Serengeti Safari in March
By the Foot Slopes Tours and Safaris team
Written by our Arusha-based safari guides and private safari planners from first-hand experience in the Serengeti.
The Serengeti in March is a green, quieter shoulder month on the edge of the long rains. The Great Migration herds are usually still on the southern plains and around Ndutu, grazing with calves born in February, while lions, cheetahs and hyenas stay close. Early March often feels dry and bright, and storms become more frequent as the month goes on. This guide explains Serengeti weather in March, where the wildebeest migration is, the best areas, camps and lodges, costs, crowds and travel tips, so you can plan a private tailor-made March safari with your own guide and 4x4.
Yes, for most travellers. March usually keeps the migration herds and their young calves on the southern Serengeti and Ndutu plains, with excellent predator action and fewer vehicles than February. The trade-off is the start of the long rains, with afternoon storms and muddy tracks, especially later in the month.
Why Visit the Serengeti in March
Is March a good time to visit the Serengeti? For many of our guests it is one of the most rewarding months. The wildebeest migration is usually still spread across the southern short-grass plains, the calves are strong enough to run with the herds, and predators hunt in the open. The landscape is lush after the short rains, skies are dramatic, and the busy calving peak has passed. Here are six reasons March suits a private Serengeti safari. Late March also brings quieter roads and shoulder-season rates at some lodges, while early March still offers steadier weather.
Wildebeest Still on the Southern Plains
In March the herds usually stay on the southern Serengeti and Ndutu plains for as long as the short grass is green and water lies in the pans. Over a million wildebeest, with zebras and gazelles, can be spread across the horizon. As the grass dries, columns begin drifting towards the central Serengeti, so timing varies each year.
Young Calves and the Last Births
The main Serengeti calving season usually peaks in February, but some births continue into early March. By now most calves are a few weeks old, sturdy on their legs and running beside their mothers. Watching them play, suckle and keep pace with the herds is a gentle contrast to the high drama of predator hunts.
Lions, Cheetahs and Hyenas on the Hunt
Young wildebeest still attract a crowd of predators on the open plains. Lion prides hunt around the marshes and woodland edges, cheetahs use termite mounds as lookouts, and spotted hyenas patrol the herds at dawn. Your private guide can wait patiently at a sighting, giving you the best chance of seeing a chase unfold. Patience is usually rewarded.
Lush Grass, Wildflowers and Big Skies
March is the start of the Serengeti green season. Fresh grass covers the plains, wildflowers appear after rain, and the air is clear with very little dust. Towering storm clouds build in the afternoons, creating dramatic light and rainbows. Photographers love the contrast of dark skies, bright grass and long lines of grazing wildebeest. Every drive feels fresh.
Quieter Than the Calving Peak
Visitor numbers usually fall after February, so March sightings in Ndutu and the southern Serengeti feel calmer, especially in the second half of the month. You will often share a lion pride or cheetah family with only a few vehicles. Early starts and full-day drives in your own private 4x4 make the most of this quieter time.
Shoulder-Season Rates at Some Lodges
As the long rains approach, some Serengeti lodges and camps move to shoulder or green-season rates, particularly towards the end of March. Availability is also easier than during the calving peak, so you have a wider choice of camps near the herds. We compare current options and explain any seasonal savings in your private quote.
Serengeti Weather in March
Serengeti weather in March marks the change from the short dry spell to the long rains. Days are warm, usually about 24–29 °C, with cooler mornings on the higher ground and pleasant evenings around the campfire. Early March is often bright and mostly dry, while rain becomes more frequent later in the month, usually as heavy afternoon or evening storms rather than all-day drizzle. Mornings are typically clear, ideal for game drives and photography. Humidity rises, the plains turn deep green, and black-cotton soil can become sticky and muddy after storms. Pack a light waterproof layer for every drive.
Where Is the Great Migration in March?
Where is the Great Migration in March? In most years the wildebeest migration is still in the southern Serengeti and around Ndutu, in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, grazing the nutritious short grass that sustained the calving season. Herds move constantly between Lake Ndutu, Lake Masek, the Naabi Hill plains and the Gol Kopjes, following local rain. As March goes on and the plains start to dry, columns usually begin drifting north-west towards Moru Kopjes and the central Serengeti. Exact positions vary each year, which is why our guides track recent sightings daily. Expect the herds to stay restless.
- Early MarchHerds on the southern plainsNdutu, Lake Masek and Naabi Hill, with late calves
- Mid MarchGrazing with the rainsHerds shift between pans and plains after storms
- Late MarchFirst moves north-westSome columns head towards Moru Kopjes and Seronera
- Next monthApril in central SerengetiHerds usually move through Seronera and Moru
Serengeti Wildlife in March
Serengeti wildlife in March is at its most varied on the southern plains. Wildebeest and zebras graze with young foals and calves, Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles are everywhere, and eland and topi gather on the open grass. Predators remain the stars: lion prides, cheetahs, spotted hyenas, golden and black-backed jackals, and servals in the long grass. In the central Serengeti, resident leopards rest in the acacia and sausage trees along the Seronera River, with elephants, giraffes, buffalo and hippos nearby. Wildlife watching is usually rewarding throughout the month. For black rhino, add the Ngorongoro Crater to your safari.
