The Great Migration is nature’s greatest show—a never-ending journey of survival. While the Mara River crossings are its most dramatic act, the cycle begins with the spectacular calving season in the southern plains.
Timing Your Trip
- January to March: The Calving Season (Ndutu) The journey begins in the Ndutu Plains (Southern Serengeti). During these months, over 8,000 wildebeest calves are born every single day. The lush green grass provides essential nutrients for the newborns, but it also attracts the world’s highest concentration of predators. If you want to see lions, cheetahs, and hyenas in action, this is the time to go.
- June: The Grumeti Crossing As the plains dry up, the herds move west. For a slightly more “off-the-beaten-path” experience, witness the herds crossing the Grumeti River. It’s less crowded than the northern crossings but equally intense.
- July to September: The Mara River Crossings This is the peak window. Thousands of wildebeest gather on the banks of the Mara River, hesitating before plunging into crocodile-infested waters. This is the iconic “Great Migration” moment most travelers dream of seeing.
Expert Planning
To witness these events, we recommend staying in mobile camps that “follow” the herds throughout the year. Being in the right place at the right time requires deep local expertise—which is where our certified guides excel.