The Great Migration: Unveiling the Secrets of Africa's Most Epic Safari Experience

When you think of Africa, what’s the first thing that comes to your mind? It is the untamed landscapes, iconic wildlife, and world-class safari experience. One of the most epic safari experiences in Africa is synonymous with The Great Migration. You might know it as Gnu Migration, Masai Mara Migration, or Serengeti Migration as well. But what makes it so famous? The fact that it is one of the last mass terrestrial wildlife movements on the planet. As a result, the country sees a lot of tourists traveling to Kenya and Tanzania every year. 

If you are someone who is planning to explore The Great Wildebeest Migration, this guide will tell you everything you should know about this wonderful adventure and what it has in store for you. 

Understanding The Great Migration

The Great Migration is the movement of millions of wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, and other wildlife in East Africa in search of greener pastures. This cycle occurs every year as these animals go out in search of food and water. They cover around 1800 miles with their way spanning across the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. 

However, there is a catch in their movement cycle. While we all know that these creatures will cross the Mara River, nobody can accurately predict when. This is because their movements are dependent on the rain and well, nobody can actually know when the rain will fall! 

Most of the wildebeest will come to the river and cross immediately, while others will wait for a few days and hang around. Some even have a change of mind and go back to where they came from. So, if you are hoping to see them cross the river, it is best to have as much time as possible on the safari. 

The Most Dramatic Phase Of Safari

As we said, nobody can know the exact timings of their movement, but it usually happens between the months of July and October. This is a high season for safari as it is the only time when you can see wildebeest on the move. These brave animals cross the Mara River filled with crocodiles to reach the other side. It is a beautiful spectacle for visitors while animals face the most challenging test of their life that is survival. 

Month-by-Month Breakdown Of The Great Migration

Now that you have a general idea of The Great Migration, we will provide you with an outline of how things move in the year. Remember, this is just a generic idea, animal movements cannot be predicted accurately. 

1. January: In this month, the wildebeest population is in the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. They move from the north-east region towards the south, near Lake Ndutu. The best thing about this national park is that it is not fenced. As a result, animals can move freely anywhere wherever they find green land for grazing. You can see numerous herds of hundreds and thousands of wildebeest, gazelles, and zebras finding their way. 

2. February and March: The calving season is here. During this time, almost 8000 wildebeest babies are born every single day. Can you imagine that? While this is a serene period for birth, the season has its own share of dangers. Lions, hyenas, cheetahs, jackals, and packs of wild dogs lurk in the shadows to catch the newborns. However, given such large numbers of births, many of them survive and ensure the generations continue. 

3. April To June: As the rainfall dwindles, the herds head towards the north-west region. It is towards the area of Simba Kopjes and Moru. The calves become stronger and they can move faster. In the month of June, you will find these wildebeests in the central region of Serengeti where they are preparing for the toughest part of their journey aka crossing the Mara river.

4. July To October: Now, the Great Migration has reached the Grumeti region and northern parts of the Serengeti. They are very close to the Mara River where Nile crocodiles are waiting for them. Then, comes August! The month when you can witness the animals move from Serengeti to Masai Mara. The Masai Mara is open to the general public during this time so that people can experience the safari. In September, the herds divide into smaller groups where some cross the river while others remain in Serengeti. In October, you will see wildebeests in Masai Mara. But bear in mind, Masai Mara is a small reserve compared to the Serengeti, so it can get really crowded.

5. November and December: After crossing the Masai Mara, the herds continue their journey forward. They spend the months grazing on the lush green pastures for the period. Once the lands are dry, they make their way back to Serengeti and the cycle continues. 

 Conclusion

The Great Migration is a reminder of the natural beauty and fragility of nature. If you are going there, plan ahead based on the months and book your accommodation. Be patient and observant as the wildebeest migration isn’t guaranteed in the first try. Be a nice tourist, respect the wildlife, and do not disturb or harm them in any way.