The Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti.
Full information about the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti.
The Great Wildebeest Migration is the largest mammal migration on Earth. It's a spectacular natural phenomenon that involves over 2 million wildebeest, along with zebra and gazelle, constantly on the move in a roughly circular pattern across the vast ecosystems of the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya.
The wildebeest are the main attraction, but zebras and gazelles join them in this grand movement, all playing a role in the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
The great wildebeest migration, the greatest movement of wild animals in the world, takes place in an 800-square-kilometer area within Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. This incredible migration crosses into Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve and then returns, repeating the cycle every year. It is one of the most popular experiences for wildlife and nature enthusiasts worldwide.
During this migration, large numbers of Serengeti wildebeest, along with several numbers of zebras, and smaller groups of Grant's gazelle and Thomson's gazelle, move through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. They migrate year-round in search of grasslands and freshwater.
This journey is marked by dramatic encounters with predators such as lions, hyenas, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, and crocodiles, which ensure that only the strongest survive. Meanwhile, thousands of new animals are born, sustaining the circle of life.
Where does the migration take place?
The wildebeest migration takes place across a wide region spanning Kenya's Maasai Mara and Tanzania's Serengeti National Park. These parks form a single, uninterrupted ecosystem, though they are separated by an invisible, human-made border.
Is the Wildebeest the only species that migrates?
Alongside the approximately 2 million wildebeest, there are thousands of zebras and gazelles, all forming a single super herd. Zebras and wildebeest are often seen together due to their symbiotic relationship. Zebras consume the longer, tougher grass stems, which in turn makes the grass more suitable for the wildebeest to graze on, given their broader muzzles that are better adapted for shorter grass.
Contrary to what many believe, lions and other carnivores do not migrate with the grazing animals. Instead, they hunt and feast on these animals whenever their paths intersect.
Why do the wildebeest migrate?
In simple terms, the animals are following the rains to find fresh, lush grass. They take advantage of East Africa's strongly seasonal conditions, spending the wet season on the southeastern plains and the dry season in the northwestern woodlands. The animals themselves influence their environment to meet their needs due to their sheer numbers.
This 800 km migration is a continuous cycle of movement and dispersal. It’s not just a straightforward journey, as the wildebeest must drink daily, with their movement largely driven by the availability of water. Interestingly, they seem to have a sixth sense that helps them follow the storms!
This epic journey has no definitive start or finish. For a wildebeest, life is an endless pilgrimage in search of food and water. However, this journey is fraught with dangers. Each year, over 250,000 wildebeest perish due to injury, exhaustion, or predation.
The River Crossings
The famous spectacle of the wildebeest crossing at the Grumeti and Mara Rivers has been extensively captured by filmmakers and photographers. Driven by the sheer momentum of the herd, the wildebeest are compelled to make a perilous leap into the crocodile-infested waters, where thousands often meet their end by drowning.
How can I witness the Migration?
There isn't a specific "right" or "wrong" time to visit East Africa for the migration, as every season has its own unique highlights. However, it's crucial to be in the correct area during the appropriate time of year. For a detailed guide on when to experience the migration, click here.
Month by Month: The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Calendar
December to late March
By December, the allure of the rains and a taste for fresh, sweet grass lead the wildebeest to gather on the southern plains of Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. Those iconic photographs that grace the cover of National Geographic, showcasing the vast, emerald-green plains dotted with throngs of animals? That's happening right now. Most of the female plump wildebeests are preparing to give birth, and after feasting on nutritious grass in January, the birthing season begins in earnest in February and March.
The fertile females usually drop their young within a few weeks of each other, and the plains become home to almost half a million new, fluffy lives. It’s an incredible spectacle to witness, but prepare for some violent scenes too, as predators are never far away and seem to know they’ll have easy pickings from the young
December to March is typically a rainy time in Tanzania, with the heaviest showers in December and early January. By mid-January, the rains lessen and Tanzania enters a mini dry season. So, if you dream of a blue-sky-filled Great Wildebeest Migration safari, don’t discount this time of year and the magic of the birthing season just yet (but still bring a rain jacket, just in case).
