There’s nothing quite like it. The rumble of hooves, dust hanging in the golden light, lions watching from the shadows—the Great Migration is nature at its most raw. If you’re planning a safari to witness it, one question always comes up: Should you go to the Serengeti or the Masai Mara?
For seasoned travellers, especially those looking to put together a private group trip, the answer might just be both—if you time it right.
Understanding the Migration
The Great Migration is a year-round cycle of over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with zebras and gazelles, moving between Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara, chasing rain and fresh grazing. The animals don’t recognise borders—but you’ll have to.
Different stages of the migration happen in different regions, and choosing when and where to go depends on what sort of experience you’re after—calving, river crossings, predator action, or quieter moments in the open plains.
Serengeti (Tanzania): The Journey
Best months: December to July (with movement northward through the park)
- Jan–Mar (Southern Serengeti/Ndutu): Calving season. Thousands of calves born daily, and predators close by. A quieter, dramatic experience for those who’ve done the mainstream safari before.
- April–June (Western Corridor): Herds move northwest. Good wildlife viewing, fewer crowds, but can be muddy depending on the rains.
- July–August (Northern Serengeti): The migration builds along the Mara River. River crossings happen here too—less crowded than the Kenyan side.
Private group tip:
This is where exclusive-use mobile camps shine. They move with the herds, giving your group a front-row seat to the action, with solitude you simply won’t get in permanent lodges. A strong guide, your own vehicles, and no other guests—it’s how safaris used to be.
Masai Mara (Kenya): The Drama
Best months: July to October
By July, the herds often cross into Masai Mara, gathering along the Mara River. This is the classic migration scene—thousands of wildebeest hurling themselves into crocodile-infested waters while big cats prowl the banks.
- July–September is peak time. You’ll get the drama, but also the crowds. Still, it’s hard to beat if you’ve never seen a river crossing before.
Private group tip:
To avoid the busiest parts of the park, consider staying in one of the private conservancies on the edge of the Mara. These areas give your group the freedom to go off-road, enjoy sundowners in peace, and even do night drives—none of which are allowed in the national reserve. You’ll have the same wildlife, fewer vehicles, and a much better group experience.
What About Doing Both?
If you’re travelling July to September, you can absolutely combine Northern Serengeti and Masai Mara—a great option for private groups with time and a sense of adventure. I always like to travel avoiding the crowds and enjoy better valued rates. A good option then would book end of June to get the best of both!
It takes some coordination, as you’ll be crossing borders and arranging internal flights or long drives, but the reward is enormous: you catch the migration on both sides of the river, witness multiple crossings, and get two very different landscapes and guiding styles.
Serengeti vs Masai Mara: A Side-by-Side Look
| Experience | Serengeti | Masai Mara |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Massive and spread out | Smaller and more concentrated |
| Crowds | Fewer vehicles, especially off-peak | Can be busy during river crossings |
| Best for | Longer journeys, mobile camps, varied landscapes | Shorter trips, first-time migration sightings |
| Accommodation | Excellent mobile camps and remote lodges | Strong range of lodges, plus conservancy options |
| River Crossings | July–August (Northern Serengeti) | July–October (Mara River) |
| Private Group Friendly? | Yes – mobile camps, own vehicles, guides | Yes – conservancies with more freedom |
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a private safari group , and you’ve already had a taste of Africa, this is a chance to go deeper. The Great Migration isn’t a one-day event—it’s a constant, ever-changing journey. Whether you follow it in Tanzania, Kenya, or both, it’s all about being in the right place at the right time.
Opt for a setup that gives your group flexibility, access, and space—mobile camps in the Serengeti or private conservancies in the Mara. That’s where the real magic is: off the beaten path, away from the minivans, and close to the wild.