Wildebeest Migration March

Wildebeest Migration March

Wildebeest Migration March: Southern Serengeti, Ndutu & Northward Transition

The Wildebeest Migration in March takes place primarily across the southern Serengeti, Ndutu and adjoining short-grass plains of northern Tanzania, but March also marks the beginning of an important transition in the annual Great Migration cycle. Planners often search for the Great Migration March window and the wildebeest migration in March move from the Ndutu migration March plains northward.

Large numbers of wildebeest usually remain in the southern ecosystem after the peak February calving period. Thousands of calves are now moving with their mothers, predators continue to follow the herds, and the plains remain green after seasonal rains.

However, as March progresses, the migration can gradually become less concentrated than it was during February. Some herds may remain around the best grazing areas in Ndutu and the Southern Serengeti, while others begin spreading north or northwest as local grass conditions change. This makes March a particularly interesting month for travellers who want to experience:

• Large wildebeest herds
• Many young calves
• Lions and cheetahs
• Active spotted hyenas
• Green Serengeti scenery
• Lower visitor density than some peak migration periods
• The beginning of the northward migration transition

March does not usually provide the famous Mara River crossings seen later in the year. Instead, it offers a fascinating period between the calving season and the longer northward journey through the Serengeti.

March Wildebeest Migration at a Glance

Where Are the Wildebeest in March?

During March, large migration herds are typically still found across:

• Ndutu
• Southern Serengeti
• Lake Ndutu area
• Lake Masek region
• Southern short-grass plains
• Adjoining Ngorongoro Conservation Area plains

As March progresses, some animals may begin moving toward:

• Central Serengeti
• Seronera approaches
• Northwestern migration routes

The precise distribution depends heavily on rainfall, so March is less geographically predictable than February. A good safari guide should use recent wildlife information rather than assuming that the herds will remain concentrated around one particular road or camp.

Why March Is a Transition Month

The migration's southern concentration depends on fresh grass generated by seasonal rainfall. As grazing conditions begin changing, some wildebeest start leaving the calving grounds. This does not mean all animals suddenly depart together; instead, the transition is gradual. Visitors may encounter:

• Huge stationary grazing herds in one area
• Moving columns elsewhere
• Scattered groups beginning northward movement
• Mothers with young calves
• Zebras travelling alongside wildebeest

March therefore provides an excellent opportunity to see both late calving-season ecology and the beginning of migration movement.

Is March a Good Month for the Great Migration?

Yes. March is a very good migration month, particularly for travellers who want a combination of:

• Young wildebeest calves
• Large herds
• Predators
• Green landscapes
• Fewer visitors than some peak periods
• More dynamic herd movement than February

It is especially attractive to travellers who value wildlife behaviour more than a single dramatic event.

March vs February: What Changes?

February is strongly associated with peak calving, while March introduces more movement.

February

Expect:

• Very high concentration of newborn calves
• Large herds settled around southern grazing areas
• Exceptional predator activity
• Peak calving atmosphere

March

Expect:

• Many calves still present
• Increasing mobility
• Herds beginning to disperse
• Stronger northward movement
• Continued predator activity
• Potentially lower crowd pressure

Travellers who want the strongest pure calving experience generally choose February, while travellers who want calves plus transition movement may prefer March.

March Wildebeest Calves

Many calves born during January and February are still present in March. They are increasingly:

• Stronger
• Faster
• More coordinated
• Capable of travelling with moving herds

This changes the character of wildlife interactions. Predators still target young animals, but many calves are more mobile than newborns seen in February, so March provides fascinating behavioural observations.

Does Calving Continue in March?

Yes. Calving can continue during March, although the most intense concentration of births is generally associated with earlier weeks of the season. Travellers may still encounter:

• Very young calves
• Mothers nursing
• Newly born animals
• Nursery groups

However, March should be viewed as late calving season rather than guaranteed peak calving.

Can You Witness a Wildebeest Birth in March?

