Serengeti Migration March

Serengeti Migration March

Serengeti Migration March: Ndutu, Southern Serengeti, Young Calves & the End of Calving Season

The Serengeti Migration in March is one of the most rewarding periods for travellers who want to experience huge wildebeest herds, young calves, predators and lush green landscapes without focusing on the river-crossing phase of the Great Migration. Planners often search for Serengeti wildebeest migration March and Great Migration March Serengeti at this stage of the year.

After the intense calving activity of February, large numbers of wildebeest usually remain across the Southern Serengeti, Ndutu and adjoining Ngorongoro Conservation Area plains during March. The difference is that many of the calves are now older: stronger, faster, more coordinated, better able to follow their mothers and increasingly capable of moving with the herd.

Some calving may still continue, but March is better understood as the late-calving and post-calving phase rather than the absolute peak of births. This makes the month particularly interesting because the migration begins to change. At the beginning of the month, the ecosystem can still resemble February:

• huge southern herds,
• many calves,
• intense predator activity.

As March progresses, some wildebeest may begin spreading north or northwest in response to changing grass and rainfall conditions. This gradual shift marks the beginning of the next migration chapter. For travellers, March can offer an exceptional combination of:

• large wildebeest herds,
• young calves,
• cheetahs,
• lions,
• spotted hyenas,
• zebra,
• green Serengeti landscapes,
• fewer visitors than the busiest calving weeks,
• excellent photography,
• and the beginning of northward migration movement.

March is therefore ideal for travellers who want a broader ecological story rather than only one headline event.

Serengeti Migration March at a Glance

Where Is the Serengeti Migration in March?

During March, the main migration is still generally concentrated across the southern Serengeti ecosystem. Likely areas include:

• Ndutu,
• Southern Serengeti,
• Lake Ndutu,
• Lake Masek,
• Ngorongoro Conservation Area plains,
• Kusini,
• southern short-grass plains,
• areas toward Naabi Hill,
• some early movement toward central areas later in the month.

The exact distribution depends heavily on rainfall, which makes March slightly less geographically predictable than February.

Why the Herds Remain in Southern Serengeti

The wildebeest remain in the south as long as:

• grazing remains productive,
• water remains available,
• calves are still developing,
• seasonal conditions continue supporting the herds.

The short-grass plains provide excellent grazing. However, as the grass begins to change and seasonal rainfall shifts, the wildebeest gradually start moving.

March Is the Transition From Calving to Migration Movement

The easiest way to understand March is that February = birth and March = growth + movement. The calves are now becoming more mobile, and the herds are beginning to prepare for longer-distance travel. Predators remain highly active, but the ecosystem is beginning to shift from a maternity landscape into a moving migration landscape.

Is March Still Calving Season?

Yes, but it is generally the later part of the calving season. Some wildebeest may still give birth, and travellers can still see:

• very young calves,
• mothers nursing,
• nursery groups,
• newborn animals.

However, the percentage of older calves increases as the month progresses.

Is March Better Than February for Calving?

If the sole priority is newborn calves, mass births or peak calving intensity, February is generally stronger. However, March has several advantages:

• fewer peak-season vehicles,
• stronger calf mobility,
• more migration movement,
• excellent predators,
• lush green scenery.

March is therefore better for travellers who want a more diverse migration experience.

Early March Serengeti Migration

Early March may strongly resemble late February. Expect:

• huge wildebeest concentrations,
• many calves,
• strong predator activity,
• green plains,
• excellent cheetahs.

Best Early March Areas

Focus on:

• Ndutu,
• Southern Serengeti,
• Lake Masek,
• adjoining Ngorongoro plains.

Mid-March Serengeti Migration

By mid-March, some changes may become visible. Potential behaviour includes:

• herds becoming more dispersed,
• calves travelling more confidently,
• groups beginning to move,
• larger directional columns.

Best Mid-March Strategy

Use Ndutu + Southern Serengeti as the base, with flexibility toward:

• Naabi,
• southern-central Serengeti.

Late March Serengeti Migration

Late March can become much more transitional. Some herds may still be in Ndutu, while others may begin progressing toward:

• Central Serengeti,
• Seronera approaches,
• westward or northwestern corridors.

Best Late March Strategy

Consider a split stay of Ndutu / Southern Serengeti + Central Serengeti. This improves flexibility if the herds are moving.

Why March Herd Distribution Is More Variable

March migration depends heavily on rainfall:

• If southern grazing remains productive, wildebeest may remain concentrated longer.
• If grass dries earlier, movement may begin sooner.
• If rainfall is uneven, the migration may split into multiple groups.

