The Great Migration moves between Tanzania's Serengeti and Kenya's Maasai Mara throughout the year, the same herds crossing an international border as they follow rainfall and grazing.
Which side to choose depends almost entirely on your travel dates.
Choose the Serengeti for January to June, when the herds are calving and moving through Tanzania. Choose the Maasai Mara for July to October, when the herds cross into Kenya for the famous Mara River crossings.
- January to March: Serengeti, southern plains, calving season.
- April to June: Serengeti, herds moving north and west.
- July to October: Maasai Mara, peak crossing season.
- November to December: Serengeti, herds moving south again.
- Both sides see excellent wildlife viewing outside migration months too.
| Months | Better Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Jan - Jun | Serengeti | Calving season and herds moving north |
| Jul - Oct | Maasai Mara | Peak crossing season |
| Nov - Dec | Serengeti | Herds moving south again |
1. The Herds Don't Recognise The Border
The Serengeti-Mara ecosystem is one continuous landscape, and the migration moves through it based on rainfall, not the international border that happens to run through the middle.
2. Serengeti: January To June
Calving season in the southern plains, followed by the herds moving north and west, makes this the stronger choice for the first half of the year.
Read More: Full itinerary: the 10 Day Tanzania Wildlife & Zanzibar Beach Safari3. Maasai Mara: July To October
The famous river crossings happen as herds push into Kenya, making this the peak window for the Mara side.
Read More: Full itinerary: the 7 Day Kenya Budget Safari4. Outside Migration Season
Both parks offer strong resident wildlife viewing year round, lion, cheetah, and elephant populations do not migrate, so a trip outside these windows is still genuinely worthwhile.
Same Herds, Different Calendar Windows
Your travel dates, more than personal preference, should decide between the Serengeti and the Maasai Mara for migration viewing.
Not sure which side fits your dates? Tell us when you are traveling and we will recommend Serengeti, Mara, or both.
Start PlanningFrequently Asked Questions
Can I visit both the Serengeti and the Maasai Mara on one trip?
Yes, though it requires additional transfer time and typically a longer overall itinerary.
Is one side better for photography?
Both offer excellent photography, the Mara's river crossings are more dramatic, the Serengeti's open plains offer wider landscape shots.
What if I can only travel outside migration season?
Both parks still offer strong year round wildlife viewing, the migration is a bonus, not a requirement for a great trip.