Yes, it is possible, but the probability is generally lower than during peak February calving, and a birth can never be guaranteed. Travellers should focus on the broader wildlife experience:

• Calves
• Mothers
• Predators
• Migration movement

Why Young Calves Matter to the Migration

Young wildebeest need to become strong quickly because the migration will soon begin moving longer distances. By March, many calves have developed enough stamina to follow the herds. This is essential because the next migration phases may involve progressively longer movements toward:

• Central Serengeti
• Western Corridor
• Northern Serengeti
• Eventually Masai Mara

Predator Activity During March

Predator activity remains excellent. Young animals are still abundant, and large herbivore concentrations continue to provide feeding opportunities. Important predators include:

• Lions
• Cheetahs
• Spotted hyenas
• Leopards in suitable habitat
• Jackals

March can be particularly rewarding for travellers interested in predator behaviour without the intense peak-season focus around February.

Lions During the March Migration

Lions remain among the most visible predators. Visitors may observe:

• Prides resting near herds
• Females stalking
• Hunting
• Feeding
• Interactions between pride members
• Territorial behaviour
• Competition with hyenas

The open southern landscapes can provide excellent visibility.

Cheetahs During March

March remains a strong month for cheetah viewing. The southern plains continue to provide:

• Open hunting terrain
• Gazelles
• Young animals
• Good visibility

Possible observations include:

• Stalking
• High-speed chases
• Mothers with cubs
• Territorial males
• Resting after hunts

Cheetah sightings can be particularly rewarding around Ndutu, though they are never guaranteed.

Spotted Hyenas During March

Spotted hyenas remain highly active around the migration. They may:

• Hunt calves
• Follow moving herds
• Scavenge kills
• Compete with lions
• Patrol territories

They are among the most ecologically important predators in the migration system.

Leopards During March

Leopards are more likely around habitats offering cover, and travellers combining Southern Serengeti with Central Serengeti can increase opportunities for leopard sightings. Likely habitat includes:

• Riverine woodland
• Acacia areas
• Drainage lines
• Rocky habitat

Jackals and Smaller Predators

Jackals remain common around migration zones. They may benefit from:

• Carcasses
• Predator kills
• Small prey
• Vulnerable young animals

They are excellent subjects for behavioural photography.

Where to See the March Wildebeest Migration

The strongest safari areas generally include:

1. Ndutu
2. Southern Serengeti
3. Lake Ndutu
4. Lake Masek
5. Southern Ngorongoro plains
6. Central Serengeti transition zones later in the month

Ndutu in March

Ndutu remains an important March migration base. Advantages include:

• Access to open plains
• Cheetah habitat
• Predator concentrations
• Young wildebeest
• Varied woodland and lake environments

However, March wildlife can become more dispersed, and a camp that was perfectly positioned in February may require longer game drives later in March. This makes local guiding knowledge especially important.

Southern Serengeti in March

Large wildebeest herds may continue occupying the Southern Serengeti. Visitors can see:

• Mothers and calves
• Zebras
• Gazelles
• Lions
• Hyenas
• Large moving herds

The plains remain highly scenic during the green season.

Lake Ndutu Area

The Lake Ndutu region offers varied habitat and strong wildlife. Game drives can include:

• Open grassland
• Acacia woodland
• Lakeshore areas
• Predator territory

This habitat diversity can make March particularly rewarding.

Lake Masek Area

Lake Masek can also offer good wildlife, depending on rainfall and grazing. It may be included in a broader search for:

• Wildebeest concentrations
• Cheetahs
• Lions
• Zebras
• Birds

Ngorongoro Conservation Area Plains

The wider southern migration ecosystem extends beyond Serengeti National Park boundaries. Sections of Ngorongoro Conservation Area can continue holding migration animals in March, so travellers should understand the region as one connected ecosystem.

Central Serengeti in March

As the month progresses, Central Serengeti becomes increasingly relevant. Some wildebeest begin moving northward toward:

• Seronera
• Central plains
• Broader transition corridors

This makes late March particularly suitable for itineraries combining Ndutu + Central Serengeti rather than remaining entirely in the southern region.

