Here’s a month-by-month guide to the Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania—one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth. This annual cycle sees over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, move through the Serengeti ecosystem in search of fresh grazing and water. While nature’s rhythms don’t follow a strict calendar, the following breakdown gives a reliable overview of where and when to witness different phases of the migration.
January – February: Calving Season (Southern Serengeti / Ndutu)
During these months, the herds gather in the Ndutu region of the southern Serengeti and northern Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The short grass plains are lush and rich in nutrients, perfect for calving season. Over 8,000 calves are born each day in February, attracting predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. This is one of the best times for dramatic predator-prey interactions and photographic opportunities.
March – April: Herds Graze and Begin Moving (Southern to Central Serengeti)
The rains start to increase, and the herds begin moving northwestward through the central Serengeti. The grass is still plentiful, and the animals take advantage of the abundance to fatten up. These months are quieter in terms of tourism, offering a more intimate safari experience, though road conditions may be affected by rain.
May: Migration in Motion (Central Serengeti)
In May, the herds gather in large numbers in the central Serengeti (Seronera) and begin moving in long columns toward the western corridor. It’s a time of dramatic movement, often forming massive lines of wildebeest stretching across the plains. The rut (mating season) begins, and testosterone-fueled clashes between males can be observed.
June: Western Corridor & Grumeti River Crossings
This is a thrilling time as the herds reach the Grumeti River in the Serengeti’s western corridor. Though smaller and less deadly than the Mara River crossings to come, the Grumeti still presents challenges, with crocodiles lurking in the waters. The landscape here is beautiful and lush, and predator action is high.
July – August: Mara River Crossings (Northern Serengeti)
These are the peak months of the migration, with dramatic river crossings at the Mara River in the northern Serengeti. This is the most iconic and sought-after migration spectacle, as thousands of wildebeest plunge into crocodile-infested waters in their desperate push into Kenya’s Masai Mara. Timing is unpredictable, but patient observers are often rewarded.
September – October: Northern Serengeti (Split Herds)
Many herds remain in northern Serengeti, while some cross back and forth between the Serengeti and Masai Mara, depending on the rains. This period offers excellent game viewing without the peak-season crowds. The weather is dry, and the predator action remains intense as lions and leopards target stragglers.
November: Return South Begins (Central Serengeti)
With the onset of short rains, the herds begin migrating back south, moving through the central Serengeti and towards the Ndutu plains. Grass begins to regrow in the south, drawing the animals back to the calving grounds. This transitional phase can be a great time to witness movement and a variety of habitats.
December: Southern Serengeti Reached Again
By December, the wildebeest have arrived back in the Ndutu region, where the plains start to green once more. The cycle is ready to begin again with the next calving season. This is a great month for combining wildlife viewing with fewer tourists and lush green landscapes.