- Wildebeest
- Zebra
- Lion
- Cheetah
- Leopard
- Spotted hyena
- Golden jackal
- Serval
- Thomson’s gazelle
- Eland
- Topi
- Elephant
- Giraffe
- Hippo
Serengeti Birds in March
Serengeti birds in March are a highlight of the green season. Over 500 species have been recorded in the park, and Palearctic migrants from Europe and Asia are usually still present before heading north, so the variety is excellent. Many resident species are breeding and in bright plumage. Look for kori bustards, ostriches and secretarybirds striding over the plains, vultures and tawny eagles around kills, and lilac-breasted rollers on acacias. Near-endemics such as Fischer’s lovebird, the grey-breasted spurfowl and the rufous-tailed weaver are regular, particularly in the south. Lake Ndutu and Lake Masek add storks, waders and other waterbirds.
- Kori bustard
- Secretarybird
- Ostrich
- Lilac-breasted roller
- Fischer’s lovebird
- Grey-breasted spurfowl
- Rufous-tailed weaver
- Usambiro barbet
- White-backed vulture
- Tawny eagle
- European roller
- White stork
Where to Go in the Serengeti in March
Where you stay in the Serengeti in March should follow the herds, and in most years that means the south. Ndutu and the southern plains are the first choice, with the Gol Kopjes and Moru Kopjes close by. Seronera in the central Serengeti adds year-round resident wildlife and a backup if the herds start moving north-west. The Western Corridor and northern Serengeti are quiet now and rarely the focus. The six areas below are ranked for March, with our suggested number of nights. Herd positions vary each year, so we confirm them before you travel.
Ndutu and the Southern Serengeti Plains
Ndutu, on the south-eastern edge of the park in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, is the heart of a March migration safari. The herds graze between Lake Ndutu, Lake Masek and the open plains, with calves, cheetahs and lion prides nearby. Conservation area fees apply here. Spend at least three nights for flexibility as the herds move.
Ndutu Safari Tours →
Seronera and the Central Serengeti
Seronera, in the central Serengeti, has permanent water and some of Africa’s best big cat viewing all year. Leopards rest in sausage trees along the Seronera River, lions patrol the kopjes, and plains game is plentiful. In late March it is also well placed if the herds begin heading north-west from the southern plains. Seronera also has an airstrip.
Central Serengeti Guide →
Moru Kopjes in South-Central Serengeti
The Moru Kopjes, rocky granite outcrops in the south-central Serengeti, sit between the southern plains and Seronera. As the grass dries late in the month, herds often pass through on their way north-west. Lions use the rocks as lookouts, and the scenery is beautiful in the green season. It pairs naturally with Ndutu and Seronera.
Serengeti Park Map →
Gol Kopjes and the Eastern Plains
The Gol Kopjes, on the eastern short-grass plains, are famous for cheetahs and often hold part of the migration in March. Vehicles must stay on designated tracks here, which protects the fragile grassland and keeps sightings respectful. Big skies, scattered rock islands and grazing herds make this a rewarding full-day excursion from Ndutu or Seronera.
Eastern Serengeti Guide →
Western Corridor and the Grumeti River
In March the Western Corridor is quiet and green, with resident wildlife and the large crocodiles of the Grumeti River, but the migration usually arrives only from late May. It suits travellers who have already seen the herds in the south and want a longer, more varied private safari. Most March itineraries leave it out.
Western Serengeti Guide →
Northern Serengeti and Kogatende
The northern Serengeti around Kogatende, Lobo and the Mara River is very quiet in March, because the herds are far to the south. Resident lions, elephants and other wildlife remain, but Mara River crossings usually happen from July to October. If crossings are your priority, we suggest planning a second safari later in the year.
Northern Serengeti Guide →Things to Do in the Serengeti in March
The best things to do in the Serengeti in March centre on the herds and their predators on the southern plains, but the green season offers more besides. A dawn hot air balloon flight shows the migration from above, photography is superb under stormy skies, and birding is excellent while migrants remain. Guided walks can be arranged in certain areas outside the park, and Maasai cultural visits fit in the Ngorongoro area. Each activity below can be built into your private itinerary. Rain can change plans, so your guide keeps each day flexible.
Full-Day Game Drives with the Herds
Private game drives run from sunrise to park closing time, and in March many guests take full days with a picnic lunch on the plains. Your guide follows the herds, watches for predators and adapts to the weather, often driving longer in the bright mornings. Off-road driving is not allowed in most areas, so tracks matter.
Serengeti Hot Air Balloon at Dawn
A Serengeti hot air balloon flight at sunrise floats you over green plains, herds and kopjes in the calm morning air. Flights operate year-round in the central Serengeti, and seasonal launches in the south may be available, depending on the operator. Weather can postpone a flight in March, so we schedule it early in your stay.
