The Great Migration - Wildebeest Migration

The Great Migration: A Spectacle Like No Other

Picture this: 1.5 million wildebeest, 400,000 zebras, 12,000 eland, and 300,000 gazelles journeying from southern Serengeti to the Masai Mara. Calling it a “great” migration doesn’t quite do it justice. This awe-inspiring, year-round migration is one of the most incredible natural phenomena on Earth. The timing of the migration varies based on weather patterns, environmental factors, and the needs of the animals. In essence, this massive trek follows the rains, as the herds move 800 kilometers in a clockwise direction through the Serengeti and Masai Mara, constantly in search of fresher pastures and water. Though the majority of their journey takes place within the Serengeti in Tanzania, they also spend significant time in the lush plains of the Masai Mara.

Key Moments of the Great Migration

As the herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles enter the Masai Mara, they face more than just a long journey—they must also contend with a host of predators. From powerful big cats to over 3,000 crocodiles waiting in the Mara River’s murky depths, the animals face constant danger. Watching the herds leap into the water, often blindly, to cross the river is a breathtaking moment. Once they’ve made it to the open plains of the Masai Mara, they find short-lived peace, grazing on abundant grass. However, when the food supply runs low and the rains move on, the herds are once again on the move.

Best Time to Witness the Great Migration

You may be eager to witness the Great Migration in person, and the best time to catch the herds in action is typically from July to October. However, keep in mind that nature doesn’t operate on a schedule. While we can give you a good idea of when to expect the animals to cross the river or appear in the Masai Mara, there’s no guarantee that the herds will follow a specific timetable. Weather can be unpredictable, and variations in the rain patterns can cause delays or early arrivals. Despite the migration, the Masai Mara is teeming with wildlife year-round, so there’s always something to see. If you prefer a quieter experience during peak migration months, consider staying in one of the Masai Mara conservancies. The high season (July to October) brings in more safari-goers, so be prepared for larger crowds, especially in the Masai Mara National Reserve.

July: The Journey Begins

Late July marks the beginning of the migration. The herds start leaving the dry Serengeti plains in search of greener pastures and water. This is the perfect time to witness the dramatic and often perilous Mara River crossings.

August: Arrival in the Masai Mara

By August, the herds have usually reached the Masai Mara. This is when the drama intensifies as predators, particularly the big cats, are eagerly awaiting their arrival. The tension is palpable, and the stakes are high.

September: A Moment of Peace

In September, the herds find a brief period of calm in the Masai Mara. The plains are abundant with food, and the animals can enjoy some respite from predators. This is an ideal time for a safari, as the weather is favorable and the wildlife is abundant.

October: The Return Journey Begins

By October, the rains begin to fall, signaling the end of the migration cycle. As the rains taper off, the herds start heading back to the Serengeti, where they will again face the cycle of migration. And so, the Great Migration continues, an endless loop driven by the need for survival and renewal.