The Serengeti’s Great Wildebeest Migration in June

Where are the herds in June?

The transitional period we see in May continues throughout June. By June, usually around 20% of the herds are in the western Grumeti region as they face their first obstacle on their journey; the Grumeti River. These are not where those famous huge river crossings happen though, which happens later on when the herds have reached the north of the park, and ultimately the Mara River.

The weather at this time of year can be difficult to predict, and therefore so can the wildebeest. As the rains change, the herds can double back on themselves, some may make their way to the central Serengeti, whilst others will linger for most the month in the Western Corridor, whilst a few may push north early… It is a very testing time for us to predict as it does change from year to year.

Is June a good time to see the Great Migration?

If you catch the herds, then absolutely, this is a phenomenal time to see the migration. Rutting season for the males begin in April and June is the peak of this period, which involves a lot of noise and is a very interesting time to be in the midst of the herds. Although it is tricky to predict, if you base yourself in two different camps (which we would strongly recommend you do) then you have a good chance of catching some big herds.

So, where should I stay to get the best chance of catching the herds in June?

We would definitely suggest throughout the whole of June splitting your time between two camps; one in the central Seronera region and the other in the western corridor. There are a few mobile camps which are situated in the Grumeti (west) region throughout June, and couple this with a more permanent lodge in the Seronera region means you get the best of both worlds in terms of accommodation style, whilst also maximising your chances of seeing the herds.

Which permanent camps to stay at in the central Serengeti (Seronera) for a June safari?

Kiota  ($325 pppn). This is an exceptional value property. Located in Seronera, with amazing views of the surrounding plains, it is exceptionally well positioned for the excellent central Serengeti resident wildlife. It is very comfortable with lovely staff and a very welcoming atmosphere.

Namiri Plains  ($498 pppn). Namiri Plains is one of the best locations in the whole of the Serengeti in our view, migration or no migration. It is set in the eastern area of the park and with only one other camp in its vicinity, hardly any vehicles venture here. This does not mean its wildlife is less prominent by any means, but quite the opposite. As a former cheetah conservation area, the big cats here are extremely good. Fine food, luxury tented accommodation in a magical area; you can’t get much better than this… and at the April/May price of $500 per person per night, it is exceptional value too!

Dunia  ($451 pppn). Another Asilia property, and one which we love to send couples and families alike to – it suits everyone, and the all-female staff create an incredibly welcoming and warm environment. Exceptionally well positioned in a quieter area of the Seronera region, with its excellent resident wildlife, in April and May at this price it is simply a bargain.

Which mobile camps in the western corridor to combine with a central Serengeti camp for May safari?

Ubuntu (430 pppn) – Asilia’s best value mobile camp, in May Ubuntu is absolutely phenomenal value for money! Located in the western corridor from here up until July, it is in a good position if you are considering a late-May Serengeti safari. Barefoot luxury in the Serengeti for a seriously good price – at this time of year, it is unbeatable for value for money.

Serengeti Safari Camp ($725 pppn) – Our favourite mobile tent in the Serengeti and at a great low season price, if you are looking for a truly authentic yet luxurious Serengeti safari, it has to be SSC.

Serengeti Under Canvas ($885 pppn)  – The premium option if you are looking at staying under canvas in a tented camp, but also do not want to compromise on quality. Serengeti Under Canvas is the most luxurious classic Serengeti tented option in the western region in May. Don’t be fooled though – this does not mean that the other two camps are not luxurious, but it means Serengeti Under Canvas simply makes this a priority.

Which permanent camps in the western corridor to combine with a central Serengeti camp for a May safari?

Okay, so this is where things get a bit different in terms of Serengeti accommodation. In the western corridor, the area of Grumeti is actually a private reserve owned by Singita, a luxury company who have properties all over the continent. Singita are the crème de la crème of luxurious safari camps. Their private reserves mean that you really will not see any other vehicles. The guiding is exceptional, the food delicious and the accommodation out of this world luxury but without compromising on the intimacy which a mobile tented camp offers. However, you do pay a premium!

Sabora ($1,475 pppn). 1920’s themed, Sabora is a magical place to base yourself. With day beds set out in the bush, and in an area where game often passes casually through camp, it is a seriously spoiling tented experience. It also has a pool (of course), and a gym!

Sasakwa– ($1,615 pppn). A raised lodge with sweeping views and all the amenities you could ever wish for, Sasakwa is a grand old home away from home. Singita standards throughout, it is for those who love old school and don’t mind paying premium.

Farufaru– ($1,475 pppn). A little like Sasakwa but with a modern twist, Faru Faru is an exceptional property with all the permanent luxuries you could wish for. It is probably Singita’s flagship Tanzania property.

PRICE INCLUDES

PRICE EXCLUDES

• Tanzania VAT on tourism activities and park fees •  Transfers • Hotel before and after the climb, • All Park gate fees, camping fees. • Kilimanjaro National Park rescue fees • Emergency oxygen (for use in emergencies only – not as summiting aid) • Basic first aid kit (for use in emergencies only) • Qualified mountain guide, assistant guides, porters, and cook • Salaries for the mountain crew. • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, • Camping equipment (tents, camp chairs, tables & sleeping mattress • Water for washing up daily • Porter to carry your duffel bag (max weight 15kg / 32 lbs) • Chemical Portable toilet • Flying Doctor Service

• Flights and airport taxes • Items of a personal nature • Compulsory tips for guides, porters, and cook • Highly recommended travel and medical insurance. • Personal hiking/trekking gear – we can rent some of the gear from our equipment store in Tanzania • Snacks, personal medicine.