Grumeti & Lamai: December 2025

December in the Grumeti Concession began with notably dry conditions. For most of the month, the landscape remained brown and dusty, and any movement across the plain raised clouds of fine dust. Whether early in the morning or late in the afternoon, herds moving through open areas left a visible trail behind them, clearly showing how dry the ground had become after weeks without rain. Due to the dry weather, the only reliable water source in the central area of the concession was Sasakwa Dam, and herds formed long columns from all directions as they slowly made their way in to drink. The dry conditions dominated daily wildlife movements and gave the concession a quiet, sun-baked appearance.

Toward the end of the month, the weather changed dramatically. Dark clouds gathered and heavy rains fell over several days, bringing much needed moisture to the land. The transformation was quick and the plains responded almost immediately, turning green as fresh grass emerged across the concession. In the blink of an eye the scenery felt renewed, with new growth spreading across areas that had been bare and lifeless only days before.

With rain having fallen across much of the Serengeti ecosystem, the migratory herds instinctively began their journey south towards the southern Serengeti plains. Those that had remained in Grumeti for an extended period moved on within just a few days, following the fresh grazing elsewhere. Grumeti, now green and refreshed, remained home to its resident wildlife. Elephants, buffaloes, gazelles, topi, and a few zebras were seen widely spread across the concession, calmly filling the open spaces and bringing a balanced and peaceful close to the year.

December offered exceptional lion viewing throughout the month. At least six prides were seen almost daily, remaining within relatively small areas as the abundance of prey reduced the need for long movements. With wildebeest and zebras spread across the landscape, the lions were rarely far from food, and each night brought fresh opportunities to hunt. This richness of game allowed the big cats to feed regularly, creating consistent and memorable sightings as they confidently occupied their territories across the concession.

Leopard viewing during December was truly exceptional and beyond words! A total of 11 different individuals were recorded, marking the highest number seen in 2025. Guests visiting the reserve during this period were rewarded with outstanding sightings of these elusive and special cats of the wild, making it one of the most memorable months for leopard encounters.

Cheetah sightings were noticeably higher compared to November. Guides who scanned the open plains looking for cheetah didn’t lose any time. With so many gazelles roaming the grasslands, the cheetahs were naturally drawn to the area, their presence amplified by the abundance of prey.

Elephants continued to roam the woodlands and open plains of the reserve throughout the month. With the large herds of migratory animals around, the elephants often split into smaller family groups. Towards the end of the month, following the departure of the wildebeests, these groups reunited to form mega herds of up to a hundred individuals. Their massive presence could be seen and felt across the plains, a true testament to the strength and social bonds of these gentle giants.

As always, large herds of buffalo were seen across the reserve throughout the month. They wandered the open plains and edges of the woodlands in search of fresh grazing, moving slowly but steadily as the adults led the way. Dust rose under their hooves, and the low grunts and snorts of the herd echoed across the landscape, a constant reminder of their presence. Their presence added a steady rhythm to the plains, a reminder of the resilience and strength of these iconic animals.

The rhinos and their calves are all doing well, so that ends the year on a very positive note.