This is why a fixed migration map should never replace current safari knowledge.

Ndutu in March

Ndutu remains one of the strongest March safari areas. It is particularly attractive for:

• young calves,
• cheetahs,
• lions,
• hyenas,
• open plains,
• large herds.

The habitat mixture allows wildlife to move between:

• short grass,
• woodland,
• seasonal lakes,
• acacia zones.

Is Ndutu Worth Visiting in March?

Absolutely. Early and mid-March can still be excellent, and late March becomes more variable but may remain productive depending on rainfall. Travellers should not assume the herds leave suddenly on 1 March.

Lake Ndutu in March

The Lake Ndutu region provides strong habitat diversity. Potential wildlife includes:

• wildebeest,
• zebra,
• giraffes,
• cheetahs,
• lions,
• jackals,
• hyenas,
• birdlife.

The lake area can also provide attractive environmental photography.

Lake Masek in March

Lake Masek and its surrounding plains can remain productive. Wildlife may include:

• wildebeest,
• zebra,
• lions,
• spotted hyenas,
• cheetahs,
• birds.

Southern Serengeti in March

The Southern Serengeti still contains some of the largest herbivore concentrations. Possible scenes include:

• mothers and calves,
• large grazing herds,
• moving columns,
• predators following wildebeest.

The increasingly mobile nature of the herds distinguishes March from February.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area Plains

The broader calving ecosystem includes areas outside Serengeti National Park. Wildebeest may spread across plains around:

• Ndutu,
• Gol,
• Naabi,
• surrounding Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

A safari itinerary should account for these broader ecological boundaries.

Kusini in March

Kusini can provide excellent March wildlife depending on rainfall. It may offer:

• migration herds,
• predators,
• relatively quiet safari conditions.

Naabi Hill in March

Naabi becomes increasingly useful as the migration begins shifting away from the extreme south. It connects:

• Southern Serengeti,
• Central Serengeti,
• Ngorongoro.

Later March travellers may pass through important moving herd groups in this region.

Central Serengeti in March

Central Serengeti becomes increasingly useful as March progresses. Even before the migration arrives in large numbers, it provides outstanding resident wildlife. Possible sightings include:

• lions,
• leopards,
• cheetahs,
• elephants,
• buffalo,
• giraffes,
• hyenas.

Seronera in March

Seronera is particularly valuable for:

• leopards,
• lions,
• riverine wildlife,
• resident game.

Later March itineraries can benefit from adding Seronera because the wildebeest may begin moving north.

Ndutu vs Central Serengeti in March

Early March

Ndutu generally has the stronger migration focus.

Mid-March

Ndutu remains very important, but Central Serengeti becomes a useful complement.

Late March

Combining both becomes increasingly sensible.

Is the Migration in Masai Mara in March?

No, not the main migratory herds. Masai Mara remains excellent for resident wildlife, but travellers specifically targeting the Great Migration should focus on Tanzania.

Kenya or Tanzania for March Migration?

For the Great Migration, Tanzania is the clear priority. Best regions:

• Ndutu,
• Southern Serengeti,
• Central Serengeti later in the month.

Kenya can be added for a longer East African safari, but it is not the main migration destination.

March Wildebeest Calves

Young calves are one of March's biggest attractions. Many were born during:

• January,
• February,
• early March.

They are now increasingly mobile.

How Old Are Wildebeest Calves in March?

Age varies significantly, which creates a wide range of behaviours. Travellers may see:

• newborn calves,
• week-old calves,
• month-old calves,
• stronger juveniles.

Watching Calves Learn to Move With the Herd

March is excellent for observing:

• calves running,
• mothers calling,
• young wildebeest practising escape behaviour,
• calves keeping pace with migrating groups.

This is especially interesting for behavioural photography.

Why Calf Strength Matters

As the migration prepares to move north:

• calves must travel farther,
• herd movement becomes more demanding,
• predator avoidance becomes increasingly important.

The stronger calves of March are much better prepared than the newborns of February.

Predator Activity in March

Predator viewing remains excellent. Calves continue to provide vulnerable prey, and predators also benefit from the massive concentration of herbivores. Important predators include:

• lions,
• cheetahs,
• spotted hyenas,
• jackals,
• leopards.

Lions During March

March offers excellent lion viewing. Possible behaviour includes:

• watching herds,
• hunting,
• feeding,
• pride interactions,
• females with cubs,
• territorial males.

