Masai Mara | Serengeti

The Wildebeest Migration

Witness one of nature’s most spectacular events, the Great Wildebeest Migration, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, traverse the plains of East Africa. This incredible journey from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya is a dramatic display of survival, filled with perilous river crossings and predator encounters. Join us for an unforgettable safari experience that brings you up close to this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon.

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Key facts

Location

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, and Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Number of Migrating Animals

Over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with 200,000 zebras and 300,000 gazelles

Key Events

Calving Season: January to March in the southern Serengeti

Mara River Crossing: July to mid October

Return to Serengeti: October to December

Best Time to Visit

Mara River Crossings (Masai Mara & Serengeti): September is a great time to visit, as it is less crowded and usually a very active month for witnessing river crossings, especially in the northern Serengeti.

Calving Season: January to March, a period when the herds gather in large numbers on the southern plains, providing an opportunity to observe the birthing of many young wildebeests.

Guides and stories

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What you need to know

Busy season

The peak season for the Great Migration is also the busiest, with many tourists flocking to the area. We do our best to navigate the crowds and provide a more secluded and intimate viewing experience, but please be aware that it can get busy

River crossing sightings

While river crossings typically happen between July and September, the exact movement of the herds can be unpredictable. Therefore, witnessing a river crossing is not guaranteed, but we strive to offer the best opportunities for you to experience this breathtaking event.

Keep track of the herds

Download the Serengeti Tracker app to view the live location of the herds, made possible with GPS collars

Frequently asked

Can I see other animals during the migration?

Absolutely! In addition to the migrating wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, you'll likely see a variety of other wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, and more. The migration attracts many predators, offering excellent opportunities for observing the full spectrum of African wildlife.

When is the best time to see the migration?

The best times to see the migration are:

July to September: For the Mara River crossing in the northern Serengeti and Masai Mara

January to March: For the calving season in the southern Serengeti

Where are the best places to witness the migration?

The best places to witness the migration include:

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: Best for calving season, seeing the large herds, and the river crossings

Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya: Best for seeing the large herds, and the river crossings

Ready to book your dream adventure?

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