Best time to visit Serengeti

The Serengeti National Park is one of the most iconic safari destinations in the world. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and the Great Wildebeest Migration, it offers year-round adventures. But when is the best time to visit the Serengeti?

The answer depends on what you want to experience—whether it’s predator action during calving season or the thrilling river crossings during migration. This guide will help you choose the right season for your dream Serengeti safari.

 Overview of Serengeti’s Seasons

Serengeti has a generally warm, dry climate with two rainy seasons and two dry seasons:

• Short rains: November to early December

• Long rains: March to May

• Dry seasons: June to October and January to February

Each season offers something unique for travelers, from dramatic wildlife scenes to peaceful game drives with fewer tourists.

Month-by-Month Breakdown

January – March: Calving Season

• Location: Southern Serengeti and Ndutu Plains

• Highlights:

  • Thousands of wildebeest give birth (over 500,000 calves born in weeks)

  • Prime time for predator sightings—lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are very active

  • Landscapes are green and photogenic

Best for seeing newborns and predator-prey action

April – May: Green Season (Long Rains)

• Location: Central and southern Serengeti

• Highlights:

  • Fewer tourists and lower rates

  • Great for birdwatching and lush scenery

  • Some lodges may close temporarily due to heavy rains

Peaceful, budget-friendly, but muddy in some areas

June – July: Migration Begins

• Location: Western and central Serengeti

• Highlights:

  • Wildebeest herds start moving north

  • Dramatic Grumeti River crossings (with crocodile encounters)

  • Dry, clear weather for game drives

Great for wildlife photography and mobile camps

August – October: Prime River Crossings

• Location: Northern Serengeti (near Mara River)

• Highlights:

  • Witness heart-stopping Mara River crossings

  • Thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles

  • Ideal weather and excellent visibility

Peak time for migration safari adventures

November – December: Short Rains & Return South

• Location: Eastern and southern Serengeti

• Highlights:

  • Wildebeest begin returning south

  • Green season begins again, with scenic views

  • Still good for game viewing and fewer crowds

 A great time for photographers and value travelers

Wildlife Sightings by Season

 Final Recommendations

• If you want to see calving and predator interactions, visit from January to March.

• For the Mara River crossings, the best time is July to October.

• Looking for fewer crowds and lower prices? Consider April, May, or November.

Final Thoughts

The Serengeti offers incredible wildlife experiences year-round, but choosing the right time based on your interests can elevate your safari to the next level. Whether you’re chasing the wildebeest migration or seeking tranquil game drives, there’s always something unforgettable waiting for you.

With the right timing, your visit to the Serengeti becomes more than a trip—it becomes the adventure of a lifetime.