Wildebeest Migration

Each stage of the migration offers travellers a unique experience. Knowing where and when to go is key to witnessing the most dramatic scenes.

January – March: Calving Season

At the start of the year, herds gather in the southern Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The short-grass plains provide nutrition for newborns, making this the prime calving period.

• Around 400,000 calves are born within weeks, nearly 8,000 per day.
• The abundance of young attracts predators, creating intense hunting scenes.
• The best place to witness this stage is the southern Serengeti plains.

April – May: Central Serengeti & Grumeti

After calving, the herds begin moving northwest, searching for new grasslands. By May, vast numbers can be seen stretching toward the Moru Kopjes and the Western Corridor.

• Mating season begins, with males engaging in dramatic head-to-head battles.
• The herds face the Grumeti River, home to large crocodiles.
• Safaris at this time are quieter, as tourist numbers are lower.

June – July: The Drama of River Crossings

As the dry season sets in, the herds mass in the Western Serengeti. By July, the first crossings of the Mara River begin—a highlight for many travelers.

• The crossings involve sheer chaos, with crocodiles waiting in the water.
• Tens of thousands of wildebeest cross daily, following the first leader’s leap.
• This is considered one of Africa’s greatest wildlife spectacles.

August – October: Northern Serengeti & Masai Mara

By late July and August, the herds are split between the Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara. River crossings remain common during this period.

• Animals cross both the Mara and Talek Rivers in large numbers.
• Big cats, particularly lions, concentrate near riverbanks to hunt.
• The Masai Mara offers exceptional migration viewing until October.

November – December: Returning South

With the rains beginning again, the wildebeest turn south toward Tanzania. By December, they arrive in the Serengeti’s southern plains, completing the cycle.

• Herds stretch in long columns across the plains.
• Calving season preparations begin as they settle near Ngorongoro.
• The circle of life resets, starting the journey once again.