The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the most spectacular wildlife events in the world, drawing nature enthusiasts and safari-goers to East Africa. Stretching between Kenya and Tanzania, this annual migration showcases a remarkable journey of over 1.5 million wildebeests, along with thousands of zebras and gazelles. Understanding the migration’s monthly breakdown can help you plan the perfect Kenya safari or Serengeti safari to witness this awe-inspiring phenomenon.
January to March: Calving Season in the Serengeti
January: The migration begins the year in the southern Serengeti, where the herds gather for the calving season. This period is crucial as around 500,000 wildebeest calves are born during these months. The Serengeti’s abundant grasslands and water sources provide ideal conditions for the newborns.
February: The calving season is at its peak. The Serengeti’s plains are alive with activity as thousands of calves take their first steps. Predators like lions and cheetahs are also highly active during this time, making for dramatic and memorable wildlife encounters.
March: As the grass starts to thin, the herds begin their journey northwards. They start moving towards the central Serengeti, searching for new grazing grounds as they prepare for the next stage of their migration.
April to June: Migration Northwards
April: The herds continue their migration north, crossing the Serengeti’s central region. The arrival of the short rains leads to new green shoots, attracting the herds further towards the western corridor of the Serengeti.
May: The wildebeests start making their way to the western corridor of the Serengeti. Here, they face one of the most challenging parts of their journey: the Grumeti River crossing. This is a significant moment as they must navigate crocodile-infested waters, adding drama and excitement to your Serengeti safari.
June: By June, the herds reach the border of Kenya and Tanzania. The vast plains of the Serengeti begin to thin out as the wildebeests prepare for their migration into the Masai Mara. This is an ideal time to start a Kenya safari to catch the early stages of their arrival.
July to September: The Great River Crossings
July: The migration enters Kenya’s Masai Mara. The Mara River becomes the focal point of the migration, with the herds attempting to cross the river. The dramatic river crossings, with wildebeests leaping into the water while facing the threat of crocodiles, are one of the most thrilling highlights of a Masai Mara safari.
August: The Mara River crossings are in full swing. The sheer number of wildebeests making their way across the river provides incredible photographic opportunities and moments of intense natural drama. The Masai Mara’s lush vegetation supports the herds during this period.
September: The herds remain in the Masai Mara as they continue to graze and take advantage of the abundant food sources. The wildlife viewing remains exceptional, with predators such as lions and leopards following the herds closely.
October to December: Returning South
October: The wildebeests begin their journey back south to the Serengeti. As the Masai Mara’s grasslands start to dry out, the herds start moving towards the southern Serengeti, retracing their steps in search of fresh grazing grounds.
November: The herds move through the western corridor of the Serengeti, experiencing less dramatic river crossings but continuing their journey south. The Serengeti starts to receive the short rains, bringing new life to the landscape and preparing the way for the next calving season.
December: The migration completes its loop, and the herds settle back into the southern Serengeti. This period marks the end of the migration cycle and the beginning of the next calving season, readying the plains for another year of wildlife spectacle.
Planning Your Safari
To witness the Great Migration in its full splendor, timing and location are key. A Masai Mara safari from July to September offers the chance to see the dramatic river crossings, while a Serengeti safari from January to March provides a front-row seat to the calving season. For the ultimate experience, consider combining both safaris to follow the migration’s route across Kenya and Tanzania.
Saunterland Africa Tours specializes in crafting customized safari experiences that align with your interests and the migration’s timing. Whether you choose to explore the Serengeti or the Masai Mara, we can help you design an unforgettable safari adventure that captures the essence of the Great Migration.
Embark on this extraordinary journey and witness one of nature’s most breathtaking events, all while exploring the diverse and stunning landscapes of East Africa. Check out some of migration packages on https://saunterlandtours.com/safaris/
