Hoping to witness the world’s greatest natural spectacle in East Africa?
The Great Migration, where hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and other grazers travel across the plains in search of fresh pastures, is the safari experience of a lifetime.
While the migration happens year-round, December to March is the best time to witness it in the southern Serengeti in Tanzania. In this blog post, we will discuss where the wildebeest goes, where you should base yourself, and what to expect with the climate and weather during these months.
Where are the wildebeest during this period?
The vast herds of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle move southwards into the southern Serengeti, in anticipation of the short rains that characterize the December period. The grass grows lush and provides necessary nutrients to the herds, many of whom calve during this time. Inevitably, plenty of eagle-eyed predators — like lion, cheetah and hyena — arrive with the wildebeest, all on the lookout for a young animal to snatch up.
Wildebeest are incredibly active during migration, with their primary focus being on feeding and reproduction. Male wildebeest protect their territory fiercely, while females will often form groups and migrate together.
From calving season in December, the herds then move into the Ndutu area, which is typically quite wet due to the rains. Game viewing is still excellent at this time, as the plains are filed with life and abundance, and provide ample opportunities for excellent birdwatching too.
Plan your Migration Safari between December and March
If you’re planning a migration safari to East Africa from December to March, plan to base yourself in any of the regions the wildebeest will move through during this time. Our expert travel planners can advise you on the ideal itinerary to make the most of your trip, including which luxury lodges or tented camps to stay at that provide great visibility, and which offer unique activities.
The weather during this time is pleasant; however, it changes from region to region. In Tanzania, the daytime temperatures range from 77-86°F (25-30°C), while nights can be chilly. In contrast, Kenya’s daytime temperatures range from 73-82°F (23-28°C), with a bit more humidity. Despite this, visitors need to keep in mind the possibility of rain and steamy conditions.
For those wondering about the cost of witnessing the Great Migration, it depends on the package you choose. A week-long luxury trip can be as much as $10,000 per person, while a budget-friendly option can be as low as $2,500. It’s also worth noting that the Great Migration is an extremely popular event that attracts many visitors, so plan accordingly by making reservations ahead of time.
Book your Migration Safari for 2024
The Great Migration in East Africa is a breathtaking natural event that is worthy of every bucket list. The massive herd’s movements between Tanzania and Kenya and the predatory activity surrounding them is a spectacle worth witnessing. December to March is the best time to view the Great Migration in the Southern Serengeti, offering truly spectacular game viewing.
By basing yourself in the right regions and being prepared for the varying weather changes and conditions, you can witness this phenomenon on a budget that works best for you. So, pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in East Africa.