Balloon Safari Guide →
Watching Calves and Predator Hunts
March offers a final chance to see young calves with the herds and the predators that follow them. Sitting quietly near a herd at dawn, your guide reads the body language of wildebeest, cheetahs and lions, positioning your vehicle for the best view. Patience is rewarded with playful calves, chases and unforgettable wildlife moments. Bring binoculars for distant hunts.
Green-Season Photography
Clear air, low dust and dramatic storm clouds make March excellent for photography. Your private vehicle gives you space for lenses, a beanbag and flexible timing, so you can stay with a sighting until the light is perfect. Golden mornings, rainbows after storms and herds against green grass create a portfolio that feels genuinely different.
Photo Safaris →
Guided Walks and Maasai Visits
Walking safaris in certain areas outside the park, such as the Ndutu area of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area or private concessions, can be arranged with an armed ranger. Maasai cultural visits take place in the Ngorongoro area, not inside the national park. Both add a slower, more personal side to your March safari between game drives.
Walking Safari Guide →
Green-Season Birding
With Palearctic migrants still present and many residents breeding, March is a superb month for birding in the Serengeti. Lake Ndutu and Lake Masek attract waterbirds, while the plains host kori bustards, secretarybirds and larks. Tell us if birds are a priority and your guide will balance birding stops with time beside the herds. Binoculars are essential for this.
Serengeti Birds →What to Expect on a Serengeti Safari in March
What to expect on a Serengeti safari in March depends partly on timing within the month. Early March usually feels like an extension of the dry spell, with bright mornings and occasional storms, while late March brings the long rains more regularly. Wildlife viewing stays excellent in the south, crowds ease and the scenery is lush. Tracks can turn muddy, a few seasonal camps prepare to move and some days need flexible planning. These notes explain a typical day, roads, rain, park rules, camps and animal behaviour this month. Here is how a private March safari usually feels.
Early Starts and Flexible Afternoons
A typical March day starts with coffee before sunrise and an early game drive, when predators are active and skies are usually clear. Many guests stay out with a picnic lunch and return in the afternoon as storm clouds build. Evenings bring dinner at camp, sounds of hyenas and lions, and a briefing for tomorrow.
Your Private 4x4 on Wet Tracks
The southern plains have black-cotton soil that turns slippery and sticky after heavy rain. Your private 4x4 safari vehicle, with a pop-up roof and an experienced driver-guide, handles these conditions well, though some tracks may be slower or temporarily avoided. The drive from Arusha can also take longer after storms, so flying in is worth considering.
Warm Days and Afternoon Storms
Expect warm, sometimes humid days, with rain usually arriving as afternoon or evening storms. Showers often pass quickly, leaving fresh air and beautiful light. Late March can bring longer spells of rain and cloud. A light waterproof jacket, quick-dry clothing and a rain cover for your camera keep you comfortable and ready for every sighting.
Park and Conservation Area Rules
Game drives in Serengeti National Park run between sunrise and sunset, night drives are not allowed inside the park, and off-road driving is not permitted in most areas. Ndutu lies in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where separate conservation fees and rules apply. Your guide follows these rules carefully to protect wildlife and the fragile grasslands.
Seasonal Camps and Permanent Lodges
In March many seasonal and mobile camps are still set up around Ndutu and the southern plains, close to the herds. Towards the end of the month some begin preparing to close or move for the long rains, so dates matter. Permanent lodges at Lake Masek, Seronera and near Moru stay open and offer reliable comfort.
Growing Calves and Restless Herds
By March the calves are stronger, and the herds become restless as they respond to local rain and drying grass. Large groups can move several kilometres in a day, sometimes forming long columns. Predators stay close, and cheetah mothers often hunt young gazelles. Watching this shifting pattern is part of what makes March so engaging.
Serengeti Crowds in March
Serengeti crowds in March are usually moderate, and they ease as the month goes on. The early weeks still see steady demand in Ndutu and the southern plains, where sightings of cheetahs or lion prides can draw several vehicles. From mid-March, and especially once the long rains settle in, numbers fall noticeably and many sightings feel private. Seronera has regular traffic around big cat sightings all year, while the Western Corridor and the northern Serengeti are very quiet. The meter shows typical March crowd levels, which can vary around Easter holidays in some years. Booking early still helps.
- NdutuModerate
- Southern plainsModerate
- SeroneraModerate
- Moru KopjesQuiet
- Western CorridorVery quiet
- Northern SerengetiVery quiet
Is March the Best Time to Visit the Serengeti?
Is March the best time to visit the Serengeti? It is a strong choice for travellers who want the migration herds, young calves and predators with fewer vehicles than the February calving peak. Early March offers the most reliable weather and is ideal for first-time visitors focused on the herds. Late March brings more rain, quieter roads and shoulder-season value at some lodges, which suits flexible travellers and photographers. If you want to see the births at their peak, February is better, while river crossings usually happen from June in the west and July to October in the north.
