and the Maasai Mara are excellent. However, from January to March, the southern Serengeti and Ndutu remain the only places to witness the massive herds.
Dos
- Match your dates to where the herds usually are
- Stay in a camp close to the herds' area
- Allow full days at river crossings — they take patience
- Book peak-season camps early
- Be flexible — the herds follow the rain
Don'ts
- Don't expect crossings on a timetable
- Don't crowd the riverbank — keep crossing points clear
- Don't leave booking peak months to the last minute
- Don't pick only one park — the herds move
- Don't forget binoculars
What's usually included
- Camps near the herds for your dates
- Full-day game drives with picnic lunch
- Park and conservancy fees
- Guide experienced in tracking the herds
- Meals as listed
- Airport or airstrip transfers
Usually not included
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides and camp staff
- Personal items and souvenirs
- Premium drinks unless all-inclusive
- Optional activities not in your itinerary
Keep exploring
Published fees to plan around
Sources checked 7 October 2026 · US dollars · fees only, not full safari prices
| Fee | Published amount | Who and when |
|---|---|---|
| Maasai Mara reserve · July–December | US$200 | Non-resident adult entry; published seasonal tariff, not a camp rate. Entry and exit rules affect the number of chargeable visits.Narok County published fee schedule |
| Maasai Mara reserve · January–June | US$100 | Non-resident adult entry; the low-season rate in the same published schedule. Reconfirm for your travel year.Narok County published fee schedule |
Your accommodation and flights need a quote for your dates, room arrangement and availability. Compare the full journey total, not a nightly headline: meals, transport, guiding, entry fees and optional activities should be clear. Published tariffs may change; we reconfirm the applicable fees before you book.
Our editorial values
Original travel guidance by Dennis Njoroge, CEO of Perch Africa Safaris. Wildlife and weather are never guaranteed. Published fees link to their authority sources; camp and flight prices are confirmed for your own journey. You receive your full itinerary and matching proforma before payment.
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Frequently asked questions
Are river crossings guaranteed?
No, but staying four days in the North during August provides the highest probability.
Is the off-season worth it?
Absolutely; calving season offers immense herds and lower prices than the river-crossing months.
