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Serengeti Migration Area
Serengeti Migration Area
Serengeti Migration Area
Serengeti Migration Area

The Serengeti is one of Africa’s most captivating safari areas.

Watch out for Leopards lazily laying on trees...

...or spot some giraffes on the wide, open plains.

...constantly moving in a huge loop, following the rains to find the replenished grasses.

Serengeti Migration Area

Serengeti Migration Area

The Serengeti's endless, open plains, scattered with rocky kopjes, are home to astonishing quantities of wildlife.

The vast and beautiful Serengeti is one of Africa's most awe-inspiring safari areas. The sheer volume of animals here is extraordinary: estimates suggest around one million wildebeest, hundreds of thousands of zebra and Thomson's gazelle, and tens of thousands of impala, Grant's gazelle, topi, hartebeest, eland and other antelopes live here – all hunted by the predators for which these plains are famous.

Some of these animals resides permanently in home areas, which are excellent for safaris all year round. But most of the wildebeest and good numbers of other species are permananently on the move in the 'Great Migration' – a remarkable spectacle that is one of the greatest wildlife shows on earth. If you plan carefully, it's still possible to witness this in wild and remote areas without too many fellow enthusiasts crowding the scene.

Serengeti Migration Area

Choosing a safari in the Serengeti

A safari to the Serengeti often includes other regions of Tanzania and can even include neighbouring countries such as Kenya or Rwanda.

Many of Expert Africa's travellers will include the Ngorongoro Highlands on their trips, visiting the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater before or after exploring the Serengeti. A little further south, the magical swamps and woodland of Tarangire National Park are much less known and comparatively little visited, and deliver outstanding wildlife rewards.

All our trips are custom-made. Contact us and we'll help create a safari that perfectly fits your preferences.


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Flufftail Guided Safari

10 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

Stay in three unique camps as you safari across the Ngorongoro Crater and the iconic Serengeti Plains with your private guide and 4WD vehicle: a trip of comfort and autonomy, with excellent wildlife.

US$13,020 - US$18,460 per person

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Martial Eagle Fly-in Safari

9 days • 3 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

This stylish fly-in safari visits two of Africa’s most iconic parks, the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya and Tanzania's Serengeti National Park.

US$11,570 - US$17,740 per person

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Tinkerbird Fly-in Safari

8 days • 4 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

Explore Tanzania’s famous northern circuit in Tarangire National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the Serengeti National Park. Four smart sister camps offer a high level of care, first-class guiding and a wide range of activities.

US$9,640 - US$14,140 per person

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Gorillas and Migration Safari

9 days • 3 locations
KIGALI AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

This luxury safari combines two iconic wildlife experiences: trekking to see the mountain gorillas in Rwanda, then flying to the northern Serengeti in search of the wildebeest migration and spectacular river crossings.

US$17,930 - US$25,280 per person

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Gorillas and Serengeti Safari

11 days • 4 locations
KIGALI AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

Combine three iconic experiences – mountain gorillas in Rwanda, and the Serengeti plains and awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania.

US$13,350 - US$15,540 per person

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Firefinch Drive-Fly Safari

9 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

Enjoy a combination of privately guided and shared game drives during this good-value exploration of northern Tanzania. Explore game-dense regions from three comfortable bases which offer a variety of activities.

US$8,840 - US$10,760 per person

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Fringe-eared Oryx Fly-in Safari

7 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

Stay in three superbly positioned camps during this exploration of Tanzania’s famous northern circuit. Excellent views over the surrounding areas, relatively remote locations and game-rich habitat make for an exciting and varied safari experience.

US$7,300 - US$14,860 per person

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Regal Sunbird Fly-in Safari

12 days • 5 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

Experience the highlights of Tanzania with a safari in the country’s famous northern parks followed by historic Stone Town and the palm-fringed beaches of Zanzibar, staying in high-quality accommodation throughout.

US$9,850 - US$16,370 per person

View all safaris

Most recent reviews of our safaris to Serengeti

Click below to browse all 387 reviews from Serengeti Migration Area. All from our travellers; all are in full & unedited.


98%
387 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
366
Good
22
Average
2
Poor
2
Terrible
2
Mr & Mrs W from Grantham

Arrived 27 Oct 2024, 15 nights

"My Oct 2024 trip"

"Great service with exceptional attention to detail …" Read Mr & Mrs W’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs S from Manchester

Arrived 9 Nov 2024, 16 nights

"My Nov 2024 trip"

"We had an amazing trip - thank you. …" Read Mr & Mrs S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs L from Denver

Arrived 15 Sep 2024, 24 nights

"Our Sep 2024 trip"

"Richard truly made everything come together seamlessly. …" Read Mr & Mrs L’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Charlie from DC

Arrived 24 Sep 2024, 14 nights

"My Sep 2024 trip"

" It was clear from my first call to Expert Africa that you had a lot to offer. …" Read Charlie’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

M & S from USA

Arrived 18 Sep 2024, 10 nights

"My Sep 2024 trip"

"We would absolutely recommend Expert Africa to anyone. …" Read M & S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr N & Mrs S from UK

Arrived 14 Aug 2024, 12 nights

"My Aug 2024 trip"

"Yet another wonderful trip from Expert Africa …" Read Mr N & Mrs S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Ali from United Kingdom

Arrived 22 Aug 2024, 10 nights

"My Aug 2024 trip"

"I love Tanzania and I’m sure I’ll be back …" Read Ali’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Mr P from Southampton

Arrived 31 Aug 2024, 5 nights

"My Aug 2024 trip"

"All the advice I received from Expert Africa was spot on …" Read Mr P’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr M from Cambridge

Arrived 25 Jul 2024, 13 nights

"My Jul 2024 trip"

Overall rating: Excellent

Bensan from Lucca

Arrived 13 Aug 2024, 9 nights

"My Aug 2024 trip"

"Claire did a fantastic job as the trip was perfect in every aspect. …" Read Bensan’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Serengeti Migration Area reviews

Where to stay in the Serengeti

Our Tanzania team at Expert Africa have been visiting the safari camps of the Serengeti for two decades, yet every visit surprises us and we’re always ready to advise you. Very often, the choice of which camp you choose will come down to season: perhaps the southern Serengeti in the wildebeest calving season, or the northern Serengeti when the migration is crossing the Mara River.

