The Great Migration

The Great Migration is without a doubt one of the most spectacular wildlife shows on earth. It is a hair raising, breath taking and exhilarating battle of survival taking place between the Masai Mara in Kenya and the Serengeti in Tanzania. Here, an estimated two million wildebeest in search of water and pasture make this extra ordinary, dangerous journey. Extra ordinary as survival depends on reaching the other side and dangerous because every step they take could be their last. So wondrous is the migration that USA Today voted to name it one of the New Wonders of the World in 2006.

What really is the great migration?

The great migration is a natural cycle of life. Between January and March, wildebeest give birth to their young in the Serengeti. Slowly, they move towards the West where they assemble to cross the crocodile infested Grumeti River around June. The sight of thousands of wildebeest plunging into the deep waters while battling strong currents and hungry jaw trotting crocs below is exhilarating. When the battle with the crocs is won, the wildebeest have only gotten from the frying pan into the fire! Awaiting them on the other side of the river are lions, cheetahs, hyenas and leopards- all ready for a feast. Only the strong will survive to enter the Maasai Mara between July and September. They remain here until November, and come December they head back to the Serengeti and the cycle repeats itself all over again.

The Best time to watch the migration

The great migration is a purely natural phenomenon driven by a host of unpredictable climatic conditions. It depends on rainfall, availability of green grass etc. For this reason, it is difficult to pinpoint the exact time that the wildebeest will start moving in search of greener pastures. The dates given above are rough estimates- but certainly not too far off the mark. It is advisable to check with your travel specialist for specific movement dates before you travel. Generally, the wildebeest will make their way into the Mara around August, but sometimes as early as July, stay until November, and head back to the Serengeti between December and January.

How you can witness the great migration

You can witness the great migration from the Serengeti in Tanzania or from the Masai Mara in Kenya. At the Masai Mara, watch this great spectacle in the most exciting fashion- atop an air balloon! This provides an incredible aerial view of the thousands of animals below. You can also watch the migration in the safety and comfort of your tour car along the Mara River which is a great way to take photographs. No matter where you are in the Mara the air of excitement and activity the wildebeest will stir up even the laziest of animals and this is an incredible chance to see thousands of other animals such as lions, cheetahs, buffaloes, giraffes, antelopes, jackals and even a variety of bird species, making your trip that much more exciting.

Where to stay during the great migration

The Masai Mara boasts several safari lodges- ranging from on the budget to luxurious, and a host of private camps. There are spaces where you can pitch your own tent and sleep under the stars, and also tented camps which are surprisingly fully furnished and quite luxurious.