A First Timer’s Guide to The Serengeti Safari in June
Serengeti Safari in June: The Start of the Dry Season and the Great Migration
A Serengeti safari in June is excellent as it marks the start of the dry season, offering lush green landscapes, clearer skies, fewer mosquitoes, and prime wildlife viewing as herds gather near waterholes, especially for the dramatic Grumeti River crossings as the Great Migration moves west. You’ll find pleasant temperatures (cool mornings/nights, warm days), easier game spotting due to thinner bush, and great birdwatching, making it a top, albeit increasingly popular, time to visit before the July/August peak.
June Serengeti safaris are legendary because they coincide with the start of the dry season and provide some of the greatest chances to see animals all year. With the arrival of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles—and the carnivores that prey on them—the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration brings the plains of the Serengeti to life. June is a great month to visit Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park because of the less bugs, warmer weather, and clear skies.
The Great Migration and the commencement of the dry season both begin in June, making that month an ideal time for a Serengeti safari. With the weather being dry, it’s easier to see wildlife, and herds of wildebeest are beginning to congregate in the Western Corridor in preparation for the legendary Grumeti River crossings.
Why Visit the Serengeti in June?
- Dry Season Begins:
Less precipitation and mostly sunny sky characterise June, the beginning of the dry season. - Great Migration Starts:
Herds of wildebeests congregate in the Western Corridor as they get ready to ford the Grumeti River and continue their northward migration. - Excellent Wildlife Viewing:
Herds of wildebeests, zebras, and other animals congregate around water sources, and the dry foliage makes it easier to identify them. - Grumeti River Crossings:
Wildebeests confront the perilous task of fording the Grumeti River, which is home to crocodiles, as you look on in awe. - Lower Tourist Numbers:
Even though it’s still high season, June isn’t quite as busy as July and August. - Central Serengeti:
One of the best places to watch predators like lions and leopards is in the Seronera Valley in the Central Serengeti, which is famous for its big cat population.
Things to Consider:
- Cold Nights:
Temperatures can drop in the evenings, so pack warm clothing. - Water Sources:
Keep an eye out for wildlife gathering near rivers and waterholes. - Migration Focus:
Consider staying in the Western Corridor or Central Serengeti to maximize your chances of seeing the Great Migration.
What to Expect on a Serengeti Safari in June
- Wildlife Viewing
Observing herds traverse the western and middle Serengeti during the Great Migration is the pinnacle of a June safari. Big cats including cheetahs, leopards, and lions congregate in the Seronera Valley. Hyenas, giraffes, and elephants are among the many other animals that abound. - Crowds
Even while June isn’t as busy as the summer months (July to October), the number of visitors starts to climb as the month comes to a close. Even while the Seronera area is rather crowded, the rest of the park is usually pretty peaceful. - Photography Opportunities
Photographers will find June to be an ideal month because to the beautiful skies, verdant landscapes, and plethora of wildlife. The gentle light of dawn and dusk brings out the Serengeti’s most breathtaking features.
Where to Go on a Serengeti Safari in June
- Central Serengeti (Seronera)
If you want to see wildebeest migration in June, the best place to go is the central Serengeti. Any wildlife fan worth their salt must make a pilgrimage to the Seronera Valley to see the many big cats that call it home. - Western Serengeti (Grumeti)
Another great place to go in June is the western Serengeti, when the herds start to cross the Grumeti River. There are less tourists in this area than in the middle Serengeti, and the wildlife interactions are just as exciting. - Northern Serengeti
Even if the northern Serengeti isn’t exactly where the migration is happening in June, you should still make the trip there to see the native animals and beautiful scenery.
Tips for Planning Your Serengeti Safari in June
- Pack Warm Clothing: Game drives can be chilly in the mornings and evenings, so be sure to carry clothes.
- Book Early: Though June isn’t peak season, it’s still a good idea to reserve lodging and permits ahead of time, particularly for camps in the western and central Serengeti.
- Focus on the Central and Western Serengeti: In June, these places are ideal for seeing animals.
- Consider a Hot Air Balloon Ride: An unforgettable way to see the Serengeti’s abundant wildlife and expansive scenery is on a balloon safari.
Book Your Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari Now!
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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.