Other factors also come into play. There’s great year-round wildlife in the central, Seronera region of the park, and good choices there for a range of budgets, while the eastern Serengeti has some remote camps that can offer spectacular big cat sightings.

Whatever your priorities, we’ll guide you with all our knowledge and experience.


Olakira

Olakira Camp

Comfortable, friendly and relaxed, Olakira Camp moves between the Mara River and the southern Ndutu area, in line with the wildebeest migration.


96% (73 reviews)
Sayari Camp

Sayari Camp

In the northern Serengeti, near the Mara River, luxurious Sayari Camp offers excellent wildife all year – boosted further by the wildebeest migration.


96% (62 reviews)
Nomad Serengeti Safari Camp

Nomad Serengeti Camp

Serengeti Safari Camp is a well-appointed tented camp that moves several times a year to follow the predicted path of the migration.


97% (59 reviews)
Dunia Camp

Dunia Camp

Dunia Camp is well located for the migration from December to March, and has excellent game viewing for the rest of the year.


94% (53 reviews)
Namiri Plains Camp

Namiri Plains Camp

Namiri Plains is one of the best camps in the Serengeti and its remoteness ensures a fantastic wildlife experience away from the crowds.


98% (45 reviews)
Lamai Serengeti

Lamai Serengeti

Set high in the kopjes with fantastic views, Lamai Serengeti offers top service and guiding and good migration sightings from Jul-Oct.


99% (40 reviews)
Ubuntu Camp

Ubuntu Camp

Ubuntu Camp has several locations in the Serengeti, following the wildebeest migration, so it is often in a great location to see the herds.


98% (25 reviews)
Kati Kati Camp

Kati Kati Camp

Kati Kati is a small, very simple bushcamp, which is well-positioned to explore the wildlife-rich Seronera area.


92% (24 reviews)
Ndutu Safari Lodge

Ndutu Safari Lodge

Large and economical, but not luxurious, Ndutu Safari Lodge is well located in the southern Serengeti, so book early to get space.


91% (15 reviews)
Alex Walker's Serian Serengeti

Serian Serengeti

Serian Serengeti is a mobile tented operation run by Alex Walker which moves between two locations following the wildebeest migration.


93% (14 reviews)
Klein's Camp

Klein's Camp

Klein's Camp, in a private area of the northern Serengeti, sets high standards. Activities include walks, nights drives and Maasai village visits.


98% (12 reviews)
Serengeti under Canvas

Serengeti under Canvas

Two of the three Serengeti under Canvas camps move through the Serengeti National Park every few months to follow the wildebeest migration.


98% (11 reviews)
Grumeti River Camp

Grumeti River Camp

Grumeti River Camp offers a laid-back atmosphere combined with top service, first-rate food, expert guiding and an excellent location.


93% (9 reviews)
Lemala Kuria Hills

Lemala Kuria Hills

Lemala Kuria Hills is a luxury permanent camp that is ideally located for wildlife all year around, but especially during the wildebeest migration.


100% (8 reviews)
Lemala Nanyukie

Lemala Nanyukie

Lemala Nanyukie is a stylish camp located in the quieter part of the central Serengeti.


100% (7 reviews)
Lemala Ewanjan

Lemala Ewanjan

Lemala Ewanjan is a comfortable and stylish tented camp in the Seronera area of the central Serengeti National Park.


97% (7 reviews)
Lemala Mara-Ndutu

Lemala Mara-Ndutu

Lemala Mara-Ndutu is a semi-permanent camp that moves between the north and south of the Serengeti to witness the wildebeest migration.


100% (7 reviews)
Kubu Kubu

Kubu Kubu

Kubu Kubu is a contemporary, tented lodge, well located in the central Seronera area of the Serengeti National Park.


100% (5 reviews)
Lobo Wildlife Lodge

Lobo Wildlife Lodge

The large Lobo Wildlife Lodge has simple, functional rooms in a stunning location. It's a good base for exploring the north-eastern Serengeti.


72% (5 reviews)
Mbalageti Lodge

Mbalageti Lodge

Mbalageti is a well-run lodge in a quiet part of the Serengeti's western corridor – an ideal location during the Apr-Jun migration.


93% (3 reviews)
Serengeti Walking Mobile Camp

Serengeti Walking Mobile

This fairly simple camp offers only walking activities, but it's very well done and combines well with more conventional camps or lodges.


85% (4 reviews)
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge

Serengeti Serena

The Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge is a large, hotel-style lodge and a good family-friendly base from which to explore the central Serengeti.


90% (4 reviews)
Kusini Camp

Kusini Camp

Kusini Camp is permanent, luxury camp located on a beautiful kopje in a quiet, wildlife-rich corner of the south-west Serengeti.


65% (4 reviews)
Olmara Camp

Olmara Camp

With just eight guest tents, including two family tents and three signature stargazer tents, Olmara is a simple, family-friendly camp with a wonderfully attentive team. The camp captures an authentic bush experience, welcoming travellers of every kind.


