Great migration
The great migration in Tanzania: Witness one of nature's most spectacular events
The Great Migration is one of the most awe-inspiring natural events on the planet, drawing travelers from across the world to witness its sheer magnitude and drama. At Suricata Safaris, we offer expertly guided tours that take you to the heart of this incredible phenomenon, allowing you to experience it up close in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
The Great Migration, often referred to as the “Greatest Show on Earth, ” is a remarkable annual journey where over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles travel thousands of kilometers across the Serengeti and Masai Maraecosystems in search of fresh grazing lands and water sources. Along the way, they face numerous challenges, from crossing crocodile-infested rivers to evading predators that are eager to take advantage of the vulnerable herds.
In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the Great Migration and how to experience it with Suricata Safaris for an unforgettable adventure.
What is the great migration?
The Great Migration is not a single event but a continuous journey, driven by the search for food and water. It involves a massive herd of herbivores, primarily wildebeest, with zebras and Thomson’s gazelles tagging along for the journey. The migration is a circular path that takes the animals from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to the Masai Marain Kenya, and back again. It is one of the longest and most dramatic migrations on earth, stretching over 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers). Throughout the year, the migration moves in cycles, with different stages of the journey offering unique wildlife experiences. From births to predator-prey encounters, this annual phenomenon is full of surprises at every turn.
Best time to witness the great migration in Tanzania
While the Great Migration occurs year-round, there are specific periods when the action is at its peak in Tanzania. Understanding the timing of the migration and where to be at the right moment is crucial to making the most of your safari experience.
The Wet Season (November to April): The Calving Season
- When to Visit: January to February is the best time to witness the calving season in Tanzania.
- What to Expect: This is when the herds congregate in the Serengeti’s southern plains, giving birth to thousands of calves. The sight of newborn wildebeest is a powerful one, and the area becomes a prime location for predators, including lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, who are drawn to the easy prey.
- Why Visit Now: The lush green landscape and abundant food make this an ideal time for the herds to breed and raise their young. You’ll witness intense predator-prey action as the young calves face the challenges of survival in the wild.
The Dry Season (June to October): The River Crossings and Predator Encounters
- When to Visit: June to September is considered the prime time to witness the most dramatic part of the migration—the river crossings.
- What to Expect: As the dry season progresses, the herds begin their movement towards the north, crossing the Grumeti River and, later, the Mara River. These river crossings are often dramatic, with herds of wildebeest bravely plunging into the waters, where they are often pursued by hungry crocodiles and predators waiting on the other side.
- Why Visit Now: This is the most famous time to witness the Great Migration, as the sheer spectacle of the river crossings, combined with predators in hot pursuit, creates some of the most memorable safari experiences in the world.
The Shoulder Seasons (May and November)
- When to Visit: May and November are considered the shoulder months for the Great Migration.
- What to Expect: The landscapes are lush and green during these periods, and while the crowds are fewer, you can still catch the migration in its early or late stages. In May, the herds are typically in the central Serengeti, while in November, they start their journey back south from the Masai Mara.
- Why Visit Now: These months provide a quieter experience in the parks, with fewer tourists, making it a great option for those looking for a more intimate safari experience.
Where to see the great migration in Tanzania
The Serengeti National Park is the epicenter of the Great Migration, but other key areas along the migration route also offer incredible opportunities to witness the spectacle.
1. Serengeti National Park: The Heart of the Migration
The Serengeti is synonymous with the Great Migration. This vast, open plain is where the majority of the action takes place. You’ll find the herds in different parts of the park depending on the season:
- Southern Serengeti (November to March): The calving grounds, where thousands of baby wildebeest are born.
- Central Serengeti (April to June): The herds begin their northward migration.
- Western Serengeti (July to September): River crossings and predator-prey drama unfold along the Grumeti River.
- Northern Serengeti (July to October): The herds cross into the Masai Mara via the Mara River, where dramatic crossings take place.
2. Ngorongoro Crater: A Prime Viewing Spot Although not directly on the migration route, Ngorongoro Crater is an excellent location for wildlife viewing year-round. It’s particularly good for seeing the Big Five, and during the migration, you can spot herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles as they make their way to and from the Serengeti.
3. Masai Mara (Kenya)
Though technically in Kenya, the Masai Mara is an extension of the Serengeti ecosystem, and many of the same herds make their way northward in the dry season. The river crossings here, particularly the Mara River, are some of the most famous wildlife moments in the world.
Experiencie the great migration with Suricata Safaris
At Suricata Safaris, we specialize in curating unforgettable safari experiences that place you right in the heart of the Great
Migration. Our expert guides are passionate about Tanzania’s wildlife and will ensure that you are in the best locations at the best
times to witness this extraordinary event.
- Tailored Itineraries: We offer customized safaris that can be designed around your specific interests, whether you’re focused on the migration or would like to combine it with visits to other wildlife hotspots like Ngorongoro Crater or Tarangire.
- Luxury & Comfort: Whether you prefer staying in luxurious lodge accommodations or more immersive tented camps, we offer a range of options to suit your style and budget.
- Exclusive Safari Experiences: With our knowledge of the migration patterns and the best viewing spots, we ensure that your
safari is both immersive and unforgettable.