If Tanzania is commonly regarded as the visual triumph of East Africa, the Great Wildebeest Migration is the icing on this visual cake. It's a naturally orchestrated show of over 2,000,000 animals across 1,000 kilometres over two countries, namely Tanzania and Kenya. Prepare to be thrilled by this incredible spectacle. Here's everything you need to know about this bucket-list phenomenon...
The Great Migration is a testament to nature's resilience and majesty
When is the Best Time to Visit Tanzania?
One of the main reasons guests want to travel to Tanzania is to witness the Great Migration. And rightly so! However, bear in mind this is a journey and not a once-off event. Therefore, you need expert information on when and where to be to be able to fully experience the Great Migration in Tanzania.
How does this timing work? Well, the rains dictate the country's seasons and wildlife numbers, offering unique experiences depending on when you choose to visit. Each season has its own charm and surprises waiting for you to discover. Here's a quick overview of what to expect when visiting Tanzania throughout the different seasons.
Peak Season: June to August
Many guests flock to Tanzania in peak season – which typically falls between June and August – for a chance to witness vast herds of wildebeest and zebra traversing the northern Serengeti before eventually crossing the Grumeti River. What makes these crossings so spectacular is the drama that ensues as the animals try to avoid the jaws of crocodiles and other predators waiting to pounce.
Keep in mind that the peak season can differ slightly depending on the specific movements that year. This is also one of the busier seasons, so please remember that you have to book well in advance to ensure availability.
Expect plenty of action and drama as the Great Migration tries to cross the river
Green Season: November to March
Tanzania's "green season", between November and March, usually sees fewer visitors. While there's a chance of highly dramatic thunderstorms, it's a fantastic time for birdwatching as migratory species arrive in their thousands.
You'll also see Great Migration herds in the southern and western parts of the Serengeti. With their newly born calves, however, these herds tend to be much more dispersed and less congregated than during the peak of the migration.
Seasons to Skip
The only time we don’t recommend visiting Tanzania is between April and May. This is the only time when heavy rains make it difficult to move in the wilderness. Furthermore, many camps close during this time as the roads can become impassable. But don't worry, if you book with us, we'll recommend the best times and destinations for the ultimate African holiday.
Want to know more about the Great Wildebeest Migration? Find out here.
Tanzania holidays can be tailored to suit your needs, Image Credit: Sanctuary Retreats
When Should I Book My Tanzania Holiday?
If you're hoping to schedule a safari during the peak season, we suggest booking at least 12 months in advance. But if you're interested in off-season travel, you can book six to eight months before.
Tanzanian holidays come in many forms and as experts, we can craft any holiday to suit travellers of all ages and interests. However, due to the high demand, they fill up fast, so make sure you plan and book early to secure your ideal trip.
Before booking, however, it's essential to consider what things you'd like to do in Tanzania. Maybe you’d like to include a trip to the beach, historical tours, or visit various nature reserves, for example? Your preferences will help us tailor your trip to your liking.
Make sure you get the best experiences by booking far in advance, Image Credit: Elewana Serengeti Migration Camp
How Much Does a Great Migration Safari Cost?
The cost of a Great Migration safari in Tanzania really does depend on what time of the year you'll be travelling.
As a rough guide, prices start at around 1,000 USD per person per night during peak season. However, the cost can increase to around 3,500 USD per person per night.
We suggest talking to one of our Travel Experts to tailor-make your perfect Tanzanian escape as the range of accommodation options and experiences run the gamut.
The Serengeti is Tanzania's most famous safari destination – you can see why!
Where to Stay in Tanzania to See the Great Migration
Our Travel Experts have stayed at all the best luxury lodges in Tanzania and have first-hand experience of which ones offer the best Great Migration experiences. Here’s our hand-picked selection of the best lodges featuring spectacular designs, warm hospitality, and the most panoramic views on the planet.
1. Singita Sasakwa Lodge
Singita Sasakwa Lodge is one of our favourite accommodation spots in the Serengeti. Along with a front-row seat to the Great Migration, you can choose between an elegantly designed Manor House or one of the expansive cottages. Combining old-world sophistication with contemporary charm, Sasakwa Lodge creates a peaceful atmosphere with all the frills your heart could desire.
Would love to be here right now, Image Credit: Singita Sasakwa Lodge
2. Mwiba Lodge
Overlooking a rocky gorge on the Arugusinyai River in the Southern Serengeti, Mwiba Lodge is set in between boulders and ancient trees. This private land overflows with stunning vegetation, wildlife and multiple freshwater springs. Here, you can feel like "the king of the castle" while enjoying your rest away from the busy world.
The ultimate vantage point of the Serengeti, Image Credit: Mwiba Lodge.
3. Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge
As the name suggests, you'll find the Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge on the banks of the Grumeti River, which means you'll see bloats of hippos and witness the passage of the Great Migration (if you visit at the right time). Few camps have such an ideal location! After a day of game drives and adventure, we recommend winding down with a sundowner on the spacious deck overlooking the activity in the river below.
Welcome to your safari home, Image Credit: &Beyond
4. Sayari Camp
Sayari Camp is a beautiful blend of grandeur and wilderness – a high-end lodge that keeps the wild surroundings at its core. Its ideal location near the Maasai Mara and Lamai Wedge makes this the perfect resting spot in between Great Migration safaris. While here, we recommend forgoing traditional indoor dining for a gorgeous dinner under the stars or a bush breakfast before heading out on your safari.
Wake up to panoramic views of the vast Serengeti plains, Image Credit: &Beyond
5. Namiri Plains
Located along the Ngare Nanyuki River in the eastern part of the Serengeti, Namiri Plains is a haven of lavish canvas tents with the highest level of service. The area is known for its "big cat" viewing opportunities, such as lion, cheetah, leopard, and sometimes the smaller serval and caracal. After a day of game viewing, head to the Soit Le Motonyi viewpoint for a sundowner.
A tranquil retreat in "big cat country", Image Credit: Asilia Namiri Plains Camp
6. Singita Faru Faru Lodge
With the Singita Grumeti Private Reserve as its backyard, Singita Faru Faru Lodge offers an exclusive retreat away from the busier alternatives. Along with traditional safaris led by expert field guides, you can take to the sky in a hot air balloon to explore the African bush from above – remember to bring your camera along for the ride!
Seeing the Great Migration in Tanzania is something you'll reminisce about for years to come
Our Favourite Great Migration Tours in Tanzania
At Rhino Africa, we believe in personalising each and every experience. This means we don't have set tours you have to choose from. Instead, we give you some sample Tanzania tours to get you dreaming. From there, we get to know you and your fellow travellers in order to curate something spectacular.
For one of our favourite combinations, imagine going from the coffee plantations of Arusha to Great Migration meandering in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, before bringing the journey to an end on the mesmerising island of Zanzibar! Our Ngorongoro, Serengeti and Zanzibar Tour showcases the breathtaking wildlife and landscapes of Tanzania, all rolled into one unbelievable holiday.
Let's make some memories in Tanzania
Ready To Get This Show on the Road?
Our first-hand experience means we know the ins and outs of each lodge and can tailor-make the ideal safari for all occasions – whether you're after a slow travel experience or celebrating your honeymoon.
Contact us, and let one of our Travel Experts start planning your African safari today.
