There is no single time of the year to see the Great Migration since it is an eternal annual event from place to place, year in and year out. However, depending on the aspect of the Great Migration you wish to see (for example, river crossings) or the time of year you prefer to travel, your safari can be customised to offer you the best opportunity to see what you want. Let’s learn better about when to travel via this month-by-month breakdown.
What is Africa’s Great Migration?
Annually, the expansive plains of Eastern Africa play host to one of the planet's most remarkable wildlife phenomena: the Great Migration. This extraordinary event showcases around 1.4 million wildebeests, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles. Where prey assemble, predators lie in wait: lions, hyenas, and crocodiles maintain a vigilant watch, hoping for an easy meal.
For explorers, observing the Great Migration presents a unique chance to admire an abundance of fauna moving in synchronised motion across an iconic terrain. Scenes of unfiltered wildlife spectacle unfold during this voyage. Some are marked by aggression, others by tenderness, yet all leave an enduring impression.
Many people think the Great Migration is only when lots of wildebeest gather at the rivers in northern Tanzania and the Maasai Mara. They imagine them rushing across the muddy waters in a chaotic flow. These moments are indeed impressive and are often shown in ads, but they're just part of a year-long event. Focusing only on these scenes doesn't give new safari-goers the full picture of what the Great Migration really is.
What is the best time to view Africa’s Great Migration?
As the lush plains of the southern Serengeti dry down, the animals migrate north in search of food and reliable food sources.
Typically, the first animals set off in April. Over the next several months, they'll face a slew of challenges, including predators and river crossings. Here's a summary of their tentative trip plans so you may make your own.
The Great Migration in December to April
From December to April, wildebeest prefer the southern Serengeti's short, grassy plains, where cropped vegetation provides less shelter for predators. Depending on local rainfall, herds can be spotted ranging from the Central Serengeti to the slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater in the south.
Furthermore, the volcanic soils that support these plains generate mineral-rich grass, which yields nourishing milk for the approximately 500,000 wildebeest and zebra born here each spring. Most of the calves arrive in February and March.
If travellers want to witness newborn calves or if predatory behaviour is a concern during migration, February and March are the best months to visit.
Furthermore, if you want to avoid the masses of visitors that the Great Migration may bring and aren't looking for a river crossing, going in January, February, or March will result in fewer people and more baby zebras and wildebeest.
The Great Migration in May and June
When the rainy season ends, the south and east plains of the Serengeti dry out, signalling the start of the Migration. This often begins in April or May, when herds begin to migrate north and west, but not necessarily as a coherent group.
The Great Migration in July to November
Traditionally, the greatest period to see the Great Migration is from July to November.
Between July and August, wildebeest migrate en masse into Kenya's Maasai Mara, crossing the Mara River in staggering numbers. River crossings are among the most sought-after events of the Great Migration.
In a dry year, the first wildebeest can make it to the Mara River (the ecosystem's sole decent, permanent supply of water) as early as July; in a rainy year, it may take until mid-August. If the conditions are ideal—there is plenty of pasture and water—the herds will stretch out from Seronera to the Mara River.
If the sound of frightened wildebeest undertaking a dangerous river crossing tops your safari bucket list, schedule your Great Migration vacation around the summer. However, it is crucial to recognise that July, August, and September are major travel seasons.
The Great Migration in October and November
The final stage of the annual Great Migration occurs in October and November, when the remaining wildebeest herds cross the river and most animals return to the Lobo Valley and the Central Serengeti.
During this time, animals migrate to Maasai Mara and northern Tanzania, resulting in spectacular wildlife viewing.
How to experience The Great Migration
In conclusion, the Great Migration Safari offers year-round wonder and excitement. Whether you seek the majesty of wildebeest herds or the serenity of the savannah, Jokotta Discoveries ensures an unforgettable experience tailored to your preferences. Get in touch with our dedicated team to craft nature-led adventures at your convenience. Embark on a journey of discovery with us and immerse yourself in nature travel experiences.
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