Month-by-Month Migration Calendar
January - February: Southern Serengeti Calving
The herds concentrate on the short-grass plains around Ndutu and the Southern Serengeti. This is calving season—over 8,000 calves are born daily during the peak three-week period in February. The predator action is intense as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas take advantage of vulnerable newborns.
Best camps: Savannah Ndutu Camp, Ndutu Safari Lodge
What to expect: Vast herds on open plains, dramatic predator-prey interactions, newborn calves
March - April: Moving North
As the southern plains dry out, the herds begin their northward journey through the Central Serengeti. The long rains typically begin in late March, and the migration splits into multiple columns. This is the quietest migration period and coincides with Tanzania's green season—meaning lower prices and fewer tourists.
Best camps: Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge, ENVI Sisini Serengeti
What to expect: Herds on the move, lush green landscapes, excellent value
May - June: Western Corridor
The herds push into the Western Corridor toward the Grumeti River. This is when the first major river crossings occur. The Grumeti holds massive Nile crocodiles that have been waiting all year for this moment. Crossings here are often smaller than the Mara but equally dramatic.
Best camps: Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp
What to expect: First river crossings, building anticipation, resident wildlife
July - August: Mara River Crossings Begin
The herds reach the Northern Serengeti and begin crossing the famous Mara River. This is peak migration season. Crossings can happen multiple times daily—or not at all for several days. Patience is essential. The best viewing positions are at established crossing points like Kogatende.
Best camps: Kuhama Camp, Serengeti Mara River Camp
What to expect: Dramatic river crossings, crocodile attacks, drownings, predator activity
September - October: Maasai Mara & Return
Most herds have crossed into Kenya's Maasai Mara. Some remain in the Northern Serengeti. This is excellent for those who want the migration experience with smaller crowds, as most tourists follow the herds into Kenya. Return crossings (south to north) begin as animals head back to Tanzania.
Best camps: Mara Intrepids Tented Camp (Kenya), Kogatende camps (Tanzania)
What to expect: Return crossings, excellent big cat sightings, transition period
November - December: Journey South
Following the short rains, the herds pour back into the Serengeti, moving through the eastern woodlands toward the southern plains. By late December, they've typically reached Ndutu again, completing the cycle. This is another excellent value period with fewer tourists.
Best camps: Central Serengeti lodges, Ndutu area
What to expect: Herds returning south, excellent photography light, building toward calving season
