lhgreenacres

We have planned our trip for next August and will be in Sayari the 11th, 12th and 13th. There was a television show on the Serengeti the other night and it looks like the crossing at the Mara River might be earlier than the middle of August. While I know that there are no guarantees and there are many factors that influence where and when the migration is, we would like to try to have the best chance. Any thoughts on whether we should move up our dates?

sandi

The millions of animals of the migration don't all move into the Masai Mara; many remain in the Northern Serengeti and crossings will take place at the Mara River up that way during August. The herds can cross anytime from mid-July, thru Aug and Sept.

That said, any particular date is only a guess and anyone who advises something today (10-11/months in advance) is bound to be wrong.

safaridude

There is no way anybody can now predict what the Mara crossing will be like next August. If whatever program you saw made any kind of prediction for next August, the program is basically fraudulent. Mid-August at Sayari should give you a good chance. But don't be disappointed if you don't see a crossing... there is so much to enjoy in the Northern Serengeti.

atravelynn

If seeing a river crossing is of utmost importance, I'd suggest at least 5 nights or even more and be prepared to wait for hours by the river just in case, which requires a private vehcile.

Your timeframe seems good because usually the herds are going back and forth starting in July.

A three night stay in Sayari in mid-August will be an outstanding experience.

tanzaniatouroperator

have a peak at this crossing - taken by one of our staff from Sayari in early september http://www.tanzaniaodyssey.com/video...t-the-Mara.wmv

lhgreenacres

Thank you all for the feedback. Just to be clear, the television show did not promise anything it just seemed that maybe it might be better to go a few weeks earlier. As it definitely unknown each year we are going to keep the trip as planned and hope we are lucky. We are incredibly excited to be at Sayari for three nights and we will have our own private guide/driver so that should allow for a lot of freedom.

sandi

As mentioned above, as many animals remain in the Northern Serengeti as cross into the Masai Mara. And, while there is no guarantee of seeing a river crossing in either country, being there a few weeks earlier or later, won't increase/decrease the possibility. It's pure luck and patience!