Great Migration Safaris | Masai Mara & Serengeti Wildebeest Tours

The Great Migration is a year-round circular movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest, thousands of zebras, and antelopes through the Serengeti (Tanzania) and Masai Mara (Kenya) ecosystems. It’s driven by rainfall and grazing patterns, and includes dramatic moments like Mara River crossings, Grumeti River crossings, and the calving season in Ndutu.
This phenomenon is considered the greatest wildlife show on Earth.

It depends on what moment you want to witness:

• River Crossings (Masai Mara, Kenya): July–October

• Calving Season (Ndutu, South Serengeti): December–March

• Central & Western Serengeti Herd Movements: April–June

• Serengeti North (Mara River Tanzania): August–October

Each season offers a unique type of wildlife action.
For the classic “National Geographic moments,” July–October is ideal.

Two major crossing points exist:

1. Mara River (Kenya & Tanzania) – July to October

This is where thousands of wildebeest leap into crocodile-filled waters.

2. Grumeti River (Western Serengeti) – May to June

These crossings are quieter and less crowded but still dramatic.

Divine Travel Nest Safaris positions guests in lodges closest to active crossing points, improving your chances of witnessing the action.

No — crossings depend on herd behavior, weather, river water levels, and predator pressure.
However, by choosing the right region at the right time, you significantly increase your chances.
Our guides use real-time herd updates to improve success rates.

Both countries offer outstanding experiences—but different ones:

Both countries offer outstanding experiences—but different ones:

Kenya (Masai Mara):

• Best for river crossings (July–October)

• Compact area = higher wildlife density

• Excellent big-cat sightings

Tanzania (Serengeti):

• Best for calving season (Dec–March)

• Massive open plains

• More varied stages of the Migration

For the complete experience, many travelers combine Kenya + Tanzania.

The ideal length is 5–7 days, allowing enough time to follow the herds, wait for crossings, and explore the surrounding ecosystem.
Shorter trips (3–4 days) are possible but may limit your chances for river-crossing sightings.

We recommend staying near the predicted herd path:

Masai Mara (Kenya):

Entim Mara, Mara Serena, Ashnil Mara, Governors’ Camp, Mara Explorer

Northern Serengeti (Tanzania):

Sayari Camp, Lemala Kuria, Serengeti Mara Camp

Ndutu (Calving Season):

Ndutu Safari Lodge, Lemala Ndutu, Mobile Migration Camps

We match guests to the best camp for their travel month.

Aside from millions of wildebeest and zebras, expect:

• Lions stalking herds

• Crocodile ambushes at crossings

• Hyena clans

• Cheetah hunts

• Leopards in riverine forests

• Caracals, jackals, and vultures

• Endless plains game

The Migration offers unparalleled predator–prey interaction.

Yes — but we recommend:

 Family-friendly lodges
Shorter game drives
 Private safari vehicles
 Early morning and late afternoon viewing

Many lodges offer babysitting, kids’ programs, and family tents.

For peak season (July–October), book 8–12 months in advance, especially for camps near crossing points.
For calving season and off-peak Serengeti travel, 4–6 months is sufficient.

We use:

• 4×4 Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs

• Extended wheelbase for comfort

• Guaranteed window seats

• Charging points / fridges / binoculars

• Ideal for photography and long game drives

Private vehicles are available upon request.

Yes, but timing is crucial.
Crossings happen suddenly and unpredictably — sometimes lasting minutes, sometimes hours.
Our guides position vehicles strategically, offering:

Upwind positions for better light
 Front-row vantage points
 Stable platforms for big lenses

We also offer dedicated photography safaris.

Essentials include:

• Neutral-colored safari clothing

• Sun protection

• Binoculars

• Fast camera lenses (if photographing)

• Lightweight jacket

• Refillable water bottle

• Good closed shoes

We send a full packing checklist before your trip.

We use a multi-layer system:

 Real-time ranger & guide network
Lodge location reports
 Herd movement trackers
Weather updates
 Seasonal predictions

This ensures you’re always in the right place at the right time.

Absolutely — popular combinations include:

• Masai Mara + Serengeti + Ngorongoro Crater

• Masai Mara + Amboseli (elephants + Kilimanjaro)

• Serengeti + Zanzibar (beach extension)

• Kenya + Uganda gorilla trekking

We customize all itineraries to your interests, timing, and budget.