Zebras on grassland under a wide, cloud-filled sky

The Great Migration

Follow one of the great wildlife movements on Earth.

Plan a Serengeti safari around the seasonal movement of wildebeest and zebra, with the right area for the right month.

Best for: Wildlife lovers and photographers
Where: The wider Serengeti ecosystem
When: All year, in different areas
Good to know: Movement follows rain and grazing, never a timetable

THE EXPERIENCE

The Great Migration, explained.

Each year, vast herds of wildebeest and zebra move through the Serengeti ecosystem in search of fresh grazing. Their route follows the rains, so where they are depends on the season and on that year’s conditions.

Planning a migration safari means choosing the right part of the ecosystem for your travel dates and basing yourself there for long enough to make the most of it. We talk through the options honestly: the herds are wild and unpredictable, and a river crossing can never be promised.

Elephants walking together through grassland

A hot air balloon above open grassland and wildlife

Illustrative photography

WHY YOU WILL LOVE IT

What makes it special.

Calving season

Around January and February, the herds often gather on the southern plains, where many calves are born.

River crossings

From around July to October, herds may cross the Mara River in the north. Crossings depend on the animals and can require patience.

Predators nearby

Large herds attract lions, cheetahs and hyenas, which can bring dramatic moments.

The wider spectacle

Even between headline moments, the scale of the herds across the plains is extraordinary to see.

WHAT TO EXPECT

A typical day.

Every journey is planned individually. This is the general shape of the experience.

1
Choose the area
We match your dates to the part of the ecosystem where the herds are most likely to be.
2
Base well
A camp in the right region reduces driving time and gives you more hours with the wildlife.
3
Long days out
Migration safaris often include full-day game drives with a picnic lunch.
4
Stay flexible
Your guide follows current movements, which can change from week to week.

WHEN TO GO

The best time for this experience.

Typical conditions by month for the places involved. This month is highlighted using Tanzania time.

Tanzania · local time (EAT)

DestinationJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Serengeti

Ngorongoro

Dry season
Showers possible
Rainy season

ITINERARIES

1 itinerary for the great migration.

Start with one of these and we will adjust it to your dates, pace and travel style.

6-Day Great Migration Safari

6 days safari

PriceOn requestPersonal quotation

Routes and stays can be adapted. Your Eastara proposal confirms availability, accommodation, services and the price for your travel dates. Photographs are illustrative.

GOOD TO KNOW

Before you go.

Practical notes from our team

Seasonal camps

Some camps move with the seasons to stay close to the herds. Availability is limited at popular times, so early planning helps.

Fly-in options

Scheduled light-aircraft flights can save long road transfers between the regions of the Serengeti.

Combine it

A migration safari pairs well with the Ngorongoro Crater and a few days in Zanzibar.

No guarantees

The migration is a natural event. We plan for the best chance, not a fixed outcome.

QUESTIONS

The Great Migration
FAQ.

Straight answers before the conversation.

Can you guarantee a river crossing?

No. Crossings happen when the herds decide to cross. We can base you in a seasonally suitable area and give you time to wait, but sightings cannot be promised.

Which month is best?

It depends on what you want to see. January to February suits calving in the south, while July to October is the usual period for northern river crossings.

How long should I stay?

Allow at least three nights in the migration area so you have time to follow the herds.

MORE TO EXPLORE