Great Migration Safari Guide — Masai Mara vs Serengeti (Which Offers the Best Experience?)
Every year, more than 1.8 million wildebeest, hundreds of thousands of zebras, and countless antelopes thunder across the plains of Kenya and Tanzania in a cycle known as the Great Migration. For many travelers, a Great Migration safari is the pinnacle of wildlife travel — a natural wonder on par with the Amazon and Antarctica.
But if you’re planning your trip, one question always comes up:
“Is the Masai Mara or the Serengeti better for seeing the migration?”
Masai Mara vs Serengeti — What’s the Difference?
Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)
-
One of Africa’s oldest and biggest parks
-
Vast open plains stretching 14,700 km²
-
Main migration calving area
-
Home to the longest land migration on Earth
-
Known for endless predator encounters
Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya)
-
Smaller but extremely wildlife-dense
-
Best chance of seeing dramatic river crossings
-
Peak predator activity
-
Excellent game viewing year-round
-
Known for big cats and photographic safaris
Both are extraordinary — but they shine at different times of the year.
Best Time to See the Great Migration (Month-by-Month Guide)
January–March: Calving Season (Serengeti)
Location: Southern Serengeti (Ndutu)
Highlights:
-
8,000+ calves born daily
-
Huge predator activity
-
Superb photography
Best for: Families, photographers, and big cat lovers.
April–June: Grumeti River Season (Western Serengeti)
Location: Western Corridor
Highlights:
-
Herds gather at the Grumeti River
-
Early, less crowded river crossings
-
Lush green landscapes
Best for: Travelers who prefer fewer crowds and great prices.
July–October: Mara River Crossings (Masai Mara)
Location: Masai Mara (Kenya)
Highlights:
-
Iconic Mara River crossings
-
Most dramatic migration scenes
-
Huge crocodiles and intense predator hunts
Best for: The most famous and powerful migration moments.
November–December: Return to Serengeti
Location: Eastern Serengeti (Lobo, Kogatende)
Highlights:
-
Herds migrate south
-
Fantastic predator sightings
-
Calm, quieter safari season
Best for: Great wildlife without peak-season crowds.
Which Is Better? Mara vs Serengeti—By Category
✔ For River Crossings
Masai Mara wins.
The Mara River crossings are dramatic, photogenic, and unpredictable — a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.
✔ For Calving & Baby Animals
Serengeti wins.
Nothing compares to witnessing thousands of newborn calves and intense predator action.
✔ For Big Cats
Tie.
-
Serengeti = cheetah heaven
-
Masai Mara = lion kingdom
Both parks are exceptional for big cats.
✔ For Luxury Lodges
Masai Mara wins slightly.
The Mara offers more luxury tented camps directly overlooking the migration routes.
✔ For Space & Landscapes
Serengeti wins.
You can drive for hours in the Serengeti with no other vehicle in sight — pure wilderness.
How Much Does a Great Migration Safari Cost?
Prices vary based on route, lodges, and season.
Serengeti (Calving Season)
-
Mid-range: $450–$650 per day
-
Luxury: $900–$1,800 per day
Masai Mara (River Crossings)
-
Mid-range: $500–$750 per day
-
Luxury: $1,100–$2,500 per day
Prices peak in July–October.
For the best value, book a Kenya–Tanzania safari that follows the herds through both parks.
Best Great Migration Itineraries (Recommended)
8-Day Mara Migration Safari (Kenya)
-
Nairobi → Masai Mara → Nairobi
Ideal for travelers focused on river crossings.
10-Day Serengeti Calving & Crater Safari (Tanzania)
-
Arusha → Ndutu → Serengeti → Ngorongoro
Perfect for big cats and baby wildlife.
12-Day Kenya–Tanzania Migration Combo (Top Pick)
-
Masai Mara → Serengeti → Ngorongoro Crater
-
Includes Isebania border crossing
Best for travelers who want it all.
Expert Tips for the Best Migration Safari
✔ Book at least 6–12 months in advance for July–October
River crossing lodges sell out quickly.
✔ Choose a camp close to the river
This increases your chance of witnessing a crossing.
✔ Use a mix of game drives and walking safaris
Serengeti walking safaris offer intimate experiences.
✔ Travel with a certified local specialist
Wildbud Safaris guides know herd movements day by day.
FAQS: Great Migration Safari
1. Where is the best place to see the Great Migration?
The best place for dramatic scenes is the Mara River in the Masai Mara, known for intense river crossings and predator action.
2. What month is best for the Great Migration?
-
February for calving in the Serengeti
-
July–October for river crossings in the Masai Mara
3. Is it better to see the migration in Kenya or Tanzania?
Both are incredible:
-
Serengeti = calving and space
-
Masai Mara = river crossings
Most travelers combine both.
4. How long should a migration safari be?
A minimum of 5–7 days, though 10–12 days is ideal if combining Kenya and Tanzania.
5. Can you guarantee seeing a river crossing?
No operator can guarantee it — crossings are unpredictable. But staying near the river for 2–3 nights gives you a very high chance.
Ready for Your Migration Adventure?
Witness nature’s greatest show with East Africa’s trusted safari specialists.