100% (3 reviews)
Serengeti Sopa Lodge

Serengeti Sopa Lodge

Serengeti Sopa Lodge is an international-style hotel offering good-value accommodation in the central Serengeti, with lovely views of the plains.


100% (3 reviews)
Sasakwa Lodge

Sasakwa Lodge

On a hill looking over the Serengeti plains, Sasakwa Lodge is grand, luxurious safari camp, one of the most opulent properties in Tanzania.


100% (3 reviews)
Faru Faru Lodge

Faru Faru Lodge

On the north bank of the Grumeti River, Faru Faru is a small, chic hideaway in this exclusive corner of the Serengeti.


100% (3 reviews)
Serengeti Migration Camp

Migration Camp

Serengeti Migration Camp is a smart tented camp, good for the wildebeest migration from Jul–Aug, or to explore the Lobo Kopjes any time.


93% (3 reviews)
Mkombe's House Lamai

Mkombe's House Lamai

Mkombe's House Lamai is a fully staffed private house in the Wogakuria Kopjes district of Serengeti National Park.


100% (3 reviews)
Serengeti Green Camp

Serengeti Green Camp

Serengeti Green Camp is a comfortable camping experience, in your own private safari camp and at the heart of a great wildlife area.


93% (3 reviews)
Singita Mara River Tented Camp

Singita Mara River

Singita Mara River Tented Camp is a luxurious camp in the isolated and rewarding Lamai wedge region of the northern Serengeti.


87% (3 reviews)
Kirurumu Migration Camp

Kirurumu Migration Camp

Kirurumu is a rustic tented camp which moves around the Serengeti twice a year to follow the wildebeest migration.


100% (2 reviews)
Sabora Tented Camp

Sabora Tented Camp

Sabora Tented Camp is a smart tented camp – one of the most luxurious, professional and stylish properties to be found in Tanzania.


100% (2 reviews)
Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti

Four Seasons Serengeti

The Four Seasons Safari Lodge is the only hotel in the Serengeti offering international facilities such as a gym, spa and children’s club.


100% (1 review)
Seronera Wildlife Lodge

Seronera Wildlife Lodge

Seronera Wildlife Lodge is large hotel-style safari lodge in the heart of the Serengeti, offering good value and a great location.


80% (1 review)
Mara Mara

Mara Mara

Mara Mara is a smart tented camp in the northern Serengeti, situated on a small hill close to the Mara River.


100% (1 review)
Nimali Mara

Nimali Mara

Nimali Mara is a luxurious safari lodge in a quiet region of the northern Serengeti with good access to the wildebeest migration.


100% (1 review)
Serengeti Bushtops

Bushtops

Serengeti Bushtops is a permanent luxury camp in the northern Serengeti, with spacious and private tents with their own hot tubs.


100% (1 review)
Esirai Migration Camp

Esirai Migration Camp

A season migration camp, with only 8 tents and 1 family tent and plenty of character. Esirai is ideally placed for excellent wildlife and enjoys a simplistic and comfortable under-canvas experience.


80% (1 review)
Lake Masek Tented Camp

Lake Masek Tented Camp

Ideally located for the wildebeest migration from Dec–Apr, Lake Masek Tented Camp is a good, mid-market safari camp.


100% (1 review)
Olduvai Camp

Olduvai Camp

Olduvai Camp lies between Ngorongoro and the southern Serengeti plains. It's a good base for the southern plains during the rainy season.


60% (1 review)
Mwiba Lodge

Mwiba Lodge

Mwiba Lodge is a luxurious property located on a private concession on the edge of the southern Serengeti.


100% (1 review)
Ndutu Kati Kati

Ndutu Kati Kati

Ndutu Kati Kati is a seasonal tented camp, based in the southern Serenget from Dec-Mar, ideal for the migration as it passes through.


80% (1 review)
Serengeti Pioneer Camp

Serengeti Pioneer Camp

Serengeti Pioneer Camp is a luxurious tented camp in the central Serengeti, styled on African explorers' camps of the early 20th century.


No reviews yet
Nasikia Naona

Nasikia Naona

Naona Camp is a small tented camp, located in the Moru Kopjes, west of the Serengeti central area


No reviews yet
Nomad Expeditionary Walking Camp

Nomad Walking Camp

Nomad Expeditionary Walking Camp is a simple camp of up to three tents, plus infrastructure, that changes location to allow guests to do substantial walks between campsites.


No reviews yet
Mara Kati Kati

Mara Kati Kati

Mara Kati Kati is a simple bush camp in the northern Serengeti, based from Jul-Oct near the Mara River for the wildebeest migration.


No reviews yet
Taasa Lodge

Taasa Lodge

Taasa Lodge is a slightly quirky option offering guided walks and night game drives, which are not permitted in Serengeti National Park.


No reviews yet
Nimali Serengeti

Nimali Serengeti

Opened in July 2017, Nimali Serengeti is a smart, permanent tented camp located in the Seronera area of the central Serengeti.


No reviews yet
Laba Migration Camp

Laba Migration Camp

A luxury mobile camp that moves between the Western Corridor, Mara River and the southern Ndutu area, in line with the wildebeest migration.


No reviews yet
Nyikani Camp Central Serengeti

Nyikani Central

Nyikani Central is a comfortable tented camp located in the game-rich Seronera area of the central Serengeti.


No reviews yet
Kirawira Camp

Kirawira Camp

Set high on a hill, in the Serengeti's western corridor, Kirawira is a relatively large tented camp in the Serena group.


No reviews yet
Mbuzi Mawe

Mbuzi Mawe

Mbuze Mawe is a comfortable tented camp in a convenient, central-north location when driving through the Serengeti.


