October marks the tail end of the dry season in the Serengeti ecosystem, and it’s a time when the Great Migration is still very much active, though shifting in momentum. The herds, having spent much of the previous months in the northern Serengeti and the Masai Mara, begin to prepare for their return southward. While the intensity of river crossings has diminished, the drama of survival continues as the wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles gather for one final push before the short rains transform the southern plains. October offers an intriguing blend of residual action and early transition, with excellent game viewing opportunities and fewer crowds.

Life Along the Northern Serengeti

In early October, many of the herds are still lingering in the northern Serengeti, particularly around areas like Kogatende and Lamai, and some may still be found across the border in Kenya’s Masai Mara. The Mara River crossings, though less frequent than in August and September, can still occur, especially when groups move erratically between the two countries searching for better grazing. These crossings are unpredictable and thrilling, offering the chance to witness crocodile-infested waters, panicked herds, and high-stakes drama.

Shifting Southward

As October progresses and the pressure of the dry season intensifies, the herds begin a gradual southward migration, heading back toward the central Serengeti. The movement is not as concentrated as during the river crossing period, but it is steady and purposeful. Along the way, the animals pass through territories patrolled by predators—particularly lions and cheetahs, who use the open terrain and dwindling water sources to their advantage. The central Serengeti, especially around the Seronera Valley, becomes a key area for witnessing both herd activity and high concentrations of predators.

Predators and Sparse Grazing

With grass and water at a premium, October is a challenging month for the herbivores. The lack of vegetation exposes them to predators, and the dry, dusty conditions push the animals toward remaining waterholes and riverbeds. This creates natural gathering points, making it easier for predators to hunt. Photographers and wildlife lovers can expect scenes filled with tension—lions stalking the fringes of the herds, cheetahs surveying from termite mounds, and vultures circling in anticipation.

Landscape and Climate

The Serengeti landscape in October is dry and golden, with parched grasslands stretching to the horizon, broken only by the silhouettes of acacias and the occasional granite kopje. The heat intensifies during the day, but the skies remain mostly clear, with dust-filled sunsets casting an orange hue over the plains. By late October, the first signs of the short rains may appear, bringing cooler temperatures and hints of green as the ecosystem prepares for its seasonal rebirth.

Why Visit in October?

October offers the chance to experience the migration without the large crowds of peak season. Lodges and mobile camps in the northern and central Serengeti are still well-placed to catch the movement, and wildlife sightings can be excellent due to the concentration of animals around water sources. It’s also a great time for those interested in predator action, photography, and a more intimate safari experience before the landscape transforms with the rains.