Best Time to See the Great Wildebeest Migration (Month-by-Month Guide)

Why Timing Is Everything for the Great Migration

The Great Wildebeest Migration is not a single event — it’s a year-round wildlife cycle involving over 1.5 million wildebeest, 300,000 zebras, and thousands of predators.

Knowing when to go determines:

• Whether you see river crossings
• Calving season drama
• Predator action
• Crowd levels
• Weather & road conditions

At Annest Kenya Safaris, we plan migration safaris based on real movement patterns, not fixed calendars.

The Great Migration Route at a Glance

• January–March: Southern Serengeti & Ndutu (calving)
• April–May: Central Serengeti (green season)
• June: Western Serengeti (Grumeti crossings)
• July–October: Northern Serengeti & Masai Mara (Mara River crossings)
• November–December: Migration returns south

Month-by-Month Great Migration Guide

January – February: Calving Season (Ndutu & Southern Serengeti)

Best for newborn wildlife
High predator activity
Fewer crowds

This is when over 500,000 calves are born — attracting lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.

Best for: photographers, wildlife lovers, dramatic action
Where: Ndutu Area, Southern Serengeti

March – April: The Green Serengeti

Lush landscapes
Migratory herds on the move
Lower safari prices

Rain brings stunning scenery and fewer vehicles.

Best for: budget travelers, peaceful safaris
Where: Central Serengeti

May – June: Western Corridor & Grumeti River

Early river crossings
Crocodile action
Dramatic landscapes

Less crowded than Masai Mara but equally thrilling.

Best for: travelers avoiding peak season
Where: Western Serengeti

July – October: Mara River Crossings (Peak Season)

Iconic river crossings
High predator density
Dry season = easy wildlife viewing

This is the most famous migration period.

Best for: first-time visitors, once-in-a-lifetime trips
Where: Northern Serengeti & Masai Mara

November – December: Return Journey South

Beautiful light
Fewer tourists
Excellent photography

The herds head back toward Tanzania.

Best for: relaxed safaris, photographers
Where: Eastern Serengeti

So… When Is the BEST Time Overall?

There is no single “best” time — only the best time for YOU.

At Annest Kenya Safaris, we recommend:

• River crossings: July – September
• Calving & predators: January – February
• Value & fewer crowds: March – May
• Photography: February & November

Kenya vs Tanzania: Which Country Is Best by Season?

Masai Mara (Kenya)

Best July–October
Easier access
Shorter drives

Serengeti (Tanzania)

Best January–March & June
Vast landscapes
More seasonal variety

We also design Kenya–Tanzania combined migration safaris for full-cycle experiences.

Why Book with Annest Kenya Safaris?

Local migration experts
Daily migration tracking
Private & group options
Hand-picked camps near crossing points
Ethical wildlife practices
Honest advice — not sales hype

We tell you when NOT to go, as much as when to go.

FAQs – Best Time for the Great Migration