Migration by Month
A seasonal guide to the herds, from the southern plains to the northern reaches and back.
A journey made for you.
A seasonal guide to the herds, from the southern plains to the northern reaches and back. The best version of it begins with your interests, your pace and a little local insight.
Nature sets the itinerary
This month-by-month guide describes broad patterns, not a timetable. Rainfall, grazing and other natural conditions shift the herds each year; sightings and crossings are never guaranteed.
A year in motion.
These are general seasonal patterns. Rain and natural conditions change the route from year to year.
Southern Serengeti & Ndutu
Herds often gather on the southern short-grass plains as calving season approaches.
Southern plains
Calving is often at its height in the Ndutu and southern Serengeti area.
Southern plains
Families continue to graze as seasonal rains begin to influence movement.
Moving northwest
As grasses change, herds may begin moving toward the central and western areas.
Western corridor
Long columns may move westward through the Serengeti.
Western Serengeti
Herds can be in the western corridor and moving toward the north.
Northern Serengeti
Some herds reach the north; river crossings are possible, never certain.
Northern Serengeti
The northern plains and Mara River area often hold large groups.
Northern Serengeti
Herds may remain in the north, moving back and forth with grazing.
Northern to central
Movement southward can begin as seasonal conditions shift.
Central & eastern plains
Short rains may draw herds back toward the Serengeti’s eastern and southern reaches.
Southern Serengeti
The cycle often returns toward the southern plains.
More from Great Migration.
Every remarkable journey begins somewhere.
Tell us what you have in mind. We’ll take it from there.