The Great Migration is so much more than a movement of animals across the ancient landscape of the Serengeti and the Maasai Mara. It is a timeless journey dictated by the ancient rhythms of the earth, a pursuit of life-giving sustenance, and a testament to the raw, untamed essence of Africa. More than 1.5 million wildebeests, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, embark on this annual odyssey, a clockwise circuit that traverses the boundless landscapes of Tanzania and Kenya. Their movement, a response to the ebb and flow of seasonal rains, paints a dramatic picture of life and survival, where the delicate balance between predator and prey is tested daily.
It's not a question of whether you should visit the Great Migration; it's a question of when and how! Our guest often ask when should they go to Africa to see the Great Migration and where. This is unquestionably one of the ultimate bucketlist experiences when it comes to wildlife journeys. The reality is that you can go at any time of year as the herds are constantly in motion, so it's really a question of what aspect of their life cycle you'd like to see and how important it is to you to see them crossing the river, which is a priority for many people. Being among the great herds during the baby season, when thousands of baby wildebeest, zebras and gazelles drop their young is an amazing time to be in the Serengeti. Simply seeing the migration on the plains, such vast numbers on the grasslands, is truly incredible. Timing and placement is everything for you to experience the migration the way you want to.
The Southern Serengeti turns into calving plains between December and April. Witness the miracle of birth as countless wildebeest calves enter the world, a spectacle of renewal against the backdrop of endless horizons.
As the dry season deepens, between May and July, the herds press west into the western corridor's riverine forests, navigating the challenges of the Grumeti River, a realm where ancient crocodiles lie in wait.
Between August and October, the northern Serengeti and Maasai Mara's riverine crossings take centre stage. This is the crescendo of the migration when the herds make the legendary Mara River crossings, a breathtaking display of courage and instinct, where they confront the perilous currents and the ever-present threat of predators.
In November and December the cycle completes as the herds turn southward into the eastern corridor, retracing their steps, guided by the promise of renewed pastures.
To witness the Great Migration is to immerse yourself in an experience of profound beauty and genuine awe. Our team at Matson & Ridley has a deep understanding of this natural phenomenon, gained through first hand experience on the ground in Tanzania and Kenya. Our meticulously curated itineraries ensure that you are positioned at the heart of the action, at the precise moment of its unfolding. We know that safaris that witness the Great Migration are as much a journey of the soul as they are a bucketlist wildlife experience, creating memories that will resonate for a lifetime. Get in touch today to book your bespoke migration safari today and let us help make this dream a reality.
Your chance to join me in Tanzania
In late May and early June 2026 I'll be leading a unique and very special journey that spans the central/western Serengeti National Park, the western corridor on the Grumeti River and Ngorongoro highlands. I have only ONE ROOM LEFT on this epic safari as a result of a cancellation, so please reach out if you'd like to join me. This group will be a maximum of 12 people. Contact me at
While seeing the vast herds of the migration is amazing, Tanzania and Kenya has much more to offer. The region has one of the highest densities of big cats in Africa and the prides of lions in the Serengeti are some of the largest I've seen anywhere. It's also a great place to see cheetahs and even the ever-shy leopards. There are simply huge numbers of animals on these great open plains and there's never a dull moment on a game drive in this part of the world. Sharing the traditional culture of your local hosts, the Maasai people, and the warmth of the local camp staff and guides is also a highlight of this experience for many of our guests.
We recently had the enormous pleasure of organising a wonderful safari in Kenya for three generations of the Emmet family from the UK, who explored the Maasai Mara and Ol Pejeta Conservancy during the green season. Lots of our travellers enjoy the lower cost of travelling in Africa at this time of year and we definitely recommend it for avoiding the crowds! Here's what they had to say about their experience.
"Tammie at Matson & Ridley was absolutely outstanding at arranging our large family group safari to Kenya last month - nothing was too much trouble, she was super informative and eased any concerns that some of our group had about travelling to Africa. We had the best time together, the best camps, guides and food - everything was a highlight! The experience was amazing from start to finish and there was nothing that could be improved - Being on safari was a privilege that the local people and the wildlife shared with us and we now have huge respect for the conservation work being carried out in the regions we visited. Thank you Tammie for making it a truly memorable experience. We can’t wait to go back to Africa in 2026 ❤️"
Our safaris in East Africa directly support the upliftment of local communities and conservation of the wildlife you are there to see. To learn more about the positive impact from our safaris booked with Asilia Africa in Kenya and Tanzania click here.
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