The constant movement of columns of wildebeest, joined by a host of companions, follow an age-old route in search of grazing and water. What is the sound of nearly two million wildebeest and zebra moving across the plains of Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Maasai Mara? It’s just incredible. Pounding hooves create a pulse for the planet as the creatures move in a steady current across Africa’s Great Plains. Nature’s greatest show offers action, drama and intrigue as the circle of life is unveiled before you. The dance between predator and prey unfolds, as lion and cheetah stalk the herds in their wake and take down the weakest members of the herds. For those whose bucket list includes this ancient land migration, Golden Luxe Expeditions immersive migration trips in East Africa, place you right in the midst of the action, our Land Cruisers acting as tiny islands in a wave of wildlife.
What is the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is the largest herd movement of animals on the planet. In fact, with up to 1,000 animals per km2, the great columns of wildebeest can be seen from space. The numbers are astonishing: over 1.2 million wildebeest and 300,000 zebras along with topi and other gazelle move in a constant cycle through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of nutritious grass and water. Guided by survival instinct, each wildebeest will cover 800 to 1,000km on its individual journey along age-old migration routes. Hungry predators including lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena, wild dog and crocodiles make sure only the strongest survive in this natural spectacle also known as ‘the greatest wildlife show on Earth.’
The circuit takes the animals from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (although not into the Crater itself) in the south of the Serengeti in Tanzania, up through the Serengeti and across into the Masai Mara in Kenya and back again. The journey is beset with danger: young calves are snatched by predators, the slow are brought down by prides of lion, brave beasts break legs on steep river slopes, crocodiles take their share of the stragglers, and the weak and exhausted drown.
The three groups of migrant grazers have different grass-eating habits: as one group eats the top of the tallest grass, the next group will eat away some of the medium-height grass, until finally it is almost completely eaten, and the herds move on. This means each group sticks to their own kind with only a small overlap in their distributions. The grasses of the plains have the highest protein content in the whole of the Serengeti, as well as being high in calcium.
It is unclear how the wildebeest know which way to go, but it is generally believed that their journey is dictated primarily by their response to the weather; they follow the rains and the growth of new grass. While there is no scientific proof of it, some experts believe that the animals react to lightning and thunderstorms in the distance. It has even been suggested that wildebeest can locate rain more than 50km away.
The Great Wildebeest Migration timeline While the migration is a cyclical event in progress year-round, there are optimal times to visit Kenya and Tanzania for the best chances of seeing this natural wonder on safari.
Peak Season: July to October
The migration is in major play in Tanzania in July, with herds moving away from the mineral-rich soils and calving grounds around the Ngorongoro conservation area toward the Grumeti River before moving across Serengeti National Park over the border into Kenya’s Masai Mara. Throughout early August, herds generally disperse out across the plains to feed and brave further predator-laced river crossings into late September. These river crossings are wildly dramatic and highly sought after by safari guests (of course, one cannot predict the crossings) as predators lie in wait for the weakened or younger animals who will inevitably struggle. To see the first wildebeest or zebra bravely make the leap into uncharted waters, with hundreds, if not thousands, to follow, is, in a word, magnificent. However, bear in mind that The Great Migration is not only the greatest wildlife show on earth but also a vital ecological process. The herds graze on the grasslands that promote nutrient cycling, and their migratory movements prevent overgrazing. Their presence also attracts predators, as we previously stated, which regulate herbivore populations, maintaining the ecosystem’s delicate balance and continuing this ancient rhythm that is the circle of life.
To ensure the best experiences, here is the brief view of the migration trips along the year;
Between December and March, the herds will congregate in the Ngorongoro Crater in the southern corner of the Serengeti, as well as the Ndutu and Salei plains.
By May, they’ve move onto the grassy plains of the Serengeti’s Western Corridor.
In June and July, they’re attempting the dangerous Grumeti River crossing, where hungry crocodiles await the weakest of the bunch.
From August to October, the animals are moving from Tanzania into Kenya’s Maasai Mara, crossing the second treacherous river, the Mara.
Finally, until December, the herds are found throughout the Serengeti in Tanzania, starting up in the northeastern corner and making their way to the southern portion and back home to give birth.
We must never forget that this primal feat is a living testament to the interconnectedness of nature and a potent reminder of the importance of conservation. The health of Africa’s wild ecosystems is essential for the survival of the flora and fauna who depend on it. The migration is also a source of inspiration, showcasing the power of nature and the incredible adaptations that animals develop to thrive in these fragile and challenging wild environments.
Planning your next East Africa Holidays
We are the locals and experts of East Africa and are here to help you plan your holidays! Reach out today for your very own wildlife safari experience involving great migration experiences, come with your family and loved ones. While the Great Migration is a major draw, safaris in Kenya and Tanzania offer spectacular year-round wildlife viewing opportunities. The parks and reserves in both countries are home to an incredible array of animals, including lions, elephants, leopards, zebras, cheetahs, giraffes, hippos and many, many more, alongside top-notch lodges and private villas perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, and large or small groups. There is no greater gift you can give yourself or your loved ones than time together in the wild.
Reach out to us today!
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