Have you ever wondered what the greatest wildlife spectacle on the planet looks like? Imagine over two million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle thundering across vast plains in a relentless, ancient cycle of life and death. This is the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration, a journey so epic it defines the very heart of Africa.

This guide will help you understand this incredible phenomenon and plan your trip to see it.

What is the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration?

The Great Migration is a continuous, year-round movement of vast herds across the Serengeti ecosystem in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya. It’s not a single event, but a constant search for fresh water and green grass, driven by the rains.

The key players are:

• 1.5 Million Wildebeest

• 300,000 Zebra

• 200,000 Gazelle

The wildebeest are the glue of the Serengeti. Without their constant grazing and movement, the entire ecosystem would change.”
— Dr. Tony Sinclair, Ecologist

The Migration Cycle: Where and When to Go

Knowing the migration’s general route is the key to witnessing it. Here’s a simple month-by-month guide:

• January to March: The Calving Season

  • Location: Southern Serengeti (Ndutu) and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

  • What to See: The herds gather on the short-grass plains, giving birth to over 500,000 calves in a few weeks. This attracts plenty of predators, making for dramatic wildlife viewing.

• April to May: The Start of the Long Trek

  • Location: Central and Western Serengeti.

  • What to See: The rains begin, and the herds start their grind north. This is the “Green Season,” with fewer crowds and lush landscapes.

• June to July: The River Crossings Begin

  • Location: Western Serengeti, Grumeti River.

  • What to See: The first major obstacle. Herds gather at the riverbanks, gathering courage to cross while massive crocodiles lie in wait.

• August to October: The Dramatic Mara River Crossings

  • Location: Northern Serengeti & Masai Mara (Kenya).

  • What to See: This is the migration’s most iconic scene. Thousands of wildebeest plunge into the crocodile-infested Mara River in a chaotic, thrilling spectacle. This is the peak season for visitors.

• November to December: The Journey South

  • Location: Moving from the Masai Mara back to the Serengeti plains.

  • What to See: With the short rains, the herds head south, completing the circle and returning to the calving grounds.

Why is it Called the “Greatest Show on Earth”?

The sheer scale is unimaginable until you see it. The ground literally shakes. But the drama doesn’t just come from the numbers; it comes from the raw, unfiltered circle of life. You’ll witness:

• Thrilling River Crossings: A chaotic, life-or-death struggle against strong currents and predators.

• Predator Action: Lions, cheetahs, and hyenas follow the herds, providing constant opportunities to see a hunt.

• The Birth of New Life: The calving season is a time of renewal and vulnerability.

Planning Your Safari: Quick Tips

1. Book Early: Camps and lodges in prime river-crossing areas fill up over a year in advance.

2. Choose Your Location Wisely: Don’t just pick a month; pick a location based on where the herds are likely to be.

3. Hire a Knowledgeable Guide: A good guide will use radio networks to track the herds and get you to the action.