Great Migration
Best Tanzania Safari Destinations | Tanzania’s top safari parks and game reserves
Overview
The Great Migration is one of the most breathtaking wildlife spectacles on Earth, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, hundreds of thousands of zebras, and gazelles move across the vast Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing lands. This extraordinary journey is shaped by the rhythm of the rains and the ever-present dangers of predators like lions, cheetahs, leopards, crocodiles, and hyenas.
Whether you witness the dramatic river crossings, the calving season, or the endless herds on the move, the Great Migration is an unforgettable adventure.
Best Time to Witness the Great Migration
The migration is a year-round cycle, but different months offer different experiences:
Season | Location | Highlights |
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January – March | Southern Serengeti (Ndutu Plains) | Calving season – thousands of wildebeest are born, attracting predators. |
April – May | Central Serengeti | Herds begin moving north, predators follow. Green season with fewer tourists. |
June – July | Western Serengeti & Grumeti River | First river crossings at Grumeti River. Thrilling predator action. |
August – October | Northern Serengeti & Mara River | Iconic Mara River crossings – crocodiles and big cats in action. |
November – December | Return to Southern Serengeti | Herds migrate back south, preparing for the next calving season. |
Top Locations for the Great Migration Safari
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Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)
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The heart of the migration route.
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Endless plains with large predator populations.
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River crossings at Grumeti River (June – July) & Mara River (August – October).
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Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya)
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Famous for dramatic Mara River crossings.
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Best time: July – October.
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Large lion prides and other predators following the herds.
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Ndutu Region (Southern Serengeti)
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Best for calving season (January – March).
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High chances of seeing hunting predators.
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Safari Experiences & Activities
Game Drives – Witness massive herds, predators, and dramatic chases.
Hot Air Balloon Safari – Breathtaking aerial views of the migration.
Walking Safaris – Get closer to nature with expert guides.
Cultural Encounters – Visit Maasai villages and learn about their traditions.
Photography Safari – Capture once-in-a-lifetime moments of wildlife action.
Accommodation Options
Luxury Lodges & Tented Camps:
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&Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas
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Sayari Camp (Northern Serengeti)
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Mara Plains Camp (Masai Mara)
Mid-Range Safari Camps:
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Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge
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Mara Intrepids Camp
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Serengeti Wilderness Camp
Budget & Mobile Camps:
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Kenzan Mobile Camp
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Seronera Campsites
How to Plan Your Great Migration SafariChoose the Right Season – Decide whether you want to see the calving season, river crossings, or migrating herds.
Book Early – Lodges and camps sell out fast, especially in peak months (July – October).
Pick Your Safari Style – Choose between luxury lodges, mid-range camps, or budget camping.
Consider a Private Safari – Get a custom itinerary for a more personal experience.
Include Other Destinations – Combine with Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara
Why Witness the Great Migration?
One of the World’s Greatest Wildlife Shows
Incredible Predator-Prey Encounters
Breathtaking Landscapes of the Serengeti & Masai Mara
Tailor-Made Safari Experiences
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure? Let me know if you need help planning your Great Migration safari!
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- Young blond lady on safari standing in open roof jeep observing wild animals through binoculars.