The Great Annual Wildebeest Migration is generally experienced in Kenya and Tanzania. From Serengeti National Park to Masai Mara National Reserve and back, every year columns of about 300,000 zebras, 2 million wildebeests and 400,000 gazelles have for ages followed a circuit to look for fresh grazing pastures and water. There is no proven record on how these migrant grazers in their groups know which way to go or follow this route. But some of the guides and scientists believe that they follow the new growing pastures and weather, especially rain. These are the key players but like tourists, resident carnivores of the parks like lions, hyenas, cheetahs, and leopards wait in anticipation for this event.
This migration starts from northern Tanzania in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park during the calving season in December. In a day, about 8,000 calves are born and by the end of a month period around 400,000 calves will have been produced. During the end of February and in March, the wildebeests begin to trek northwards and are joined by thousands of zebras, gazelles and other antelopes. They continue to cross the Grumeti River and the crocodiles feast on them. The rate of the feast as they cross the Mara River to the Masai Mara National Reserve is a spectacular one.
It is during this period that the predators (large densities of lions that roam the savanna plains of Maasai Mara) become selective of what to eat either beef or veal. In the middle of the year, mostly July and October tourists flock to Masai-Mara and Serengeti to witness this circular mass terrestrial trek and one of Africa’s seven wonders. These months of crossing, as they overcome the waters of the Mara, Grumeti and Talek Rivers and the powerful jaws of predators to enter the plains of northern Kenya, travelers should be fully prepared for a thrilling scene/event of their lifetime. This calls for an early booking with Standard Safaris. This is because the destinations experience the high season, implying that getting accommodation is highly competitive.
Due to changes in weather (sometimes the rains come late), there is less prediction of the migration. But, visitors can follow the trek from December to February when the cows are calving in the short grass of Ngorongoro and Serengeti. Watch thousands of wildebeests being born and as they gain strength to stand and walk. Many of these die along the way, especially when crossing rivers, or due to predation or exhaustion or separation from their mothers. From May to June follow them to Seronera Valley in Serengeti and watch the action as dominant males fight for mating rights with females.
It is in July to October when visitors stand a chance of witnessing the herds continue northwards arriving and crossing the permanent Mara River. By August the biggest pack of the herd is in the Masai Mara plains until October. In November, they take the southwestern circuit to Loliondo and back to Serengeti as they complete the circular movement. Visitors can plan their travel according to their interest and for those who would want to document the trek, you can camp in the two parks as you follow the trek.
The Great Annual Wildebeest Migration with Standard Safaris
This Great Annual Wildebeest Migration experience can be included in your safari itinerary at the right time of the year. Whether your desire is to witness the dramatic calving season or the thrilling crossing of the rivers, we can help you plan the best course of action. Our driver guides know the best routes and timing to ensure that you have an unforgettable safari in these 2 iconic destinations. At Standard Safaris, we provide genuine expert guidance that ensures your tour package is tailored to your interests, budget and travel date.
We promise to advise you on the best locations and accommodations to maximize your chances of witnessing this remarkable spectacle. Also, over the years, we have earned the trust of several travelers from all over the world by delivering great safari experiences. We invite you to contact us today and see why our outstanding reviews on TripAdvisor reflect the quality, reliability, and personalized service we proudly offer.
