When to Witness the Great Migration: A Monthly Guide

Your timeline for the world's most spectacular wildlife event—the Maasai Mara migration cycle.

Great Migration River Crossing

The Eternal Cycle

The Great Migration is not a one-time event but a year-round circular journey of over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and antelopes across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. However, for those looking to witness the most dramatic moments in Kenya, timing is everything.

July – August: The Arrival & River Crossings

This is the "Golden Season." The herds arrive at the Mara River, where they face their greatest challenge: crocodile-infested waters and steep banks. These crossings are the high-octane drama that most safari-goers dream of seeing.

Expert Quest Tip:

River crossings are the result of patience. Our guides often wait with clients for hours to witness a crossing—it is unpredictable, raw, and absolutely worth the wait.

September – October: The Lush Plains

By September, the herds have settled into the open plains of the Maasai Mara. This is a fantastic time for predator sightings. With millions of grazers concentrated in one area, lions, leopards, and cheetahs are at their most active.

November: The Short Rains & Migration South

As the short rains begin, the grass in the Mara begins to deplete, and the herds turn south once more. This is a beautiful time for photography, as the dust settles and the landscape turns a vibrant emerald green.

Conclusion

Whether you want the adrenaline of a river crossing or the photographic beauty of the green season, the Great Migration is an experience that stays with you forever.

Keep Exploring

Ultimate Packing List 2026 → Hidden Gems of the Coast →

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