The best time to witness the dramatic wildebeest river crossings in the Serengeti is typically between late July and early August. During this period, the herds gather along the banks of the Grumeti and Mara rivers, preparing to make the treacherous crossing in search of fresh grazing grounds. The sight of thousands of wildebeest plunging into the rivers while evading the lurking crocodiles is a breathtaking spectacle and a highlight of the Great Migration. It’s essential to plan your visit carefully to coincide with this event: When Is the Great Migration in Serengeti 2025 / 2026?
The timing can vary depending on rainfall patterns and other environmental factors; our travel experts at East Africa Safari Guides, who have traveled extensively throughout Serengeti and have over 20 years of experience together, will be happy to provide accurate updates on the whereabouts of Wildebeests in Serengeti during your specific travel dates.
Serengeti Migration month by month 2025 – 2026
From January to March, the Great Migration in the Serengeti peaks as the wildebeest and zebra herds gather in the southern Serengeti to give birth. This period offers a unique and privileged opportunity to witness the spectacle of thousands of newborn calves taking their first steps in the wild.
Recommended Time to Visit Tanzania | Migration Safari.
In April, the herds begin their northwest journey towards the Western Corridor, marking the start of their migration towards the Maasai Mara in Kenya. This movement is driven by the need for fresh grazing grounds and water sources, which become scarce in the Serengeti during this time. This journey continues through the Grumeti Reserve, offering visitors a chance to witness the mass movement of animals across the plains.
From May to July, the herds make their way through the Western Corridor, providing an incredible opportunity to witness the vast herds as they navigate the challenging terrain and river crossings. This period is ideal for those looking to experience the raw power and determination of the migrating herds.
Between late July and early August, the herds gather along the banks of the Grumeti and Mara rivers, preparing to make the treacherous river crossings in search of fresh grazing grounds. This is the best time to witness the dramatic wildebeest river crossings as thousands plunge into the rivers while evading the lurking crocodiles, creating a breathtaking spectacle and a highlight of the Great Migration in 2025/2026.
Where to Stay in 2025 During Serengeti Migration Safari Tour
When planning a Serengeti Migration safari in the northern Serengeti, choosing suitable accommodation is crucial to make the most of this incredible natural phenomenon. There are several excellent options for where to stay during the migration. Luxurious tented camps and lodges offer a comfortable and immersive experience, allowing you to witness the wildebeest river crossings up close.
Some popular choices for accommodation in the northern Serengeti include Sayari Camp, Lamai Serengeti, and Nyikani Serengeti Camp. These establishments provide top-notch amenities, experienced guides, and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Staying at one of these lodges or camps allows you to be in the heart of the action and witness the Great Migration in all its glory.
Asilia Africa Sayari Camp
Sayari Camp is a luxury safari camp in Tanzania’s northern part of the Serengeti. It offers a unique, immersive safari experience with spacious, comfortable tents, delicious food, and knowledgeable guides. The camp is known for its stunning views of the surrounding plains and its prime location for witnessing the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras.
Sayari Camp offers an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the African wilderness while providing top-notch service and amenities. Asilia Africa operates it and costs only $1,380 per person per night, which is affordable considering its unique experience.
Open: Operating from June to March
Closed: Shut from April to May
Closest airstrip: The nearest airstrip is Kogatende, a 20-minute drive from the camp
Families: Suitable for families with children aged five and above
Wildebeests can be seen here from June to October
Nomad Lamai Lodge
Nomad Lamai Lodge is a top choice if you’re looking for a great place to stay during a Serengeti safari from July to October. Like Sayari, Lamai is ideally situated to catch the thrilling river crossings. The lodge’s cozy rooms are tucked away among a cluster of kopjes, offering breathtaking views of the open plains.
Lamai provides the ultimate luxury safari experience while still keeping things authentic. It’s like going barefoot in style! The price of staying at Nomad Lamai Lodge is around USD 1320 for 2025 – 2026, and the cost is per person for a single night.
Nyikani Serengeti Camp
Nyikani Serengeti Camp offers very comfortable accommodations and an excellent overall experience in great locations, all at a fantastic price. For an essential yet authentic Serengeti safari, go right with Nyikani Serengeti.
This mobile camp operates from May 20 to November 20 annually and provides one of the best experiences in Serengeti. The price is $350 per person per night.
Additionally, the northern Serengeti offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets, ensuring that every traveler can find a place to stay that enhances their Serengeti Migration safari experience. Whether you prefer a luxury tented camp, a cozy lodge, or a mobile safari camp, options are available to meet your needs.
The map above shows that the herds love to hang out around the Mara River, specifically between Kogatende and the Lamai Wedge.
So, if you want to witness a crossing in 2025 or 2026 on a Tanzania Safari tour, your best bet is to head to the Serengeti.
Some herds might enter Kenya’s Masai Mara between July and October, but not all of them. In July, the question is whether the herds will have already reached the northern area from the central Serengeti and Western Corridor.
East Africa Travel Experts in Arusha, Tanzania, could answer this question.
