When is the best time to see the annual wildebeest migration in Serengeti?
When is the best time to see the annual wildebeest migration in Serengeti?
The Serengeti wildebeest migration is an annual mass movement of ungulates between Serengeti and Masai Mara and this is a continuous event that involves crossing the Mara River which is the greatest obstacle during the Migration and this is largely triggered by the need for water and green pasture.
The first few months of the year offer exceptional predator encounters in Tanzania's Serengeti as this is the calving season for the wildebeest and newborns make for easier targets. By July, the herds are heading north into the central Serengeti where the wildebeest make their first river crossing, and take their chances against the waiting crocodiles. In August, the herds cross over into Kenya’s Masai Mara, and towards the end of the year the herds move southwards back into the Serengeti where the animals brace themselves for the next calving season and predator attacks.
The best time to witness the Mara River crossings from Serengeti to Masai Mara is between mid-July to September. During this period, the greatest spectacle on earth unfolds right before your eyes. Over a million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelles make their way to Masai Mara by crossing the crocodile-infested Mara River in search of greener pastures.
Summary of where to stay to see the Great Migration
Our recommendationsWe recommend visiting Serengeti’s southern plains of Ndutu from January to March and Northern Serengeti’s Kogatende and the Mara Triangle in Masai Mara from July to August.
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Month to month guide to Wildebeest Migration in East Africa
The Serengeti wildebeest migration is an annual mass movement of ungulates between Serengeti and Masai mara and this is a continuous event that involves crossing the Mara River which is the greatest obstacle during the Migration and this is largely triggered by the need for water and green pasture and our guide will give you an insider of where the wildebeest are more likely to be during each month.
Wildebeest Migration event
Serengeti National Park, in northern Tanzania, is known for its massive annual migration of wildebeest and zebra. Seeking new pasture, the herds move north from their breeding grounds in the grassy southern plains. Many cross the marshy western corridor’s crocodile-infested Grumeti River. Others veer northeast to the Lobo Hills, home to black eagles. Black rhinos inhabit the granite outcrops of the Moru Kopjes. The park offers wide range of activities that travellers can experience while in the national park
Inspirational Journeys
The vast plains of the Serengeti comprise 1.5 million ha of savannah. The annual migration to permanent water holes of vast herds of herbivores (wildebeest, gazelles and zebras), followed by their predators, is one of the most impressive natural events in the world. Our guided safaris by expert guides will leave you with lifetime memories
Get inspired
Doing things for the first time in Africa is exciting and fun, but it can also be a bit scary especially when it comes to safaris – a situation that puts you in a new country surrounded by wild animals! That said, once you know you’re in good hands, the anxiety dissipates and you’re left with the freedom to make the most of your adventure.