No reviews yet

View all places

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings in Serengeti

The Serengeti National Park is a wildlife sanctuary with no permanent human population. Its stunning landscapes and huge biodiversity are world-famous attractions.

The Great Migration is the Serengeti’s defining characteristic. This permanently migrating mega-herd, largely composed of around a million wildebeest, offers a unique spectacle, especially along the banks of the Mara River where every season thousands of crocodiles ambush weak and unlucky animals as they make their perilous crossings.

Also home to Africa's largest lion population, the Serengeti provides matchless opportunities to observe these regal predators, among dozens of other species of large mammals. These include large numbers of leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, elephants, giraffes, buffalos and many other grazers and browsers. Black rhinos are recovering in numbers and you may be very lucky and see an aardvark or even a pangolin.

Click on a species below for more information on the top locations in the Serengeti for wildlife sightings, or see our interactive map showing the best locations for individual wildlife species in Tanzania. Read how this wildlife survey works.


Giraffe

98% success

Zebra

98% success

Lion

97% success

Elephant

95% success

Wildebeest

94% success

Buffalo

92% success

Spotted Hyena

90% success

Hippo

83% success

Leopard

75% success

Eland

75% success

Cheetah

68% success

Roan antelope

26% success

Oryx

22% success

Black Rhino

17% success

Striped Hyena

16% success

Wild dog

6% success

Aardvark

3% success

Pangolin

1% success

When to go to Serengeti Migration Area

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Serengeti in Tanzania


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Tanzania in January

January usually marks the start of the short dry season, although the exact timings of this are a little unpredictable. You can expect clear blue skies and sunshine, if the short rains have stopped, and the temperatures will be building. The short dry season is a little less pronounced in Southern Tanzania, and so it can still be wet in these areas. It is an interesting time for avians as resident birds go into breeding plumage and migrant species can be present.

Once the New Year busy period has quietened down, January can offer great value and quieter parks, although the weather can be variable, and in the Selous and Ruaha the wildlife is more dispersed.

  • Variable weather: clear & dry or cloudy with some rain.
  • Occasional thunderstorms may occur.
  • A good time of year for birding as and many migrant species are around
  • The wildebeest migration is gathering in the southern Serengeti.
  • Busy in early January, quietening down through the month.

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in January

Tanzania in February

February is during the short dry season and is one of the hottest months in Tanzania, with temperatures reaching around 33°Celsius. This can be a good time to visit, as some areas of the Northern Circuit are comparatively quieter than during the European summer months, and lodge rates are also a little lower.

The wildebeest will typically be on the southern plains of the Serengeti for their calving season, which tends to occur in a 2-3 week window in early-mid February – although this does vary year on year. This is also a particularly rewarding time for birdlife, as northern hemisphere migrants join the resident species.

  • Hot and dry weather.
  • Wildebeest migration calving on Serengeti’s southern plains.
  • Ngorongoro Crater and southern Serengeti busy for the migration.
  • Selous and Ruaha are typically quiet at this time.
  • The parks are likely to be lush and green, leading to pretty landscape

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in February

Tanzania in March

The heavier ‘long rains’ start in earnest in March although exactly when varies year on year. With no need to stay close to permanent water sources, migratory wildlife disperses, and so game viewing starts to become more challenging. This is most prominently seen in Tarangire National Park. The wildebeest migration may still be calving, or have moved on into the central regions of the Serengeti.

Many of the camps in the southern parks close mid March and mobile tented camps in the Serengeti will wind down towards the end of the month in order to move location or carry out refurbishments, ready for the new tourist season.

  • Hot with building humidity, before the rains begin at some point.
  • Wildlife viewing is variable depending on the start of the rains.
  • Parks are quiet and rates are low.
  • Not great for southern or western Tanzania.
  • March can be a good time for birding, with many migrant species.

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

Tanzania in April

April is in the middle of the long rainy season and is the wettest month, with on average 250mm of rain. Temperatures are fairly high and humid in comparison to the rest of the year. Expect the bush to be lush and flowering, and alive with insects, birds and smaller animals. It is however also dense, allowing wildlife to hide, which in turn makes game viewing harder. This is a very quiet time in terms of visitor numbers.

Many of the tented camps are closed in April, however the larger lodges remain open. The rates are significantly cheaper, and so if you are willing to work harder to spot the bigger game, some accommodation bargains can be had.

  • Heavy rain expected, with impressive thunderstorms and lightning.
  • Many camps closed and roads impassable due to ground conditions.
  • Rates are at their lowest all year round, with very few other tourists
  • Places that are open are green and vibrant, wildlife more dispersed.

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in April

Tanzania in May

As Tanzania is close to the equator there is no dramatic difference in climate throughout the year, but temperatures do start to drop a little in May. The rains are likely to still be present, although potentially clearing towards the end of the month. Visitor numbers and lodge rates are still low. The wildebeest migration is making its way through the western regions of the Serengeti, crossing the Grumeti River.

Virtually all camps in southern Tanzania remain closed, and many of the roads and tracks in the Selous become impassable.

  • Heavy rains and storms are likely, this can create some dramatic skies
  • Blissfully quiet in northern Tanzania, and a good time to avoid crowds
  • The parks are likely to look lush and green, with long grass.
  • Wildlife is likely to be more dispersed, with fewer sightings.
  • The low prices make safaris much more affordable at this time.

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in May

Tanzania in June

The rains come to an end at some point during the month and migratory wildlife begins to be drawn back to perennial water sources as the land starts to dry up. It’s likely that the parks will still be quite green and the grass high though, so walking and fly-camping may be unlikely. This marks the start of the season with camps reopening, but prices are still more affordable than the subsequent months.

