The Great Migration Explained
You can witness the Great Migration year round. Contrary to popular belief the annual cycle generally follows the rains of the Serengeti in a large clockwise circle. Where you go to see this amazing natural spectacle depends on what time of the year you plan your visit.
The Green Season - January to March:
January to early March is an excellent time to visit. The herd will be in the southeast close to the grassy plains of Ndutu, close to the must see Ngorongoro volcanic crater, and closer to Arusha which makes for a very convenient starting point. January and February is a mini dry season. While there can be some rain, it's generally short and light. The rains start to pick up heading into March. The vegetation is lush and green, and the scenery is vibrant. This is also when wildebeest and zebras give birth in the Ndutu plains.
High and Dry Season - June to October:
This is the peak season for safaris in Tanzania and Kenya, especially in the northern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. The drier conditions mean that animals tend to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. The Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras move across the Northern Serengeti, is most visible in the northern and western reaches during this time.
March to May (Long Rains):
This period is generally the wettest, with heavy rainfall that can make travel more challenging. However, prices are also at their lowest, and the scenery is lush and green. If you enjoy the adventure of exploring in the rain and don't mind potential delays, this can be a good time to visit.
November to December (Short Rains):
The short rains start to set in during this period, but the wildlife viewing is still good, especially for birds. Prices tend to be lower during this time as well.
The Green Season - January to March:
January to early March is an excellent time to visit. The herd will be in the southeast close to the grassy plains of Ndutu, close to the must see Ngorongoro volcanic crater, and closer to Arusha which makes for a very convenient starting point. January and February is a mini dry season. While there can be some rain, it's generally short and light. The rains start to pick up heading into March. The vegetation is lush and green, and the scenery is vibrant. This is also when wildebeest and zebras give birth in the Ndutu plains.
High and Dry Season - June to October:
This is the peak season for safaris in Tanzania and Kenya, especially in the northern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. The drier conditions mean that animals tend to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. The Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras move across the Northern Serengeti, is most visible in the northern and western reaches during this time.
March to May (Long Rains):
This period is generally the wettest, with heavy rainfall that can make travel more challenging. However, prices are also at their lowest, and the scenery is lush and green. If you enjoy the adventure of exploring in the rain and don't mind potential delays, this can be a good time to visit.
November to December (Short Rains):
The short rains start to set in during this period, but the wildlife viewing is still good, especially for birds. Prices tend to be lower during this time as well.