The Serengeti is one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations, renowned for its vast plains, exceptional wildlife, and the world-famous Great Migration. One of the most common questions travelers ask when planning their journey is: when is the best time to safari in the Serengeti?
The answer depends on what you want to experience. With expert insight from LoboAfrica, this guide breaks down the best time to visit the Serengeti in 2026/2027, season by season.
Understanding Serengeti Safari Seasons
The Serengeti offers incredible wildlife viewing year-round, but different seasons highlight different experiences. Weather patterns and animal movements shape each safari season.
Dry Season: June to October (Peak Safari Season)
The dry season is widely considered the best time to safari in the Serengeti for general wildlife viewing.
Why Travel During the Dry Season?
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Excellent game viewing as animals gather around water sources
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Short grass improves visibility
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Minimal rainfall and pleasant temperatures
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Peak period for predator sightings
Great Migration Highlight
From June to July, massive herds move north, with dramatic river crossings typically occurring between July and September.
✔ Ideal for first-time safari travelers
✔ Best for photography and big-game sightings
Green Season: November to March (Calving & Birdlife)
The green season transforms the Serengeti into a lush, vibrant landscape.
Why Choose the Green Season?
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Fewer visitors and more exclusive safari experiences
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Stunning scenery and dramatic skies
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Exceptional birdwatching
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Lower safari rates at many lodges
Great Migration Highlight
From January to February, the migration reaches the southern Serengeti for the calving season, when thousands of wildebeest calves are born—attracting predators and creating intense wildlife action.
✔ Perfect for photographers
✔ Ideal for travelers seeking quieter, luxury safaris
Shoulder Season: April to May (Hidden Gem Months)
April and May are considered the long rainy season, but they offer unique advantages.
Why Consider April–May?
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Very few tourists
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Beautiful landscapes
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Excellent value for luxury lodges
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Authentic, uncrowded safari experience
While rainfall is more frequent, wildlife viewing remains strong, especially with expert guides.
✔ Best for experienced safari travelers
✔ Ideal for privacy and value
Month-by-Month Serengeti Safari Guide (2026/2027)
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January–February: Calving season, predator action
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March: Migration begins moving north
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April–May: Green landscapes, fewer crowds
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June: Migration in western Serengeti
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July–September: River crossings (peak demand)
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October: Excellent wildlife, fewer crowds
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November–December: Short rains, lush scenery
Best Time for the Great Migration in the Serengeti
The Great Migration is a year-round phenomenon, not a single event.
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Calving: January–February
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Grumeti River crossings: June–July
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Mara River crossings: July–September
LoboAfrica designs itineraries that place you in the right location at the right time, maximizing your chances of witnessing these extraordinary moments.
When Is the Best Time to Safari in the Serengeti for You?
The best time depends on your priorities:
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Best overall wildlife viewing: June–October
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Best for Great Migration river crossings: July–September
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Best for calving & photography: January–February
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Best for luxury & exclusivity: November–March
With expert planning, there is no bad time to safari in the Serengeti—only different experiences.
Why Plan Your Serengeti Safari with LoboAfrica?
LoboAfrica offers:
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Expert, destination-specific safari planning
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Luxury lodges in prime wildlife areas
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Private guides and tailored itineraries
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Seamless logistics and 24/7 support
Their in-depth knowledge ensures your Serengeti safari in 2026/2027 is perfectly timed and effortlessly enjoyed.
Start Planning Your Serengeti Safari for 2026/2027
If you’re wondering when the best time to safari in the Serengeti is for 2026/2027, LoboAfrica will help you choose the ideal season based on your travel style, interests, and expectations.
A Serengeti safari is more than a holiday—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey. With expert guidance, it becomes unforgettable.
