The Great Migration in Masai Mara, Kenya

Overview of The Great Migration

With 1.5 million wildebeest, 400,000 zebras, 12,000 elands, and 300,000 Grant’s and Thomson’s gazelles moving from the southern Serengeti to the Masai Mara, the term ‘great’ in ‘Great Migration’ might be an understatement. This continuous, year-long migration is a remarkable natural occurrence, with its timing influenced by environmental conditions, weather patterns, and the animals themselves. Essentially, the largest mammal migration on earth follows the rains. The one million wildebeest herds traverse 800 kilometers in a clockwise loop through the Serengeti and Masai Mara ecosystems, seeking greener, nutrient-rich pastures and water. While the animals spend the majority of the cycle in Tanzania’s Serengeti, they also roam the abundant plains of the Masai Mara for several months, following their migration route.

Highlights of the Great Migration in Masai Mara-Serengeti National Park

As the wildebeest herds, zebras, and gazelles enter the Masai Mara, they encounter numerous formidable predators. Apart from the threat posed by big cats, the herds also face over 3,000 crocodiles waiting in the murky waters of the Mara River during their river crossing. Watching the massive herds to take the leap from the riverbanks into the waters is nothing short of spectacular. Eventually, these massive herds are rewarded with the bounty of the wide-open Masai Mara plains. For a brief period, life is abundant. Once the food supply diminishes and the rains move on, so do the herds.

Showtime… When is the Wildebeest Migration?

Typically, the optimal time to witness the Great Migration in the Masai Mara is from July to October. However, remember that nature operates on its own schedule. While we can provide a likely timeline of when to expect these extraordinary moments during the next Great Migration in masai mara here, there’s no guarantee of river crossings at any specific time. Weather can be unpredictable, and late or early seasonal rains can alter migration patterns. The silver lining is that the Masai Mara offers abundant wildlife viewing opportunities year-round. The months of July to October, often cited as the best time to visit the Great Migration, are also the busiest in the Masai Mara. It’s likely you won’t have the herds to yourself during this period. Expect more safari enthusiasts within the Masai Mara National Reserve and potential queues during safari game drives. For a quieter experience during this time, consider staying in one of the private conservancies. Here is a breakdown of what to anticipate from the Great Migration.

July

From late July through August, during the dry season, the herds depart the arid plains of the Serengeti in pursuit of sustenance and water. This is the prime time to witness the thrilling Mara River crossings.

August

By August, most of the last herds of wildebeest, and their migratory companions have arrived in the Mara. Here, they are met by a keen hunting party of big cats, attracted by the high predator density.

September

In September, life is favorable in the Mara. The herds enjoy a period of relative tranquility on the plains. This is the ideal time for unforgettable safari game drives across the Masai Mara National Reserve.

October

As October arrives, the early rains begin, and by November, the herds start their return migration journey to the Serengeti. Thus, the migration cycle of the great migration continues.