With close to 2 million wildebeest on the move, along with thousands of zebras, the annual migration is a spectacular wildlife movement that takes place throughout the year. Most visitors are familiar with the “Great Migration”, which takes place in both Tanzania and Kenya, at the Mara River, where the herds cross every year, to follow the rain and to seek for food. However, for the rest of the year, as the migrating herd move from the Mara River back to Central Serengeti and down to the Southern plains, each season marks an unique pattern, a different landscape, and all kinds of thrilling action.
The Great Migration
Migration Cycle
JANUARY
Temperature
high: 27°C/81°F
low: 17°C/63°F
The migration reaches Serengeti’s short grass plains, Ndutu.
FEBRUARY
Temperature
high: 26°C/79°F
low: 16°C/61°F
Enormous herds of wildebeest and zebra congregate on the plains after the first rains. It is now calving season.
MARCH
Temperature
high: 26°C/79°F
low: 15°C/59°F
The migration reaches Serengeti’s short grass plains, Ndutu.
APRIL
Temperature
high: 27°C/81°F
low: 17°C/63°F
Migration shifts to Moru Kopjes and Seronera areas. Rain season begins.
MAY
Temperature
high: 26°C/79°F
low: 16°C/61°F
Parts of the migration head through the Western Corridor before proceeding north, others simply filter north via Seronera channel.
JUNE
Temperature
high: 26°C/79°F
low: 15°C/59°F
The migration crosses Grumeti River, facing hungry crocodiles – an annual feast for the giant Nile crocodiles.
JULY
Temperature
high: 27°C/81°F
low: 17°C/63°F
The migration continues Northwards through Grumeti Reserve, Ikorongo Controlled Area and Lobo.
AUGUST
Temperature
high: 26°C/79°F
low: 16°C/61°F
The dry season is well under way and the herds congregate near the Mara River.
SEPTEMBER
Temperature
high: 27°C/81°F
low: 17°C/63°F
The wildebeests and zebras endeavor the most difficult part of their migration journey, crossing the river and over to Masai Mara.
OCTOBER
Temperature
high: 27°C/81°F
low: 17°C/63°F
By mid to late October, the herds sense the upcoming arrival of the short rain and its journey Southward.
NOVEMBER
Temperature
high: 26°C/79°F
low: 16°C/61°F
Short rains have begun and all are heading South, through Western Loliondo, the Lobo and Seronera areas.
DECEMBER
Temperature
high: 26°C/79°F
low: 15°C/59°F
Short-grass plains are rejuvenated and migration returns for fresh grazing and preparing for the calving season.