Serengeti in March: Pros and Cons
Every month in the Serengeti has trade-offs, and March sits right on the change of season. Its strengths are the migration herds in the south, young calves and active predators, lush green scenery and lighter crowds than February. Against that, the long rains begin, roads can be muddy, and the herds start to become restless and harder to predict later in the month. Weighing these points against your dates and priorities helps you decide whether March suits your private safari, or whether February or the dry season would be better. The tabs below summarise the main advantages and drawbacks.
Migration Herds Still in the South
In most years the wildebeest migration is still on the southern Serengeti and Ndutu plains in March, with calves a few weeks old. Huge herds, zebras and gazelles share the short grass, and predator sightings are frequent. Having the herds in one broad area makes a three- or four-night southern stay very rewarding. Predators are rarely far away.
- Herds in the south
- Young calves
- Frequent predators
- Easy to plan
Calmer Sightings After the Peak
After the February calving peak, visitor numbers usually fall, and late March is quieter still. Sightings feel more personal, and you can often watch cheetahs or lions with only a few other vehicles. With your own guide and private 4x4, you can stay as long as you like, without anyone else deciding when to leave.
- Fewer vehicles
- Private sightings
- Relaxed pace
- Quieter late March
Lush Plains and Dramatic Light
March brings the Serengeti green season, with fresh grass, wildflowers, clear air and very little dust. Storm clouds create striking skies for photography, and migrant birds are still around. Some lodges move to shoulder or green-season rates, especially late in the month, making March an appealing choice for value-minded travellers who want quality. Rainbows after storms are common too.
- Green landscapes
- Low dust
- Great birding
- Shoulder rates at some lodges
Afternoon Storms and Wetter Days
The long rains usually begin in March, bringing heavy afternoon or evening storms that become more frequent later in the month. Rain rarely stops a game drive for long, but it can shorten an afternoon or delay a balloon flight. Packing waterproof layers and keeping your plans flexible makes a wet day easy to enjoy.
- Afternoon storms
- Wetter late March
- Possible flight delays
- Pack waterproofs
Slippery Tracks on the Southern Plains
Black-cotton soil around Ndutu and the southern plains becomes muddy and slippery after heavy rain, and some tracks may be slower or temporarily closed. Long road transfers can take extra time. An experienced guide, a well-maintained private 4x4 and the option of light-aircraft flights between areas help you travel safely and comfortably. We plan routes around the weather each day.
- Muddy black-cotton soil
- Slower transfers
- Some tracks closed
- Consider flying
Herd Movements Are Harder to Predict
As the grass dries and rain falls unevenly, the herds become restless and can move quickly between the southern plains, Moru and the central Serengeti. Exact positions change from year to year. Combining Ndutu with Seronera, and booking camps in two areas, gives you the best chance of being close to the action. Your guide tracks recent sightings daily.
- Herds on the move
- Varies each year
- Combine two areas
- Trust your guide
How Much Does a Serengeti Safari Cost in March?
How much does a Serengeti safari cost in March? A private Serengeti safari in March typically costs from about $200 to $2,500 per person per day, depending mostly on the accommodation style you choose. March is a shoulder season, with some lodges moving to lower green-season rates as the long rains approach. Your private vehicle, guide, park fees and meals are usually included, and exact inclusions are confirmed in your quote. The ranges below come from our own price list. Booking early March well ahead secures the best camps, while late March often offers easier availability.
Budget Camping Safari
$200 – $390per person per day
A budget camping safari uses public campsites in the Serengeti, with dome tents, a camp cook and your own private guide and 4x4. It is the most affordable way to see the herds in March. Expect simple facilities and the sounds of the wild at night, with a good waterproof tent ready for storms. It suits adventurous travellers.
- Public campsites
- Camp cook
- Private guide and 4x4
- Simple facilities
Mobile Tented Camp Safari
$550 – $590per person per day
Mobile and seasonal tented camps are set up near the herds in the southern Serengeti and Ndutu during the calving and green season. In March they put you close to the migration, often with early access to sightings. Tents are comfortable and simple, and some camps start preparing to move as the long rains settle in.
- Close to the herds
- Seasonal locations
- Comfortable tents
- Check camp dates
Lodge Safari
$590 – $750per person per day
A lodge safari uses permanent lodges, such as those near Lake Masek, Seronera or the Moru area, with solid rooms and reliable facilities. Lodges suit families and travellers who want comfort on rainy evenings. In March, their fixed locations also work well as a central base while the herds move around the southern and central Serengeti.
- Permanent rooms
- Reliable comfort
- Good for families
- Fixed locations
Tented Lodge Safari
$590 – $990per person per day
Tented lodges combine the feeling of canvas with permanent foundations, private bathrooms and attentive service. They are a popular choice for March, balancing the atmosphere of the bush with comfort during storms. Several are well placed for the southern plains and Seronera, letting you stay close to the herds without sacrificing a proper bed. Many guests choose this level.
