The Great Migration
2.2 million animals. An endless circle. All year round.
What exactly is the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is the massive annual movement of more than 2.2 million animals — mainly wildebeest, but also zebras and gazelles — through the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya. It is the largest land mammal migration in the world and is considered by many scientists to be one of the most impressive natural phenomena on Earth.
Unlike what many people think, the migration is not a single annual event but a continuous, circular process. The herds follow the rain and fresh grass — a journey that takes them from the cropped plains in the south to the high grass savannahs in the north, and back again. Each stage of this circuit offers unique wildlife experiences.
The migration month by month
December – March
Ndutu (Southern Serengeti)
The herds are in the south for the calving season. Up to 8,000 calves are born every day — and the same day lions, hyenas and cheetahs try to catch them. This is the most dramatic and emotional spectacle of the entire migration.
April – May
Central Serengeti
The long rains fall and the herds slowly trek northwards through the central Serengeti. Less spectacular than the other seasons, but the landscapes are lush green and there are few tourists.
June – July
Western Corridor (Grumeti)
The herds reach the Grumeti River in the Western Corridor. Here the largest Nile crocodiles in Tanzania wait — some up to 5 metres long. Fewer visitors than the Mara but the crocodiles are more impressive.
July – October
Northern Serengeti (Mara)
This is the moment everyone comes for. The herds stand nervously on the bank of the Mara River. Then one jumps — and all the others follow in a panicked, mass leap. Crocodiles grab. It is loud, chaotic and overwhelming. Nobody ever forgets it.
November
Retreat towards Ndutu
The short rains begin. The herds trek back south for the new calving season that begins in December. Quiet, but still impressive wildlife.
The best viewing spots compared
Each part of the Serengeti offers a different type of migration experience. Here is how to choose the right location for your safari.
Ndutu (Southern)
QuietCalving season, few tourists, company of cheetahs and lions
Seronera (Central)
ModerateLargest concentration of predators, perfect base location
Western Corridor (Grumeti)
QuietMonster crocodiles, calmer atmosphere than the Mara
Northern Serengeti (Mara)
BusyDramatic river crossings, highest drama factor
"Many people think you can only see the migration in August. But the calving season in February is just as spectacular — perhaps even more emotional. You see the birth and the hunt. And there are no 50 jeeps beside you. If you are flexible with timing, I almost always send you to Ndutu."
— Jonas, Simba Tours gids
Photography tips for the migration
You do not need to be a professional photographer to take incredible photos. These tips help everyone.
Golden hour is sacred
Plan game drives for 06:00 and after 16:30. The light is softer, the animals are more active, and the photos are sharper. Afternoon is for lunch and rest at camp.
Patience at the river
A river crossing can cost you 3-4 hours of waiting. Bring enough water and snacks. The waiting makes the moment all the more unforgettable when it finally happens.
Long lens for crossings
A 400mm or longer is ideal for action at river crossings. Vehicles may not get too close — a long lens compensates for the distance and still captures every splash.
Burst mode for the crossing
As soon as wildebeest jump into the water, set your camera to burst. You take 200 photos in 10 seconds — 3 are brilliant. That is enough for a lifetime of memories.
Example: 9-day migration safari
Specially designed for the Mara river crossings (July–October)