The migration may still be in the Western Corridor, or on the move northwards towards the Mara River. Western Tanzania presents more challenging conditions for chimpanzee trekking in Mahale National Park, as the chimps are higher in the mountains.

  • Variable weather: clear & dry or cloudy with some rain.
  • A transitory time for the migration – moving from west to north.
  • The parks may still be quite green, and grasses high.
  • Wildlife may be dispersed still.
  • Relatively low visitor numbers and good value, shoulder season prices.

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in June

Tanzania in July

July is considered to be the start of the peak season, with no rainfall expected and pleasant daytime temperatures. As the parks dry, the wildlife congregates in fewer areas, grass is eaten and trampled by the migration, and game viewing gets better and better. The wildebeest are typically arriving in the northern Serengeti, ready to begin their period of crossings of the Mara River.

In the Selous and Ruaha wildlife sightings can be fantastic, with animals gathering around the lakes and rivers. Great conditions and school holidays mean the parks are at their busiest, with Ngorongoro and the Serengeti particularly crowded.

  • Dry and warm daytimes, chilly and windy in the mornings and evenings.
  • Great wildlife viewing, as water sources diminish.
  • The most popular time of year with very high visitor numbers.
  • Prices are at their highest due to the great conditions on the ground.
  • To avoid the crowds consider Tanzania’s southern parks.

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in July

Tanzania in August

August is the middle of the long dry season, with clear skies and sunny weather. You can expect some cooler weather at night and first thing in the morning. Remember to pack layered clothing, so you can wrap up warm on your early morning game drives, but remain comfortable as it heats up throughout the day.

August is a very popular time to visit, so accommodation prices are at their highest and advanced booking is necessary. It can get noticeably busier in some of the northern parks – in particular the Ngorongoro Crater and northern Serengeti, as visitors flock to the area in hope of witnessing an exciting migration river crossing.

  • Dry and warm daytimes, chilly in the early mornings and evenings.
  • General wildlife viewing should be excellent.
  • An exciting time of year for the wildebeest migration.
  • Certain areas will be very busy and camps fill up fast.
  • Great wildlife sightings in the Selous and Ruaha, and fewer people.

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Tanzania in September

September can be an excellent time of year to visit Tanzania. As the parks continue to dry up the wildlife becomes increasingly reliant on the remaining water sources, leading to high densities of animals. Whilst early September can be busy, with fewer families traveling at this time the parks typically become quieter as the month goes on.

You are still likely to see the wildebeest migration in the northern Serengeti, with river crossings occurring on a regular basis. Tanzania’s southern parks are also fantastic at this time of year, generally receiving far fewer visitors than the north, and wildlife sightings can be great. Prices remain high and the weather generally remains good.

  • Wildlife viewing in September can be fantastic.
  • Whilst still fairly busy, often the parks are typically a little quiet
  • The parks will start to become very dry, with little new vegetation
  • Cooler mornings and evenings, warming up during the day.
  • Prices remain high.

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Tanzania in October

At the tail end of the dry season, the wildlife should be the easiest to spot, although photographers should be aware that it can be a bit dusty at this time of year, as there has been no rain for several months. Great general wildlife viewing throughout as animals are attracted to remaining sources of water. Elephant numbers are particularly high at this time in Tarangire, and Mahale and Katavi are especially rewarding with frequent wildlife sightings close to camp.

There is a chance of rainfall towards the end of the month, if the short rains commence. While prices remain high, visitors numbers are significantly lower than in July-August.

  • Mostly dry and temperatures comfortably warm, with the chance of storm
  • Great game viewing although the landscape can be a bit barren.
  • Much lower visitor numbers than the earlier months.

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Tanzania in November

In November you can expect the start of the short rains, although the start date varies every year. The rains are highly localised, and are much lighter and more unpredictable than the long rains that occur earlier in the year. These should not really interfere with your safari – as the game viewing at this time is still good - but you should pack a waterproof jacket and be prepared for some short rain showers!

The majority of tented camps remain open, but some of the mobile camps in Northern Tanzania will close for the latter half on the month. Given the seasonality, camps are charging shoulder season rates so there are often some bargains to be had. Early November can offer great value for money and the weather conditions are likely to be comparable to late October.

  • Variable weather: clear & dry or cloudy with some rain.
  • Parks are comparatively quiet and prices at the lower end.
  • Some camps will close towards the end of the month for maintenance.
  • Good wildlife sightings, but animals will disperse when rain starts
  • The wildebeest migration is on the move and the location unpredictable

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Tanzania in December

December is also during the short rainy period, but this does not stop Tanzania being a popular destination to spend the festive period. Be aware that many of the lodges book up early, and charge peak rates over this time. Advanced booking is essential over this period, especially if travelling in larger family groups.

Travelling in December outside of the festive period allows travellers to make use of excellent shoulder season rates. Temperatures are pleasant with the averages of 27Celsius, although there is the chance of intermittent thunderstorms.

  • Variable weather:clear & dry or cloudy with some rain and thunderstorm
  • Good general game viewing in parks with low seasonality - Serengeti.
  • Very quiet early in the month, becoming exceptionally busy.
  • Prices reflect this – great value rising to the highest they are.
  • The wildlife in southern Tanzania is more dispersed.

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in December

Serengeti Migration Area: In detail

Serengeti Migration Area

The Serengeti National Park itself covers about 15,000km2 of mostly flat or gently rolling grasslands, interspersed with occasional rock outcrops, known as kopjes, from the Afrikaans.

But this is just the centre of a whole ecosystem which covers more than double that area, and includes Grumeti Reserve, Ikorongo Game Reserve, Loliondo Controlled Area, Maswa Game Reserve, part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and also Kenya's relatively small Maasai Mara Game Reserve. This combined area is often referred to as the Greater Serengeti area, or the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.


