Great Migration Safaris in Kenya & Tanzania
Witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles as millions of wildebeest, zebras and other wildlife move between the Serengeti and Maasai Mara in search of fresh grazing and water.
The Great Migration: One of Nature's Greatest Spectacles
The Great Migration is one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife experiences. Each year, millions of wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, travel through the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya in search of fresh grass and water. The journey brings dramatic river crossings, vast herds and exceptional opportunities to witness wildlife in its natural environment.
What Makes the Great Migration So Special?
The Great Migration is more than a wildlife spectacle; it is a year-round cycle of movement shaped by rainfall, grazing and the search for water. From the vast plains of the Serengeti to the grasslands of the Maasai Mara, the journey offers opportunities to witness huge herds, dramatic predator encounters and unforgettable river crossings.
When Is the Best Time to See the Great Migration?
The Great Migration takes place throughout the year, with different regions offering different wildlife experiences. Choosing the right time depends on what you want to see, from calving and abundant wildlife to dramatic river crossings in the Maasai Mara.
January – March
Calving season in the southern Serengeti brings abundant wildlife and excellent predator sightings. This is a quieter period with fewer visitors.
April – June
The migration begins moving north, with increasing wildlife activity across the Serengeti. This period can offer good game viewing with fewer crowds than the peak migration months.
July – October
This is the peak migration season, with large herds moving through the northern Serengeti and Maasai Mara. River crossings can occur during this period, creating some of the most dramatic wildlife experiences.
November – December
Short rains bring renewed greenery and excellent wildlife viewing across the Serengeti and Maasai Mara. Visitor numbers are generally lower, making this a rewarding time for a quieter safari.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
The Serengeti is the heart of the Great Migration, where vast herds of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles move across Tanzania’s plains throughout the year. It offers exceptional wildlife viewing and opportunities to experience the migration in its natural setting.
Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
The Maasai Mara is one of Kenya’s most celebrated wildlife destinations and an important part of the Great Migration. Large herds may move into the reserve during the year, creating opportunities to witness spectacular wildlife and, when conditions allow, dramatic river crossings.
Great Migration Safari Experiences
A Great Migration safari combines spectacular wildlife viewing with the opportunity to experience one of nature’s most remarkable journeys. Depending on the season and location, your safari can include vast herds, predator sightings, dramatic river crossings and unforgettable landscapes.
Witness the Great Herds
Witness vast herds of wildebeest and zebras moving across the open plains, surrounded by the landscapes and wildlife of the Serengeti and Maasai Mara.
Dramatic River Crossings
During the migration season, some herds cross rivers as they move between grazing areas. These crossings can create dramatic wildlife encounters, although their timing and location are unpredictable.
Wildlife & Predator Encounters
The movement of large herds attracts predators such as lions, cheetahs and hyenas, creating opportunities to observe the natural interactions that make the migration such a remarkable wildlife experience.
Plan Your Great Migration Safari
Our safari specialists can help you plan the right Great Migration experience based on your travel dates, interests and preferred style of travel. Whether you want to follow the migration across Kenya and Tanzania or focus on a particular season, we can create a private or group safari around your plans.