There are some moments in nature that stop you in your tracks, and the Great Migration is one of them. Every year, millions of wildebeest, along with huge herds of zebra and gazelle, move across the Serengeti in a cycle that has continued for centuries. Watching this river of life stretch across the plains is something that stays with you long after you've left Africa.
During the journey you might even encounter majestic elephant families sharing the same grasslands.
a Wildebeest Migration captured in the Serengeti, Tanzania.
Published on January 27, 2020 using a Canon EOS REBEL T2i.
Photo by Dawn Westveld on Unsplash
A Story Written by Nature
The Great Migration isn't just an annual event—it's a living, breathing story of survival. Over 1.5 million wildebeest follow the rains, travelling from Tanzania's Serengeti to Kenya's Maasai Mara and back again. No fences, no borders—just instinct guiding them over hundreds of kilometres.
What makes it so extraordinary is the scale. When the herds begin to move, the ground almost seems to vibrate. Dust rises, predators follow closely, and the entire landscape shifts with the rhythm of thousands of hooves.
The Journey Through the Year
January – March: New Life in the Serengeti
The year begins with calving season in the southern Serengeti. Within a few short weeks, hundreds of thousands of calves are born. It's a beautiful and chaotic time—tiny wildebeest standing on wobbly legs while lions, hyenas, and cheetahs circle the area.
April – June: Moving Toward the West
As the rains fade, the herds start drifting northwest. The plains turn green, and the animals move together in long, wavering lines that stretch across the horizon. It's one of the best times to see the migration spread out over the landscape.
July – September: The Legendary River Crossings
This is the moment most travellers dream about. The river crossings at the Grumeti and Mara Rivers are raw and emotional—thousands of animals gathering at the banks, hesitating, then plunging forward in a dramatic rush. Crocodiles wait beneath the surface, and the currents are strong. It's intense, unpredictable, and unforgettable.
October – December: Returning Home
After grazing in the Maasai Mara, the herds make their way back to the Serengeti. By the end of the year, they're once again heading south, completing the circle and preparing for the next season of birth and renewal.
Why Travellers Call It a "Once-in-a-Lifetime" Journey
You aren't just observing wildlife—you're witnessing a natural phenomenon that feels almost ancient.
- The scenery is breathtaking: golden grasslands, acacia trees, endless skies.
- Every moment is unpredictable. No two migrations look the same.
- Photographers often describe it as the most rewarding (and challenging) event they've ever captured.
Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or simply someone who loves meaningful travel experiences, the Migration connects you to nature in a way few other journeys can.
Planning to See the Migration? Here Are Some Tips
- For the famous river crossings, July to October is your best window.
- If you want to see newborn calves, visit between January and March.
- Book early—safari camps fill up months in advance.
- Bring binoculars and a good zoom lens if you enjoy photography.
- A guided safari makes a big difference, especially for tracking the herds.
Final Thoughts
The Great Migration is not just a bucket-list item—it's a moment that reshapes the way you see the natural world. Standing on the Serengeti plains, watching thousands of animals move with purpose and instinct, reminds you how powerful and delicate life can be.
If you've ever dreamed of witnessing something truly extraordinary, the Great Migration is your invitation.