Southern plains

The southern plains of the Serengeti, located in northern Tanzania, form a key part of the Serengeti National Park and the Serengeti ecosystem. These expansive grasslands stretch into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and are bordered by volcanic highlands, including the Ngorongoro Crater and the dormant volcano Ol Doinyo Lengai. This region is particularly notable for its rich biodiversity and dramatic landscapes.

The area’s fertile plains owe their formation to volcanic ash deposited over millennia, particularly from the Ngorongoro volcanoes. The ash enriched the soil with nutrients, making it highly conducive to the growth of short, nutritious grasses. This environment supports massive herds of herbivores, particularly wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles, which in turn attract a variety of predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.

The southern plains are characterised by vast, open grasslands dotted with occasional rocky outcrops (kopjes) that serve as vantage points and shelter for wildlife. During the wet season, from November to May, the plains transform into lush green fields, attracting millions of migratory animals. The area is a critical calving ground for wildebeests, with thousands of young born in February and March, providing ample prey for predators. The dry season, from June to October, sees most of the wildlife migrating northward in search of water, leaving the plains relatively empty.

Visitors during the wet season can witness the calving spectacle and large predator activity, while the dry season offers quieter landscapes with resident species like ostriches, secretary birds, and smaller mammals. The stark beauty of the southern plains and their role in the Great Migration make them a must-visit for those seeking a true Serengeti experience.

The Seronera area

In the heart of the national park, just to the north of the short-grass plains, Seronera has all the best features of the Serengeti and also, sadly, its worst.

Scenically, it's a lovely area – with open plains, occasional kopjes and lines of hills to add interest. The resident game here is phenomenal, with high densities of relaxed leopards, cheetah and lion. These live off the resident herbivores, as well as the migrating game. The migration passes through here in April/May, but Seronera is within reach of both the Southern Plains and the Western Corridor – so from about November to June, it can be used as a base to see the migration. Seronera's big drawback is that it is always busy.

Western Corridor

Stretching to the west, almost to Lake Victoria, the Serengeti narrows into what's known as the Western Corridor.

The key feature of this area is the two rivers, the Grumeti and the Mbalageti, which run almost parallel, each supporting a band of most, evergreen riparian forest. This area sustains a very good permanent game population, including plenty of zebra and wildebeest, all the predators and forest 'specialists' like colobus monkeys.

The birdlife is particularly varied. The migration passes through between about May and July – pausing to gather momentum before crossing the crocodile-rich waters of the Grumeti River, into the Grumeti Reserve.

Northern Serengeti

Stretching from Seronera for about 100km north, to the Kenyan border, the northern Serengeti is gently rolling country, broken by small rivers and occasional hills and kopjes. There are good permanent populations of wildlife in several areas here, including the very beautiful Lobo Kopje. It's interesting, varied country that's far from the park's main entry point in the south – and hence it receives delightfully few visitors.

The further you go north, the fewer vehicles you see. Even when the migration is here, between about August and October, you can still enjoy spectacular crossings of the Mara River. A particularly stunning are is the wild Lamai Wedge – the area of land between the Mara River and the Kenya Border – which includes the picturesque Wogakuria Kopje, and a beautiful series of game-rich valleys and plains. This is the only area of the national park where off-road driving is acceptable.

Grumeti Reserves

Singita Grumeti Reserves covers almost 1,500km2 of private reserves which run along the north side of the Western Corridor. Within this are three, very different luxury lodges: Sasakwa Lodge, Faru Faru River Lodge and Sabora Plains Tented Camp.

All offer unrivalled exclusivity for watching the migration as it journeys north, and recycle all of their profits into local conservation and community development initiatives.

Loliondo Reserve

West of the Serengeti National Park, between the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the Kenyan border, lies Loliondo Game Controlled Area – an area belonging to the Maasai tribes that live there. The western side of this, beside the park, is very much part of the Serengeti's ecosystem; it has much resident game and the migration passes through here as well.

There are a few camps here which have the flexibility to offer night drives and walks, often using Maasai guides – and visits to local Maasai villages. Around about October and November, there's a good chance to see part of the migration here, as it returns south.

Mobile Tented Camps

There are several semi-permanent mobile tented camps in the Serengeti. Most move seasonally, trying to anticipate the great migration's movements; they spend several months in one place before moving on with the game. Their creature comforts vary from basic tents with adequate food, to very comfortable camps that feel almost permanent. Such tented camps can be included as part of private guided safaris.

For a premium, we can arrange for a private mobile fly-camp to be set up, just for you. You'll sleep in a simple, mosquito-gauze tent and eat around the camp fire with your own guide. These can be set up anywhere, although Loliondo is perfect if you want to use them as a base for walking safaris.

Trips to the Serengeti

Sadly, the Serengeti doesn't always live up to its potential. It's easy to end up with a herd of vehicles around you, destroying any sense of wilderness. It's tempting to opt to rush around on dusty, corrugated roads with little time to stop. It's also easy to simply miss the migration, which isn't nearly as predictable these days as many will tell you.

Because of this, planning a safari here can be complicated; we need to guide you to choose the right camps at the right time of year, and get the best experience possible – especially when the wildebeest migration does vary every year.

Some of our trips include a private guide and vehicle, others fly in and out of the lodges, and many are a combination of the two. For ideas of possible combinations see our trip ideas to the Serengeti.