- Canvas atmosphere
- Private bathrooms
- Storm-ready comfort
- Good locations
High-End Luxury Safari
$990 – $2,500per person per day
A high-end luxury safari combines the finest camps and lodges, exceptional service and often light-aircraft flights between areas. In March, flying saves time on muddy roads and lets you split your stay between the southern plains and the central Serengeti. It suits honeymooners, special celebrations and travellers who want every detail handled. Every detail is arranged for you.
- Finest camps
- Flights between areas
- Exceptional service
- Ideal for celebrations
Park Fees and Extras
Serengeti park and concession fees are charged per person per 24 hours, and Ndutu falls under Ngorongoro Conservation Area fees. Optional extras can include a hot air balloon flight and domestic flights. Also budget for tips, visas and travel insurance. Every private quote lists exactly what is included, so you know where each cost belongs.
- Fees per 24 hours
- Optional balloon
- Flights and tips
- Visas and insurance
Serengeti Safari Packages for March
The best Serengeti safari packages for March spend most of their time in Ndutu and the southern plains, then add Seronera or the Ngorongoro Crater. Each itinerary below is a starting point for a private tailor-made safari, which we adapt to your dates, budget and interests. Longer trips give you more flexibility if the herds start moving north-west, and fly-in options save time on wet roads. Ask us to combine any package with Zanzibar or extra nights near the herds. Each one is private, with your own guide and 4x4 throughout.
8-Day Migration Calving Season Safari
Our 8-Day Migration Calving Season Safari is a mid-range itinerary designed for January to March. It focuses on the southern Serengeti and Ndutu, where the herds and their calves usually spend March, with time for predators and the Ngorongoro area. It suits travellers who want a balanced, unhurried migration safari at good value. Accommodation level can be adjusted.
View the 8-Day Safari →
7-Day Ndutu Calving Season Safari
The 7-Day Ndutu Calving Season Safari concentrates on the Ndutu area and southern plains, ideal in early March when late calves and herds are usually still there. Several nights near the herds give your guide time to follow the migration and wait at predator sightings. We can add Seronera if the herds start moving. Early March is ideal.
View the Ndutu Safari →
7-Day Serengeti Migration Safari
Our 7-Day Serengeti Migration Safari is planned around wherever the herds are, which in March usually means the southern plains with time in central Serengeti. It is a flexible, well-paced itinerary for first-time visitors. Your private guide adjusts each day to fresh sightings and the weather, keeping you close to the migration. It is ideal for first-timers and families.
View the 7-Day Safari →
11-Day Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari
The 11-Day Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari gives you time to explore Ndutu, the southern plains and Seronera in depth, plus other northern circuit parks. In March, the extra days are valuable if the herds become restless or rain changes your plans. It suits photographers and travellers who want a slower, richer experience. Ask us about adding Zanzibar or extra nights.
View the 11-Day Safari →
12-Day Serengeti Calving Safari and Zanzibar
Our 12-Day Serengeti Calving Safari and Zanzibar Beach Holiday pairs the southern plains with relaxing days on the coast. In March it works best early in the month, combining late calves and herds with time on the beach before the long rains strengthen. It is a popular choice for couples and honeymooners wanting variety. Beach nights can be extended.
View the 12-Day Holiday →
5-Day Fly-in Fly-out Serengeti Luxury Safari
The 5-Day Fly-in Fly-out Serengeti Luxury Safari uses light-aircraft flights from Arusha to save time and avoid muddy roads, ideal in March. We match your camps to the herds, usually in the south, with a stay in central Serengeti if they begin moving. It suits travellers who have limited time but want comfort. Luggage limits apply on flights.
View the Fly-in Safari →Where to Stay in the Serengeti in March
The best Serengeti lodges and camps in March are close to the herds, which usually means Ndutu, Lake Masek and the southern plains, with a second stay in the central Serengeti for flexibility. Seasonal and mobile camps are still in the south for most of the month, while permanent lodges offer reliable comfort as the rains begin. Here are six camps and lodges we recommend for March, chosen for location. Availability is easier than in February, but early March still books ahead. We check which seasonal camps are open on your exact dates.
Lake Masek Tented Lodge
Lake Masek Tented Lodge sits beside Lake Masek in the Ndutu area, in the heart of the southern migration range. In March this location keeps you close to the herds, late calves and predators on the surrounding plains. As a permanent tented lodge, it offers a reliable base throughout the month, including the wetter final weeks.
View Lake Masek Tented Lodge →
Ndutu Kati Kati Tented Camp
Ndutu Kati Kati Tented Camp is a seasonal camp in the Ndutu area, set up to be close to the herds during the calving and green season. In March it puts you within easy reach of the migration and the predators that follow it. Check your dates with us, as seasonal camps move with the rains.
