the Great Wildebeest Migration

There is no occurrence like the Great Migration anywhere else in the world, and it occurs in Tanzania and Kenya. There are a few places throughout these nations that may provide you the chance to witness this famous natural phenomenon in action, even though it is impossible to determine with precision when the Great Wildebeest Migration will occur.

Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park

Renowned for its expansive plains and the millions of wildebeest that migrate through the region, the Serengeti is one of Tanzania’s northern safari circuit is jewels. The world’s greatest terrestrial wildlife migration takes place in the Serengeti habitat, which is situated in northwest Tanzania and borders Kenya. You can observe the calving season (February to March) and large herds grazing on the southern plains from December to May. Millions of gazelles, zebras, and wildebeest travel through the area during this period, escorted by lions, hyenas, cheetahs, and leopards. You may also see hippos and crocodiles close to water sources. Other species, such as additional zebra, gazelles, and other carnivores that accompany the herds, are also drawn to the migration.

Tanzania and Kenya’s Mara River

The Mara River, which forms the natural boundary between Kenya’s Masai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti, provides a breathtaking view from July through October. You can see the strength and tenacity of the wildebeest as they traverse the crocodile-infested waterways during this peak time. On the riverbanks, you might also spot crocodiles and hippos relaxing. Depending of water levels and predator activity, the herds may take days or even weeks to traverse the Mara River without any interruptions.

Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve

The Serengeti ecosystem’s northern extension is this reserve, which is well-known for its breathtaking Mara River crossings. From July to October, visitors can enjoy breathtaking animal experiences in this area of southwestern Kenya, which borders Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. You may see the spectacular Mara River crossings during this time, where crocodiles and powerful currents fight with wildebeest to get to the lush, green meadows. Along with other predators like hyenas and jackals, this time of year offers great chances to witness lions, cheetahs, and leopards pursuing the migrating animals. The crossings are considerably riskier for the wildebeest because the Mara River is home to Africa’s highest population of hippos and Nile crocodiles. As lions, cheetahs, and leopards chase the migratory herds, the Mara provides unmatched chances to witness predators in action.

The Great Wildebeest Migration is a continuous cycle that is motivated by the basic needs of the wildebeest rather than a journey with a clear beginning and end. Their main goal is to locate the optimal survival conditions, especially wholesome food and water. In East Africa, the rains transform various locations into ideal grazing grounds as the seasons change.

The wildebeest move all year long to exploit these new, high-protein grazing grounds, driven by an innate ability to locate the healthiest grasses. Water availability also plays a critical role in determining their path and guaranteeing that they always have access to the resources they need to support themselves and their young.

No, not even wildebeest are certain of their exact crossing time. Their reliance on following the rain—weather patterns change annually—as well as the behavior of the herds are the causes of this uncertainty. While some groups may quickly jump into the water and cross, others may approach the water’s edge and graze for a few days, and yet others may reach the river only to turn around. For this reason, we advise extending your safari stay to increase your chances of seeing a river crossing.

According to tradition, the herds begin their migration in Tanzania’s southern Serengeti between November and December. The brief rains that arrive around this time revitalize the pastures and attract wildebeest to move north from Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve.

As the wildebeest react to the shifting seasons, the southern Serengeti grasslands is considered the start, even though there is not a clear beginning point.

Month-by-month breakdown of the Great Migration

January

Ndutu and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area are part of the southern Serengeti, which is a hive of activity in January. With thousands of wildebeest calves making their first shaky steps on the verdant plains, this is the peak of calving season.

February

February is the height of the calving season. As they graze with their mothers, the young wildebeest calves gain strength and gradually gain independence. The vast plains are teeming with life, demonstrating the wildebeest’s exceptional reproductive success.

March

The calving season is coming to an end as March draws near. As the grasses grow, the growing herds have a more substantial food source. The wildebeest begin to feel restless as the seasons change, signaling that they are getting ready for the next phase of their epic journey.

April

When the dry season begins in April, the behavior of the wildebeest changes. The herds head northwest in pursuit of new pastures as the formerly verdant terrain starts to dry out. The mating season also begins this month. To get the attention of the females, male wildebeest compete by putting on amazing shows of power and endurance.

May

In May, the herds continue their northward migration, arriving in the central Serengeti near Moru Kopjes and Seronera. The male wildebeest’s dominance displays crescendo, producing an eye-catching scene. The terrain shifts as they go closer to the western route, suggesting the difficulties that lie ahead.

JuneIn the western Serengeti corridor, the wildebeest congregate in large numbers in June close to the Grumeti River. Tension is created as the herds get ready for the dramatic crossing by this formidable obstacle, which features rapid currents and crocodiles that wait nearby.

July

The dramatic Grumeti River crossing in July marks the end of months of anticipation. As they attempt to cross the river, the wildebeest must contend with its perils, avoiding predators and fighting against powerful currents. One of the highlights of the exodus and a popular tourist destination is this dangerous yet breathtaking event.

August

Another significant obstacle on the wildebeest’s trek is the famous Mara River, which they encounter in August. The Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is home to this crossing, which is a popular tourist destination.

September

The wildebeest experience a time of relative quiet in September after successfully across the rivers. After the long and difficult voyage, they settle in the lush grasslands of the Masai Mara, where they refuel and feast on the plentiful fresh growth.

October

The brief rainy season begins in October. Some wildebeest herds, particularly those in the southern parts, may start to exhibit signs of migrating southward, although the majority still stay in the Masai Mara. This slight variation signals the start of the next migration cycle and the impending change in the seasons.

November

November is a pivotal month when the brief rains turn the arid southern Serengeti into a verdant haven. Driven by this new growth, the herds of wildebeests set out from the Masai Mara in Kenya for their yearly voyage south.

December

The southern plains are dotted with stable water sources and a plenty of nutrient-rich grasses, which the herds enjoy as they continue their journey south in December. As the wildebeest feed and strengthen themselves for the upcoming trials, this is a period of plenty.

Camps That Are Mobile

Throughout the season, mobile camps follow the herds to keep you near the best wildebeest action. They provide a more personal safari experience, frequently with fewer visitors. These camps, which place a high priority on wildlife, let you experience the outdoors to the fullest without the interruptions of modern conveniences.

Comfortable tents with private restrooms are still offered by mobile campers, although luxuries like swimming pools or spas are typically unavailable. Since these camps have at least two places and change with the seasons, you are typically assured to watch the migration.

Permanent Camps

Other facilities including laundry facilities, spas, and swimming pools are occasionally provided by permanent campgrounds. Safaris are possible outside of the migration season because they are open all year round. Even while these campgrounds do not accompany the herds out of migration season, they nonetheless offer great chances to see animals because they are frequently located in picturesque areas.