Wildebeest Migration - The Ultimate Guide to 2024 Africa’s Great Migration

The Wildebeest Migration is without a doubt one of the most amazing spectacles on earth. Every year, over a million wildebeest and zebra, make their way from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya, in an epic journey that covers over 1,500 miles. If you want to witness this incredible event, now is the time to plan your safari!

MasaiMaraSafari.in is your go-to source for all things Wildebeest Migration. We’ll tell you everything you need to know about this incredible phenomenon, from when and where it happens to the best time of year to visit. So if you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure, read.

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Masai Mara migration safari providers in Kenya. We have experienced guides and quality equipment to ensure your safari is a safe and enjoyable experience. So what are you waiting for? Book your safari today by sending your inquiry

If you’re looking for an unforgettable African adventure, wildlife migration is a perfect choice. Contact us today to find out more about our custom itineraries and how we can help you make the most of your African adventure. We are available at james@ajkenyasafaris.com or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com through email. You can also reach us through WhatsApp or phone at +254-748-258-880.

Featured Great Wildebeest Migration Itineraries & Other Packages

The Best Nairobi to Masai Mara Packages	Detailed Itinerary	Price Per Person Sharing
4-Day Masai Mara Migration Safari	View the Itinerary	From USD 1430
3-Day African Safari in Kenya Masai Mara	View the Itinerary	From USD 880
3-Day Masai Mara Budget Safari	View the Itinerary	From USD 880
4-Day Ashnil Mara Camp Safari	View the Itinerary	From USD 1190
4-Day Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari	View the Itinerary	From USD 1180
4-Day Mara Serena Safari Lodge Trip	View the Itinerary	From USD 1262
4-Day Masai Mara Flying Safari	View the Itinerary	From USD 1450
4-Day Masai Mara Group Safari	View the Itinerary	From USD 750
5-Day Naivasha & Masai Mara Group Safari	View the Itinerary	From USD 854
6-Day Amboseli, L. Naivasha, & Masai Mara Safari	View the Itinerary	From USD 1764
6-Day Amboseli, L. Nakuru, & Masai Mara Group Safari	View the Itinerary	From USD 1186
6-Day Hell’s Gate, L. Nakuru, & Masai Mara Safari	View the Itinerary	From USD 1788
6-Day L. Nakuru, Hell’s Gate, & Masai Mara Group Safari	View the Itinerary	From USD 1123
6-Day Nairobi & Masai Mara Family Safari	View the Itinerary	Adult From USD 2000 Child From USD 628
6-Day Nairobi, L. Nakuru, & Masai Mara Safari	View the Itinerary	From USD 1795
7-Day Amboseli, Naivasha, & Masai Mara Group Safari	View the Itinerary	From USD 1130
z13-Day Kenya Wildlife & Beach Safari	View the Itinerary	From USD 5258

What is the Great Migration? - The Greatest Show on Earth

The Animals Migration, also known as The Great Migration, is one of nature’s most spectacular displays. Each year, millions of wildebeests and zebras embark on a journey through the Serengeti-Masai Mara ecosystem in search of food and water.

During the dry season (typically from June to October), the wildlife moves north from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. The Wildebeests are closely followed by predators such as lions, hyenas, and cheetahs, making for dramatic scenes on the savannah.

As climate patterns change and resources shift, so too does the migration route, making each year unique and offering a new experience for safari-goers.

A Year-Long, 1,200-Mile Journey - How the Great Migration Africa Moves Throughout the Year

The herd moves throughout the year, as different parts of Serengeti and Masai Mara become favorable to the herds of wildebeest. Here is how the thousands of animals move around the Serengeti National Park and the Masai Mara National Reserve.

The Great Migration in January, February, and March

In January and February, the wildebeest migrate to the southern plains of the Serengeti National Park to search for rain-ripened grass. The calving season also takes place during this time of the year, with half a million calves being born within a short span of weeks.

The Month of March

March sees the migratory herd move towards the western corridor, between the Grumeti River and Masai Mara National Reserve. The Wildebeest must cross the crocodile-infested Grumeti River in order to reach new grasslands.

The Great Movement in April, May, and June

These months see the migration movement in the northern Serengeti, where they will spend the dry season of the year. The Grumeti river is still the herd source of water as the Serengeti and the surrounding area become dry. By the end of June, thousands of the wildebeest, zebras, and antelopes get ready for the Mara river crossings, which is one of the hardest tests (harder than the Grumeti Crossing).

The Great Migration in July, August, September, and October

July marks the wildlife crossing into the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. The Wildebeests must brave the crocodile-filled River Mara to reach fresh grazing land, leading to dramatic scenes of survival and predators taking advantage of the weakened prey. Crossing the Mara River see the migration at its peak, making July and early August the perfect time to see the herds while on the move.

The Month of August

August sees the herd spread out across the Masai Mara, with more animals continuing to cross the Mara River from the northern Serengeti. Wildebeests and zebras also face the threat of lions, hyenas, and cheetahs hunting them as they grazed on the Masai Mara’s grasslands.

The Month of September and October

In September and October, the wildlife begins to move back towards the south of the Serengeti as the short rains begin. The grazers and their predators follow the rain-ripened grass, leading to tense river crossings once again as they move back in the northern part of Serengeti toward the southern part.

The Great Herd Movement in November and December

November and December see the wildebeest migration back in the southern Serengeti, where they will spend Christmas before starting their journey all over again in January.

