Africa’s great migration is the eternal, clockwise movement of millions of wildebeest and zebra throughout the Serengeti ecosystem in Tanzania and Kenya. The migration follows the rains as the animals are in a constant search for fresh, nutritious grasses to feed upon. While nothing in nature is guaranteed, the rains and therefore the migration do follow a relatively set pattern that can be generally counted upon. Understanding this pattern helps us position you in the best place to see the migration when you book your safari with us.
January, February and early March finds the migration in the short grass plains of the southern Serengeti. This is the time of year when the wildebeest and zebra ‘drop’ their babies. Up to 500,000 animals are born in a 2-3 week time frame. It’s a wonderful time of year to visit – the chance to see all of the baby animals and the resulting predator action can be very exciting.
From mid to late March through May, thunder rumbles throughout the Serengeti as the ‘long rains’ come to East Africa. This season replenishes the land with life-giving water – up to 60% of East Africa’s annual rainfall occurs during these months. As the migration heads northwest, heavy downpours are common, as are prolonged periods of rain. Many lodges close this time of year. We do not recommend traveling to see the migration during these months.
In June and July, the migration is in the Serengeti’s ‘Western Corridor,’ continuing on its northward journey to the Masai Mara. This is the first point in the year where travelers might see a river crossing. The herds need to cross the Grumeti River, and while most make it across, crocodiles take advantage of the chance to feast as slower, weaker animals are vulnerable to their attacks.
The Grumeti Game Reserve borders the Serengeti National Park (but is part of the Serengeti ecosystem) and offers an exclusive experience for guests that stay in its camps, as only approximately 60 people are accommodated in the whole 350,000 acre reserve at one time. Because of its remoteness and lack of crowds, it makes for an exceptional game viewing experience. It is known for outstanding lion and cheetah sightings, which you just might have entirely to yourself! Off road driving, night drives and safari walks are also allowed in the Grumeti Reserve – one of the few locations in Serengeti to offer these activities. If an exclusive Serengeti safari sounds like a good fit for you, consider staying at camps such as Singita Faru Faru or Singita Sabora Tented Camp.
August, September and October are months when the migration passes through Tanzania’s far north and into Kenya’s Masai Mara, grazing along the way. When the herds pass into Kenya depends entirely on the rains, but this is a wonderful time to be in the Masai Mara. River crossings peak during this season, making for incredibly exciting game viewing. Seeing a river crossing is a ‘bucket list’ item for many travelers, making this time of year one of the peak seasons – booking at least 12 months in advance is advisable.
In early November, the ‘short rains’ will begin and the wildlife will begin their long journey to the south through the east and central Serengeti. This is a very pleasant time of year to travel – the rains are indeed short, with brief storms refreshing the air, providing for dramatic skies and wonderful photography opportunities. The weather is rarely a hindrance to safari activities.
By December, the herds have picked up speed to continue their journey southward towards the regenerated grasslands. The ‘short rains’ continue, creating a feast for the plains game, as well as the resident predators. Mid- to late December is one of Africa’s peak travel seasons – if you wish to travel over the holidays, plan to book 12 to 24 months in advance.
East Africa’s great migration is one of nature’s most awesome wonders – it has to be seen to be fully appreciated. If you want the chance to see the migration on your own customized safari, contact one of our Journey Specialists to start planning and subscribe to the newsletter below to keep in touch.
Photos courtesy Alex Walker Serian; AAC Livingstone Club members Lynn R., Dede H. and Melinda T.-D.; Singita and Sayari Camp