Every year in the vast heart of Africa begins one of the most breathtaking nature shows on earth. Millions of animals gather on the vast savannas and set sail for an incredible journey, a spectacle you must witness for yourself to truly understand. Where the world can’t find you…
A journey through the Serengeti and Masai Mara
A cloud of dust rises over the African savannah. In the distance, the first animals become visible: thousands of wildebeest, surrounded by zebras and gazelles, initiate their annual trek. The Great Migration has begun. It is an annual movement of more than two million animals moving in a great circle through the Serengeti and Masai Mara region. They are in search of fresh grass and water and, driven by an ancient instinct, travel the same circular route between Tanzania and Kenya every year. The trek is arduous and unrelenting, with lions lurking from the tall grasses and crocodiles waiting patiently in the riverbeds. As the fierce heat hangs over the vast landscape, the herd continues unabated. Driven by perseverance, they trek on step by step for more than a thousand kilometers. An impressive and pure scene of life, survival and the indestructible power of nature.
The best time to experience wildlife migration
January to March
In the Southern Serengeti, around Ndutu and Ngorongoro, the calf season begins. This is one of the most magical times of the migration: up to 8,000 wildebeest calves are born every day. The fresh grass provides plenty of food and the young animals are vulnerable, which attracts predators. This makes for a spectacle full of hope, life and danger.
April to May
As calf season ends, the huge herds slowly disperse northwest toward the central and western parts of the Serengeti. The landscape is drying up and food is becoming scarcer, forcing the animals to move on. It is a period of preparation for new challenges to come.
May to June
The first major obstacle looms: the Grumeti River. Here crocodiles wait patiently for their prey, while thousands of wildebeest and zebra cross the dangerous river. It is an exciting and risky moment, where strength and survival are key.
July to August
The highlight of the migration is the spectacular crossing of the Mara River, heading north into the Serengeti and Kenya. This iconic scene, full of excitement, power and danger, attracts thousands of visitors each year who want to witness this impressive natural spectacle.
September to October
During these months, the herds stay in the grasslands of the Masai Mara in Kenya. Here they find plenty of food and water. Yet smaller groups slowly return to Tanzania as the migration prepares for the return trip.
November to December
With the arrival of the first rains in the Southern Serengeti, the grass begins to grow again. This draws the herds back south, where they prepare for another migration year.
Migration camps
If you want to experience wildlife migrations up close, migration camps are an ideal choice. These comfortable mobile accommodations are set up each season in carefully chosen locations along the route of the Great Migration. They are located exactly where the herds often pass, allowing you to fully enjoy the natural spectacle without having to constantly travel yourself. It is a unique and immersive way to experience the magic of the migration up close.
Serian Serengeti Lamai Camp
This intimate, small-scale camp has a permanent location in the Lamai Wedge, one of the best places to see the famous Mara River crossing. You will stay in stylish tents overlooking the plains and go on safari in open 4×4 vehicles, accompanied by a private guide and spotter. Serian is ideal for travelers seeking tranquility, exclusivity and an in-depth nature experience. Thanks to its fixed location, this camp is perfect for those who want to spend several days in one place, without missing out on any of the action.
LABA Migration Camp
LABA is a luxury, mobile tented camp that moves each season to strategic locations along the route of the Great Migration, from the southern Serengeti to the Masai Mara in Kenya. This way you always stay close to the herds and experience the dynamics of this impressive wildlife migration very closely. Despite its mobile nature, LABA offers a surprisingly high level of comfort, with spacious tents, stylish furnishings and excellent facilities. Ideal for those who really want to travel with the migration and not miss a single spectacular moment.
Plan your next trip in the wake of the Great Migration and experience the earth in its purest and most dynamic form.