View Ndutu Kati Kati Camp →
Ndutu Under Canvas Tented Camp
Ndutu Under Canvas Tented Camp is a seasonal mobile camp in the Ndutu area. Its location follows the southern season, so in March it is ideally placed for herds and late calves. Mobile camps give a genuine sense of wilderness, with the sounds of wildebeest and hyenas at night. Ask us about its current dates.
View Ndutu Under Canvas →
Angata Migration Camp
Angata Migration Camp is a seasonal camp that moves to follow the herds through the year. In March it is usually positioned to reach the southern plains, keeping game drives short and time with the migration long. It suits travellers who want an authentic tented experience close to the action. We confirm its location when booking.
View Angata Migration Camp →
Serengeti Sopa Lodge
Serengeti Sopa Lodge stands in the south-central Serengeti near the Moru Kopjes. In March it sits between the southern plains and Seronera, a practical position if the herds begin drifting north-west late in the month. As a permanent lodge, it suits families and travellers who want solid rooms and comfort during the early long rains.
View Serengeti Sopa Lodge →
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge is in the central Serengeti, within reach of Seronera’s resident lions and leopards. In March it makes an excellent second base after Ndutu, offering big cat viewing and a good position if the herds start moving north. Its permanent location also brings reliable comfort when afternoon storms roll across the plains.
View Serengeti Serena Lodge →Combine the Serengeti with Other Destinations in March
March is a good month to combine the Serengeti with other parts of northern Tanzania. The Ngorongoro Crater lies on the way to Ndutu and is excellent all year, while Tarangire and Lake Manyara are green, quiet and full of birds. Lake Eyasi adds culture, Zanzibar is hot and humid with sunny spells, and early March can still suit a Mount Meru or Kilimanjaro climb. Each option below explains why it works this month and how many nights to add. Most add only one or two nights, while Zanzibar suits a longer stay.
Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater sits on the road between Arusha and Ndutu, so it fits naturally into a March safari. The crater floor is green, with lions, hyenas, buffalo, zebras and wildebeest, and it is the best place in northern Tanzania to look for black rhino. Mist may cover the rim on early mornings. Bring warm layers for the descent.
Explore Ngorongoro Crater →
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire is green and peaceful in March. Many animals disperse while water is plentiful, but resident elephants, giraffes and lions remain, and the birding is superb. Lush grass beneath the giant baobabs makes beautiful scenery. It works well as a gentle first stop on the way to the Ngorongoro highlands and the southern Serengeti. Sightings are often private.
Explore Tarangire →
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara becomes especially lush as the rains begin, with green groundwater forest and streams running from the escarpment. The lakeshore attracts pelicans, storks and waders, while elephants, baboons and giraffes are regular sightings. It is compact and close to the road to the Serengeti, ideal for a half or full day. It suits a relaxed first afternoon.
Explore Lake Manyara →
Lake Eyasi
Lake Eyasi lies south-west of the Ngorongoro highlands and offers respectful cultural visits with local communities, including the Hadzabe and Datoga. It adds a different perspective to a March safari, away from the vehicles. It fits well between the crater and the southern Serengeti, though roads in the area can be muddy after rain. Early mornings work best.
Explore Lake Eyasi →
Zanzibar Beach Extension
Zanzibar is hot and humid in March, with warm sea temperatures and sunny spells between showers, especially early in the month. Explore Stone Town, swim and snorkel, or simply rest after early game drives. A short flight connects the Serengeti or Arusha with the island, making an easy finish to your private safari. Allow at least three nights.
Serengeti and Zanzibar →
Mount Meru or Kilimanjaro
Early March can still be a good time to climb Mount Meru or Kilimanjaro, at the end of the short dry window. Later in the month, trails become wetter and cloud increases as the long rains begin. If you plan to climb before your safari, aim for the first half of March and pack reliable waterproof gear.
Kilimanjaro in March →Serengeti Travel Tips for March
Our Arusha-based guides have led private safaris through many Marches, and a few simple choices make a real difference this month. Plan around the herds in the south, stay flexible for the rain, and consider flying to save time on muddy roads. Booking early matters for the first half of March, while the second half offers easier availability and calmer sightings. These Serengeti safari tips for March cover timing, areas, transport, packing, photography and planning. Each tip below comes from real experience on the plains, with a link to more detailed planning advice.
Choose Early March for Steadier Weather
If reliable weather and late calves matter most, travel in the first half of March, when conditions are often closer to the dry spell. If you prefer fewer vehicles and green-season value, and do not mind more storms, late March can be wonderful. Either way, plan at least three nights near the herds. Late calves favour early dates.
- Early March: steadier weather
- Late March: quieter
- Three nights near herds
- Stay flexible
Combine Ndutu with Seronera
Because the herds can start moving north-west during March, split your stay between Ndutu or the southern plains and the central Serengeti around Seronera. This gives you the migration and the resident big cats, and covers you if the herds move earlier than expected. Your planner will suggest the best balance for your dates. It also adds variety.