As wildebeest herds move, lion activity can shift between areas.

Cheetahs During March

Cheetahs remain a major highlight. The open plains continue to support:

• high-speed hunts,
• mothers with cubs,
• coalitions,
• territorial behaviour.

March is still one of the strongest cheetah months in Tanzania.

Spotted Hyenas in March

Hyenas remain highly active. Potential behaviours include:

• hunting calves,
• following migration groups,
• competing with lions,
• clan interactions,
• scavenging.

Jackals in March

Jackals can be seen:

• hunting small prey,
• scavenging,
• following predator kills,
• searching near wildebeest herds.

Leopards in March

Leopard viewing is strongest in habitats with:

• trees,
• woodland,
• riverine vegetation.

Central Serengeti is particularly valuable.

March Zebra Migration

Zebra remain a major component of the migration, and large zebra herds may move alongside wildebeest. This creates excellent:

• landscape photography,
• predator-prey observations,
• movement scenes.

Gazelles in March

Thomson's and Grant's gazelles remain common across open plains. They are especially important for cheetahs.

Elephants in March

Elephants are not part of the main migration but remain important resident wildlife. They may be seen around:

• woodland,
• Central Serengeti,
• riverine habitat.

Giraffes in March

Giraffes can be encountered in:

• acacia habitat,
• woodland,
• mixed savanna.

They are particularly common around more wooded Ndutu sectors and Central Serengeti.

Buffalo in March

Buffalo may be seen in:

• Central Serengeti,
• areas with permanent water,
• taller grass.

March Birding

March can be excellent for birdwatching. Seasonal conditions support:

• insects,
• breeding activity,
• waterbirds,
• raptors,
• grassland birds.

Possible species include:

• secretary birds,
• kori bustards,
• ostriches,
• vultures,
• martial eagles,
• bateleurs,
• storks,
• rollers,
• bee-eaters.

Migratory Birds in March

Some seasonal migrants may still be present. Birdwatchers can therefore combine migration viewing with excellent birding.

March Weather in Serengeti

March often marks a transition toward wetter conditions. Typical conditions may include:

• warm days,
• cool mornings,
• scattered showers,
• thunderstorms,
• cloudy periods,
• sunshine.

Rainfall can increase as the month progresses.

Does It Rain in Serengeti in March?

Yes, March can receive significant rain. However, rainfall is often:

• localized,
• intermittent,
• concentrated in storms.

It does not necessarily rain all day.

Do the Rains Ruin a March Safari?

Usually not. Rain can provide several advantages:

• green scenery,
• dramatic skies,
• cooler temperatures,
• less dust,
• active wildlife.

The biggest challenge is road conditions.

March Road Conditions

After heavy rain, some tracks can become:

• muddy,
• slippery,
• waterlogged,
• deeply rutted.

A capable 4×4 is essential.

Can Safari Vehicles Get Stuck?

Yes, wet-season conditions can occasionally cause vehicles to become stuck. Professional guides generally carry:

• recovery equipment,
• radios,
• local knowledge.

This should be viewed as a manageable safari reality rather than a reason to avoid March.

March Landscapes

March can produce extraordinary scenery. Expect:

• deep green plains,
• dramatic storm clouds,
• water-filled depressions,
• fresh grass,
• grazing herds.

The visual contrast can be spectacular.

March Photography

March is exceptional for wildlife and landscape photography. Subjects include:

• young calves,
• migration columns,
• cheetahs,
• lions,
• hyenas,
• zebra,
• storm skies,
• green plains.

Why March Is Excellent for Photographers

Compared with February, March can provide:

• slightly fewer vehicles,
• more herd movement,
• stronger environmental storytelling,
• dramatic weather.

Compared with August, it provides:

• much greener backgrounds,
• less dust,
• different predator behaviour.

Recommended Photography Equipment

Useful lenses include:

• 24–70mm,
• 70–200mm,
• 100–400mm,
• longer telephoto,
• wide-angle lens.

Also bring:

• rain cover,
• beanbag,
• lens cloths,
• multiple memory cards,
• spare batteries.

March Videography

March is excellent for video because the migration is increasingly dynamic. Potential footage includes:

• moving herds,
• calves running,
• predators,
• storms,
• vehicle movement through wet landscapes.

March Safari Crowds

March can be quieter than peak February. This can provide:

• fewer vehicles,
• quieter camps,
• more relaxed predator sightings.