April to June
As the rains end in the southern Serengeti and the grasses dry and shrivel, the animals begin their trek north in search of fresh grass. During this middle part of the year, you'll see vast columns of wildebeest stretching from the southern plains through the central Serengeti and into the west as they start their mammoth journey. In April and early May, the animals congregate in the central Serengeti around the Moru Kopjes, and if you're lucky, you'll witness the fierce battles between males fighting for mates. By the end of May, most herds will have reached the Western Corridor of the Serengeti and the Grumeti Reserve. Here, they gather on the banks of the Grumeti River to face the first major challenge of their trek: crossing the water.
Tanzania experiences the 'long rains' around April, continuing into May, making this a wet time of year. Some mobile camps may close due to unstable ground, so choose your accommodation carefully and book in advance. If you plan to travel during this period, pack a raincoat and a waterproof bag for your camera and other stuffs
Late June to October
It’s often said that the highlight of the Great Wildebeest Migration is the river crossings, during which the herds leap from Tanzania into Kenya across the mighty Mara River. These months are filled with drama, exhilaration, chaos, and commotion, and watching the wildebeest plunge into the water is undoubtedly some of the most exciting game viewing you’ll ever witness. Around 250,000 wildebeest die every year during the migration, with the majority perishing here, as predators roam the banks and crocodiles lie in wait. In June, most of the herds are heading towards the river and beginning to gather on the northern plains of the Serengeti. The real action starts in July when the first crossings take place, continuing into August and September when the wildebeest regroup for a short breather on the Masai Mara side of the river.
June to November is considered the dry season in these parts, with picture-perfect, cloudless skies and plenty of sunshine. June and July are the coldest months in Eastern Africa, and the mornings and evenings can be particularly chilly, so a scarf and gloves won’t go amiss in the dawn chill. From August, the temperatures steadily rise until November, when the first rains break the spell. With great weather and iconic game viewing, it’s a pretty good time to visit.
October to November
The drama isn’t over yet for the poor wildebeest and their migration party. They must return from whence they came: Tanzania. In October, the action starts up again as the wildebeest face the second crossing of the Mara River, heading back to the northern plains of the Serengeti. As November arrives, so do the thunderclouds in the distance. With a sniff of the air and a stamp of the ground, the wildebeest set off to find the fresh, green shoots of the south. Thundering through the eastern section of the Serengeti and flooding the central area once again, the beasts arrive safely back in the southern Serengeti in December – completing the cycle.
Where to stay during The Great Migration in Tanzania?
If you want to experience the heart of the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra, the best way is to book one of the Serengeti's famous mobile camps. These camps are set up at specific locations throughout the year, and they typically move two or three times annually, depending on the herds' movements at that time.
Two mobile camps, in particular, stand out for their dedication to following the herds closely: Nomad Tanzania's Serengeti Safari Camp and &Beyond's Serengeti Under Canvas. These are the two truly mobile camps that remain near or among the herds year-round, relocating more than twice a year, unlike many other mobile camps that follow a more fixed route. Also, the mobile camps of Alex Walker's Serian, Asilia's Olakira, Ubuntu, and Kimondo, which move twice a year, provide excellent mobile experiences from July to November and December through March. Outside of these periods, these camps are closed.
For those who find the mobile camp experience too adventurous, the Serengeti offers several permanent lodges that provide all the comforts you need, along with prime locations to observe the herds during your Tanzania safari. Here's an overview of the herds' movements and the best permanent lodges to stay at throughout the year.
Where is the Great Migration taking place at the moment? Where should one stay while visiting?
For further reading on the Great Migration, a good place to go is our month-by-month blog which goes into detail about exactly where we think the migration will be at each time of year.
