What is The Great Migration?
The Great Migration is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth, where over 2 million animals — mainly wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles — journey across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in a relentless search for fresh grazing and water. The Great Migration
This natural phenomenon spans Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara, offering an unparalleled safari experience filled with drama, danger, and breathtaking scenery.
Where Does the Great Migration Take Place?
The migration loops through a vast expanse of protected land in East Africa, following this general path:
- December to March: Southern Serengeti—Calving season
- April to May: Central Serengeti—lush grazing lands
- June to July: Western Corridor—Grumeti River crossings
- July to October: Northern Serengeti—Mara River crossings
- November: Return south toward Ndutu
Each stage of the journey reveals unique behaviors and sights — from predator hunts to newborn calves.
Best Time to Witness The Great Migration
- January–March: Calving season in Ndutu (Southern Serengeti)
- June–July: Grumeti River crossings
- July–October: Mara River crossings in Northern Serengeti
- November–December: Herds return south
For photographers and wildlife lovers, planning your Serengeti safari around these windows ensures an unforgettable experience.
What Animals Take Part in the Migration?
- Wildebeest: Over 1.5 million
- Zebras: Around 300,000
- Thomson’s Gazelles: Approx. 500,000
- Predators: Lions, cheetahs, hyenas, crocodiles follow closely
Instinct, rain patterns, and the promise of fertile grasslands drive this migration.
Why is the Migration So Famous?
- It’s the largest land migration on the planet
- It’s a circle of life in real-time: birth, survival, and predation
- You’ll witness river crossings, where animals leap into crocodile-infested waters
- Ideal for African Serengeti safaris and cinematic safari adventures
Whether you’re in a luxury mobile camp or a lodge overlooking a crossing point, the action is unmatched.
Where to Stay During the Migration
For front-row seats to the action, base yourself at
- Asanja Moru Camp: Ideal during the central and southern migration phases
- Asanja Grumeti Camp: Best for the Western Corridor
- Asanja Lamai or Mobile Camp: Perfect for Mara River crossings
Explore: Africa Serengeti Safaris
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Final Thoughts
The Great Migration is not just a wildlife event but a unique safari adventure. From newborn wildebeest in the south to river-crossing chaos in the north, every phase offers a different thrill.
If you are planning an East African safari, please consider aligning your dates with the migration route. Whether for photography, romance, or pure adventure, this is Africa at its most raw and real.
Start your journey today with an unforgettable Serengeti safari during the Great Migration!
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