Masai Mara Great Migration: Calendar, River Crossings and Where to Stay

The Great Migration is a circular movement of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles between Tanzania's Serengeti and Kenya's Masai Mara, driven by rain and fresh grass. Herds usually arrive in the Mara between July and September, where they face the Mara River, crocodiles and predators on the way to fresh grazing.

River crossings are not scheduled. Herds gather at the bank, hesitate, retreat and sometimes cross in a rush that lasts minutes. Patience matters, and the timing varies each year with the rains, so no operator can promise a crossing on a particular day. See the Serengeti calendar for the Tanzanian side.

This guide is part of our East Africa travel guides. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

How the Crossings Work

Herds assemble on the riverbank for hours or days. Scouts test the water, and once a few animals commit, the group follows. Vehicles position at known crossing points and wait quietly. Guides follow the movement of the herds each morning to decide where to wait.

Planning Around Timing

Stay at least three nights, preferably four, to give yourself several days to witness crossings. Early July to late September is the most reliable period, but herds may arrive earlier or leave later depending on rainfall. Camps close to the river reduce driving time.

What Else You Will See

Even without a crossing, the Mara's plains hold lions, cheetahs, elephants and giraffes year-round. Read Masai Mara big cats and conservancies explained before you choose where to stay.

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Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team