Wildebeest Serengeti Migration Safari

Witness the Greatest Wildlife Show on Earth

A Big 5 Safari in Tanzania offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the most iconic wildlife species in their natural habitat. The Big 5—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros—are the stars of African safaris, and Tanzania is one of the best destinations to see them up close. From the vast plains of the Serengeti to the lush landscapes of Ngorongoro Crater, each park offers unique wildlife encounters that make for an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re watching lions on a hunt or observing elephants roaming in herds, the Big 5 safari experience is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

With Soul Retreat Tours, your Big 5 Safari in Tanzania is not just a wildlife tour, but a transformative journey into the heart of Africa. Our expert guides ensure you get the most out of every moment, sharing insights about the animals, the landscapes, and the rich cultural heritage of the area. From intimate safari experiences to luxurious accommodations under the stars, Soul Retreat Tours is committed to providing you with a soulful, personalized adventure that connects you to the wild spirit of Tanzania.

Let's plan your trip to Tanzania

Our team of Safari specialists are waiting to help you book your next adventure. Contact us today to start planning your tailor-made trip.

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Tanzania for a Serengeti migration safari is during the dry season from late June to October. This period offers prime viewing of millions of migrating wildebeest and zebras, including dramatic river crossings. The weather is typically dry and sunny, perfect for wildlife spotting. For those keen on seeing newborn animals, January to March during the calving season is also a great option, though herd movements may be less predictable. Ultimately, the best time depends on personal preferences and desired experiences.

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The Cycle of the Great Migration

From January to March, it’s the calving season, and predators are abundant, taking advantage of vulnerable newborns. The herds are in the southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) during this period. From April to May, the herds start to move northwestward, following the rainfall and fresh grass. They begin the journey towards the Western Corridor of the Serengeti, crossing the Grumeti River. Between June to August, the herds move further north, reaching the northern Serengeti and crossing the Mara River. This period is characterized by dramatic river crossings and high predator activity.

From September to October, the migration continues in the northern Serengeti and spills over into Kenya’s Maasai Mara. It’s a great time for safaris in both the Serengeti and Maasai Mara, with plenty of wildlife action. Finally, from November to December, the herds start their journey back south towards the Serengeti’s southern plains, following the rains. This period marks the start of the short rains in the Serengeti.

What to Expect on this Adventure

A Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari with Soul Retreat Tours offers a tailor-made experience blending thrilling game drives with peaceful moments in one of the world’s most stunning landscapes. You’ll be guided by experienced experts who are deeply knowledgeable about migration patterns and animal behavior, taking you to the best vantage points to witness the action. Enjoy luxury accommodations, whether a tented camp in the heart of the Serengeti or a sophisticated lodge with sweeping views of the plains, many strategically placed for optimal migration views. With small group sizes, you’ll have an intimate experience, with personalized attention and flexibility in your itinerary, ensuring you’re always in prime position for key moments of the migration. For a unique perspective, a hot air balloon safari at dawn offers breathtaking aerial views of the vast herds crossing the plains. Additionally, you may have the opportunity to visit local Maasai villages, immersing yourself in the culture and traditions of the Maasai people who have coexisted with wildlife for centuries.

What Makes the Serengeti Migration Special?

The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration is a dynamic and awe-inspiring event, driven by the search for fresh grazing and water. Key moments in the migration include the dramatic river crossings, particularly at the Mara River, where wildebeest and other animals must navigate treacherous waters teeming with crocodiles, creating intense, thrilling scenes. Another remarkable aspect is the calving season, when thousands of wildebeest are born, attracting predators and creating a high-stakes environment where the calves must quickly adapt to survive. Throughout the migration, massive herds of wildebeest move across the Serengeti in search of new grazing areas, with the vast landscape and overwhelming number of animals combining to create one of nature’s most spectacular sights.

Wildebeest Serengeti Migration Safari Holiday Tours

Our safari tours offer an exciting way to see wildlife up close. With expert guides, you’ll enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and even hot air balloon rides. We provide comfortable accommodations, from luxury lodges to cozy camps, ensuring a great experience. Our tours are designed for anyone wanting to explore Africa’s amazing animals and landscapes.

