Month by Month Guide to Visiting The Serengeti
The Serengeti “Serengeti National Park” is a renowned Tanzania Park, home to the Big 5, wildebeest migration and so much more. One of the frequently asked question by travelers planning a Serengeti Safari is “when is the best time to visit Serengeti for a safari”.
When the best time for a safari in the Serengeti is depends on your personal preferences and here is our month by month guide.
January in the Serengeti: the short dry season & high season
The short rains of November and December breathe new life into the grasslands of the Serengeti, triggering the wildebeest in Kenya to journey southward. By January, the Ndutu and Kusini plains of the Southern Serengeti are alive with countless wildebeest gathering on the lush, mineral-rich grasses nourished by fertile volcanic soils. The plains become a wildebeest nursery dotted with thousands of expecting mothers, witnessing these mega herds in this beautiful ecosystem is an unforgettable sight.
February in the Serengeti: the short dry season & high season
In February, the plains of the Southern Serengeti transform into a birthing ground for the wildebeest where approximately half a million wildebeest calves are born within a few weeks. This attracts large number of big cats to the area as they prey on the vulnerable young calves. As you witness the struggle for survival unfold, you gain a first-hand experience of the power of nature and the resilience of life on the beautiful grasslands.
March, April and May in the Serengeti: the long rains & low season
The rainy season typically starts in March, when the moist air from the southeast trade wind moves inland. The rainfall usually occurs during afternoon or nighttime thunderstorms, and March and April receive the most rain. Despite the frequent precipitation, the high temperatures during this time are pleasant, ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 27°C (80°F).
During March, the herds of wildebeest roam across the vast plains of Ndutu and Kusini. In April, they start to migrate northwards in long columns and can be spotted in Moru Koples and the Seronera Region. By May, they reach the Western Corridor, and the wildebeest rut or mating season commences, a unique and fascinating part of the wildebeest migration.
Towards the end of May, the wildebeests continue congregating in Western Serengeti, and the river crossing at Grumeti River becomes more inevitable.
June in the Serengeti: the dry season & high season
June is an exciting month in The Serengeti for two reasons. Firstly, it marks the start of the dry season in East Africa. Secondly, it is an exhilarating time in the annual cycle of the wildebeest migration. By June, vast herds of wildebeest gather in the western corridor of the Serengeti, where they face their first significant challenge – crossing the east to west flowing river, home to large and hungry Nile crocodiles. It is an event in nature that you will remember forever. June is considered by some to be the best time to visit the Serengeti, numbers of visitors are lower than in July and August, but conditions for wildlife safaris are great.
July in the Serengeti: the dry season & high season
The Grumeti River Crossing, where large Nile Crocodiles eagerly await their prey, is remarkable. However, an even more fantastic spectacle awaits further north, and the best time to experience it is in July.
By July, the wildebeests move into the northern Serengeti, where they will reach the famous Mara River, which is bigger, deeper and more treacherous than the Grumeti River. From mid-July, the famous river crossings take place, which is a heart-stopping event to witness. If you wish to see the Mara River crossing, booking at least one year in advance is essential.
It is important to note that the Serengeti can get very busy during this time of year, there will be higher numbers of safari vehicles and tourists between July and September especially at the river crossings. If seeing a river crossing is not a priority, and you would prefer to experience a safari with fewer other tourists around. We recommend choosing a different time of year as best time to visit the Serengeti.
August in the Serengeti: the dry season & high season
August is an excellent month to witness the wildebeest migration in the Ikorongo region, in the far north of the Serengeti National Park. This is also the best time to see the ongoing Mara River Crossings before the mega herds enter Kenya. Due to the progression of the dry season, the landscapes continue to dry out, causing the resident wildlife to congregate near rivers and permanent water sources. This provides an ideal opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife. August is a popular time to visit Serengeti and it can get busy.
September in the Serengeti: the dry season & high season
September marks the third consecutive month without any rainfall on the Great Plains of the Serengeti National Park. Consequently, the wildlife is now gathering around the remaining water sources, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. During September, the mega-herds migrate into Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. But don’t let that discourage you as you can cross over to Kenya and continue following this incredible journey into the stunning Masai Mara. With world – class wildlife, it is an excellent way to conclude a safari to the Serengeti National Park.
October in the Serengeti: the dry season & high season
A safari in Serengeti National Park during October is an incredible opportunity to witness that last month of the dry season. After five months of no rainfall, the landscapes are at their driest, and the water sources are depleting, making it one of the most challenging times of the year for wildlife. However, this also means visitors can observe vast numbers of animals and birds near the remaining water. During October, the wildebeest can be found in Kenya Masai Mara.
November in the Serengeti: the short rains & the low season
The short rains arrive in November though it is often unpredictable, leading to a sudden growth of new grass in the Serengeti National Park. This causes the wildebeests in Kenya to migrate south and cross the Mara River for the second time, the park typically receives fewer visitors during this period. Although it can rain heavily, it usually occurs in the afternoon or at night, making early morning game drives just as enjoyable. Additionally, migratory birds start returning in November, which adds an extra element of excitement to the park.
December in the Serengeti: the short rains & the low season
In December, the wildebeests arrive in the Southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The short rains have turned the plains green, and afternoon showers are still expected. The rains also clear the air dust, making it a beautiful time to be in the park, especially for wildlife and landscape photography enthusiasts. Although November and December see fewer visitors in the park, there is an influx of visitors during Christmas and New Year, which is understandable. Spending Christmas with your family in the wilderness, disconnected from the world, is an experience unlike any other. It is essential to book early.
