Wildebeest Migration Safaris – Masai Mara & Serengeti
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to witness the great wildebeest migration, one of the planet’s most awe-inspiring natural events. Over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the vast plains of Serengeti and Masai Mara, battling predators and crossing rivers in search of fresh grazing.
Let us guide you through the best times, locations, and wildebeest migration safari packages to experience this unforgettable spectacle.
What is the Wildebeest Migration?
The wildebeest migration is an annual journey involving 1.5+ million wildebeest moving in a clockwise loop across Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Masai Mara in Kenya. They travel hundreds of kilometers following seasonal rains and fresh grass.
This is more than a migration — it’s survival, spectacle, and safari perfection.
Wildebeest Migration Timeline & Season Guide
| Month | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Jan–Mar | Southern Serengeti | Calving season, predator action |
| Apr–Jun | Central Serengeti | Herd movement north, scenic game drives |
| July–Aug | Northern Serengeti / Masai Mara | Mara River crossings, big cats on the hunt |
| Sept–Oct | Masai Mara, Kenya | Best time to see wildebeest migration Kenya |
| Nov–Dec | Eastern Serengeti | Return to calving areas |
Best time to see the wildebeest migration: July to October in Masai Mara, January–March in Serengeti.
Best time for river crossings: July to September
Best time for calving: Late January to early March
Wildebeest Crossing at the Mara River
One of the most dramatic scenes of the great wildebeest migration is the Mara River crossing — where herds plunge into crocodile-filled waters. These crossings happen in July to early October on the Kenyan side and late June–August in northern Tanzania.
Plan your safari with enough flexibility (minimum 3 days in the Mara or Serengeti) to increase your chances of witnessing this incredible natural drama.
Masai Mara vs Serengeti: Where to See the Migration
| Feature | Masai Mara | Serengeti |
|---|---|---|
| Best Time | July–Oct | Jan–March / June–August |
| River Crossings | Mara River | Grumeti & Mara Rivers |
| Lodges & Camps | Wide range, including mobile camps | Remote luxury lodges & mobile safaris |
| Country | Kenya | Tanzania |
Both parks offer unique advantages. Combine both for the ultimate wildebeest migration safari package.
Top Great Migration Safari Packages
Masai Mara Safari Tour
Masai Mara Big five tour tour
Lake Nakuru & Naivasha, Masai Mara Safari
Masai Mara safari tour & Amboseli
Amboseli , Lake Naivasha & Masai Mara
Ol Pejeta Lake Naivasha & Masai Mara
Amboseli , Naivasha, Nakuru & Masai Mara
Tsavo West, Amboseli , Naivasha & Masai Mara Safari
Amboseli, Lakes Naivasha and Nakuru, and the Masai Mara One week safari
Samburu, Aberdares, Lakes Nakuru & Naivasha, and Masai Mara
Recommended Camps & Lodges (Migration Access)
In Masai Mara:
Ashnil Mara Camp – Near Mara River
Entim Mara Camp – Front-row seat to crossings
Mara Serena Lodge – Elevated views, luxury tents
In Serengeti:
Mara Under Canvas (Northern) – Seasonal camp near river
Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge (Central) – Year-round game viewing
Ndutu Safari Lodge (Southern) – Best for calving season
Why Book Your Migration Safari With Us?
We follow real-time wildebeest sightings
You choose: budget, midrange, or luxury great migration safari
Personalized planning + 24/7 in-country support
Access to private conservancies for fewer crowds
FAQs – Wildebeest Migration Safari
The best time to see the wildebeest migration in Masai Mara is from July to October, when the herds are crossing the Mara River.
They are part of the same migration loop. Serengeti is best from Jan–March (calving) and June–Aug (movement). Masai Mara shines July–Oct with river crossings.
Plan for 3–4 nights minimum to increase your chance of seeing a live crossing.
Budget safaris start from $1,000 USD per person, while luxury great migration safaris can go up to $8,000+ depending on season and lodge.
Yes! Most of our packages offer fly-in options to Serengeti or Masai Mara airstrips with private 4x4 game drives.
Yes! Most of our packages offer fly-in options to Serengeti or Masai Mara airstrips with private 4x4 game drives.
