Serengeti Migration
What is Wildebeest Migration?
The Migration Pattern
The exact timing of the Great Wildebeest Migration depends on rainfall patterns, making it hard to predict. However, there is a general pattern that can be followed.
January to March: Calving season begins in the Ndutu region of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Half a million wildebeest calves are born, and predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards take advantage of the weak calves.
April to May: As the rains end, the herd begins moving north, with around 1.7 million wildebeest, 470,000 antelopes, and 250,000 zebras. The herd passes through the Seronera region, where predators are abundant.
June to July: The herd reaches the Grumeti River, where they face their first major obstacle. Nile crocodiles and predators wait to strike during the perilous crossing.
August to November: The herd moves towards the Maasai Mara in Kenya. The Mara River is another deadly barrier, where the herd must brave swollen waters and predators to cross safely. The dramatic crossings are a highlight of the migration.
December: After spending time in the Maasai Mara, the herd starts the journey south again to the Serengeti for the calving season. By the end of the year or early in the New Year, the herd returns to Ndutu to start the cycle once more.
The Serengeti is divided into five regions—North, South, East, West, and Central—each offering unique game drive experiences and accommodation options. Whether you’re camping under the stars or staying at luxurious lodges like the Four Seasons, there’s something for every type of traveler. The migration is most active between December and July, but Serengeti remains a wildlife haven year-round, ensuring an unforgettable safari experience.