Our Best Safari Itineraries for the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti
Below you can find some of our recommended itineraries for witnessing the Great Migration. Alternatively, you can collaborate with us to create a personalized itinerary tailored to your preferences.
6 Day Wildebeest Migration Safari
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All Accommodations
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Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro conservation Area, Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Park
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Professional and experienced Safari guide
10 Day Wildebeest Migration Safari Mara River crossing
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All Accommodations
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Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro conservation Area, Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Park
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Professional and experienced Safari guide
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All Accommodations
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Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro conservation Area, Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Park
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Professional and experienced Safari guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Serengeti Wildebeest Migration
The Serengeti Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the most incredible wildlife spectacles on the planet. Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about this event
1. What is the Serengeti Great Wildebeest Migration?
The Serengeti Great Wildebeest Migration is a natural phenomenon considered one of the "Seven New Wonders of the World." It involves the annual movement of more than 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by around 400,000 zebras and 200,000 gazelles, across the Serengeti ecosystem in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya. This migration is driven by the search for fresh grazing land and water, and it follows a circular pattern that spans roughly 1,800 miles (2,900 km) over the course of a year. The journey is fraught with dangers, including predators such as lions, leopards, and crocodiles, as well as challenging river crossings, but it is crucial for the survival of the herds. The migration not only sustains the wildebeest population but also supports a complex web of predators and scavengers that depend on the herds for food.
2. When does the Great Migration occur?
The Great Migration is a continuous, year-round event, but it follows a general pattern that can be broken down into specific phases:
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December to March: This is the calving season in the southern Serengeti, particularly in the Ndutu region. Around 500,000 wildebeest calves are born during this period, attracting numerous predators like lions, hyenas, and cheetahs.
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April to May: As the dry season approaches, the herds begin to move northwest towards the central and western Serengeti in search of greener pastures.
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June to July: This is the time for the Grumeti River crossings in the western Serengeti. The river is full of crocodiles, making this a perilous part of the journey.
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July to October: Perhaps the most famous phase of the migration occurs during these months when the herds cross the Mara River into Kenya’s Masai Mara. This river crossing is particularly dramatic, with many wildebeest falling prey to crocodiles or being swept away by strong currents.
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November: As the rains return to the southern Serengeti, the herds begin their journey back to the calving grounds, completing the cycle.
3. Where is the best place to witness the Great Migration?
The best place to witness the Great Migration depends on the time of year:
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Southern Serengeti (December to March): During the calving season, the Ndutu region near Ngorongoro Conservatio Area in the southern Serengeti is the ideal place to see thousands of newborn wildebeest. The open plains make it easy to observe the interaction between prey and predators.
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Western Corridor (June to July): The western Serengeti, particularly around the Grumeti River, is where you can witness the thrilling river crossings, as the herds face off against crocodiles.
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Northern Serengeti and Masai Mara (July to October): The Mara River crossings in the northern Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara are the most iconic scenes of the migration. The sight of thousands of wildebeest plunging into the river, struggling against the current and predators, is unforgettable.
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Central Serengeti (November): As the herds begin to move south again, the central Serengeti offers excellent opportunities to see large concentrations of animals without the crowds that gather during the river crossings.
4. What time of year is best to see the Mara River crossing?
The best time to witness the Mara River crossing is typically from July to October. During these months, the herds congregate on the banks of the Mara River, which marks the border between the Serengeti and the Masai Mara. The crossings are not predictable and can happen at any time, so it requires patience and some luck. However, once the herds start crossing, it’s a dramatic and often chaotic scene, with thousands of animals plunging into the river at once, many of them falling prey to crocodiles or drowning in the strong currents. The crossings can last for several days or weeks, depending on the size of the herds and the conditions in the surrounding areas.
