June in the Serengeti marks the start of a dynamic and transitional period for the Great Migration. Having spent the calving season in the southern short grass plains, the wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles begin their long journey northward in search of greener pastures. By this time, the herds are typically moving through the western corridor, clustering around the Grumeti River, where the first significant river crossings of the migration season take place. Although not as widely publicized as the dramatic Mara River crossings, the Grumeti crossings are still remarkable and provide spectacular wildlife encounters with fewer tourists.

Western Serengeti: The Ideal Base for June

The western Serengeti, especially the Grumeti Reserve and surrounding riverine areas, is the best place to stay in June. The migration is typically spread out along this corridor, grazing on the lush grasslands and preparing for the challenge of the Grumeti River—a wide, slow-moving waterway populated by enormous Nile crocodiles. While the crossings here are less chaotic than those of the Mara River, they are equally intense, with predators waiting patiently for the herds to take the plunge.

Staying in the western corridor not only puts you in a prime location to witness the migration on the move but also offers access to excellent predator sightings, as lions and leopards are highly active during this time, following the abundance of prey. The Grumeti region is also renowned for its beautiful scenery—woodlands, rivers, and open plains—and its more private safari atmosphere compared to the central or northern Serengeti.

Recommended Lodges and Camps

Some of the finest safari accommodations in Tanzania are located in the western Serengeti. Camps like Singita Sasakwa, Faru Faru, and Sabora Tented Camp in the Grumeti Reserve offer unparalleled luxury and exclusivity, with expertly guided game drives and elevated views of the surrounding migration landscape. For those looking for something more remote and mobile, Asilia’s Dunia Camp or Serengeti Western Corridor mobile camps offer a balance of comfort and closeness to nature, with front-row access to the movement of the herds.

Many of these camps also feature river viewpoints or hideouts, giving guests the chance to quietly observe wildlife gathering at the Grumeti River, sometimes even spotting a crocodile ambush without leaving camp.

Wildlife and Weather in June

June falls at the start of the dry season, so the grass is beginning to thin, visibility improves, and wildlife tends to gather more frequently around remaining water sources. Temperatures are cooler, particularly in the mornings and evenings, making game drives more comfortable and photography conditions excellent. The lack of heavy rains also means the roads are more accessible, allowing for smoother travel across the plains.

This time of year also sees a rise in predator activity as they follow the migration and take advantage of weakened or separated animals. Beyond the herds, June is great for spotting hyenas, jackals, lions, and leopards, all of which thrive in this region.