Have you ever wondered when the best time to witness the remarkable spectacle of Wandering about the Great Migration in the Tanzania best time is to witness the Great? The answer’re about is to not unveil the as ideal simple months as and expected wildlife activities selecting for a this once specific month-in-a-lifetime adventure. The Great Migration is an ongoing movement of millions of wildebeest, accompanied by large numbers of zebra, and smaller numbers of Grant’s gazelle, Thomson’s gazelle, eland and impala, seeking fresh grazing and better quality water.
The timing of this phenomenal event is complex and dependent upon the rains. However, there are certain periods that are particularly rewarding for visitors. Let’s break down the Great Migration’s yearly cycle to help you plan your trip according to your preferences and adventure goals.
| Month | Location | Wildlife Activity |
|---|---|---|
| January – March | Southern Serengeti | Herds in calving season, lots of predators |
| April – May | Western Serengeti | Herds begin to move, high rainfall |
| June – July | Central and Western Serengeti | Herds gather and prepare to cross the Grumeti River |
| August – September | Northern Serengeti / Masai Mara | River crossing of Wildebeest at the Mara River, possible sightings of river crocodile attacks |
| October – December | Eastern and Southern Serengeti | Herds move toward fresh grazing grounds in the south |
Understanding the Great Migration: A Brief Overview
When it comes to experiencing the Great Migration in Tanzania, timing is everything. This spectacular event of millions of wildebeests, accompanied by a good number of zebras and gazelles, moving across the expansive plains of Africa is an uninterrupted process, happening all year round. However, different parts of the year offer contrasting experiences, all vibrant in their unique ways. The trick is to know when to visit based on what you want to see.
April to June: Around this time of the year, the Great Migration is upon us. The herds are heading north-west because the southern plains have been exhausted and heavy rains are starting to roll in. Remarkably, they move gradually towards the Western Corridor of Serengeti, bypassing Moru Kopjes and crossing the Mbalageti River. Watching this trek unfold is an incredible sight as countless animals majestically traverse through the vast plains, a testament to the indomitable will of nature.
July to October: This, many would argue, is the most dramatic phase of the migration. The herds of wildebeests are in the northern Serengeti and are preparing to cross over into Kenya’s Masai Mara. And this is not a simple stroll – they have to get past the treacherous Mara River. It’s dramatic, heart-stopping moments as the herds gather on the banks, weighing their options before taking the perilous plunge. The thrill of watching them navigate this hazardous path, while predators lay in wait, is an experience that’ll leave an indelible mark.
November to December: Now the cycle begins anew. The herds begin their journey back from the Masai Mara to the lush grasslands of the Serengeti, but this time, with new additions to their number – the newborns. Seeing the young ones take on the wild so early in life is both humbling and awe-inspiring.
Regardless of when you choose to go, witnessing the Great Migration in Tanzania is an experience like no other. It’s a celebration of life in its most vibrant and raw form, on the grandest stage imaginable.
What Drives the Great Migration?
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering about the perfect time to witness the mesmerizing spectacle that is the Great Migration in Tanzania, we’ve got you covered. Derived from exhaustive studies and direct observations, our team has compiled a comprehensive Great Migration Calendar for you. This invaluable resource breaks down the best times to visit, depending on the unique experiences you’re looking to gather.
Remember, the Great Migration offers a different spectacle every season, which is what makes this natural phenomenon truly unique. Each phase of the year carries with it its own flavor and magic. The wildebeest move in a cyclical pattern, driven by mother nature’s primal forces such as rainfall, humidity, temperature, and even lightning. This spectacular journey occurs in different phases throughout the year.
The First Phase (April – June): Heading South
The first phase, between April and June, finds the herds moving with renewed purpose towards the south. These months are a fantastic time to visit if your interest lies in understanding the migratory patterns and the influence of the weather on these captivating beasts. It’s also arguably the best period to capture the wildebeest in motion, creating a stirring scene against the backdrop of vast terrains and open skies.
The Second Phase (July – October): Peak of the Migration
The peak of the migration occurs from July to October. During this time, millions of wildebeest brave the dangerous cross of the Mara River, making for some truly dramatic viewing. Here, you can witness raw, gripping moments of survival and the undeniable truths of nature’s law unfolding. If thrill and excitement are on your bucket list, this is unquestionably the time to go.
