“Serengeti” comes from the Maasai word “Siringet,” meaning endless plains — a perfect description of the vast savannah landscape that defines this iconic Tanzanian national park. Serengeti is the largest national park in Tanzania and is divided into four main sectors:
- Ndutu Sector (Southern Serengeti)
- Seronera Sector (Central Serengeti)
- Togoro/Grumeti Sector (Northwest Serengeti)
- Kogatende Sector (Northern Serengeti)
Each sector plays a crucial role in the Great Wildebeest Migration, a year-round movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest accompanied by zebras and gazelles.
While it is impossible to predict the exact location of the herds on a specific date, one important fact remains constant:
The migration follows the rain and the growth of fresh pasture.
Understanding the seasonal movement of the herds will help you choose the best time and sector to visit depending on what you want to experience. You can also plan your camping safari in Mikumi for a less crowdes experience
1. Ndutu Sector (Southern Serengeti)
Best time: January – March (Calving Season)
The migration story begins in the southern Serengeti and Ndutu Conservation Area.
Between January and March, more than 8,000 wildebeest calves are born every day during the peak calving period. This is one of the most dramatic wildlife spectacles in Africa.
Why Visit During Calving Season?
- Witness thousands of newborn wildebeest
- High predator activity (lion, cheetah, leopard, hyena)
- Intense predator-prey interactions
- Excellent photographic opportunities
- Fewer crowds compared to peak river-crossing months
Big cats take advantage of the abundance of vulnerable calves, teaching their young how to hunt. Zebras also give birth around this time, adding to the wildlife drama.
If you want to see:
- Newborn animals
- Hunting action
- Massive concentrations of wildlife
Ndutu between January and March is the best choice.
2. Seronera Sector (Central Serengeti)
Best time: April – May (Green Season)
Good all year round
Central Serengeti is the heart of the park and offers excellent wildlife viewing throughout the year.
Between April and May, the herds begin moving northward as fresh grass grows after the rains. Wildebeest, zebras, antelopes, and predators fill the Seronera plains.
Why Visit During April–May?
- Fewer tourists
- Lower accommodation rates
- Lush green landscapes
- Excellent birdwatching (including migratory birds from Europe and Asia)
- Dramatic skies for photography
Although it is the rainy season and roads may be muddy, experienced local guides manage conditions well. This period offers a quieter, more intimate safari experience.
If you want:
- Fewer crowds
- Budget-friendly travel
- Beautiful green scenery
Central Serengeti in April–May is ideal.
3. Togoro / Grumeti Sector (Northwest Serengeti)
Best time: June (Grumeti River Crossing)
By June, the herds reach the northwestern Serengeti near the Grumeti River.
Here, the wildebeest face one of their first major challenges:
Crossing crocodile-infested waters.
Why Visit in June?
- Dramatic river crossings at Grumeti River
- Giant Nile crocodiles hunting
- Rolling hills and scenic landscapes
- Fewer vehicles than in the Mara River area
June marks the beginning of Tanzania’s peak safari season, so early booking is recommended.
If your interest is:
- Witnessing river crossings
- Seeing crocodile attacks
- Exploring less crowded landscapes
Northwest Serengeti in June is perfect.
4. Kogatende Sector (Northern Serengeti)
Best time: July – October (Mara River Crossings)
The northern Serengeti is famous for the legendary Mara River crossings, often considered the highlight of the entire migration.
This region stretches approximately 55 miles north from Seronera to the Masai Mara in Kenya.
Migration Pattern in the North:
- June–July: First crossings from Tanzania to Kenya
- August–September: Herds remain in Masai Mara
- October–November: Return crossings back into Serengeti
Crossings happen in phases and depend on rainfall patterns.
Why Visit Kogatende?
- Spectacular Mara River crossings
- High predator concentration
- Beautiful rolling hills and granite outcrops
- Large elephant populations
- Classic Serengeti scenery
This is peak safari season — early reservations are essential.
If you want:
- The most dramatic river crossings
- Peak migration action
- Classic safari drama
Northern Serengeti (July–October) is the ultimate destination.
Summary of Migration Flow Throughout the Year
MonthsSectorMigration StageJan – MarNdutu (South)Calving seasonApr – MayCentral SerengetiMoving north, green seasonJuneNorthwest (Grumeti)First river crossingsJuly – OctNorthern SerengetiMara River crossingsOct – DecMoving southReturn journey
When Should You Visit?
It depends on what you want to see:
- Newborns & predator action? → January–March (Ndutu)
- Green landscapes & fewer crowds? → April–May (Central)
- Grumeti River crossings? → June (Northwest)
- Mara River drama? → July–October (North)
The Great Wildebeest Migration is a year-round event — understanding its seasonal phases is key to planning the perfect Serengeti safari. You can also opt to combine your Serengeti safari with Tanzania southern safari experience