Want to witness a migration of close two 3 million animals?
Want to witness a migration of close two 3 million animals?
Wildlife migrations are ancient patterns of movement, driven by changes in seasons and the need for food. In East Africa, one of the oldest and most important migrations was the journey of wildebeest from Amboseli to Nairobi National Park. Unfortunately, this migration has been disrupted by development near the southern edge of Nairobi National Park.
The migration of wildebeest and zebra through the Serengeti ecosystem is one of the most famous in the world. It’s easy to think that this migration has been happening for thousands of years without change. However, the reality is more complex and dynamic than it seems. Human activities have significantly influenced the development of these migration patterns.
Witnessing the Great Migration: An Unforgettable Experience
Every year, almost two million wildebeest, zebra, and other antelope gather their young and start a long journey north from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve. They do this in search of greener pastures. This journey goes in a clockwise circle, covering about 1,800 miles (2,900 kilometers). It’s a journey full of danger. Every year, around 250,000 wildebeest die along the way.
Dangerous River Crossings
River crossings are especially dangerous. Huge herds gather to cross the waters of the Grumeti River in Tanzania and the Mara River in Kenya. These rivers have strong currents and lurking crocodiles. Many wildebeest drown, and crocodiles catch many others. The crossings are dramatic and intense but offer some of the most amazing wildlife experiences in Africa.
Excitement Away from the Rivers
Even away from the rivers, the migration is exciting. Seeing thousands of wildebeest, zebra, eland, and gazelle moving across the plains is a sight to behold. The large herds attract many predators, such as lions, leopards, hyenas, and wild dogs. Safari-goers have a good chance of seeing a predator make a kill.
Note: The migration is a natural event, so the timing and location can change slightly each year. Use the information below as a general guide.
The Migration in Tanzania
December – March:During this time, the herds are in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation areas in northern Tanzania. This is calving season when many babies are born. It’s also a good time to see big cats and their hunting activities. The southern Ndutu and Salei plains are the best places to see large herds during this time. Good places to stay include Ndutu Safari Lodge, Kusini Safari Camp, Lemala Ndutu Camp, and mobile tented camps in the area.
April – May:The herds start moving west and north to the grassy plains and woodlands of the Serengeti’s Western Corridor. Seasonal rains make it hard to follow the herds because roads become impassable. Many smaller camps in Tanzania close during this time.
June:As the rains end, the wildebeest and zebra start moving north. They begin to form larger herds, and it is also mating season for the wildebeest. The Western Serengeti is the best place to see the migration during this time.
July :The herds reach their first big obstacle, the Grumeti River. If the rains have been good, the river can be deep, making it dangerous for the wildebeest. Many may drown, and crocodiles take advantage of this. Camps along the river offer an incredible safari experience. Some of the best places to stay are Serengeti Serena Lodge, Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp, Migration Camp, and Kirawira Camp.
The Migration in Kenya
August: The grasses of the western Serengeti start turning yellow, and the herds continue moving north. After crossing the Grumeti River in Tanzania, they head to Kenya’s Lamai Wedge and the Mara Triangle. Before reaching the lush plains of the Mara, they must cross another river, the Mara River, which is also filled with hungry crocodiles. The best places to stay to watch the wildebeest cross the Mara River include Kichwa Tembo Camp, Bateleur Camp, and Sayari Mara Camp.
September – November: The Mara plains are filled with large herds, followed by predators. Some of the best places to stay while the migration is in the Mara include Governors Camp and Mara Serena Safari Lodge.
November – December: The rains start again in the south, and the herds begin their long trek back to Tanzania’s Serengeti plains to give birth. During the short rains of November, the wildebeest migration is best viewed from Klein’s Camp, and campsites in the Lobo area are also good.
This journey of the great migration, from the Serengeti to the Maasai Mara and back, is one of nature’s most incredible spectacles. It’s a dramatic and breathtaking event, offering unforgettable moments for those lucky enough to witness it.