Can I see the migration year-round?

Yes, but the animals are constantly moving. You will see large numbers of wildebeest and zebras year-round, but specific events like river crossings only happen in the north during the dry season.

Is it worth visiting in April or May?

These are the long rainy months. Many camps close, roads turn to deep mud, and game viewing is difficult. It is cheaper, but you risk being stuck.

When to visit the Serengeti for the Great Migration

To see the Great Migration, target the calving season in the southern Serengeti from January to March, or the Mara River crossings in the northern Serengeti from July to September. The herds are constantly moving, so plan your location based on these specific windows.

Decide on the migration event. Choose between the calving season (easier to see large groups of stationary herds in the south) or the river crossings (high-action, dramatic, but harder to predict exact timing).
Book your camps in the right sector. Book mobile camps located in the specific region where the herds are expected to be. If you are in the North in January, you will not see the herds.
Coordinate your park entry. Buy your Serengeti National Park permit at least 30 days in advance via the TANAPA online portal or have your tour operator manage the digital entry fee payment.
Plan for off-road access. Verify if your accommodation is inside the park boundaries; staying outside means you could lose 2-3 hours of prime morning game-drive time waiting at the gate.

Can I see the migration year-round?: Yes, but the animals are constantly moving. You will see large numbers of wildebeest and zebras year-round, but specific events like river crossings only happen in the north during the dry season.
Is it worth visiting in April or May?: These are the long rainy months. Many camps close, roads turn to deep mud, and game viewing is difficult. It is cheaper, but you risk being stuck.