A guide to the best months to visit the continent of Africa to view The Great Migration. Reteti Adventure Safaris Kenya’s energetic capital Nairobi makes an excellent base for adventures into the Maasai Mara, Serengeti, and other incredible places in Kenya and Tanzania. The best of both worlds, Nairobi is alive and well, and you’ll get the urban feel with the quick access to the wild outside your door.
Why is the Migration a year-round trip?
It is not just one migration that occurs over a couple of weeks. A cycle that is constantly repeated as a result of rain, new grass and the movement of huge herds throughout the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.
The exact timing may vary from year to year, and each month should be considered as a possible guideline, not a definite date.
Each month, where are the herds?
In the southern Serengeti, January – February is New Life.
- The southern Serengeti & Ndutu plains where the herds get together.
- Calving season is responsible for the millions of wildebeest that are being born.
- Lions, cheetahs and hyenas are extremely active.
- Great months for those who are interested in the behaviour of wildlife or in taking photographs.
In March – April, you should move towards fresh grazing.
- The young members grow stronger and the herds slowly start to migrate north and west.
- Great calving and predator viewing is possible in March.
- April is the long rainy season and greening time.
- Wildlife is still good to see, but may be wetter.
The Journey Continues, May-June.
- The herds move on through the central and western Serengeti.
- New plants promote more activity.
- June can be a peaceful safari month, prior to the rush of peak season.
- The Western Corridor could offer chances to witness the migration on its journey north.
July-August: Towards the Maasai Mara
- The herds begin their migration northwards towards Kenya and into northern Serengeti.
- The first activity for crossing the river can commence.
- One of the best months for safaris for migrating animals is July and August.
- The Maasai Mara becomes a hotspot for those wishing to see the show.
The month of September is the peak Mara experience with the month of October following.
- Big herds are allowed to cross the Maasai Mara.
- Crossing rivers is permitted, but no specific crossing can be ensured.
- In general the weather is excellent for observing wildlife in dry conditions.
- October may be when herds start their slow migration southward.
November – December: The Return South
- Green vegetation is brought by short rains.
- Gradually, the herds are moving back to Tanzania.
- The major Mara season is over and so are the animals yet there are still lots of wildlife.
- December can be an amazing time for games and beautiful scenery.
Why Choose Reteti Adventure Safaris?
The selection of the safari company is important as migration is dictated by nature and not a set calendar. We are here to assist you in planning around the season, and also to construct an itinerary that is of interest to you.
In Reteti Adventure Safaris you can enjoy:
- Knowledgeable safari experts from Kenya and Tanzania, who know the destinations.
- Customised tours to suit your requirements and budget.
- Safaris in Kenya and Tanzania are available in a range of styles.
- Comfortable and immersive lodging and camp selections.
- Well-trained safari driver-guides for certain safari routes.
- 24-hour support every step of the way.
- Access to private tours like Maasai Mara tours, Serengeti tours and Ngorongoro tours.
- Our tours are much more than the wildlife lists on this Masai Mara information guide for travel in Kenya.
We strive to plan for a perfect tour trip that the travellers will remember for a lifetime when adventuring the natural settings and the way of life in East Africa.
What month is the better month for your visit?
The appropriate period depends on your activities that you are wishing to carry out.
Favored time for calving and predators:
- January–March: More green vegetation and less noise in the safaris
- April-June , more green landscapes and less noise in the safaris.
- River-crossing possibilities: July–October
- A fresh landscape and less crowded during the peak season: November – December
On water crossings, July–October is the best time, and August–September is frequently deemed peak months. However, being prepared for the rain will alter the timing so flexibility is key.
Remember, plan around the experience, and not necessarily the dates.
Great Migration changes and evolves and that is the awesome thing about it. Rather than be left wondering if you’ll see one particular moment you prefer, select a season that is ideal for the experience you desire – newborns, predator action, constant migration of herds, or dramatic river crossings.
Every season can be a part of a memorable East African travels with a well-planned and correct route.