- Ndutu or southern plains
- Seronera for big cats
- Covers herd movement
- Two camps or lodges
Fly In to Save Time on Wet Roads
The drive from Arusha to the southern Serengeti via Ngorongoro takes most of a day and can be slower after rain. Light-aircraft flights to Ndutu or Seronera airstrips take about one to two hours. Many guests drive in for the scenery and fly out to save time, a combination that works well in March. Aerial views are a bonus.
- Shorter journeys
- Avoid muddy stretches
- Drive in, fly out
- Watch luggage limits
Pack Light Waterproof Layers
March days are warm, but storms can bring sudden downpours and cooler evenings. Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket, quick-dry clothing in neutral colours, a fleece and comfortable closed shoes. Soft-sided bags suit light-aircraft flights. Avoid dark blue and black clothing in wooded areas, where tsetse flies can be a nuisance. A small torch is useful at camp after dark.
- Waterproof jacket
- Quick-dry clothing
- Warm fleece
- Soft-sided bag
Keep Your Camera Dry and Ready
Green plains and dark skies create superb images, but rain and humidity can affect your gear. Bring a rain cover, microfibre cloths and dry bags, and keep spare batteries charged. A beanbag helps you shoot from the vehicle window. Ask your guide to position the vehicle for light, especially after afternoon storms pass. Back up your images every evening.
- Rain cover
- Dry bags
- Spare batteries
- Beanbag for support
Book Camps Near the Herds Early
Seasonal camps around Ndutu are popular in early March and have limited tents, so booking several months ahead gives you the widest choice. Late March availability is usually easier. Some seasonal camps prepare to close or move as the rains strengthen, so tell us your exact dates and we will match camps that are open.
- Limited seasonal tents
- Book early March ahead
- Late March easier
- Confirm camp dates
What to Pack for the Serengeti in March
Packing for the Serengeti in March means preparing for warm days, cooler early mornings and afternoon storms. Layers are the key: light, breathable clothing in neutral colours for game drives, a fleece for dawn and evening, and a lightweight waterproof jacket for the rain. Strong sunshine between storms makes sun protection essential, and insect repellent helps at dusk. Choose a soft-sided bag if you are flying between airstrips, as light aircraft have weight limits. Binoculars are invaluable for birding and distant predators. Our Serengeti safari packing list explains every item. Keep valuables and medication in your hand luggage.
- Lightweight waterproof jacket
- Neutral, quick-dry safari clothing
- Warm fleece for mornings
- Comfortable closed shoes
- Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
- High-factor sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Binoculars
- Camera rain cover and dry bags
- Spare batteries and power bank
- Soft-sided duffel bag
- Personal medication and antimalarials
Events and Holidays in March
March has no fixed national public holidays in Tanzania, but Easter falls in late March in some years, and its dates change annually, as do Eid and other lunar holidays. Easter weeks can bring a few more visitors to Ndutu and the Ngorongoro Crater, so check dates early. In nature, the main events are the end of the calving season, the arrival of the long rains and the first restless movements of the herds. Palearctic migrant birds are still present before most fly north. Each moment shapes how your private safari is planned. We plan around all of them.
- Early MarchLast calves on the plainsLate births and young calves around Ndutu
- Mid MarchLong rains beginAfternoon storms become more frequent
- Varies each yearEaster holidaysSometimes in late March; dates change annually
- Late MarchHerds start movingSome columns drift towards Moru and Seronera
How to Get to the Serengeti in March
Most travellers reach the Serengeti by flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport, known as JRO, and spending a night in Arusha. From there you can drive with your private guide via the Ngorongoro highlands, a full day of roughly seven to eight hours to the central Serengeti, or reach Ndutu through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. In March, roads can be slower after rain, so many guests fly from Arusha Airport to Ndutu or Seronera airstrips in about one to two hours. Naabi Hill Gate is the main southern entrance. Your guide meets you in Arusha for a full briefing.
- Fly into Kilimanjaro (JRO)International arrival, then a night in Arusha
- Drive via NgorongoroScenic full day; slower after rain
- Or fly from Arusha (ARK)Light aircraft to Ndutu or Seronera, about 1–2 hours
- Enter via Naabi Hill or NdutuNdutu is reached through the NCA
Serengeti Health and Safety in March
Health precautions matter a little more in March, because rain and warm temperatures increase mosquito activity. Malaria is present in the Serengeti, so consult a travel clinic about antimalarials, use repellent and wear long sleeves at dusk. Tsetse flies occur in some wooded areas, mainly in the west and north, so avoid dark blue and black clothing. A yellow fever certificate is needed only if you arrive from or transit a risk country. Drink bottled or filtered water, use sun protection, and carry travel insurance that includes emergency evacuation. Our guides are first-aid trained and brief you on safety.
