Great Migration Safaris

What our customers ask about Great Migration Safaris

• When is the best time to witness the Great Migration in East Africa?

  The Great Migration moves between Tanzania and Kenya throughout the year. The best viewing is from July to October in the Masai Mara and December to March in the Serengeti. If you want to see the dramatic Mara River crossings, plan your trip for August. For calving season, visit the Southern Serengeti in February when temperatures reach 85°F (29°C). One TourRadar traveler recalls: "the migration herds were spectacular in Northern Serengeti" while another was amazed watching "thousands of wildebeest and zebras thundering across the plains."

• What wildlife can I see during a Great Migration safari?

  You'll see over a million wildebeest migrate alongside about 200,000 zebras, with predators following close behind. The 150-mile (240-kilometer) stretch of savanna is home to elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards and more than 500 types of birds. As one traveler put it: "We saw all the big 5 plus many other animals including huge elephant herds, lions, cheetahs, and thousands of wildebeests."

• How close can I get to the migrating herds?

  You'll ride in special 4x4 safari vehicles with pop-up roofs that let you get nice and close while staying safe. At Mara River crossing points, you can watch from about 50 feet (15 meters) away, following park rules. TourRadar travelers say the views are incredible - "We had front row seats to epic animal encounters" and the guides "position us in the best way to view the wildlife encounters."

• How physically demanding are Great Migration safaris?

  These safaris are pretty easy going. You'll spend most of your time watching wildlife from vehicles, with some optional walking at camps and village visits. Each day includes about 6-8 hours of game drives on rough roads. You might need to wake up early for special activities like balloon rides. One traveler who stayed at Serengeti Safari Lodge mentioned: "The vehicle was spacious, comfortable and had a good suspension system to ease the African massage."

• What cultural experiences come with Great Migration tours?

  You can visit Maasai villages, see traditional customs, and browse local markets, especially around Ngorongoro. One traveler shared their experience: "We visited the Hadzabe tribe which was quite interesting and enriching. Its a bit pricey at USD 20 but very interesting to see their traditional hunting techniques and learn about their culture."

• What types of places can I stay during Great Migration tours?

  You can choose from fancy lodges to safari tents. Mara Enkorok Luxury Camp offers comfortable tents with real beds and private bathrooms. For a more traditional feel, try Serengeti Wildebeest Camp. If you're watching your budget, places like Simba Campsite in Ngorongoro work well. For luxury, Amboseli Sopa Lodge gives you modern comforts plus amazing views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

• How many days should I plan for a Great Migration safari?

  Trips usually run between 3 and 14 days. You can do a quick 3-4 day visit to the Masai Mara, or spend 10-14 days exploring both Kenya and Tanzania. TourRadar travelers suggest staying at least 3 full days in the Masai Mara to really experience the migration. Longer trips, like the 13-day Kenya and Tanzania Budget Glamping Safari, give you time to visit several parks and better chances to see river crossings.