The Great Wildebeest Migration
A Natural Spectacle
The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the most extraordinary and fascinating wildlife events on Earth. This natural spectacle involves the mass movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras, gazelles, and other animals, as they traverse the plains of the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya. The migration is not just a singular event but an ongoing cycle driven by the search for fresh grazing pastures and water, making it a year-round phenomenon that varies in intensity depending on the season.
The Cycle of the Wildebeest Migration
The migration follows a clockwise pattern through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, driven by the seasonal rains and the growth of grasses. This epic journey can be broken down into several key stages:
Calving Season (January to March):
The migration cycle begins in the southern Serengeti, specifically in the Ndutu region of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This period is known as the calving season, as it is when over 500,000 wildebeest calves are born within a span of two to three weeks. The abundance of food and water in the region provides the perfect environment for the newborns. However, this time also attracts numerous predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, making it a dramatic and dangerous period for the young calves.
Movement Towards the Western Corridor (April to June)
As the rains cease and the grass starts to dry out, the herds begin moving northwest towards the Serengeti’s Western Corridor. During this phase, the wildebeest gather in massive numbers, and their movement is slower, allowing for easy grazing. By May and June, they reach the Grumeti River, one of the most challenging obstacles in their migration. The river is home to some of Africa’s largest Nile crocodiles, which lie in wait for the wildebeest to cross. This crossing is less famous than the Mara River crossing but is equally dramatic and perilous.
The Northern Serengeti and Mara River Crossing (July to October):
The herds continue their journey northward, reaching the Serengeti’s northern regions and eventually the Maasai Mara in Kenya. Between July and October, the wildebeest face the most iconic part of their migration: the Mara River crossing. This river, like the Grumeti, is filled with crocodiles, and the steep banks make the crossing a treacherous affair. The scene is chaotic as the wildebeest plunge into the river, attempting to reach the other side. Many do not survive, falling prey to the crocodiles or drowning in the strong currents. However, this is also the most popular time for tourists to witness the migration due to the sheer drama and the high concentration of animals.
Return to the Serengeti (November to December)
As the short rains begin in November, the wildebeest start their journey back to the southern Serengeti. The herds move swiftly, covering long distances to reach the lush plains of the Ndutu region, where the cycle will start anew with the next calving season. By December, most of the herds have arrived back in the southern Serengeti, where they will remain until the next migration cycle begins
Activities to do to witness the great migration
Game Drives: Up Close with the Migration
Game drives are the most traditional and immersive way to experience the Great Migration. With the expertise of seasoned guides, you can track the movement of the herds and get up close to the action. Morning and evening drives are particularly rewarding, as animals are most active during these times. Whether it’s witnessing the dramatic river crossings or observing the interactions between predators and prey, game drives allow you to experience the migration’s highlights firsthand. Opt for a private vehicle if possible, as this gives you more flexibility to follow the herds and spend time at key locations.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris: A Bird’s Eye View
For a truly unique perspective of the Great Migration, consider a hot air balloon safari. Drifting silently above the Serengeti at dawn, you’ll have a panoramic view of the endless plains, dotted with thousands of moving animals. The sight of the wildebeest stretching out in long, winding lines across the landscape is mesmerizing. The balloon ride typically concludes with a champagne breakfast in the bush, adding a touch of luxury to your adventure.
Guided Walking Safaris: On Foot in the Wild
If you want to experience the Serengeti in a more intimate and adventurous way, a guided walking safari is an excellent option. Accompanied by armed rangers and expert guides, you’ll walk through the wilderness, observing the migration from ground level. This activity allows you to appreciate the smaller details of the ecosystem that are often missed during game drives. The experience of being on foot in such an iconic landscape, surrounded by the sounds and sights of the migration, is both humbling and exhilarating.
Mobile Camps: Following the Migration
To truly immerse yourself in the Great Migration, consider staying in a mobile camp. These camps move with the herds, ensuring you’re always in the heart of the action. They offer a more rustic and authentic safari experience compared to permanent lodges, but without sacrificing comfort. Staying in a mobile camp allows you to wake up to the sounds of the wildebeest outside your tent and to fall asleep under the African stars, with the thrill of the migration all around you.