Best Time to See the Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania
Discover the best time to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania. Plan your unforgettable safari with Hike Kilimanjaro and experience nature’s greatest show.
Witness Africa’s Greatest Wildlife Spectacle
The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the most awe-inspiring natural events on Earth. Each year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, make a dramatic journey across the Serengeti ecosystem in search of fresh grazing.
For travelers planning a safari with Hike Kilimanjaro, timing your visit to catch the migration at its most dramatic is key. But when exactly is the best time to go?
Understanding the Wildebeest Migration Cycle
The migration is a year-round cycle, driven by rainfall patterns and the need for fresh grass. The action shifts across various parts of Serengeti National Park and into Kenya’s Masai Mara, but Tanzania offers the most extended and thrilling views of this event.
Here’s what to expect month-by-month:
January – March: Calving Season in Ndutu (Southern Serengeti)
This is the birthing season, where nearly half a million calves are born within just a few weeks in the Ndutu area of the southern Serengeti.
Why go now?
- Easy wildlife viewing in open plains
- Predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs are highly active
- Great photography opportunities
➡️ Best for: Photographers and travelers who want to see baby animals and predator action
April – May: Green Season in Central Serengeti
As rains continue, the herds begin moving northward. This is known as the green season, when the park is lush and beautiful.
Why go now?
- Fewer crowds
- Excellent birdlife and lush landscapes
- Lower safari costs
➡️ Best for: Budget-conscious travelers and bird watchers.
June – July: Grumeti River Crossings
This is the start of the dramatic river crossings, first at the Grumeti River in western Serengeti. Wildebeest must brave crocodile-infested waters to reach greener pastures.
Why go now?
- Unique drama at the river crossings
- Pleasant weather and clearer skies
- Great walking safaris
➡️ Best for: Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.
August – October: Mara River Crossings (Northern Serengeti)
This is the most iconic and intense part of the migration, where thousands of animals attempt to cross the Mara River.
Why go now?
- Peak action at the Mara River
- Chance to witness large herds, panic, predators, and survival instincts
- Best time for classic migration photos
➡️ Best for: Wildlife lovers and those wanting to see the most famous migration scenes.
November – December: Return to the South
The herds begin their journey south again to the Ndutu plains, following the short rains and new grass growth.
Why go now?
- Transition period with moving herds
- Great light and scenery for photography
- Still plenty of wildlife
➡️ Best for: Travellers looking for fewer crowds and a quieter migration experience.
When Should You Go?
For river crossings: July to September (Grumeti & Mara Rivers)
For calving season: January to March (Ndutu region)
For fewer tourists and lower prices: April, May, and November
Plan Your Safari with Hike Kilimanjaro
At Hike Kilimanjaro, we specialize in creating unforgettable experiences that put you right in the heart of the Great Migration. Whether you want to track the herds, photograph predators in action, or relax in a luxury mobile camp, we can tailor your itinerary to match the migration calendar.
✅ Expert guides
✅ Private and group safaris
✅ Fly-in options to reach remote regions
✅ Fully customized itineraries
Final Thoughts
The best time to see the wildebeest migration in Tanzania depends on the kind of experience you want. Whether it’s the drama of a river crossing, the beauty of the green season, or the miracle of new life during calving season, there’s no wrong time to witness this breathtaking event.
👉 Contact Hike Kilimanjaro today to start planning your dream migration safari.
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