The Last Phase (November-December): Calving Season
Come November to December, the landscape shifts towards the birthing season. During this time, you can observe a fresh generation of wildebeest take their first steps in the world. These months offer a unique opportunity to witness the circle of life unfold right before your eyes.
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What to Consider when planning your Tanzania Safari
When it comes to experiencing the unparalleled spectacle of the Great Migration, timing is paramount. Different phases of the year offer distinctive sightings and events, closely tied to the migratory cycle of the wildebeest. You can have the unique opportunity to witness thousands of animals moving across the plains, rivers swelling with crocodiles waiting for their prey, or new life entering the world during calving season. This rollercoaster of life and survival happens in three phases throughout the year: April to June, July to October, and November to December.
For most travelers, the preference is to see the migration in its peak phase between July and October. However, each season has its unique charm and benefits. Let’s dare to be different. Traveling outside these peak months, like in September, could lead to enhanced experiences, offered by other phases of the Migration. The herds, by then, are usually found in Kenya’s Masai Mara Nature Reserve, making it the best time to visit this iconic location. Not to mention, a late-year journey can provide the unforgettable sight of calving season.
While planning your safari, also consider the approach to your journey. You have the luxury to choose from full-day excursions into the national reserve to opting for small private aircraft. These planes don’t just take you straight into the heart of migration, but can also provide an added bonus of a picnic lunch. Alternatively, one could stay at a lodge in the Serengeti and take a day trip to catch up with the migrating animals.
Perhaps, the most rewarding aspect of planning a non-peak season trip is the chance to experience the migration and beautiful areas of the park with fewer tourists around. This allows for a much more intimate, personal experience with nature. In a bid to aid and inform your decisions, our team compiled a Great Migration Calendar for all seasons. This timetable guide could be the perfect starting point to decide when you’d like to embark on your journey through Tanzania’s vast, unspoiled landscapes.
Mapping the Route of Great Migration in Tanzania
The Great Migration in Tanzania is more than a simple journey; it’s an epic travel story written large. To better appreciate it, understanding the route is key. Picturing the wildebeests’ annual loop from the southern plains of the Serengeti all the way to Kenya’s Masai Mara and back is astounding.
During March, the wildebeest population, exhausted by their usual dwellings and propelled by the onset of the long or heavy rain, starts migrating north-west. Their journey takes a winding route from the southern plains to the Western Corridor of the Serengeti, passing by iconic sights like the Moru Kopjes and the Mbalageti River, and eventually leading them towards the Maswa Game Reserve.
July through to October signifies the second, and most exciting, phase of the Great Migration. Especially, the later weeks of July and August are marked by a particular spectacle: the crossing of the treacherous Mara River. As millions of wildebeests push their way into the Masai Mara game reserve in Kenya from the northern Serengeti, they must make the daring foray across this bubbling river, tempting the lurking predators underwater. It’s a heart-pounding rush of nature at its rawest!
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As the year winds down to its final months, the wildebeests return to the southern plains of the Serengeti for the calving season, closing their impressive circuit. This is the Great Migration path across Tanzania, a cycle of life that leaves a huge impact on the plains of African savannah.
January to March: Calving Season and Early Migrations
Your safari to Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park during the months of January to March promises an exceptional spectacle, seldom witnessed. This is the time of the ‘Secret Season’, a term coined to highlight the unique happenings that enthral visitors during this period.
First off, it is the calving season – a time of abundance and renewal. January becomes particularly impressive as the migration concentrates in the southeastern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. This is when wildebeest start to give birth, driven by the cycle of nature to capitalize on the nutritious grasses in these areas.
As February rolls around, the short-grass plains become a primary feeding ground, a natural consequence of the calving season. Witness the explosion of life as an estimated 400,000 calves are born within a span of just 2 to 3 weeks. This proliferation is a display of life’s vibrancy, even in the harshest of environments.
But the calving season isn’t only about wildebeest. Gazelle, zebra, and other herbivores also add their offspring to the mix. Meanwhile, stately elephant herds congregate for breeding, adding another layer of drama to the landscape. Cat cubs can often be spotted during this period, making it an awe-inspiring time to be on a safari.
