Guide To The Great Wildebeest Migration.
The Great Migration is a true representation of the circle of life. The cycle continues throughout the year as the herds follow the rains in search of food, water and a safe place to give birth. What you can expect to see varies month by month.
The Great Wildebeest Migration in January, February and March
During the ‘greed season’ of January, February and March the migrating herds congregate in Serengeti, where around 400,000 wildebeest are born each year. During peak birthing season in February several thousand calves are born each day. The short nutrient-rich grass keeps them safe from predators.
The Great Migration in April and May
By April and May, the ‘long rains’ begin and the Great Migration is on the move. The grass has begun to dry out and the herds start to travel west and north. They move through the longer grass and towards the Ndoha and Dutwa Plains.
The Great Migration in June and July
In June and July, the herds are heading north through the Grumeti Private Reserve towards the Maasai Mara, where it is starting to rain. During these months you can see the Grumeti River crossings, the first for the youngest members of the herd.
The Great Migration in August, September and October
From August until October is when most Mara river crossings take place and is the peak season for migration safaris. Many of the herds cross the border from Tanzania and into Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Park. They face threats from crocodiles, lions – and people.
The Great Migration in November and December
As the year ends, the wildebeest, zebras and antelope start to move south and curve back into Tanzania, once again following the rain. They head to the area around Ngorongoro and prepare to begin the cycle all over again with birthing season.
Where can I stay to see the Great Migration?
There are a variety of options in both Tanzania and Kenya. In Kenya, the Maasai Mara is easily accessible from Nairobi and there are many mid-range lodges to luxury permanent camps near the Mara River. In more remote Tanzania seasonal camps are a fantastic option.
Choosing accommodation for the Great wildebeest Migration
To see the Great Migration, you have a choice between permanent and seasonal or ‘mobile’ camps. Seasonal camps move between different locations throughout the year, following the pattern of the migration. These camps have no permanent buildings but can still be incredibly luxurious.
Because seasonal camps are not permanent structures, they are often best placed to catch the action. We recommend booking into one for at least part of your safari, to see the migration up close and experience the magic of a more ‘traditional’ safari.
How can I make sure to see a river crossing?
River crossings during the Great Migration are one of the most dramatic events you’ll ever see. Wildebeest thunder across the water sometimes by the thousands as predators wait to catch stragglers. The crossings are not predictable, however, and there is no guarantee that you’ll catch one.
The best way to maximise your chances of experiencing these iconic Mara River crossings is to plan your timing and accommodation strategically with one of our expert travel designers. They’ll be able to advise you on where to stay based on your preferences and time of travel.
How to plan a Great Migration safari?
A Great Migration Safari is one of the most spectacular Kenya safaris you will ever take. The migration can be unpredictable; however it requires careful planning to make sure that you have the best chance of being in the right place at the right time.