Seronera in March

Seronera is useful because it offers excellent resident wildlife even when migration herds are dispersed. Potential highlights include:

• Lions
• Leopards
• Cheetahs
• Elephants
• Resident antelopes
• Migration groups moving through

This provides a valuable complement to the southern calving areas.

Is Masai Mara Good for the Great Migration in March?

Not for the main migration herds. The Masai Mara remains excellent for resident wildlife, but the large migratory wildebeest concentrations are generally still in Tanzania. For a migration-focused March safari, prioritize Tanzania.

Kenya or Tanzania for March Migration?

For the Great Migration, Tanzania is clearly the stronger choice. Recommended March focus:

• Ndutu
• Southern Serengeti
• Central Serengeti depending on timing

Kenya may be added to a longer itinerary, but it should not replace the migration areas in Tanzania.

What Does a March Migration Safari Day Look Like?

A typical day may begin early. Your guide may start by checking:

• Where large herds were seen
• Predator reports
• Recent rainfall
• Road conditions

Morning game drives can be especially productive for predators. The day might include:

• Watching calves move with mothers
• Locating cheetahs
• Observing lions
• Following wildebeest columns
• Photographing zebras
• Picnic lunch in the field

By March, travelling slightly farther in search of herd concentrations can be more common than in peak February.

Full-Day Game Drives in March

Full-day drives are particularly useful because herd distribution can be wider. Benefits include:

• Greater geographic coverage
• Ability to follow moving herds
• More photography time
• Flexibility around weather
• Less need to return to camp

Travellers who prefer a slower pace can still use split morning and afternoon drives.

March Weather in Serengeti

March typically falls within the green season. Conditions may include:

• Warm days
• Cool mornings
• Scattered rain
• Dramatic cloud formations
• Fresh grass
• Increasing moisture

Rainfall often becomes more significant as the month progresses, and this should be considered part of the safari experience.

Does It Rain Heavily in March?

March can experience more rain than January or February. However, rainfall is variable. It may occur as:

• Short afternoon storms
• Localized showers
• Longer wet periods

Safari activities usually continue, and a proper 4×4 vehicle is essential.

March Road Conditions

Some tracks may become:

• Muddy
• Slippery
• Deeply rutted

Road conditions can change quickly after rainfall, and experienced guides know which tracks remain practical. Travellers should avoid designing overly tight transfer schedules.

Advantages of March Rain

Rain creates important safari benefits. It contributes to:

• Green landscapes
• Fresh grass
• Dramatic skies
• Lower dust levels
• Excellent photography

March can therefore be visually beautiful.

March Landscape

Expect a greener Serengeti compared with the dry northern migration months. Typical scenes include:

• Endless grasslands
• Storm clouds
• Wildebeest spread across green plains
• Zebra herds
• Acacia silhouettes
• Seasonal water

Landscape photographers may find March particularly rewarding.

March Migration Photography

March offers diverse photographic possibilities. Subjects include:

• Calves
• Moving herds
• Cheetahs
• Lions
• Hyenas
• Zebra patterns
• Dramatic skies
• Rainstorms
• Green landscapes
• Predator-prey behaviour

The combination of wildlife and weather can produce exceptional images.

Photography Advantages in March

Compared with February, March can offer:

• Fewer vehicles in some areas
• More herd movement
• Dramatic skies
• Broader landscapes

Compared with August, March offers:

• Greener scenery
• Less dust
• Young animals
• Different light and weather

Recommended Camera Equipment

Useful equipment includes:

• Telephoto lens
• Mid-range zoom
• Wide-angle lens
• Spare batteries
• Multiple memory cards
• Rain cover
• Cleaning kit
• Beanbag

Rain protection becomes especially important.

March Wildlife Beyond Wildebeest

The migration ecosystem can include:

• Zebra
• Thomson's gazelle
• Grant's gazelle
• Eland
• Giraffe
• Elephants in suitable areas
• Lions
• Cheetahs
• Hyenas
• Jackals
• Leopards
• Birds

A good March safari should explore the complete ecosystem.