- Ask a travel clinic about antimalarials
- Use repellent and long sleeves at dusk
- Drink bottled or filtered water
- Strong sun between storms
- Our guides are first-aid trained
- Stay in the vehicle unless your guide says otherwise
- Avoid dark blue and black near tsetse areas
- Insurance including evacuation
How to Plan and Book a Serengeti Safari in March
Planning a Serengeti safari in March is simple when you follow a clear order. Start with your dates, because early and late March feel different, then choose areas that match the likely herd position. Next, pick your camps or lodges, send us your enquiry and confirm the itinerary that suits you. Finally, prepare and pack for warm days and afternoon storms. These six steps show how our private safari planners help you book a tailor-made March safari with confidence. Each step links to a detailed guide, so you always know what comes next.
Choose Your March Dates
Decide whether early or late March suits you best. Early March offers steadier weather and late calves, while late March brings more rain, quieter sightings and shoulder-season value at some lodges. Allow at least six to eight days for a rewarding safari, or longer if you want to add Ngorongoro, Tarangire or Zanzibar. Easter dates vary each year.
- Early or late March
- Allow six to eight days
- Add extra parks
- Consider Easter dates
Pick Your Serengeti Areas
Base most of your nights in Ndutu or the southern plains, where the herds usually stay in March, and add Seronera for big cats and flexibility. If you have time, include the Ngorongoro Crater on the way. Our planners use recent sightings and the rains to suggest the best mix of areas for your dates.
- Ndutu and southern plains
- Seronera for big cats
- Ngorongoro on the way
- Based on recent sightings
Choose Your Camps and Lodges
Choose between seasonal camps close to the herds, tented lodges with permanent comforts, or classic lodges with solid rooms. In March, a seasonal or tented camp near Ndutu paired with a lodge in the central Serengeti works well. We check which camps are open on your dates, as some move late in the month. Seasonal tents are limited.
- Seasonal camps
- Tented lodges
- Permanent lodges
- Open on your dates
Send Us Your Enquiry
Send us your travel dates, party size, budget and interests, along with any special requests such as photography, a balloon flight or a beach extension. Our Arusha-based planners reply with a tailor-made itinerary for your private safari, explaining where we expect the herds to be and why each camp has been chosen. Questions are always welcome before you decide.
- Dates and party size
- Budget and style
- Special interests
- Tailor-made itinerary
Confirm and Book Your Safari
Once you are happy with the itinerary, we reserve your camps, lodges, flights and park permits. You secure your private safari by paying the deposit as set out in your booking confirmation. We then send a full itinerary, practical notes for March and contact details, so you know exactly what to expect from arrival onwards.
- Review the itinerary
- Camps and flights reserved
- Deposit as confirmed
- Full travel notes
Prepare and Pack for March
In the weeks before travel, arrange travel insurance with evacuation cover, check visa and health requirements, and visit a travel clinic about antimalarials. Pack light waterproof layers, neutral clothing and a soft-sided bag for flights. Your guide will meet you in Arusha with a briefing on the latest herd movements and weather. Charge your camera batteries before you leave.
- Travel insurance
- Visa and health checks
- Waterproof layers
- Arrival briefing
Serengeti Safari in March: FAQs
Where is the Great Migration in March?
In March the Great Migration is usually still in the southern Serengeti and around Ndutu, grazing the short-grass plains with calves born in February. Later in the month, as the grass dries, some herds typically begin drifting north-west towards Moru Kopjes and the central Serengeti. Timing varies each year.
Is March a good time to visit the Serengeti?
Yes. March is a good time to visit the Serengeti for the migration herds, young calves and active predators on the southern plains, with fewer vehicles than February. The long rains begin, so expect afternoon storms and muddy tracks, especially in late March.
What is the Serengeti weather like in March?
Serengeti weather in March is warm, with days of about 24–29 °C and mild nights. Early March is often bright and fairly dry, while the long rains bring heavy afternoon or evening storms that become more frequent later in the month. Mornings are usually clear.
How much does a Serengeti safari cost in March?
From our price list, a private Serengeti safari in March costs about $200 to $2,500 per person per day, depending mainly on accommodation style. March is a shoulder season, and some lodges offer lower green-season rates. Park fees, flights and extras are confirmed in your quote.
Is the Serengeti crowded in March?
No. Crowds in March are usually moderate and ease as the month goes on, after the busier calving peak in February. Ndutu still sees steady demand in early March, so book seasonal camps several months ahead. Late March is often quiet, with many sightings to yourself.
What should I pack for the Serengeti in March?
Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket, neutral quick-dry clothing, a warm fleece for early mornings, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent and binoculars. Bring a rain cover and dry bags for your camera, and a soft-sided bag if you are flying between airstrips.
Can I still see wildebeest calves in March?
Yes. The calving peak is usually in February, but some late births continue into early March, and the herds are full of young calves a few weeks old. You will often see them running with their mothers on the Ndutu and southern Serengeti plains.
Design Your Private March Serengeti Safari
Design your private Serengeti safari in March with our Arusha-based team. Tell us your dates and interests, and we will match you with camps close to the herds, your own guide and 4x4, and any Ngorongoro or Zanzibar extension.
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