Recognized as one of the “Seven Wonders of the Natural World,” the Great Wildebeest Migration is the largest land mammal migration on Earth. Each year, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move across the vast Serengeti plains in search of greener pastures and cleaner water. This awe-inspiring event reaches its peak when the herds face the dramatic crossings of the Grumeti and Mara Rivers a moment many travelers consider the highlight of their journey.
It’s no surprise that this unforgettable natural spectacle is one of the main reasons travelers flock to Tanzania each year. If witnessing the wildebeest migration in Serengeti National Park is high on your travel bucket list, knowing the movement patterns of the herds is essential.
That’s why we’re here to guide you through:
When and where the Great Wildebeest Migration occurs month-by-month
The best times to witness the migration
Top locations for viewing the action
Expert tips to experience it at its most dramatic
The Great Wildebeest Migration is the largest land animal migration on Earth, with nearly two million animals traversing the vast plains of Tanzania each year. While wildebeests dominate the herds, they are joined by zebras, gazelles, topis, and other species in this epic journey.
The migration spans approximately 1,000 kilometers and typically runs from December through November though its exact start depends on the onset of the rainy season. During this cycle, the massive herds often split into groups of hundreds of thousands, moving in search of fresh grazing and water.
It’s a journey of both beauty and danger: up to 250,000 wildebeests are lost to predators along the way.
| Month | Location | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| December – March | Southern Serengeti (Ndutu area) | Calving season. Thousands of wildebeest calves are born daily predator activity is high. |
| April – May | Moving north through Central Serengeti | Herds begin migrating in long columns; green season rains make this a lush journey. |
| June – July | Western Serengeti & Grumeti River | River crossings begin. Grumeti River crossings can be dramatic and intense. |
| August – October | Northern Serengeti & Mara River | Peak of the migration. Huge herds cross the Mara River a major highlight for visitors. |
| November | Return to Southern Serengeti | Herds head back south as short rains start, completing the cycle. |
Witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration is nothing short of magical. But to truly immerse yourself in this awe-inspiring natural wonder, it’s essential to explore Tanzania with a knowledgeable and experienced safari guide.
That’s exactly what African Landscape Adventures offers.
Our safaris are not one-size-fits-all they are fully customizable to match your travel style, pace, and interests. Whether you dream of watching river crossings up close, photographing newborn calves in Ndutu, or tracking the herds across the open plains, we’ll tailor your journey to make it unforgettable.
This isn’t just a trip.
It’s an adventure of a lifetime one that will leave you with powerful memories, stories to tell, and a deeper connection to nature.
Planning a safari to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration can feel overwhelming but with the right guidance, it becomes the adventure of a lifetime. Here’s how to get started:
1. Choose the Right Time to Travel
The migration moves throughout the year. Decide which phase you want to witness:
Calving season (Jan–Mar): Southern Serengeti
River crossings (July–Sept): Grumeti or Mara Rivers
Long migration treks (April–June, Oct–Nov)
2. Pick the Perfect Location
Different months mean different regions:
Ndutu Plains for calving
Western Corridor for Grumeti crossings
Northern Serengeti for dramatic Mara River crossings
3. Book with a Trusted Safari Operator
Go with an expert who knows the land, animal behavior, and timing like African Landscape Adventures. Local knowledge makes all the difference.
4. Choose the Right Accommodation
From luxury lodges to mobile camps that move with the herds, your comfort and proximity to the migration matter. We help you pick what fits your style and budget.
5. Customize Your Safari Experience
Add hot air balloon rides, cultural visits, walking safaris, or beach extensions in Zanzibar. Make the trip truly yours.
6. Plan in Advance
Migration safaris fill up fast especially during river crossing season. Book at least 6–12 months in advance to secure the best spots.
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