An Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to The Serengeti Safari in August
Serengeti Safari in August: Witness the Drama of the Great Migration
A Serengeti safari in August is prime time for witnessing the dramatic Mara River crossings of the Great Migration, as herds move north, making it excellent for wildlife viewing with dry, clear weather but also peak crowds and higher prices, especially in the Northern Serengeti. Expect excellent predator sightings alongside abundant wildlife concentrated near water, but book lodges/camps far in advance due to high demand.
August safaris in the Serengeti are once in a lifetime opportunities to see the Great Migration in all its majesty. Spectacular wildlife interactions take place in the Serengeti as millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles make their way into Kenya’s Masai Mara through the Mara River. Even though August is the busiest and warmest month, it is still possible to have a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience with some preparation.
The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari, which takes place in August, is one of the highlights of a Serengeti safari. As the herds migrate north, the northern Serengeti is experiencing a high volume of Mara River crossings. Game watching is at its best during this time of year due to the abundance of species, dry weather, and clear skies.
Why Visit the Serengeti in August?
- Great Migration: As herds cross the Mara River into Kenya, the wildebeest migration is at its peak.
- Dry Season: When the dry season is in full swing, animals congregate around bodies of water, making them more visible.
- River Crossings: The spectacular river crossings, particularly in the northern Serengeti, are best viewed in August.
- Clear Skies: The weather is generally clear and sunny, with pleasant temperatures.
- Crowds: August is a busy time, so book accommodations and tours well in advance.
- Predatory Encounters: Crocodiles are among the predators that can be seen during the river crossings.
What to Expect on a Serengeti Safari in August
- River Crossings
August is when most people go to see the Mara River crossings. As they encounter crocodiles and powerful currents, the migratory herds face these dramatic events as a challenge to their existence. Experiencing a river crossing firsthand is an exhilarating and moving event. - Crowds
More safari vehicles enter the Serengeti in August than at any other time of year, making it the busiest month overall. But if you prepare ahead of time, you can have a more personal safari experience and skip the masses. - Wildlife Spotting
When it’s dry, animals concentrate around water sources like rivers and waterholes, making them easier to see. Huge herds of gazelles, zebras, and wildebeests populate the northern Serengeti in August, making it a wildlife hotspot.
Where to Go on a Serengeti Safari in August
- Northern Serengeti
If you want to see the Mara River crossings in August, the northern Serengeti is the place to go. Animals such as giraffes, elephants, and lions call this region home as well. - Western Serengeti (Grumeti)
August is also a great time to visit the western Serengeti to see the herds cross the Grumeti River. Exciting wildlife encounters and beautiful scenery are available in this area. - Central Serengeti (Seronera)
It is worth visiting the centre Serengeti for its resident species, including big cats like leopards and lions, even if it isn’t the major focus of the migration in August.
Tips for Planning Your Serengeti Safari in August
- Book Early: Lodges near river crossings in particular need to have their reservations made at least a year in advance due to the high demand for these services in August.
- Pack Warm Clothing: Game drives can be chilly in the mornings and evenings, so be sure to carry clothes.
- Focus on the Northern Serengeti: In August, this region is ideal for seeing wildlife and for crossing rivers.
- Consider a Private Guide: Finding the greatest places to see animals and avoiding the crowds are both made easier with the assistance of an experienced guide.
Book Your Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari Now!
Reserve Your Spot to See the Great Serengeti Wildebeest Migration with a 50% Deposit!
Now is the moment to organise your adventure—the Great Wildebeest Migration is happening—and it is one of the most breathtaking natural spectacles on Earth. Book this once-in-a-lifetime safari adventure six to twelve months in advance with just a thirty percent deposit. The annual migration of millions of zebras, antelopes, and wildebeests across the Serengeti in quest of better pastures is an experience you won’t want to miss.