Each year, one of the most awe-inspiring wildlife spectacles on Earth unfolds across the sweeping plains of East Africa. The Great Migration sees over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing. This epic journey is one of nature’s greatest displays—and a bucket-list experience for safari lovers worldwide.
At SafariScapes, we specialise in curating luxury bespoke safari tours that put you at the heart of this epic journey. Whether you want to chase the drama of a river crossing or witness a quiet calving scene in the Serengeti, our expert planners tailor each itinerary to your pace, style, and sense of adventure.

1. Serengeti Plain, Tanzania – The Heart of the Migration

At the core of the Great Migration Africa experience lies the Serengeti Plain—a vast, golden savanna that stretches as far as the eye can see. This UNESCO World Heritage site in northern Tanzania offers front-row seats to the migration for most of the year.
From December to March, herds congregate in the southern Serengeti for calving season—an emotionally charged spectacle filled with life, drama, and predator action. In May and June, the herds push north through central Serengeti, creating thunderous stampedes across the plains.

• Ideal for: Photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, families
• Best time to visit: December–March (calving), May–June (northward migration)

SafariScapes Journey 1: Tanzania Expedition – 7 Nights
SafariScapes Journey 2: Tanzania Adventure – 10 Nights

2. Masai Mara, Kenya – Iconic River Crossings

Between July and October, the Great Migration Tanzania herds pour into Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve, creating a high-octane drama along the Mara River. Crocodile-infested waters and steep embankments make the river crossings a nail-biting spectacle.
The Kenya Safari Masai Mara experience blends world-class wildlife with the rich cultural heritage of the Maasai people. This is where luxury tented camps meet wild adventure, and where safari-goers are rewarded with Big Five sightings, including lion prides and elusive leopards.

• Ideal for: Traditional, photographic safari seekers, honeymooners, luxury travelers
• Best time to visit: July–October

SafariScapes Journey: Kenya Lakes Mara

3. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania – A Natural Wildlife Sanctuary

While not directly on the migration route, the Ngorongoro Crater Tanzania is a must-visit destination that complements any migration-focused itinerary. This ancient volcanic caldera shelters over 25,000 animals in a unique, self-contained ecosystem.

It’s an excellent stop for guaranteed wildlife viewing, including black rhino, large lion prides, and flamingos.
Ideal for: great for a unique add on to any safari, witness the vastness of the craters, unique animal interactions and hundreds of flamingos at the base of the crater.

• Best time to visit: Year-round (coolest and clearest between June–October)
• Don’t miss: Sunrise crater descent for golden light and uncrowded sightings

SafariScapes Journey: The Best of the Serengeti

4. Western Serengeti & Grumeti Reserves – Off-the-Beaten-Track Drama

For a more exclusive experience of the great migration Africa, consider the remote western corridors of the Serengeti, particularly around the Grumeti River. Between May and July, herds thunder across woodlands and river valleys, and the luxury camps here offer a high-end escape with fewer crowds.
You may even witness predators like lions and hyenas hunting at dusk—a raw and unforgettable sight.

• Ideal for: Repeat safari travelers, luxury seekers, nature lovers
• Best time to visit: May–July

SafariScapes Journey: East African Safari

5. Northern Serengeti – The Iconic Crossings (Without the Crowds)

From July to September, herds make dramatic crossings of the Mara River on the Tanzanian side—less crowded than the Masai Mara, yet just as thrilling. This region combines dramatic landscapes with incredible photo opportunities.
Stay at mobile camps that move with the migration or book fly-in safaris for quick access to the action.
Ideal for: Photographers, thrill-seekers, adventurers

• Best time to visit: July–September
• Combine with: Visits to Lake Natron or the Gol Mountains for a cultural twist

SafariScapes Journey: Incredible East Africa Safari

Planning Your Great Migration Safari

Whether you’re dreaming of Kenya wildlife safari adventures or the untamed wilderness of Tanzania safari tours, timing is everything. The migration is a year-round event, but the action moves monthly—so aligning your travel with the right region is key.

Top Travel Tips:

• Book early—lodges near prime migration routes fill up fast.
• Consider combining Kenya and Tanzania for a full-circle migration safari .SafariScapes can always add on to any of the itineraries you see on their site
• Add depth to your itinerary with cultural encounters or conservation-focused tours.

At SafariScapes, we specialize in crafting tailor-made safari experiences that align with your interests and travel aspirations. Whether you’re drawn to the dramatic river crossings or the serene calving grounds, our expert team ensures every detail is meticulously planned for an unforgettable journey.

Why Choose SafariScapes?

• Personalized itineraries tailored to your preferences
• Access to exclusive camps and private concessions
• Expert guides and seamless logistics
• Commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism
• Travel logistics from start to finish. Before you board your plane, travel all throughout Africa and return home, SafariScapes is there every step of the way

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime and witness the Great Migration in all its glory. Contact SafariScapes today to begin planning your bespoke safari.