Have you heard about the Great Migration, but are not sure when or where you’ll actually see it? Let’s break down how Tanzania’s dry season is the Best Season To Visit Tanzania.
Discover when and where to see the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration during the dry season. Get tips, timing, and wildlife highlights to plan your Tanzania Safari.
The Migration Cycle: Easy Timeline
The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration is one of nature’s biggest animal stories. Over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move from Tanzania to Kenya.
Here is the basic cycle:
- December–March: This is the calving season. It takes place in the Southern Serengeti and Ndutu.
- April–May: Herds move north. They cross grasslands in big groups.
- June: Wildebeest gather near the Grumeti River in the west.
- July–October: The great river crossings happen at the Grumeti and Mara Rivers. This is the Best Time To See Serengeti Wildebeest Migration.
- November: The herds head back to the south and starts over.
African Scenic Safaris works with organizations like the TATO and ATTA to ensure responsible tourism practices. Our team keeps in touch with national park staff and top guides to track the herds during the Best Season To Visit Tanzania.
Best Times and Locations to See the Migration in the Dry Season
When is the Best Season To Visit Tanzania for migration? The dry season is the answer! That means late June to October.
Best Months:
- Late June–July: Wildebeest gather at the Grumeti River. This is when you see lots of action.
- July–August: The most famous river crossings happen at the Mara River (north Serengeti). Many animals gather here. People travel from around the world to see it.
- September–October: Wildebeests move to the north. You may catch crossings back and forth across the river.
Best Places:
- Central Serengeti (June–July)
- Grumeti (June)
- Northern Serengeti and Mara River (July–October)
GUEST STORY:
“We had an amazing time in Tanzania. We saw the Big 5 and so much more, with the highlight being the great Wildebeest migration in Western.” (A real African Scenic Safaris guest, June 2024)
Wildlife Highlights: Predators, Herds, Drama
Why is this the Best Time For Safari In Tanzania? In the dry season, animals are easy to spot. The action is right in front of you. You will find the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration at its most dramatic.
Here’s what to look for:
- Huge herds, sometimes in thousands, wait at riverbanks
- Crocodiles hunting in the water
- Lions, leopards, and hyenas nearby, hoping for a meal
- Herds are making big splashes as they cross
SAFARI STORY:
One of the highlights was to see a pride of lions in a hunt, which took about three hours, with Tom explaining everything in detail to us. Carolyn M, guest in October.
Simple Safari Tips to Get Front Row Views
To experience the Best Time To See Serengeti Wildebeest Migration, you need to plan a little. This is the Tanzania Best Time To Go for unforgettable wildlife memories.
Easy Tips:
- Book early: Popular months (July–September) fill up fast. Booking early is recommended.
- Choose the right vehicle that will let you stand and look around easily.
- Listen to your guide: Experienced local guides know the right spots. They watch animal behavior and help you avoid crowds.
- Be patient: Sometimes you wait a while for the crossing. It’s worth it.
TRAVEL AWARDS:
African Scenic Safaris has been featured in travel blogs as one of the region’s best ethical safari companies on TripAdvisor.
Simple Migration Photography Tips
The Best Season To Visit Tanzania for photos is the dry season. Want great pictures of the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration?
- Use a fast shutter speed: Because animals move quickly
- Try different angles: Ask your guide to park safely for a low angle.
- Morning and evening light is best: Photos look softer and colors pop.
- Stay quiet and ready: Some of the best shots happen when herds are nervous.
Packing for photography:
- Extra memory cards and batteries
- Lens cloths (the dust can be tough!)
- A small beanbag or sandbag for steady shots
PHOTOGRAPHY STORY:
It was fantastic! We had 2 vehicles, each had 5 people in. It was a bit squeezy; we actually needed 3 vehicles, particularly as we were all photographers and needed extra space for our cameras and bags with lenses.
What to Pack for a Dry Season Safari, And What People Forget
Want to have the Best Time To Visit Tanzania For Safari? Pack these often-forgotten things for the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration:
- Neutral-colored shirts and pants
- Good sunglasses and a sunhat (the sun is strong during this Best Season To Visit Tanzania)
- A scarf or light buff (block out dust)
- Reusable water bottle
- Small binoculars for everyone in your group
- Lip balm and lotion (dry air can hurt your skin)
- Wet wipes for easy hand-cleaning
REAL TRAVELER TIP:
We needed the binoculars as it was quite a distance away. We moved to get a better angle, and we saw that she had a baby with her.
Let the Dry Season Show You Tanzania at Its Wildest
Tanzania’s dry season migration delivers awe-inspiring moments that stay with you long after the journey ends. No matter your style, whether it’s an adventurous camping safari or a refined lodge stay.
It is truly the Best Season To Visit Tanzania and the Tanzania Best Time To Go for unforgettable Tanzania Safaris.