In the ‘Secret Season’, the Migration begins its cycle in the southern Serengeti and the Ndutu area of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The promise of nutritious sustenance prompts the herds to migrate northward by the end of March, signaling the end of this remarkable phase. As you embark on this journey, remember that witnessing the migration is more than just sightseeing; it’s a deeply moving experience that underscores the powerful rhythms of nature.
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April to June: The Journey Toward Greener Pastures
As you have now gathered, the Great Migration is a cyclical journey that unfolds throughout the year, each phase offering distinct, breathtaking experiences. Now, let’s delve into the thrilling transition from April to June, a time when the herds move north in search of greener pastures.
These months mark the beginning of the journey north, during which the wildebeest and other animals start migrating towards the Western Corridor. Their primary goal is to reach the lush grasslands of the northern Serengeti where they await the next heavy rainfall. This movement is prompted by a desperate quest for survival, as these hardy creatures battle it out against both the elements and the ever-present predators.
In June, a significant spectacle occurs as these vast herds attempt their first major river crossing at the Grumeti River. This challenging obstacle tests the mettle and determination of these animals in their pursuit of sustenance. It is during this time that the migration hits its zenith, offering viewers a spectacle of wildlife drama that’s unmatched.
We remain captivated by this remarkable journey, full of gripping suspense and awe-inspiring valor. If you’re seeking a heart-pounding safari experience, June offers a grand cinematic spectacle of nature in its most primal form. Nevertheless, traveling in any of these months should gift you with memorable sightings as you witness the resilience and majesty of these animals on their arduous annual trek.
Remember, the Great Migration offers different experiences at different times of the year. Whether it’s a river crossing or merely observing their daily rituals and interactions, there’s always something unique waiting for you. Ready to start packing?
July to September: River Crossings and Predatory Challenges
When the calendar flips to July, the sheer scale and audacity of the Great Migration fully blossoms in Tanzania’s untamed beauty. This phase of the migration, taking place from July through September, is perhaps one of the most iconic and memorable periods for those fortunate enough to witness the spectacle. This time, often dubbed the “Crossing,” is characterized by the infamous river crossings—a time of struggle, triumph, and sometimes tragic loss.
The enormous herds, led by wildebeest and zebras, negotiate the treacherous waters of the Mara River as they transition from the northern expanses of the Serengeti into the verdant plains of Kenya’s Maasai Mara Game Reserve. It’s a sight with a magnitude that brings out a rush of emotions, as thousands of wildebeest plunge into the waters, creating a chaotic blend of noise, dust, and the raw essence of survival.
The river crossings don’t just offer a magnificent spectacle for visitors to enjoy, they also provide a golden window of opportunity for predators. The perilous crossing of the Mara River, replete with lurking crocodiles and fast currents, unfolds before visitors’ eyes. The river’s threat does not hold back the powerful instinct to migrate, leading the wildebeest to take the harrowing journey, their clattering hooves echoing around the vast landscape. The scene is one of stark contrast, with life and death playing out in a dramatic representation of nature’s cycle.
A tip for visitors: book your safari in advance during this peak period. The drama of the river crossings attracts spectators from around the globe. Witnessing this breathtaking event—a symbolic struggle between survival and death—is truly one of the most unforgettable experiences of the Migration. Plan wisely to ensure you secure the best spot to observe this natural spectacle that perfectly encapsulates the unedited, raw, and incredibly riveting Great Migration.
October to December: The Journey Back Home
As the year winds down, from October to December, the wildebeest start their journey back home. This is an insatiable drive ingrained in their instincts, a cycle they’ve been following for thousands of years. You might wonder, where is home for these magnificent creatures? We’re talking about the lush, nutrient-rich plains of the Serengeti in Tanzania.
This phase of the Great Migration, often called ‘Coming Full Circle,’ is marked by the wildebeest making their daring river crossings back over Mara River. Just as in the journey outwards, these river crossings present one of the most spectacular, heart-stopping scenes this migration has to offer. The thunderous hooves, the swirling currents and the lurking crocodiles create a drama unlike any other.
The grand climax of this phase arrives by December as the endless herds flood back into the Serengeti plains. The sight of the Serengeti blanketed by these iconic animals against the backdrop of the setting sun is a view worth waiting for.