5. Why do the wildebeest migrate?
The migration is primarily driven by the availability of food and water, which in turn is determined by the seasonal rainfall patterns. The wildebeest, along with zebras and gazelles, migrate to follow the rains and access fresh grasslands. The movement begins in the southern Serengeti, where the herds gather on the nutrient-rich plains to calve. As the dry season approaches and the grass is depleted, the herds move northward in search of greener pastures. This instinctual journey is critical for their survival, as it ensures that they have access to food and water throughout the year. Moreover, the migration serves an ecological purpose by helping to fertilize the soil and maintain the balance of the Serengeti ecosystem.
6. How long does the migration take?
The Great Migration is a year-long event that follows a circular route through the Serengeti and into the Masai Mara before looping back to the Serengeti. The entire cycle takes about 12 months to complete, although the exact timing can vary slightly from year to year depending on rainfall and other environmental factors. The migration never truly stops, as the herds are constantly on the move, covering hundreds of miles each year. The continuous nature of the migration means that there is always something to see, no matter when you visit, although certain phases of the migration are more dramatic than others.
7. Can I predict where the migration will be at a specific time?
While the general pattern of the migration is well understood, predicting the exact location of the herds at a specific time can be challenging. This is because the migration is heavily influenced by the timing and distribution of rainfall, which can vary from year to year. However, there are established patterns that provide a good indication of where the herds are likely to be at different times of the year. For example, the calving season is almost always in the southern Serengeti from December to March, while the Mara River crossings typically occur from July to October. Many safari operators and wildlife experts provide monthly migration updates and predictions, which can help you plan your visit around the best time to witness specific events.
8. Is it safe to visit during the migration?
Yes, it is generally safe to visit the Serengeti and Masai Mara during the migration. The national parks and game reserves are well-protected, and experienced guides ensure that visitors can safely observe the wildlife from a distance. However, it’s important to follow the guidelines provided by your safari operator and to respect the wildlife by keeping a safe distance and not disturbing the animals. The areas around the migration are typically well-developed for tourism, with lodges and camps offering comfortable accommodations and knowledgeable staff. It’s also advisable to take health precautions, such as getting vaccinated and taking anti-malarial medication if recommended for the region.
9. What animals can I see during the migration?
The Great Migration is dominated by wildebeest, but they are accompanied by a large number of other species. Zebras and Thomson’s gazelles are also key participants in the migration, moving with the wildebeest in search of fresh grazing. Alongside these herbivores, the migration attracts a variety of predators, including lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas, all of which follow the herds and prey on the weaker individuals. During the river crossings, Nile crocodiles are a major threat to the wildebeest as they attempt to make their way across the water. Additionally, you can see other animals that inhabit the Serengeti and Masai Mara year-round, such as elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and various bird species. The migration provides a unique opportunity to observe the interactions between prey and predators in a dynamic and ever-changing environment.
10. How can I plan a safari to witness the Great Migration?
Planning a safari to witness the Great Migration requires careful consideration of the timing and location of your visit. Here are some key steps to help you plan:
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Timing: Decide which phase of the migration you want to see. For example, if you’re interested in the Mara River crossings, plan your visit between July and October. If you prefer the calving season, visit between December and March.
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Location: Choose the right location based on the migration phase. The Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya are the main destinations, but within these areas, different regions offer different experiences. For example, the northern Serengeti is best for river crossings, while the southern Serengeti is ideal for calving.
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Safari Operator: Select a reputable safari operator with experience in organizing migration safaris. They can help you choose the best camps or lodges, arrange transportation, and provide expert guides who know where to find the herds.
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Accommodation: Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from luxury lodges, mobile camps, or more basic accommodations. Mobile camps are particularly popular during the migration as they move with the herds, allowing you to stay close to the action.
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Book in Advance: The migration is a popular event, so it’s advisable to book your safari well in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak migration seasons. Early booking ensures you secure the best accommodations and guides.
11. Do I need to book in advance?
11. Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your safari in advance, particularly during the peak migration periods like the