Serengeti Great Migration Calendar by Month: Calving, Crossings and Where the Herds Are

About a million and a half wildebeest, together with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, move through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in a loop that follows rain and fresh grass. There is no single start or end, and the herds are never in exactly the same place in the same week of different years.

As a rough guide, the herds calve on the southern short-grass plains from January to March, move north and west from April to June, reach the northern Serengeti and the Mara River between July and October, and return south from November. See the Masai Mara side for the Kenyan part of the loop.

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.

January to March: Calving on the Southern Plains

Tens of thousands of calves are born within a few weeks, often in the same fortnight in February. The newborns attract lions, hyenas and cheetahs, so predator action is high. The Ndutu area is the usual base, and it is outside the national park in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

April to June: The Move North

As the rains arrive, the herds stream north-west towards the Western Corridor. Long columns, rutting activity and the crossing of the Grumeti River can be seen in some years. Rain makes roads slower and lodge rates lower.

July to October: The Northern Serengeti

The herds gather at the Mara River, and crossings occur on both the Tanzanian and Kenyan banks. Stay in the Lamai or Kogatende areas for the shortest drives to the river. Read the Serengeti regions guide to choose a base.

November and December: The Return South

Short rains bring herds back to the southern plains, and the cycle starts again. Wildlife viewing is quieter and good value, and the plains turn green. See the best time to visit Tanzania for wider planning.

Adding Tanzania to a Uganda safari? Tell us your dates and we will arrange one itinerary with flights, transfers and lodges for both countries.

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