Wildebeest Migration – Great Migration Guide
The Great Migration is one of nature's greatest spectacles and the largest mammal migration on Earth. Over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, undertake an annual circular journey between Tanzania's Serengeti and Kenya's Masai Mara in search of fresh grazing and water.
This incredible natural phenomenon is driven by rainfall patterns and follows a predictable route, though timing can vary from year to year. The migration offers some of Africa's most dramatic wildlife viewing, from massive herds stretching to the horizon to heart-stopping river crossings where crocodiles lie in wait. Understanding the migration cycle, best viewing times, and optimal destinations can help UK travellers plan the perfect Great Migration safari experience.
About the Great Migration – Nature's Greatest Spectacle
Scale of the Migration
The Great Migration consists of approximately 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000-300,000 zebras, and 400,000-500,000 gazelles, creating a massive moving herd that stretches for miles. This is the largest mammal migration on Earth and one of the world's most impressive natural phenomena. The migration is followed by predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, creating a complete ecosystem on the move.
Migration Route
The migration follows a roughly circular route covering approximately 1,800 miles (2,900km) annually. The route is driven by rainfall patterns, with animals following the rains in search of fresh grass. The migration moves between the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya, crossing rivers, plains, and woodlands. The timing varies from year to year based on rainfall, but follows a general pattern.
The Great Migration is a continuous cycle with no beginning or end, as animals are always moving in search of fresh grazing. The migration is driven by instinct and the need for food and water, creating a natural rhythm that has occurred for thousands of years. Witnessing this spectacle is a highlight for many UK travellers and offers some of the most dramatic wildlife viewing opportunities in Africa.
Great Migration Cycle – Annual Journey and Timing
The Great Migration follows a roughly circular route throughout the year, with different seasons offering different viewing opportunities. Understanding the migration cycle can help you plan the best time to visit based on what you want to see.
December-March: Calving Season
The migration is in the southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area during the short rains. This is calving season, with approximately 500,000 wildebeest calves born in a 2-3 week period. The abundance of vulnerable calves attracts predators, creating excellent predator-prey viewing opportunities. The southern Serengeti offers the best viewing during this period.
April-June: Central Serengeti
As the long rains begin, the migration moves north through the central and western Serengeti. Large herds can be seen moving across the plains, with zebras often leading the way. This period offers good general migration viewing, with animals moving in search of fresh grazing. The central Serengeti is the best area during this time.
July-October: Masai Mara River Crossings
The migration reaches the Masai Mara in Kenya, where the dramatic river crossings occur. Wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River, facing crocodiles and strong currents. This is the most famous and dramatic period of the migration, with river crossings being the highlight. The Masai Mara offers the best viewing during July-October, though crossings are unpredictable and require patience.
November: Return to Serengeti
As the short rains begin in the Serengeti, the migration starts moving south again, crossing back into Tanzania. The herds move through the northern Serengeti and Loliondo area, heading toward the southern Serengeti for calving season. This period offers good migration viewing as animals move in large herds, though the timing can vary based on rainfall patterns.
Best Places to See the Great Migration on Safari
Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya (July-October)
The Masai Mara is the best place to see the dramatic river crossings, when wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River. These crossings are the most famous and spectacular part of the migration, with thousands of animals rushing across rivers while crocodiles wait in the water. The Masai Mara offers excellent viewing during July-October, though river crossings are unpredictable and require patience. The open grasslands also provide excellent visibility of the massive herds.
Learn more about the Masai Mara →
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania (Year-Round)
The Serengeti offers year-round migration viewing, with different areas hosting the migration at different times. The southern Serengeti (December-March) is best for calving season, while the central Serengeti (April-June) offers good general migration viewing. The northern Serengeti (July-November) offers river crossings at the Grumeti and Mara rivers. The Serengeti's vast size means the migration is always present somewhere in the park.
Learn more about the Serengeti →River Crossings – The Most Dramatic Part of the Great Migration
River crossings are the most dramatic and sought-after part of the Great Migration. These crossings occur when wildebeest and zebras must cross rivers like the Mara River to reach fresh grazing. The crossings are dangerous, unpredictable, and spectacular to witness.
The Crossing Process
Wildebeest gather on riverbanks, building up courage before crossing. They may wait for hours or days, with the herd growing larger. When one animal finally starts, thousands may follow in a chaotic, spectacular rush. The crossings are dangerous, with crocodiles waiting in the water, strong currents, and steep riverbanks. Many animals don't survive the crossing, but the instinct to follow the herd is strong.
Best Viewing Times
River crossings in the Masai Mara typically occur during July-October, though the exact timing varies. Crossings are unpredictable - you may wait hours or days for one to occur. Early morning and late afternoon are good times, as animals are more active. Patience is essential, as crossings can happen at any time. Experienced guides know the best viewing spots and can increase your chances of witnessing a crossing.
What to Expect
River crossings are intense, emotional, and sometimes difficult to watch, as not all animals survive. However, they represent the raw power of nature and the determination of these animals to survive. The sound of thousands of hooves, the splashing water, and the presence of crocodiles create an unforgettable experience. Even if you don't witness a crossing, seeing the massive herds gathered on riverbanks is impressive in itself.
Planning Your Great Migration Safari – Tips and Considerations
When to Visit
The best time to visit depends on what you want to see. July-October offers the best chance for river crossings in the Masai Mara. December-March is calving season in the southern Serengeti. April-June offers good general migration viewing in the central Serengeti. Each season offers different but equally spectacular opportunities. Consider your priorities and work with a safari specialist to plan the best time for your interests.
What to Expect
Patience Required: River crossings are unpredictable and require patience. You may wait hours or days for a crossing to occur. However, the migration animals are present in large numbers, so you'll see impressive herds even without a crossing.
Experienced Guides: Experienced guides know the migration patterns and best viewing spots. They can increase your chances of witnessing crossings and help you understand the migration cycle. Choose a safari operator with experienced guides who specialize in migration viewing.
The Great Migration is one of Africa's most incredible natural phenomena and a highlight for many UK travellers. Whether you witness a dramatic river crossing or see massive herds stretching to the horizon, the migration offers unforgettable wildlife viewing. Work with a safari specialist to plan the best time and destination for your Great Migration experience, and be prepared for one of the most spectacular wildlife shows on Earth.