Migration Safari Tour

Witness the Mara River Crossing

One of the most famous moments of the migration is the Mara River crossing.

When the herds reach the northern Serengeti, thousands of wildebeest and zebra may gather near the river before attempting to cross. The crossing can be unpredictable. Animals may wait for hours or days before moving, and when they finally begin, the scene can become incredibly dramatic.

The river itself presents another challenge, with strong currents, steep banks, and Nile crocodiles waiting in the water.

A Mara River crossing safari requires patience and careful planning. There is no guarantee of a crossing on a particular day, which is precisely what makes witnessing one a genuine wildlife experience rather than a scheduled show.

The Calving Season

The migration is not only about river crossings.

Early in the year, the herds gather in the southern Serengeti and surrounding areas for the calving season. Thousands of wildebeest calves are born within a relatively short period, creating one of the most fascinating periods of the migration cycle.

The abundance of young animals also attracts predators. Lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and other predators take advantage of the large concentration of vulnerable newborns.

For photographers and wildlife enthusiasts, the calving season offers exceptional opportunities to observe animal behaviour and predator-prey interactions.

Follow the Herds Through the Serengeti

A migration safari is about understanding where the herds are likely to be rather than simply visiting the Serengeti and hoping to find them.

At Get Adventure Safari, we consider the seasonal movement of the herds when planning your itinerary. Depending on your travel period, your safari may focus on the southern Serengeti, central Serengeti, western areas, or northern Serengeti.

This seasonal approach helps maximize your opportunities to experience the migration while also allowing time to explore the Serengeti’s resident wildlife.

More Than Wildebeest

Although the wildebeest are the stars of the migration, they are only part of the experience.

The Serengeti supports an incredible variety of wildlife throughout the year. During your migration safari, you may encounter elephants, giraffes, buffalo, hippos, antelopes, baboons, warthogs, and many species of birds.

The movement of the herds also attracts predators. Lions, cheetahs, leopards and hyenas are frequently associated with the migration, creating opportunities to observe some of Africa’s most fascinating wildlife interactions.

Private Migration Safaris

A private safari gives you greater flexibility to experience the migration at your own pace.

You can travel with your own safari vehicle and professional guide, allowing you to spend more time at interesting wildlife sightings, adjust your daily schedule, and avoid feeling restricted by a fixed group itinerary.

Our safari team can also help you select accommodation based on your preferred travel style, from comfortable tented camps and lodges to premium and luxury properties.

When Is the Best Time for a Migration Safari?

The best time depends on which part of the migration you want to experience.

• January–March: Excellent period for the calving season in the southern Serengeti.
• April–May: The herds begin moving as the seasonal rains influence their route.
• June–July: The migration progresses toward the western and northern Serengeti, with river-crossing opportunities becoming increasingly relevant.
• August–October: The northern Serengeti and Mara River can offer opportunities to witness dramatic crossings.
• November–December: The herds begin moving south again as the short rains arrive.

These are general patterns rather than fixed schedules. The exact location of the animals depends on rainfall and grazing conditions.

Plan Your Great Migration Safari

Seeing the Great Migration is an experience that requires more than simply booking a trip to the Serengeti. Timing, location, accommodation, route planning, and flexibility can all influence your experience.

Whether you want to witness the calving season, follow the herds across the Serengeti, experience the excitement of the Mara River, or combine the migration with Ngorongoro Crater and other northern Tanzania destinations, Get Adventure Safari can create an itinerary around your goals.