There are few experiences in the world that compare to witnessing the Great Migration in Tanzania. It’s one of nature’s greatest spectacles—and an unforgettable adventure for those drawn to wildlife, wide-open spaces, and raw natural beauty. During our recent trip to Tanzania with our trusted partners at Africa Inscribed, we explored the best of the Serengeti’s Northern Circuit. We were privileged to experience just how magical this part of East Africa truly is.
What is the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is the largest overland migration of wildlife on Earth. Each year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebra and antelope, follow the rains in search of fresh grazing. This natural phenomenon is a circular journey through Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Maasai Mara.
Timing the migration can be tricky—it depends entirely on rainfall patterns and shifts slightly from year to year. While we’ve outlined some general patterns below, flexibility and expert guidance are essential when planning a trip around the migration.
Seasonal Migration Highlights (Approximate):
- January–March: Calving season in the lush, southern Serengeti plains.
- April–May: Herds start migrating north into central Serengeti—best to avoid this period due to the long rains.
- June–July: Herds move west and prepare to cross the Grumeti River.
- July–August: Iconic Mara River crossings as herds move into Kenya’s Maasai Mara. Crowded, but dramatic.
- October–November: Herds remain in the Maasai Mara, grazing before returning south.
- December: The movement begins to shift back toward the southern Serengeti for calving.
While the famed Mara River crossings are awe-inspiring (typically mid-July to mid-August), we often recommend avoiding this peak time unless it’s high on your bucket list. Lodges fill quickly, and the safari experience can feel less personal due to the crowds.
Best time to visit Tanzania for the Great Migration:
Mid-December through early July offers excellent wildlife viewing throughout the Serengeti without the peak-season chaos.
Spotlight on Tanzania: Northern Serengeti Safari Circuit
Courtney from our team recently journeyed through the Northern Serengeti on an exclusive educational trip hosted by one of our trusted on-the-ground partners, Africa Inscribed. While she missed the Great Migration by just two weeks, she experienced the year-round magic of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes—and returned with firsthand insights for our clients.
We prefer to base travelers in the Northern Circuit for several reasons: a greater variety of luxury lodges, fewer crowds, and incredible game viewing throughout the year.
Hot Air Ballooning Over The Serengeti
The day began very early with a 4:30 AM pickup for the hot air balloon experience. After a bumpy and unusually long drive—about an hour and a half due to unseasonal rains—the group arrived at the launch site. Although the early wake-up and extended journey weren’t ideal, any lingering fatigue vanished the moment the balloon lifted off.
For Courtney, it was her first-ever hot air balloon ride—and an unforgettable one. Watching the sunrise over the vast plains of the Serengeti was surreal, the kind of travel moment that feels truly significant. From the air, the group spotted zebra, wildebeest, hyena, gazelle, and even hares moving across the landscape. As the balloon floated lower near the end of the flight, a pride of lions came into view.
Despite not being particularly fond of heights, the takeoff and landing felt incredibly smooth, and once airborne, there was a sense of calm and awe. The flight ended with a champagne toast—a time-honored balloon safari tradition and a fittingly celebratory way to conclude one of the most memorable experiences from Tanzania.
Where We Stayed in Tanzania + Recommendations
Arrival:
We flew into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and transferred by private vehicle to Arusha.
Arusha Lodges (Gateway to Northern Tanzania)
Legendary Lodge – Top Pick
- Located in Arusha on a coffee plantation at the base of Mount Meru.
- 12 spacious garden cottages with private verandas and king-sized beds.
- Air conditioning, spa, and serene gardens—ideal for recovering from long-haul travel.
- Welcomes families and offers nature walks and cycling to shake off jet lag.
- 30 rooms on a working coffee estate, just outside the city.
- Cozy fireplaces, air-conditioned suites, and excellent African-inspired dining at The Bistro.
- Don’t miss the handmade chapatis or a visit to Shanga, an inspiring social enterprise that employs local artisans with disabilities.
- Better suited for couples or solo travelers due to the limited connecting room options.
Safari Lodges Visited in the Serengeti
Wilderness Usawa Mobile Tented Camp
- A luxurious, seasonal mobile camp that follows the migration path across Kusini, Moru, and Lamai.
- Accommodates 12 guests in safari-style tents with ensuite bathrooms and hot bucket showers.
- “Bush Wi-Fi,” gourmet meals, walking safaris, and stargazing—all part of the experience.
- Best described as elevated glamping. Children 6+ welcome.
- No air conditioning—only overhead fans (important to note in hotter months).
&Beyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge
- Located on the edge of the Grumeti River in the western Serengeti.
- Massive suites with plunge pools and panoramic river views.
- No air conditioning—only overhead fans (important to note in hotter months).
- Offers yoga, in-room spa treatments, and a small gym.
- The food was hit or miss, but the staff and location were excellent.
Pro Tip: Request a sundowner at the hilltop for some of the best views in the Serengeti.
Other Notable Lodges We Recommend
While not visited on this trip, properties like Singita Sabora Tented Camp and Little Chem Chem are exceptional and well-suited for travelers seeking a fully immersive and private safari experience in Tanzania.
Final Thoughts
Why Book With Us?
There’s a difference between booking a trip and crafting a journey. We don’t just match you with a lodge—we match you with the right lodge, guides, and experiences based on your goals, pace, and preferences.
The internet can offer inspiration, but it often skips the fine print. We’ll tell you whether that dreamy lodge is located near a village with light pollution or whether your game drive will be limited to marked roads in a crowded park. Our goal is to design a trip that’s entirely yours.
We believe that the best travel advisors are the ones who have experienced the destination firsthand. Courtney’s recent visit to Tanzania wasn’t just for leisure—it was an immersive trip designed entirely to gain on-the-ground insight so we can perfect every aspect of your safari. From understanding the subtle nuances between properties to testing logistics and uncovering hidden gems, our destination immersion trips are the foundation of the personalized itineraries we craft for our clients.
Our approach is collaborative—we convey your preferences to our trusted partners and sprinkle a touch of extra magic throughout your trip. Through exclusive partnerships with the world’s leading hotels and travel providers, we secure exceptional value-added amenities, room upgrades, and VIP experiences unavailable when booking on your own. With our respected name working behind the scenes, you gain access and status that go beyond anything an internet search or AI itinerary can deliver. And thanks to our “little black book” of elite contacts, we’re able to prioritize you during your trip, opening doors to unforgettable moments.
Planning with us means more than just securing the best accommodations—it means receiving tailored guidance, curated experiences, and thoughtful details that reflect your travel style. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time safari-goer, we’ll ensure every detail is considered, from the right documents and expert guides to the timing of your flights and ideal post-trek accommodations. Our transparent pricing, personalized service, and nearly two decades of expertise ensure a planning experience that is as luxurious and intentional as the trip itself.
Witnessing the Great Migration is more than a once-in-a-lifetime adventure—it’s a deeply meaningful journey that connects you to the heart of Africa’s wildlife, landscapes, and resilient communities. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, embarking on your honeymoon, or checking off a dream, we’re here to plan every step.
Still in the research phase? This trip was part of a two-week journey through Tanzania and Rwanda. You can read all about our gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda on our blog. You can also check out an ultraluxe safari we planned for one of our clients, as well as our blog on what a typical day on safari looks like. Learn more about our services here. You can also contact us with your specific questions. Need any packing tips? Read our safari packing guide here.
Ready to take the first step to plan your dream safari to Tanzania? Fill out a Travel Request Form and let us know your ideal travel dates, activity level, and accommodation style, and we’ll take it from there.