Zebra During March

Zebra remain closely associated with migrating herds. Visitors may see:

• Large mixed herds
• Small family groups
• Animals moving north
• Zebras grazing ahead of wildebeest

They add visual contrast to the migration.

Gazelles During March

Gazelles remain abundant on southern plains and provide key prey for cheetahs. They are particularly important in predator-focused safaris.

Birding During March

March can be excellent for birding. Potential sightings include:

• Secretary birds
• Kori bustards
• Vultures
• Eagles
• Storks
• Lapwings
• Larks
• Ostriches
• Numerous grassland birds

Green-season conditions can support diverse bird activity.

March Safari Crowds

March often attracts fewer migration visitors than February. This can produce:

• Quieter plains
• Fewer vehicles around some sightings
• More relaxed game drives

However, major predator sightings may still attract multiple safari vehicles.

March vs Peak Season Crowds

Compared with August and September, March generally offers a less concentrated tourism environment. There are no famous river-crossing hotspots drawing large numbers of vehicles to one location, which can make March attractive to travellers who prefer quieter wildlife experiences.

March Safari Costs

March may provide better value than some peak migration periods. Pricing depends on:

• Exact dates
• Camp season
• Accommodation category
• Number of travellers
• Road vs fly-in travel
• Park fees

Some seasonal camps may continue calving-season rates, while others may begin transitioning toward lower-demand pricing.

Budget March Migration Safari

A budget approach can use:

• Road transport
• Well-positioned value camps
• Shared or private safari vehicle
• Simpler accommodation

Budget travellers should prioritize:

1. Correct area
2. Enough nights
3. Good guide
4. Reliable vehicle

Mid-Range March Migration Safari

Mid-range itineraries can provide excellent value. A strong structure may include:

• 3 nights Ndutu
• 2 nights Central Serengeti
• Ngorongoro extension

This offers both migration and broader Serengeti wildlife.

Luxury March Migration Safari

Luxury travellers can use:

• Premium seasonal camps
• Fly-in access
• Private vehicles
• Specialist guides

Because herds may be more dispersed, a private vehicle can be particularly valuable.

Fly-In March Migration Safari

Flying can reduce transfer time between:

• Arusha
• Ndutu
• Central Serengeti
• Zanzibar

It is particularly suitable for:

• Short holidays
• Luxury travellers
• Honeymooners

Road-Based March Migration Safari

Road travel can work extremely well. A possible northern Tanzania route:

Arusha → Tarangire → Ngorongoro → Ndutu → Central Serengeti

This allows several ecosystems to be experienced within one safari.

How Many Nights for March Migration?

Recommended:

• Minimum: 3 nights
• Good: 4–5 nights
• Photography: 5–7 nights

Because herds can become more dispersed in March, additional nights increase flexibility.

3-Day March Migration Safari

A short safari might include:

Day 1: Arusha – Ndutu

Transfer to the southern migration area for an afternoon game drive.

Day 2: Full-Day Migration Safari

Track wildebeest, calves and predators.

Day 3: Morning Safari – Departure

Continue toward Ngorongoro or fly onward. This works for short holidays but provides limited flexibility.

4-Day March Migration Safari

A stronger structure:

Day 1

Arrive in Ndutu.

Day 2

Full-day southern migration safari.

Day 3

Explore alternative herd locations.

Day 4

Morning safari and onward transfer. This is suitable for early March when herds remain concentrated south.

5-Day March Migration Safari

A five-day safari can respond more effectively to changing herd positions. Possible structure:

Day 1

Arrival in Ndutu.

Day 2

Full-day calving and predator safari.

Day 3

Follow moving herds.

Day 4

Transfer gradually toward Central Serengeti with wildlife viewing.

Day 5

Central Serengeti safari or departure. This is especially useful in mid- to late March.

7-Day March Migration Safari

A longer itinerary can combine:

• Ndutu
• Southern Serengeti
• Central Serengeti
• Ngorongoro

This offers:

• Late calving
• Migration movement
• Predators
• Resident Serengeti wildlife
• Crater wildlife

Early March Migration

Early March may still resemble February in many areas. Possible conditions:

• Major herds in southern plains
• Numerous young calves
• Strong predator activity
• Relatively concentrated migration

Travellers focused on calving may prefer early March over late March.