Great Wildebeest Migration Safari: A Planning Video

More about the Great Wildebeest Migration - Key Moments

The journey is fraught with danger, but for many of the animals, it is worth the risk as they move in search of food and water. And for many visitors, their dream is to experience the event from both the Serengeti and Masai Mara side. Here are more details of the annual event to help you plan your safari better.

July- August: Dramatic River Crossings in the Masai Mara Game Reserve

One of the most treacherous obstacles of the wildebeest migration is the crossing of the Mara River. The river is home to large crocodiles that lie in wait for weary migrants. To reach the other side, the animals must swim through fast-moving currents and dodge sharp rocks.

Despite the risks, tens of thousands of wildebeest make the crossing every day during this season. For many, it is a journey of survival. But for others, it is simply a journey home.

Book Your Safari in July for River Crossing -

Witness the drama of the river crossings and witness the wildebeests’ determination as they brave the dangerous waters by booking your safari in July and early August.

January - February: Calving Season in the Serengeti

During the calving season, over 1 million wildebeest give birth in a synchronized event in the Serengeti plains. The herds gather to graze on the abundant grass and provide protection for their calves from predators like lions and hyenas.

Book Your Safari in Jan-Feb for Calving Season

Book your safari to Tanzania in Jan or Feb to witness the calving season. Be the first to see the newborn as they start to run around the north Serengeti.

Tips for Planning the Great Migration Africa Safari

If you’re planning on going on a safari to witness the migration, there are a few things you need to know in order to make the most of your trip. Below are some tips to help you plan and prepare for your journey.

Plan to visit in the summer months of July through October, when the event is typically at its peak in the Maasai Mara region of Kenya.
Make sure to book with a reputable safari company that has experienced guides and access to prime viewing locations.
Keep an eye out for crossings of the Wildebeest and other herds over the Mara River, as these are particularly exciting to witness.
Don’t forget to bring your camera for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to capture the action in all its glory.
Consider adding on a hot air balloon ride for an aerial view of the herds on the move.
Don’t forget to pack your binoculars to get a closer look at the predators and other animals in their natural habitat.
Make sure to also take time to appreciate the smaller, but no less important, aspects of the ecosystem during your safaris such as bird watching.
Keep in mind that the movement is a constantly changing event, so flexibility and a sense of adventure are key to making the most out of your safari experience.

Frequently asked questions about the Great Migration Africa Tour

In this section, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions of the great migration. So if you’re curious about this incredible natural phenomenon, read on!

1.What is the Great Wildebeest Migration?

The Great Migration is the annual migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of other animals such as zebra, gazelle, and antelope, searching for food and water across the Serengeti plains in Tanzania and the Masai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya.

2.How Does the Great Wildebeest Migration Movement Work?

The herd follows the rains and grass growth in the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. The herd, along with other animals, will move to areas where they can find fresh grass for grazing during the wet season, before moving to areas with permanent water sources during the dry season.

4.Why do Wildebeest migrate?

The wildebeest are driven by the need for survival, as they move to areas where they can find food and water for themselves and their young. This will see the wildlife move out of the Serengeti National Park into the Mara for a better grazing region. This is the main reason the herds are seen in Mara.

5.Where does the Wildebeest Migration start and end?

The migration begins in the southern Serengeti plains of Tanzania and ends in the Masai Mara Game Reserve of Kenya. The herds will then make their way back to the southern Serengeti to begin the cycle again.

6.What is the best time to visit the Serengeti?

The movement typically peaks on the Serengeti side during the months of January and February, and the months of June and July.

7.How many wildebeests are in a herd?

The size of Wildebeest herds can vary, but they can range from a few hundred to over a thousand individuals. And the herds are always in groups and can be seen grazing where there is no tough pasture.

8.Are Wildebeest endangered?

The Wildebeest is not currently an endangered species, with an estimated 1.9 million individuals in the wild. However, their numbers have declined in recent years due to poaching and loss of habitat.

9. What other animals migrate with Wildebeest?

Other herbivores, such as zebra, gazelle, and antelope, often migrate alongside Wildebeest in their herds. Predators such as lions, hyenas, and cheetahs also follow the herd in search of their next meal. There is no certainty of knowing if the migration is going to contain different species of animals because they change every year.

10. Can the Migration River Crossings be Predicted?

While the event follows a general pattern, it is impossible to predict exactly when and where the herds will cross rivers. This adds to the excitement and adventure of going on a Masai Mara safari. The migration is quite unpredictable and we would recommend staying in the mara for about 3-night for a chance of witnessing the short, but action-filled, river crossing.

11. Where can I go on a Wildebeest Migration Safari?

Safaris to witness the annual event can be booked in both Tanzania and Kenya. The Masai Mara region of Kenya is typically known for its dramatic river crossings, while Tanzania offers opportunities to see different species of animals. However, the short four months of the migration in Kenya are usually the most dramatic and ideal for the safari-goer.

12.Where are the Best Places to Stay on a Wildebeest Migration Safari?

There are many accommodations available for the safari-goer, ranging from budget to luxury lodges. Always remember that the safari should be booked early to avoid missing the prime places.

13.What are the Best Migration Safari Tours?

The best Wildebeest Migration safari tour will ultimately be the one that suits your individual needs and interests.

14.Ready to Plan Your Migration Safari?

Witnessing the crossing of the Mara River with the best of the migration packages from MasaiMaraSafari.in. Contact us today to book your safari to see the great migration as the herd gets out of the Serengeti into the Maasai Mara National Reserve.

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