Last updated on June 18th, 2025 at 05:56 pm
Tanzania hosts the greatest show on the planet – the Great Wildebeest Migration. It’s known as the largest movement of wildlife on Earth and is one of the most iconic highlights of any Tanzania Safari.
The dramatic Mara River Crossings are often the most thrilling event you’ll witness, where thousands of wildebeest brave strong currents and lurking predators.
So, what makes this moment so unforgettable? Let’s dive in and discover why Safaris in Tanzania, especially in the Serengeti, offer front-row seats to one of nature’s most powerful spectacles.
1. The Month of Great Migration During Tanzania Safari
The wildebeest migration is a continuously moving event. River crossings generally occur in Tanzania’s high season (June to October). It’s due to this that most people think this is the only time to see the Great Wildebeest Migration.
The animals migrate after the rains when the grass grows. It’s mainly to find food and stay alive.
2. The Great Migration Timeline
The following shows the events and timeline of the great wildebeest migration:
3. A Glimpse into a Great Migration Safari
Your Serengeti Safari excursion will begin once you land at the Serengeti Kogatende Airstrip. The word ‘Serengeti’ means continuous plains in theMaasailanguage. And it’ll be clear once you witness the landscape transform from lush greenery to brownish-covered plains.
The thought of aTanzania Safari Tour evokes images of days spent discovering the savannahs and witnessing the wildlife. Especially, the millions of wildebeests and zebras.
Kogatende will be the gateway to witness the greatest show on the planet. After a few miles of leaving the airstrip, you’ll cross the river. And be greeted by the rushing waves spilling over the bridge while a crocodile lies in anticipation on the bank.
The Mara River stretches across the landscape for about 400 km between the Serengeti National Park and the Maasai Mara. Its banks are filled with crossing points for the migration throughout. The constant movement of the animals creates a kind of slide on the banks. It’s undoubtedly going to be a sight to behold.
Part of the river’s path lies hidden in the woodlands. It’s covered by towering cliffs on both sides. Thus, earning the name ‘Death Valley.’ One thing is for sure, though: crossing the river for the animals is a risky task.
The rains influence the movement of the Serengeti Migration. Because the ecosystem gets rain at different times. A great way to increase the chances of seeing the crossing is to choose a fly-in safari. You’ll get to see the extensive surroundings and different views of the Mara River while on your Tanzania Safari to the Serengeti.
Patience is the key as the wildebeests are a bit indecisive. And they get afraid easily of the noise and bubbles in the water. There’s a certain art to getting a great sight of the river crossing, along with a bit of luck. As you depart, see the stunning landscape of the endless plains. And the sun was setting behind towering acacia trees.
4. Some Things to Remember During a Tanzania Safari
Below are some suggestions that you should keep in mind when on a safari to the Serengeti Great Migration:
- Most of the Great Migration takes place in the Serengeti.
- It’s a year-round event.
- The actual river crossings cannot be exactly predicted. But they usually happen from May to August.
- The best option to see the river crossings involves spending all day at a site where wildebeests and zebras have gathered.
Get ready to experience the thrilling Mara River Crossings!
Prepare to witness the battle of the Mara River and countless wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles on a Tanzania Safari Tour. It’s truly a thrilling experience to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration.
The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the most spectacular natural events. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime Tanzania safari that you should get right – this is where African Scenic Safaris can assist you!
