The Great Migration is not a single event but a year-round, circular journey of roughly two million wildebeest, zebra and gazelle following the rains across the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem. Knowing roughly where the herds are in each season is the key to planning the trip you have in mind.

A rough month-by-month picture

From around December to March, the herds gather on the short-grass plains of the southern Serengeti, where calving season brings hundreds of thousands of newborns — and the predators that follow them. Around April to May, the columns begin moving north and west with the long rains. By June to July they approach the Grumeti and the western corridor, and from roughly July to October the famous river crossings unfold along the Mara River as the herds move into Kenya's Maasai Mara. By November, the short rains pull them back south to begin again.

If you want the river crossings

The dramatic crossings — herds plunging through crocodile-filled water — are most associated with the Maasai Mara between roughly July and October. They are unpredictable by nature: a crossing can happen in minutes or not at all on a given day, so allow several days and patience rather than betting on a single afternoon.

If you want the calving

For sheer numbers and intense predator action, the southern Serengeti calving season around January to February is hard to beat, and it is often quieter than the peak crossing months.

Practical tips

  • Book early. Camps in prime areas during peak crossing months fill up far in advance.
  • Stay multiple nights. Wildlife does not run to schedule; more days mean better odds and a calmer pace.
  • Choose location over luxury alone. Being in the right area for the season matters more than the thread count.
  • Go with a good guide. Local guides read the herds, the weather and the terrain in ways no itinerary can.
  • Respect the wildlife. Keep distance, stay in the vehicle where required, and let the animals set the pace.

Plan your migration trip

Because timing and location are everything, this is exactly the kind of trip worth booking with a verified local operator who knows the ecosystem. Browse safari experiences and talk to hosts who are out there every day.