Mid-March Migration

By mid-March, herd distribution may become more variable, with some groups remaining south while others begin moving north. This can create excellent opportunities to see:

• Moving columns
• Mixed age groups
• Increasing transition behaviour

Late March Migration

Late March can become increasingly transitional. Some herds may move toward Central Serengeti, and rainfall may also become more significant. A late-March itinerary should be designed with greater geographic flexibility, and combining Ndutu with Central Serengeti is often more useful than staying in one location for the entire trip.

March vs January Migration

January

• Early calving
• Pregnant females
• Herds gathering south
• Generally less transition movement

March

• Many older calves
• More dispersal
• Increasing northward movement
• Wetter conditions may develop

March is better for travellers interested in transition.

March vs February Migration

February

• Strongest calving focus
• More newborn calves
• High predator concentration

March

• Calves stronger and more mobile
• Herds increasingly dispersed
• More movement
• Potentially fewer tourists

Choose February for peak calving. Choose March for late calving plus migration transition.

March vs April Migration

March

Still strongly connected to Southern Serengeti and Ndutu.

April

Central Serengeti becomes more important as migration moves north. March therefore provides the bridge between the calving ecosystem and central migration.

March vs August Migration

These are completely different experiences.

March

• Southern Serengeti
• Young calves
• Green landscape
• Predator activity
• No Mara River crossings

August

• Masai Mara / Northern Serengeti
• Dry-season herds
• Mara River crossings possible
• Crocodiles
• Peak northern migration

The better month depends on wildlife priorities.

March Migration Plus Ngorongoro

Ngorongoro combines naturally with March migration. A suggested route:

• 3 nights Ndutu
• 1–2 nights Ngorongoro
• Crater safari

This adds:

• Rhino opportunities
• Resident lions
• Buffalo
• Crater scenery

March Migration Plus Central Serengeti

This is especially appropriate later in March. A possible structure:

• Ndutu
• Southern Serengeti
• Central Serengeti

The itinerary can effectively follow the gradual northward migration.

March Migration Plus Tarangire

Tarangire provides:

• Elephants
• Baobabs
• Woodland habitat
• Varied birdlife

A longer Tanzania circuit can combine it with the migration.

March Migration Plus Zanzibar

A safari-and-beach combination remains attractive. Possible route:

Ndutu / Serengeti → Zanzibar

March allows travellers to enjoy:

• Green safari landscapes
• Predators
• Calves
• Indian Ocean relaxation

Beach weather should be checked for exact dates as seasonal conditions vary.

March Migration Plus Gorilla Trekking

A longer East African itinerary can combine:

• Serengeti migration
• Uganda or Rwanda
• Gorilla trekking

This suits travellers with enough time for regional flights and multiple wildlife experiences.

March Migration for Families

March can work very well for families. Advantages include:

• Young animals
• Visible predator-prey ecology
• Open scenery
• Potentially lower crowds

A private vehicle is recommended, and parents should prepare children for natural predation scenes.

March Migration for Honeymooners

A honeymoon can combine:

• Luxury Ndutu camp
• Central Serengeti
• Ngorongoro
• Zanzibar

March offers beautiful green scenery and strong wildlife.

March Migration for Photographers

Photographers may particularly appreciate:

• Moving herds
• Strong predator activity
• Young calves
• Dramatic weather
• Fewer safari vehicles

Recommended:

• 5–7 nights
• Private vehicle
• Flexible full-day drives

March Migration for Budget Travellers

March can offer strong value because demand may be lower than February. Potential savings can come from:

• Road travel
• Mid-range camps
• Seasonal rates
• Shared transport

The correct wildlife location should still take priority.

March Migration for Luxury Travellers

Luxury safaris can use:

• Premium tented camps
• Fly-in transfers
• Private guiding
• Broader southern-to-central routing

The main advantage is flexibility when migration distribution changes.