However, famous cheetah or lion sightings may still attract several vehicles.

March Safari Cost

Pricing varies by:

• exact dates,
• accommodation category,
• camp location,
• group size,
• transport.

Some camps may begin offering better seasonal rates later in March.

Budget March Migration Safari

Budget travellers should prioritize:

• well-positioned camps,
• strong 4×4,
• experienced guide,
• enough nights.

March can offer excellent value compared with peak calving season.

Mid-Range March Safari

A good mid-range strategy:

• 2–3 nights Ndutu,
• 2 nights Central Serengeti,
• optional Ngorongoro.

This works particularly well in mid-to-late March.

Luxury March Safari

Luxury travellers can consider:

• seasonal migration camps,
• private vehicles,
• fly-in transfers,
• specialist guides.

However, do not choose a luxury camp if it is poorly positioned for current herd movement.

Seasonal Camps in March

Some seasonal camps remain in the Ndutu ecosystem during March, while others may prepare to move. Before booking, confirm:

• exact operating dates,
• current camp location,
• migration access.

Permanent Camps in March

Permanent Central Serengeti camps can be extremely useful later in the month. Advantages include:

• strong resident wildlife,
• easier logistics,
• reliable infrastructure.

Road Safari in March

A road-based route can run Arusha → Tarangire → Ngorongoro → Ndutu → Central Serengeti. This is one of the strongest March itineraries.

Fly-In March Safari

Possible routes include Arusha → Ndutu → Central Serengeti → Arusha or Serengeti → Zanzibar. Fly-in safaris save time and are particularly attractive for luxury travellers.

How Many Nights for March Migration?

Why March Needs Several Nights

Herds may become more dispersed, so longer stays allow:

• more migration searching,
• more predator time,
• flexibility around weather,
• varied safari areas.

3-Day March Serengeti Migration Safari

Day 1: Arusha – Ndutu

Travel or fly to Ndutu and begin afternoon migration viewing.

Day 2: Full-Day Ndutu Safari

Search for:

• wildebeest,
• calves,
• cheetahs,
• lions,
• hyenas.

Day 3: Morning Safari – Departure

Suitable for limited time, but less flexible.

5-Day March Migration Safari

Day 1: Arrival Ndutu

Afternoon safari.

Day 2: Full-Day Ndutu

Focus on calves and predators.

Day 3: Southern Serengeti

Follow changing herd concentrations.

Day 4: Transfer Toward Central Serengeti

Game viewing throughout the journey.

Day 5: Central Serengeti Safari – Departure

This is particularly strong for mid-to-late March.

6-Day March Tanzania Safari

Day 1: Arusha – Ngorongoro

Travel to the highlands.

Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater

Full crater safari.

Day 3: Ngorongoro – Ndutu

Enter the migration ecosystem.

Days 4–5: Ndutu / Southern Serengeti

Full migration safaris.

Day 6: Central Serengeti / Departure

Spend a final morning in Central Serengeti before departing.

8-Day March Northern Tanzania Safari

Day 1

Arusha.

Day 2

Tarangire.

Day 3

Ngorongoro.

Days 4–5

Ndutu.

Days 6–7

Central Serengeti.

Day 8

Fly to Arusha or Zanzibar.

March Migration + Ngorongoro

This remains one of the strongest combinations. Ngorongoro adds:

• black rhino opportunities,
• lions,
• buffalo,
• elephants,
• crater scenery.

March Migration + Tarangire

Tarangire can add:

• elephants,
• baobabs,
• woodland habitat,
• birdlife.

March Migration + Lake Manyara

Lake Manyara offers:

• Rift Valley views,
• forest,
• birdlife,
• primates.

It is best included if the itinerary has sufficient days.

March Migration + Zanzibar

A safari-and-beach combination is possible: Ndutu / Serengeti → Zanzibar. Travellers should consider seasonal coastal rainfall during exact dates.

March Migration + Kenya

Kenya can be added to a longer East African itinerary. However, the Great Migration component itself should remain Tanzania-focused.

March Migration + Gorilla Trekking

For a longer trip, combine:

• Serengeti migration,
• Uganda or Rwanda,
• gorilla trekking.

This creates a highly diverse East African wildlife itinerary.

March for Families

March can work very well for families. Advantages include:

• calves,
• predators,
• green landscapes,
• potentially fewer safari vehicles.

Challenges include:

• rain,
• muddy roads.

A private vehicle is strongly recommended.

