Best Time to Visit the Serengeti: Migration, Calving and Seasons by Month

Because herds move through different regions across the year, the best place to stay changes with the month.

Use this guide to decide where and when to base yourself.

This guide is part of our Uganda month-by-month and seasonal guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Months at a Glance

Choosing a Region

Pick camps in the region where herds are expected. Mobile camps move accordingly. See Serengeti regions.

Weather and Roads

Dry months bring dust and cool mornings, while rains can make roads slippery. Pack layers.

Crowds

Peak months are July to October and Christmas. Book early.

Wildlife Beyond the Herds

Dry months concentrate wildlife at rivers and waterholes, making predator sightings easier. Wet months scatter animals but bring fresh grass, young animals and birds. Resident lions, leopards and cheetahs are seen year-round. Good guides adapt routes to where animals are active.

Choosing Your Region and Camp Style

Permanent camps in the central Seronera area are good year-round, while seasonal or mobile camps move to meet the herds. Northern camps are best from July to October, southern ones from December to March. Ask how close camps are to the action and how long transfers take.

Booking and Flexibility

Book early for peak months and consider extending your stay to give yourself flexibility. If you hope to see river crossings, allow several nights in the north. Keep an open mind about the season you choose: every month has something special.

Month-by-Month Tips

January: calving begins; stay in the south. February: peak calving and predator action. March: herds start moving. April and May: quiet, green and good value. June: herds head west. July to September: northern river crossings. October: herds linger in the north. November and December: herds travel south. Adjust to your dates and ask your operator for current herd positions.

Matching Your Interests to the Season

Different interests point to different times. Predator action and newborn calves in the south peak in the calving months, while river crossings in the north draw crowds in the middle of the year. The central Seronera area offers year-round resident wildlife, which makes it a dependable base whatever the season. Birdwatchers enjoy the green months when migratory species arrive, and photographers often prefer the dry months for clear light and dust-free air. Families may choose quieter periods for easier lodging and more flexible schedules. Because the herds move, think of the Serengeti as a place to match to the migration rather than a single fixed destination, and ask your operator where the animals are likely to be on your dates.

Planning

See best time for Tanzania and Serengeti guide.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team