You Visit: Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater
Best Time: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
You Visit: Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater
Best Time: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb

FAQ's About the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari

Planning a Serengeti migration safari in Tanzania is an exciting adventure, but it often raises many questions. To help you prepare for your dream safari experience, here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about Tanzania’s Wildebeest migration safari.

The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration is the annual movement of millions of wildebeest, along with zebras and gazelles, through the Serengeti and into the Masai Mara in Kenya, in search of food and water. It’s one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth.

The best time to see the migration depends on the stage you want to witness. The calving season (January to March) and the river crossings (June to October) are the most popular times, with the dry season offering the best visibility.

Yes! The Mara River crossings, where wildebeest and other animals must brave crocodiles and rushing waters, are some of the most dramatic moments of the migration. These crossings typically occur between July and September.

A safari to witness the wildebeest migration typically lasts 5 to 7 days. This allows you to explore different areas of the Serengeti and experience various stages of the migration.

Yes! Many visitors combine their Serengeti safari with a relaxing beach holiday in Zanzibar. After an exciting wildlife adventure, you can unwind on the beautiful beaches of the Indian Ocean.

There are a variety of accommodations to suit your preferences, from luxury lodges and boutique tented camps to private safari camps that offer exclusivity and comfort in the heart of the action.

Yes, a professional guide is essential for your safari. Tanzanian national parks require guides, and they are crucial for navigating the terrain and helping you spot the migration and other wildlife.

 

Experienced Local Guides

Our knowledgeable & passionate guides ensure a truly authentic safari experience.

Customized Tour Plans

Each tour is tailored to your preferences, ensuring a personalized safari adventure.

Eco-Conscious Travel

We promote responsible travel that helps protect Tanzania’s wildlife and environment.

5-Star Reviews

Our clients consistently rate us highly for our service, value, and unforgettable experiences.

Happy Travelers Share Their Experiences

We have been receiving outstanding reviews from our clients, and Soul Retreat Tours is proudly rated 5/5 by our customers. This honor is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to ensuring that every aspect of our clients’ safari experiences is fully tailored to their needs. We go above and beyond to make sure their adventure is nothing short of exceptional and satisfying.

David Miller
100% Recommend Soul Retreat Tours
We’ve just returned from a family safari organized by Soul Retreat Tours, and it was absolutely amazing! The trip included visits to Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater, each offering unique wildlife encounters. The lodges provided were both comfortable and family-friendly, and we felt incredibly well taken care of. Our guide made the safari educational and fun for our children, and the team at Soul Retreat made sure every detail of our stay was perfect. This was truly a trip of a lifetime for our family!
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Natalie & Alex Greene
A Perfect Getaway for Couples
If you’re looking for a luxurious, peaceful, and adventurous getaway, Soul Retreat Tours has got it all. Our safari experience was absolutely magical. From the moment we set foot in Tarangire to the final stop at Ngorongoro, the scenery was breathtaking. The accommodations were upscale, cozy, and perfect for couples. We loved the privacy and intimate atmosphere of the lodges, and the safari itself was an adventure we’ll never forget. Highly recommended for couples looking to create lasting memories!
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Sarah & James Thompson
Family Safari Experience
We had an unforgettable experience with Soul Retreat Tours during our safari to Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro. The itinerary was perfectly designed for our family, and the accommodations were top-notch. We stayed in comfortable lodges with amazing views, and the staff was incredibly friendly and welcoming. Our kids loved the safari, and the guides were knowledgeable, ensuring we saw an abundance of wildlife. Highly recommend Soul Retreat for families seeking an exciting yet relaxed adventure in Tanzania!
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SoulRetreat
Experienced, knowledgeable, passionate and Intriguing
Our experience was truly memorable and enjoyable, with prompt and efficient responses to all our questions. The accommodation options provided were exceptional. Our guide, Godson, ensured we were well taken care of and always made us feel safe wherever we went. The service and overall experience were absolutely five-star. Highly recommended
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