Besides the thrill of the adventure, visiting during this quarter holds another advantage. With fewer tourists around this time of year, you can enjoy a more exclusive and personal experience. The vast landscapes coloured by wildebeests, and the sky painted a fiery orange by the setting sun, all to yourself. What could be more compelling?
So, if you seek the solitude of nature and the raw, untouched drama of survival at its finest, consider visiting during these last months of the year when the Great Migration comes full circle. Witnessing this miraculous finale to the year-long circuit, caught in the age-old cycle of life, death and renewal, would indeed be an unforgettable experience.
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Best Great Migration Viewing Locations in Tanzania
One location presenting an ideal viewing spot during the Great Migration is ‘Serengeti Under Canvas’. This luxurious camp moves around the Serengeti throughout the year, ensuring that you’re positioned in the best possible location to witness the migration. Whether it’s witnessing the thunderous hooves of thousands of wildebeest during July’s river crossings or the fascinating calving season in early months of the year, ‘Serengeti Under Canvas’ offers you a front-row seat to the greatest show on earth.
Another noteworthy location is the ‘Serengeti Bushtops‘, a year-round haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Capture the spectacle of the Great Migration within easy reach of your luxurious tented accommodations. Enjoy the drama of predators and their prey engaged in the age-old dance of survival, an enticing experience at any time of the year.
For those desiring an aerial perspective, small private aircraft can provide an unanticipated perspective. From the lofty heights, you are able to locate the herd and trail their movements in a way that’s simply not possible from the ground. Furthermore, the pilot takes you to a secluded area for a serene picnic lunch, away from the crowds and closer to the breathtaking wilderness. holds in store.
To sum up, different times of the year offer different experiences, each mesmerizingly unique. Tanzania, with its diverse locations, offers spectacular viewing spots to experience the Great Migration. It’s about choosing the right time and the perfect spot to immerse yourself in this captivating wildlife spectacle.
In terms of timing, if you are planning to visit in September, Kenya’s Masai Mara Nature Reserve is at its peak. The migration reaches this natural haven during this time, providing unparalleled viewing opportunities. They depart from Tanzania, summoning the courage to cross the roaring Mara River, a spectacle worth witnessing. Both Kenya and Tanzania offer spectacular and rewarding experiences for safaris.
For those visiting in November, a journey to the central Serengeti can be magical. The Great Migration has special events unfolding throughout the year, making every month an excellent time to witness this world wonder. Please refer to the Monthly Timetable Guide for a comprehensive understanding of what each month.
| Month | Great Migration Events | Location | Recommended Lodging |
|---|---|---|---|
| January – March | Birthing season, lush grazing | Southern Serengeti, Ndutu | Dunia Camp or Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge |
| April – June | Migration peak, grazing towards North | Central Serengeti | Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge |
| July – August | River crossing into Kenya | Northern Serengeti | Any camp/lodge in the vicinity |
| September | Feeding in Kenya | Masai Mara, Kenya | Any lodge in Masai Mara National Reserve |
| October – December | Migration back to Serengeti | Seronera, Mara | Any Tanzania-based camp/lodge |
Safety Measures for the Best Migration Experience
No journey into the wild is complete without putting safety first. Being part of the Great Migration phenomenon is no exception. Here, you are in the heart of the animal kingdom; the rules of nature apply here. Let’s go through some important tips to ensure an exciting yet safe Tanzanian adventure.
Always listen to your guides and follow park rules. These rules aren’t just there for the sake of your own safety but also for the wellbeing of the animal population and the preservation of their natural habitat. There are times when the action might unexpectedly get close to your camp or vehicle. In such instances, it’s crucial not to panic or make sudden movements, as this can startle the animals and cause an unpredictable reaction.
Also, remember to pack thoughtfully. The weather can change rapidly in Africa, and depending on the season of your visit, you may encounter heavy downpours or searing temperatures. Essentials like a raincoat, sunblock, hat, and water bottle can help you fend off the elements.
Additionally, while capturing stunning shots of the Great Migration is a must, always keep a safe distance from the wildlife. Using a telephoto lens could keep you out of harm’s way while delivering the dramatic close-ups you’re after.
Above all else, remember the essence of this unique journey is to witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles with respect for the land and its inhabitants. When done right, you’ll certainly have an unforgettable and secure adventure under the African sun.
