Southern Serengeti Safari Guide

Southern Serengeti

Southern Serengeti Safari

The Southern Serengeti: Where the Great Migration Begins

The vast, golden plains of the Southern Serengeti host one of nature’s most powerful cycles: the Great Migration’s calving season. From December to May, the region becomes a lush nursery for over half a million wildebeest, creating a spectacle of life, death, and raw survival that defines the Serengeti ecosystem.

The Great Migration Calving Season

This is the primary motivation for visiting. As the rains rejuvenate the plains, over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle arrive to graze and give birth.

• Peak Action (Jan-Feb): February is phenomenal. You’ll witness thousands of wobbling calves taking their first steps—a tender scene of new life set against intense predator activity. Lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are abundant, making this a dynamic time for wildlife viewing.

• The Full Cycle: The Southern Serengeti is unique. You can witness the herds’ joyful return in December, the frantic calving peak, and their eventual gathering and northward march as the dry season begins.

Beyond the Migration: Safari Highlights & Activities

While the migration dominates, the region offers unique experiences.

• Walking Safaris: This is among the best places in the Serengeti National Park for guided walking safaris. Feel the savanna underfoot, track animals, and discover the bush’s smaller wonders.

• Hot Air Balloon Safaris: A sunrise balloon safari here offers breathtaking views over endless plains dotted with massive herds. It’s a peaceful, majestic perspective, especially during calving season.

• Cheetah Conservation: The area is a stronghold for cheetahs. Some camps partner with the Serengeti Cheetah Project, enabling guests to support vital conservation research.

Best Time to Visit & Travel Tips for Southern Serengeti

When to Go: The key season is December through May, with January and February being absolute highlights for calving. From June to October, the area is quiet as the herds move north.

Where to Stay: Accommodation is seasonal and aligned with the wildlife. Book luxury mobile camps or the few permanent lodges well in advance—12 months is recommended for peak season.

Smart Planning: The Southern Serengeti pairs perfectly with the Ngorongoro Crater, and many safaris seamlessly combine these two iconic locations.

A Unique Advantage: Much of this region lies within private concessions, allowing off-road driving—a significant benefit for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts seeking to get closer to the action.

Frequently Asked Questions about Southern Serengeti 

What is the best month to visit the Southern Serengeti?
February is the most dramatic month to witness the Great Migration’s calving season. The plains are full of newborn wildebeest and heightened predator activity, offering nonstop wildlife drama.

Is the Southern Serengeti good in the dry season (June-October)?
Not for the migration. During these months, the herds have moved north, and the area becomes very quiet. Most seasonal camps are closed. For a dry-season safari, the Central or Northern Serengeti is a better choice.

What are the advantages of staying in a mobile camp?
Luxury mobile camps are strategically positioned to follow the migration’s path. They offer front-row seats to the action, exceptional guiding, and an immersive bush experience with high levels of comfort.

Can I do a walking safari in the Serengeti?
Yes, the Southern Serengeti is one of the designated zones where licensed guides can lead walking safaris. It’s a fantastic way to experience the ecosystem up close, away from the vehicle.

How does the Southern Serengeti differ from the Central Serengeti?
The Central Serengeti (Seronera) has year-round resident wildlife, especially big cats. The Southern Serengeti is a seasonal, migration-focused destination, peaking from Dec to May with the calving herds. They offer different, complementary experiences.

Plan Your Journey to the Nursery of the Serengeti

A safari to the Southern Serengeti is a journey to the very beginning of life’s great cycle. It’s where the Great Migration finds renewal, offering a profound, action-packed window into the heart of the wild. To experience this wonder, plan your visit during the green season, book your camp early, and prepare for an unforgettable encounter with nature on an epic scale.

Whether you’re tracking the migration through the Southern Serengeti or watching a storm roll over the endless plains, a journey here connects you with the enduring soul of the Serengeti ecosystem. Request your custom safari plan now. Here is the booking form