What Not to Expect in March

Do not travel in March specifically expecting:

• Mara River crossings
• Huge migration herds in Masai Mara
• Grumeti crossings
• Northern Serengeti migration
• Dry-season landscapes

March is primarily a southern and transitional Serengeti migration month.

Packing for a March Migration Safari

Recommended:

• Neutral safari clothing
• Warm layer
• Waterproof jacket
• Comfortable shoes
• Sun hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Binoculars
• Camera
• Rain protection for equipment
• Personal medication
• Small day bag

Because rain becomes increasingly relevant, waterproof gear is particularly useful.

March Photography Packing

Pack:

• Telephoto lens
• Medium zoom
• Wide-angle lens
• Rain cover
• Spare batteries
• Memory cards
• Cleaning cloths
• Beanbag
• Backup storage

Clouds and rain can create excellent photographic conditions.

When to Book a March Migration Safari

Booking ahead is still recommended, especially for:

• Well-positioned Ndutu camps
• Private vehicles
• Family rooms
• Photographic vehicles
• Fly-in seats

March may provide more availability than February, but strategically located properties can still sell out.

Common March Migration Planning Mistakes

Mistake 1: Assuming the Herds Stay in Exactly the Same Place as February

March is increasingly transitional.

Mistake 2: Booking Only Ndutu for Late March Without Flexibility

Some herds may already be moving north.

Mistake 3: Expecting Peak Calving Throughout the Month

Calving may continue, but February is generally stronger.

Mistake 4: Going to Masai Mara for the Main Migration

The major migration is still in Tanzania.

Mistake 5: Ignoring Rainfall

March can be wetter and road conditions may change.

Mistake 6: Staying Too Few Nights

Dispersed herds require more time.

Mistake 7: Choosing Camp Luxury Over Location

A well-positioned mid-range camp can provide stronger wildlife access.

Mistake 8: Moving Too Quickly Between Parks

Allow time to actually observe wildlife.

How to Plan the Best March Migration Safari

Step 1: Base the Safari in Tanzania

March migration remains Tanzania-focused.

Step 2: Use Ndutu and Southern Serengeti as the Core

Especially early and mid-March.

Step 3: Add Central Serengeti for Later March

This improves flexibility as herds move north.

Step 4: Stay 4–5 Nights Where Possible

This provides enough time to respond to herd movement.

Step 5: Use a Private Vehicle for Photography

You can follow migration behaviour without a fixed schedule.

Step 6: Expect Rain

Treat rainfall as part of the green-season experience.

Step 7: Combine with Ngorongoro

This adds ecological diversity.

Ideal March Safari by Traveller Type

Frequently Asked Questions About Wildebeest Migration in March

March Migration Quick Decision Guide

Choose March if you want:

• Young wildebeest calves
• Late calving
• Lions
• Cheetahs
• Spotted hyenas
• Green landscapes
• Lower visitor pressure
• Early northward migration
• Tanzania-focused safari
• Ndutu + Central Serengeti combination

Choose another month if you mainly want:

• Mara River crossings
• Masai Mara migration
• Grumeti crossings
• Peak February calving
• Dry northern migration landscapes

Related Great Migration Guides

Related guides in this series:

• Great Wildebeest Migration
• Great Migration Calendar
• Great Migration Map
• Great Migration Route
• Best Time for Wildebeest Migration
• Best Month for Wildebeest Migration
• Where to See Great Migration
• Great Migration Safari Cost
• Wildebeest Migration January
• Wildebeest Migration February
• Wildebeest Migration April

Plan Your March Wildebeest Migration Safari

A successful Wildebeest Migration March itinerary should be more flexible than a peak-February calving safari. Early March may still reward a strong Ndutu focus, while later in the month, combining Southern Serengeti with Central Serengeti can better match the gradual northward movement of the herds.

Safari Trips to Kenya can tailor the safari around:

• Exact March dates
• Number of travellers
• Safari duration
• Budget
• Accommodation category
• Road or fly-in travel
• Photography priorities
• Family needs
• Predator focus
• Zanzibar or other extensions