Best Time to Travel to Serengeti National Park—Ultimate Guide for Wildlife Viewing
Planning a trip to the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration? Choosing the best time to travel to Serengeti can make or break your safari experience. This guide covers the ideal months for wildlife viewing, the Great Migration, weather conditions, and expert tips to help you plan the perfect adventure.
Best Time to Visit Serengeti for Wildlife & Migration
The best time to travel to Serengeti National Park is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. This period offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, with animals congregating near water sources and vegetation becoming sparser. The Great Migration, a highlight of the Serengeti, is also at its peak during this time, with the famous river crossings happening in the north.
- June to October (Dry Season):
This is the classic safari season, with clear skies, less vegetation, and wildlife concentrated around watering holes. Temperatures are generally pleasant, though cooler early mornings and evenings are possible.
- January to February (Green Season):
The Serengeti transforms into a lush green landscape during this period, making it a great time for bird watching and photography. The Great Migration is also present in large numbers, and calving season begins.
- March to May (Long Rains):
Heavy rainfall and challenging game viewing conditions are typical during this time. Many camps may close, but those that remain open offer great rates for adventurous travelers.
- November to December (Short Rains):
This period is characterized by a second rainy season, with lush vegetation and a vibrant green landscape.
- Great Migration:
If witnessing the Great Migration is a priority, June to October offers the best chances, particularly for river crossings in the north.
- Calving Season:
January to February is the time when wildebeests calve, offering a different, but equally impressive, experience.
- Budget:
The rainy season (March to May) can be a more budget-friendly option, with fewer tourists and potentially lower rates.
- Personal Preference:Consider whether you prefer drier conditions for easy game spotting or the vibrant green landscape of the rainy season.
1. Peak Season (June – October) – Best for the Great Migration & Dry Season Safaris
- Why Visit? The dry season offers excellent wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.
- Great Migration Highlights:
- June-July: Herds cross the Grumeti River in the Western Corridor.
- August-September: Dramatic Mara River crossings in the Northern Serengeti.
- October: Migration moves toward the southern plains.
- Weather: Sunny, mild temperatures, minimal rain.
2. Calving Season (January – February) – Best for Predator Action
- Why Visit? Witness thousands of wildebeest calves being born in the Southern Serengeti (Ndutu area).
- Wildlife Highlights: Lions, cheetahs, and hyenas hunt vulnerable newborns.
- Weather: Warm with short rains, lush green landscapes.
3. Low Season (November – May) – Best for Budget Travel & Birdwatching
- Why Visit? Fewer crowds, lower prices, and beautiful scenery.
- Wildlife Highlights:
- November-December: Short rains bring newborn animals and migratory birds.
- March-May: Long rains create dramatic skies, but some lodges close.
- Weather: Hot and humid with occasional downpours.
Month-by-Month Breakdown: Best Time to Go to Serengeti
| Month | Highlights | Weather |
|---|---|---|
| January-February | Calving season, predator action | Warm, occasional rain |
| March-May | Lush landscapes, fewer tourists | Heavy rainfall |
| June-July | Start of dry season, Grumeti River crossings | Cool mornings, warm days |
| August-September | Peak migration, Mara River crossings | Dry, sunny |
| October | End of dry season, great game viewing | Hot, dry |
| November-December | Short rains, birdwatching | Warm, scattered showers |
Expert Tips for Choosing the Best Time to Travel to Serengeti
✔ For the Great Migration: Visit June-October for river crossings or January-February for calving.
✔ For Fewer Crowds & Lower Prices: Travel in November or April-May (shoulder seasons).
✔ For Birdwatching: November-April is best when migratory birds are present.
✔ Avoid Heavy Rains: March-May can be challenging due to muddy roads.
When is the Best Time to Go to Serengeti?
- Best Overall: June-October (dry season, Great Migration).
- Best for predators: January-February (calving season).
- Best for Budget Travelers: November or April-May (low season).
Plan Your Perfect Serengeti Safari Today!
Now that you know the best time to travel to Serengeti, book your trip during peak wildlife activity for an unforgettable adventure. Whether you want to see the Great Migration or enjoy a quieter safari, the Serengeti offers incredible experiences year-round.
