Whats the great migration
overview
The Great Wildebeest Migration—also known as the Gnu, Serengeti, or Masai Mara Migration—is one of the last great land migrations on Earth. It’s the main reason many travelers visit Kenya and Tanzania, especially mid-year.
The Migration is nature’s paradox: timing is crucial, yet unpredictable. We know the wildebeest, along with zebra and antelope, will cross the Mara River, but no one knows exactly when. Rain prompts their movement, but its timing is also uncertain.
Fortunately, we’ve been planning Wildebeest Migration safaris in Africa since 1998. We’ve helped thousands of travellers to be in the best possible place at the best possible time for the best possible price. If you’re looking for expert planning advice, look no further. We’ve compiled all our specialist tips in this handy beginner’s guide to a Wildebeest Migration safari…
Can we predict the Migration River Crossings?
No, not even the wildebeest know when they’re going to cross! Some arrive at the water and swim over immediately; some arrive and spend days hanging around grazing; some arrive and turn back to where they came from. We wish we could predict the crossings, but no-one can. This is why it is best to have as much time on safari as possible if you hope to see a river crossing.
What Month is the Wildebeest Migration?
Most people believe the Wildebeest Migration only happens from July to October. In reality, it’s a year-round, circular movement with exciting events in every season. River crossings often occur during the peak safari months (June to October), which creates the impression that this is the only active period..
Where Does the Great Migration Start?
The Great Migration is a year-round, fluid movement of about two million animals across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, with no clear start or end. Triggered by East Africa’s rains, the wildebeest follow an ancient route in search of fresh grazing. Their journey spans the Masai Mara in Kenya, down through Tanzania’s Serengeti to the Ngorongoro Crater, then circles back in a clockwise loop.
Why Do Wildebeest Migrate?
It is generally believed that the Great Migration in Africa is dictated primarily by the wildebeest’s response to the weather. They move after the rains and the growth of new grass, essentially following a natural instinct to find food to stay alive. Some experts believe that the wildebeest are triggered by distant lightning and thunderstorms, but there is no scientific proof of it.
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