March for Honeymooners

A honeymoon can combine:

• luxury Ndutu camp,
• Central Serengeti,
• Ngorongoro,
• Zanzibar.

March provides beautiful green landscapes and strong wildlife.

March for Photographers

Recommended:

• 5–7 nights,
• private vehicle,
• Ndutu + Central Serengeti,
• rain protection,
• flexible game-drive schedule.

March for Senior Travellers

Consider:

• fly-in access,
• comfortable camps,
• fewer long road transfers.

March for Solo Travellers

Possible options include:

• small-group safaris,
• scheduled departures,
• private safaris,
• camp-based shared drives.

March Safari Packing List

Pack:

• neutral lightweight clothing,
• waterproof jacket,
• fleece,
• comfortable shoes,
• hat,
• sunglasses,
• sunscreen,
• insect repellent,
• binoculars,
• camera,
• personal medication.

March Camera Packing

Include:

• rain cover,
• dry bag,
• lens cloths,
• spare batteries,
• multiple memory cards,
• telephoto lens,
• wide-angle lens.

Common March Migration Planning Mistakes

1. Assuming Calving Ends on 1 March

Calving may continue.

2. Expecting February-Level Newborn Concentrations All Month

Many calves are older by March.

3. Booking Only Ndutu in Late March Without Flexibility

Herds may begin moving north.

4. Choosing Masai Mara for the Main Migration

The main herds are still in Tanzania.

5. Ignoring Central Serengeti

It becomes increasingly important later in March.

6. Treating Rain as a Reason Not to Travel

Rain creates exceptional scenery and wildlife conditions.

7. Staying Too Few Nights

Dispersed herds require time.

8. Choosing Luxury Over Location

Migration access matters more.

9. Expecting River Crossings

There are no major Mara or Grumeti crossing phases in March.

10. Ignoring Predator Behaviour

March remains exceptional for predators.

How to Plan the Best March Serengeti Migration Safari

Step 1: Identify Your Exact March Dates

Early and late March can differ significantly.

Step 2: Prioritize Ndutu Early in the Month

This remains the main migration area.

Step 3: Add Central Serengeti Later in March

This increases flexibility.

Step 4: Stay at Least 4–5 Nights

Longer if photography is the main goal.

Step 5: Use a Private Vehicle

This allows the safari to follow herd movement.

Step 6: Prepare for Rain

Rainfall is part of the March ecology.

Step 7: Include Ngorongoro

This provides excellent safari diversity.

Recommended March Strategy by Date

These are broad ecological planning guidelines rather than exact guarantees.

March Migration Quick Decision Guide

Choose March if you want:

• young wildebeest calves
• Ndutu
• Southern Serengeti
• cheetahs
• lions
• hyenas
• green landscapes
• fewer crowds than February
• migration movement
• excellent photography
• Tanzania safari
• Ndutu + Central Serengeti combination

Choose February instead if:

• peak newborn calving is your absolute priority.

Choose April instead if:

• you prefer stronger northward herd movement.

Frequently Asked Questions About Serengeti Migration in March

Recommended March Migration Snapshot

Place directly under the introduction.

SERENGETI MIGRATION — MARCH

• Country: Tanzania
• Primary Region: Ndutu / Southern Serengeti
• Migration Phase: Late Calving → Early Transition
• Wildebeest Herds: Very Large
• Newborn Calves: Still Present
• Older Calves: Extremely Common
• Cheetahs: Excellent
• Lions: Excellent
• Hyenas: Excellent
• River Crossings: No
• Landscape: Green
• Rain: Increasing Possibility
• Crowds: Moderate
• Photography: Exceptional
• Recommended Stay: 4–6 nights
• Best For: Young calves, predators, green scenery, herd movement

Early, Mid & Late March Module

1–10 March — Late Calving Continues

Likely Focus: Ndutu + Southern Serengeti. Potential Highlights:

• newborn calves,
• older calves,
• lions,
• cheetahs,
• hyenas,
• large herds.

11–20 March — Calves Strengthen, Herds Spread

Likely Focus: Ndutu + Southern Serengeti. Potential Highlights:

• calves running with herds,
• more directional movement,
• predator activity,
• green plains.

21–31 March — Early Northward Transition

Likely Focus: Ndutu + Central Serengeti. Potential Highlights:

• moving wildebeest columns,
• wider herd distribution,
• Central Serengeti predators,
• changing migration geography.

> Migration movements are driven by rainfall, grass and water. The dates above describe typical seasonal patterns and are not guarantees of exact herd positions or calving activity.