See the Great Migration is one of the most awe-inspiring wildlife spectacles in the world. Each year, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move in search of greener pastures, traversing the vast Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. Planning a safari around the Great Migration is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that every wildlife enthusiast should witness. In this 2025 African Safaris guide, we’ll highlight the best times and locations to see the migration, tips for an unforgettable adventure, and everything you need to know to make the most of your safari.
See the Great Migration : What Is the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is an annual movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, as they follow the rains through the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya. This journey, driven by the search for fresh grazing and water, is one of the greatest natural events on Earth.
Why Is It So Special?
- Dramatic river crossings: Witness herds braving crocodile-infested waters as they cross the Mara River.
- Predator encounters: Lions, leopards, cheetahs, and crocodiles follow the herds, offering thrilling game viewing.
- Diverse landscapes: The migration takes place across iconic savannas, rivers, and plains in Tanzania and Kenya.
Learn more about the Great Migration.
See the Great Migration : Best Places to See the Great Migration in 2025
The Great Migration is a continuous cycle, and different stages of the migration offer unique viewing experiences depending on the time of year. From the calving season in the southern Serengeti to the dramatic river crossings in the Maasai Mara, here are the best locations for your 2025 African safari.
Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)
The Serengeti is the starting point for the migration, where herds gather on the short-grass plains during the calving season. This part of the journey is known for the dramatic birth of thousands of calves and the resulting predator activity.
- Best time: January to March (calving season) and June to July (Grumeti River crossings).
- Top experiences: Witnessing new life on the plains and following lions and cheetahs on the hunt.
Discover more about safaris in the Serengeti.
Maasai Mara National Reserve (Kenya)
The Maasai Mara is renowned for the river crossings that take place from July to September when the herds move northward from the Serengeti. Watching thousands of wildebeest cross the Mara River, dodging waiting crocodiles, is one of the most dramatic sights in nature.
- Best time: July to September (Mara River crossings).
- Top experiences: Game drives along the Mara River, hot air balloon safaris.
Learn more about safaris in the Maasai Mara.
Grumeti Reserve (Tanzania)
In the western Serengeti, the herds face another perilous river crossing at the Grumeti River. Fewer tourists visit this region compared to the central Serengeti or Maasai Mara, making it ideal for those looking for a quieter experience.
- Best time: June to July (Grumeti River crossings).
- Top experiences: Private game drives and intimate lodges along the river.
Find out more about Grumeti Reserve safaris.
See the Great Migration : Great Migration Safari Calendar for 2025
Timing your safari around the different stages of the Great Migration is crucial. Below is a guide to the best months to visit each key location in 2025.
| Month | Location | Migration Stage |
|---|---|---|
| January-March | Southern Serengeti | Calving season |
| April-May | Central Serengeti | Herds moving north, green season |
| June-July | Western Serengeti, Grumeti | Grumeti River crossings |
| July-September | Maasai Mara | Mara River crossings |
| October-November | Serengeti (north to central) | Herds return south |
Explore more migration calendar details.
See the Great Migration : What to Expect on a Great Migration Safari
A Great Migration safari offers diverse wildlife encounters and dramatic scenery, but it also requires planning to get the best experience. Whether you’re in the Serengeti or the Maasai Mara, here’s what you can expect during your 2025 safari.
Wildlife Encounters
The migration attracts predators like lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas, making it a prime time for witnessing predator-prey interactions. In addition, you’ll see large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, as well as other wildlife like giraffes, elephants, and hippos.
- Predators: Lions, cheetahs, leopards, crocodiles.
- Other species: Giraffes, elephants, birds, and more.
Discover more about predator sightings during the Great Migration.
Accommodation Options
Both Tanzania and Kenya offer a wide range of accommodation options during the migration, from luxury lodges to mobile tented camps that move with the herds. Whether you’re looking for a secluded lodge in the Serengeti or a mobile camp near the Mara River, there’s something for every traveler.
- Luxury lodges: Four Seasons Serengeti, Sayari Camp (Serengeti), Angama Mara (Maasai Mara).
- Mobile camps: Serengeti Under Canvas, Alex Walker’s Serian Camps.
Learn more about luxury lodges and camps for the Great Migration.
See the Great Migration : The Best Time to Go on Safari in 2025
The dry season (June to October) is the best time to witness the Great Migration, especially for the Mara River crossings. The dry conditions drive animals towards the rivers, creating dramatic scenes as they navigate crocodile-infested waters. The green season (November to May), on the other hand, offers fewer tourists, vibrant landscapes, and the chance to see newborn calves during the calving season.
Dry Season (June to October)
- Best for: River crossings, predator action, and comfortable weather.
- Challenges: Higher prices and more tourists.
Green Season (November to May)
- Best for: Calving season, birdwatching, lush scenery, and lower prices.
- Challenges: Occasional rain and muddy roads.
Find out more about the best time for safaris in 2025.
See the Great Migration : How to Plan Your 2025 Great Migration Safari
Planning a Great Migration safari requires careful thought and preparation, especially when it comes to choosing the right time, location, and safari operator. Booking early is essential, as lodges and camps during the migration season fill up fast.
Key Tips:
- Book early: Secure your spot at key locations like the Serengeti and Maasai Mara, especially during the peak months.
- Consider a mobile camp: Mobile camps move with the herds, ensuring you’re in the right place at the right time.
- Use a reputable safari operator: Working with experienced guides ensures you have the best game drives and wildlife encounters.
Start planning your safari with expert operators.
See the Great Migration : Top Safari Packages for the Great Migration
When booking a 2025 Great Migration safari, consider packages that are tailored to the migration’s movements. Many safari operators offer itineraries that follow the herds across Tanzania and Kenya, ensuring you don’t miss key moments of the migration.
7-Day Serengeti and Maasai Mara Safari
This package takes you through both the Serengeti and the Maasai Mara, offering the chance to witness river crossings, predator-prey interactions, and more. It’s perfect for travelers looking to experience the best of the Great Migration in both countries.
- Duration: 7 days
- Highlights: Serengeti, Mara River crossings, luxury lodges.
Learn more about 7-day Great Migration safaris.
See the Great Migration : Plan Your Great Migration Safari with Experts
Planning a successful Great Migration safari requires in-depth knowledge of the migration patterns and the best locations for wildlife viewing. Eddy Tours & Safaris specializes in Great Migration safaris, offering personalized itineraries that cater to your interests and ensure you’re in the right place at the right time.
For those interested in combining their migration safari with a Mount Kilimanjaro climb, Kilimanjaro Climb Specialist offers adventure packages that let you experience the best of Tanzania’s landscapes in one trip.
Start planning your dream Great Migration safari.
See the Great Migration : Conclusion
See the Great Migration is a bucket-list experience that offers dramatic wildlife viewing and incredible scenery. Whether you’re following the herds through the Serengeti or watching the river crossings in the Maasai Mara, the migration is a spectacle you’ll never forget. For an expertly planned safari, work with experienced operators like Eddy Tours & Safaris or check out adventure packages from Kilimanjaro Climb Specialist.