Map of Serengeti Migration Area

Choices for where to stay in Serengeti Migration Area


Reference map

Serengeti Migration Area: Safaris

The Serengeti National Park is one of Africa’s most famous safari destinations, and justifiably so: the sheer volume of wildlife on the Serengeti’s vast, grassy plains is amazing. At the heart of its appeal, the region’s Great Migration of up to a million wildebeest and zebras is one of the world’s most iconic wildlife spectacles. So it’s not surprising that many of our safari itineraries in Tanzania visit this region.

The sample itineraries we’ve created here include luxurious camps and lodges as well as more down-to-earth mobile safari camps that move two or three times a year to track the migration. These possible trips range from four-night mini-safaris to complete two-week itineraries encompassing the Serengeti and other parts of Tanzania and further afield in East Africa.

Some of these examples are privately guided with a private safari vehicle for ultimate flexibility. Others are fly-in safaris, where the camp or lodge provides the vehicles and the guides often have uncanny expertise in finding their local animals and positioning their vehicles for the best experience.

Remember, these are just ideas; Expert Africa will always tailor-make a trip that’s perfect for you.


Showing 1-12 of 14
Name
Duration
Cost
Most popular
12
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Gorillas and Serengeti Safari

11 days • 4 locations
KIGALI AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

Combine three iconic experiences – mountain gorillas in Rwanda, and the Serengeti plains and awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania.

US$13,350 - US$15,540 per person

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Martial Eagle Fly-in Safari

9 days • 3 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

This stylish fly-in safari visits two of Africa’s most iconic parks, the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya and Tanzania's Serengeti National Park.

US$11,570 - US$17,740 per person

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Tinkerbird Fly-in Safari

8 days • 4 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

Explore Tanzania’s famous northern circuit in Tarangire National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the Serengeti National Park. Four smart sister camps offer a high level of care, first-class guiding and a wide range of activities.

US$9,640 - US$14,140 per person

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Firefinch Drive-Fly Safari

9 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

Enjoy a combination of privately guided and shared game drives during this good-value exploration of northern Tanzania. Explore game-dense regions from three comfortable bases which offer a variety of activities.

US$8,840 - US$10,760 per person

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Flufftail Guided Safari

10 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

Stay in three unique camps as you safari across the Ngorongoro Crater and the iconic Serengeti Plains with your private guide and 4WD vehicle: a trip of comfort and autonomy, with excellent wildlife.

US$13,020 - US$18,460 per person

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Fringe-eared Oryx Fly-in Safari

7 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

Stay in three superbly positioned camps during this exploration of Tanzania’s famous northern circuit. Excellent views over the surrounding areas, relatively remote locations and game-rich habitat make for an exciting and varied safari experience.

US$7,300 - US$14,860 per person

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Marabou Stork Fly-in Safari

13 days • 5 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

Four luxurious camps enable exploration of Tanzania’s north and southern regions. With a range of land- and water-based activities available throughout, decidedly comfortable accommodation and applicable long-stay discounts, this adventurous safari is excellent value.

US$17,640 - US$25,560 per person

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Regal Sunbird Fly-in Safari

12 days • 5 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

Experience the highlights of Tanzania with a safari in the country’s famous northern parks followed by historic Stone Town and the palm-fringed beaches of Zanzibar, staying in high-quality accommodation throughout.

US$9,850 - US$16,370 per person

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Lovebird Fly-in Safari

5 days • 2 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

Visit two consistently impressive wildlife destinations during this excellent-value safari in northern Tanzania. Enjoy a range of walks and cultural visits from sister camps at the Ngorongoro Crater and in the heart of the Serengeti.

US$3,350 - US$4,900 per person

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Gorillas and Migration Safari

9 days • 3 locations
KIGALI AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

This luxury safari combines two iconic wildlife experiences: trekking to see the mountain gorillas in Rwanda, then flying to the northern Serengeti in search of the wildebeest migration and spectacular river crossings.

US$17,930 - US$25,280 per person

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Avocet Fly-in Safari

7 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

This luxurious safari explores three iconic African reserves from exclusive lodges in unbeatable locations. A very high standard of food, care and guiding ensure that you can focus on this amazing experience.

US$9,750 - US$15,860 per person

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Hadeda Ibis Guided Safari

7 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

This great-value safari, in a private 4WD with your own driver-guide, journeys through the stunning landscapes of northern Tanzania’s Great Rift Valley, focusing on its three top national parks.

US$5,140 - US$6,070 per person

Showing 1-12 of 14
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Expert Africa’s best 53 lodges and safari camps in the Serengeti Migration Area

The Serengeti region has hundreds of safari camps and lodges: after Expert Africa’s many visits we have selected a few dozen of the very best, across a range of budgets from mid-range to top-end. Whether you want a simple mobile camp tucked into the bush where the migration is passing, or a luxury safari lodge in an outstanding big cat area, we can advise. Ask us for details of which camps are where, and which ones are likely to suit you best.


Showing 1-12 of 53
Name
Traveller's rating
No. of reviews
Olakira

Olakira Camp

Comfortable, friendly and relaxed, Olakira Camp moves between the Mara River and the southern Ndutu area, in line with the wildebeest migration.


96% (73 reviews)
Sayari Camp

Sayari Camp

In the northern Serengeti, near the Mara River, luxurious Sayari Camp offers excellent wildife all year – boosted further by the wildebeest migration.


96% (62 reviews)
Nomad Serengeti Safari Camp

Nomad Serengeti Camp

Serengeti Safari Camp is a well-appointed tented camp that moves several times a year to follow the predicted path of the migration.


97% (59 reviews)
Dunia Camp

Dunia Camp

Dunia Camp is well located for the migration from December to March, and has excellent game viewing for the rest of the year.


