How Close Can You Get to The Wildebeest Migration at Serengeti National Park, Tanzania?
Written By
African Scenic Safaris
02/01/2024
Safaris
Going on a safari to Tanzania to witness the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration is a journey into one of the greatest shows on Earth. This migration consisting of vast numbers of Serengeti’s wildebeest along with zebras, gazelles, elands, and impalas is a powerful spectacle of life and survival in the Serengeti ecosystem. Here is how you can get close to this awe-inspiring phenomenon with our Serengeti Safari Packages.
The Great Wildebeest Migration involves over a million wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and other animals, traversing the vast landscapes of the Serengeti in Tanzania and Masai Mara in Kenya. Their instinct to find fresh grazing lands and water drives this cyclical movement, following the patterns of rainfall.
The Great Wildebeest Migration involves over a million wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and other animals, traversing the vast landscapes of the Serengeti in Tanzania and Masai Mara in Kenya. This cyclical movement is driven by their instinct to find fresh grazing lands and water, following the patterns of rainfall.
Here, you’ll travel in specialized vehicles, guided by knowledgeable drivers.
The wildebeest crosses several key rivers, so it’s essential to find a good spot at these crossings for the best views.
Some of these points may require a journey of up to an hour from where you’re staying.
Observing the river crossings is often the highlight of the Tanzania Safari, as these locations can slightly change each year but generally remain in the same area of the reserve.
This experience is a must-see for anyone visiting the Serengeti to fully appreciate the spectacle of the Wildebeest Migration
Timing Your Visit
To witness this marvel, timing is crucial. The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration typically begins in July and continues until September as the herds move northwards. They return south around late October. However, the exact timing can vary depending on rainfall and other environmental factors.
Which is the Best Time to Visit Serengeti Wildebeest Migration? As per the knowledge of years of experience coming from our experts, we believe that the period from mid-July to August is the best time to see the migration. And, if you want to pick up one specific time for Serengeti Great Migration Safari to get the best possible experience, it will be August.
Though The Great Wildebeest Migration is a year-round spectacle, still each month offers a unique wildlife experience.
Some Key Highlights
Contrary to popular belief, migration is not a single event but a continuous cycle, with the famous river crossings being just one part.
These crossings usually happen at the Mara River from late July to August and in late October to early November.
The movement of the herds is largely dependent on rainfall patterns, making their exact location each month somewhat unpredictable.
However, a general pattern is observed throughout the year which is outlined below:
December to April
The herds are typically found in the southern parts of the Serengeti, between Ndutu and Ngorongoro plains, following the rains.
February marks the calving season, with high chances of witnessing newborn wildebeests on your Safaris to Tanzania.
During this period, predator activity increases as lions and leopards hunt the young calves. By late March or early April, the herds start moving northward.
During June, the end of the rainy season, the herds approach the Grumeti River.
This crossing, while not as dramatic as the Mara River, offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities, including the chance to spot Nile crocodiles.
July to September
This period marks the peak of the migration with the dramatic Mara River crossings.
The herds split into smaller groups, with some venturing into Kenya’s Masai Mara.
The lush green grass in the Greater Masai Mara attracts a large number of wildebeests.
October to November
The migration heads south again towards the greener pastures. The herds can be seen in the northern Serengeti, especially around Kogatende, Lamai, and Lobo areas. By November, with the onset of short rains, the cycle of life recommences with calving and predator interactions.
Now, let’s create a summarized table to encapsulate this information. This table captures the essence of the Great Serengeti Migration Safari through different times of the year, highlighting key locations and events.
Month
Location
Highlights
December to April
Southern Serengeti (Ndutu, Ngorongoro Plains)
Calving season in February, increased predator activity, herds moving north by the end of March
May to June
Central and Western Serengeti
Huge migration columns moving north, Grumeti River crossing, presence of Nile crocodiles
July to September
Western Serengeti, Grumeti Reserves, Northern Serengeti, Masai Mara
Major Mara River Crossings, herds split between Northern Serengeti and Masai Mara.
October to November
Northern Serengeti (Kogatende, Lamai, Lobo)
Migration heading south, presence in northeastern and southern Serengeti, start of calving season
Explore the Wild with African Scenic Safaris!
In conclusion, the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration offers an unrivalled, dynamic spectacle, a true marvel of nature. Witnessing the dramatic river crossings, observing the newborn calves, or simply marvelling at the vast herds traversing the Serengeti, each moment is a treasure on Serengeti Safari Tours.
