Thousands of wildebeest and zebra plunge into the crocodile-filled Mara River in the northern Serengeti between July and October. This guide explains when and where the crossings happen, and how to give yourself the best chance of seeing one.
The main Mara River crossings take place from July to October, with the busiest period usually from August to September. Smaller crossings of the Grumeti River in the Western Corridor can happen from late May to July. The herds follow the rains and the grass, so exact timing changes from year to year and no operator can guarantee a crossing on a given day.
A crossing is sudden and intense. Herds gather, hesitate, and then surge into the water, while crocodiles wait and predators watch from the banks. Several vehicles may gather at popular points in peak months, so a good guide and good timing matter. If the herds do not cross during your stay, the northern Serengeti still offers superb big cat and elephant sightings.
| River crossings | Calving season | |
|---|---|---|
| Months | July to October | December to March |
| Area | Northern Serengeti | Ndutu and southern Serengeti |
| Crowds | Higher in peak months | Lower |
| Certainty | Not guaranteed on a given day | Very reliable births and predators |
Private departures with Maasai guides. Prices shown are current starting prices and each itinerary can be tailored.
No. Crossings depend on the herds and the weather. What we offer is expert positioning with Maasai guides who track the herds daily, and itineraries with enough nights in the north to improve your odds.
August and September are usually the most reliable, although crossings can occur from July to October.
A minimum of three nights in the northern Serengeti, ideally four or five, within a 6 to 8 day safari.
Both. The herds cross the Mara River between the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya. Our safaris focus on the Tanzanian side and can be combined with Kenya.