94% (53 reviews)
Namiri Plains Camp

Namiri Plains Camp

Namiri Plains is one of the best camps in the Serengeti and its remoteness ensures a fantastic wildlife experience away from the crowds.


98% (45 reviews)
Lamai Serengeti

Lamai Serengeti

Set high in the kopjes with fantastic views, Lamai Serengeti offers top service and guiding and good migration sightings from Jul-Oct.


99% (40 reviews)
Ubuntu Camp

Ubuntu Camp

Ubuntu Camp has several locations in the Serengeti, following the wildebeest migration, so it is often in a great location to see the herds.


98% (25 reviews)
Kati Kati Camp

Kati Kati Camp

Kati Kati is a small, very simple bushcamp, which is well-positioned to explore the wildlife-rich Seronera area.


92% (24 reviews)
Ndutu Safari Lodge

Ndutu Safari Lodge

Large and economical, but not luxurious, Ndutu Safari Lodge is well located in the southern Serengeti, so book early to get space.


91% (15 reviews)
Alex Walker's Serian Serengeti

Serian Serengeti

Serian Serengeti is a mobile tented operation run by Alex Walker which moves between two locations following the wildebeest migration.


93% (14 reviews)
Klein's Camp

Klein's Camp

Klein's Camp, in a private area of the northern Serengeti, sets high standards. Activities include walks, nights drives and Maasai village visits.


98% (12 reviews)
Serengeti under Canvas

Serengeti under Canvas

Two of the three Serengeti under Canvas camps move through the Serengeti National Park every few months to follow the wildebeest migration.


98% (11 reviews)
Showing 1-12 of 53

Excursions in Serengeti Migration Area

Optional extra day-drips and excursions possible while you're staying in the Serengeti Migration Area. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.


Balloon Safari over the Serengeti

Balloon Safari over the Serengeti

Three hours - approx. one hour flight

As the sun rises over the Serengeti National Park in Northern Tanzania, climb aboard for an extraordinary adventure. For an hour you’ll float in a hot air balloon over beautiful savannah and woodland and a diversity of plains wildlife.

More about Balloon Safari
100% (19 reviews)
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Frequently Asked Questions

Serengeti FAQs

If you’re planning a trip to the Serengeti, you’re likely to have many questions. Common topics we’re asked about at Expert Africa include the best times to visit, how to get there, and the standards of accommodation you can expect.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, we recommend browsing through these frequently asked questions. We hope they’ll provide real details and useful insights to help you prepare for a Serengeti adventure.


When is the best time to visit the Serengeti Migration Area?

While bearing in mind climate change that makes forecasting difficult, it’s fair to say that every season in the Serengeti offers a unique spectacle, making it a year-round destination. The dry season, typically running from late June to October, can be dusty, but is ideal for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources. This period also coincides with the dramatic migration crossings of the Mara River. From January to March, the southern Serengeti sees the wildebeest calving season, attracting all the predators. Then during the rainy seasons of April-May and November-December, when there are fewer visitors, you’ll have lush landscapes and a quieter experience, with beautiful light for photography.

How do I get to the Serengeti?

Reaching the Serengeti National Park typically involves flying first into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK). From there, you take a local safari flight to one of the park’s airstrips, such as Seronera or Kogatende to be met by a vehicle from your camp. Alternatively, an all-day road transfer from Arusha offers a scenic drive across the Rift Valley and the Ngorongoro Highlands (though note the northern Serengeti would require a two-day drive). You could also opt to drive to Ngorongoro, and then fly on to the Serengeti.

Where are the camps and lodges in the Serengeti, and what are they like?

Accommodation options in Serengeti National Park range from luxury lodges to mobile tented camps and they are spread right across the region. The central Serengeti offers excellent year-round wildlife viewing, while the northern Serengeti is where you need to be to witness the Great Migration river crossings.

The southern Serengeti is the venue for the calving season at the start of the year. The vast majority of accommodation options are tented camps, with full-furnished, ensuite guest rooms. These can be quite recognisably tents (and in the case of mobile camps move two or three times over the course of the year to track the migration), or more lodge-like, for example incorporating solid bathrooms and possibly sliding glass doors, plunge pools and raised decking.

What activities are available in the Serengeti?

Activities in the Serengeti always include game drives – excursions by safari vehicle from your camp to see as much wildlife as possible – venturing out at dawn and in the late afternoon and typically lasting for around three hours,. Depending on your camp and location, you may also be able to do a walking safari with an experienced guide and an armed ranger, when you’ll have a more immersive experience, seeing some of the smaller fauna, and soaking in the sounds and smells of the bush. On a bush walk, however, you’re not likely to get close to large mammals and your guide will actively avoid any dangerous creatures. Hot air balloon flights are available from many camps, and they provide a unique aerial perspective of the park’s landscapes and wildlife. Cultural visits to Maasai villages can also be arranged from certain camps.

What is the Great Migration, and how does it work?

The great Serengeti wildebeest migration is the cyclical movement of vast numbers of the Serengeti's grazing animals. As many as a million blue wildebeest, accompanied by thousands of zebras, and small numbers of various species of antelopes, move though the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in an annual pattern which is roughly predictable, from the Serengeti’s southern plains in February to Kenya’s Maasai Mara in July and back south in October (dates can vary). They move throughout the year, constantly seeking water and fresh grazing. The migration typically presents itself to visitors as a sea of animals, stretching to the horizon, and at any one time, this mega-herd may spread across thousands of square kilometres. The critical obstacle faced by the migration is the large and often fast-flowing Mara River in the north, where breakaway herds may wait for hours or days on the banks before crossing, and where many lose their lives in the crush, or are taken by crocodiles.

Videos from Serengeti Migration Area

Watch these videos to learn more about Serengeti Migration Area


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