The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the largest wildlife events in the world, which takes place every year in East Africa. It involves over 1.5 million wildebeests, along with thousands of zebras and gazelles moving between Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Kenya’s Maasai Mara Reserve. These animals travel in search of fresh grass and water following the seasonal rains.
This migration happens because of natural survival needs. The dry season makes food and water scarce, which forces the herds to move. Along the way, they face predators like lions, cheetahs, and crocodiles, especially during dangerous river crossings.
The Mara River crossing is one of the most intense moments of the migration where thousands of animals enter the river trying to reach the other side safely.
In this guide, you will learn everything about the Great Migration: what, when, and where, and how it affects wildlife, tourism, and conservation. Let’s explore this incredible journey in detail.
What is the Great Wildebeest Migration?
The Great Migration is a yearly movement of over 1.5 million wildebeests across Tanzania and Kenya. These animals travel in a circular path through the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara Reserve in Kenya while searching for fresh grass and water. It is the largest land migration in the world and one of the most famous wildlife events.
The main reason for this migration is food and survival. The movement follows the pattern of seasonal rains which cause fresh grass to grow. Wildebeests and other herbivores need this grass to survive so they keep moving to areas where food is available. Their journey is not random but follows a natural cycle.
The Great Migration is not just about the movement of animals. It plays a huge role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. It is an essential part of Africa’s natural system, and without it, the wildlife and landscapes would change drastically.
When Does the Great Wildebeest Migration Happen?
The Great Migration happens every year, following the pattern of seasonal rains in Tanzania and Kenya. The migration does not have a fixed start or end point because it is a continuous cycle of movement.
However, the journey can be divided into different phases based on the time of year and the specific locations where the herds are found. Each phase plays an important role in the survival of the animals.
The Great Wildebeest Migration in January, February, and March: Calving Season in the Serengeti
At the beginning of the year, the wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles gather in the southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania. This is where they give birth to their young. The large grasslands provide plenty of space and food for newborn calves which makes it the perfect place for calving season.
During this period, around 300,000 wildebeest calves are born within two to three weeks. These newborns learn to stand and walk within minutes after birth and can run within hours, which helps them escape predators.
However, this season also attracts lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and other predators which makes it a dangerous time for the young animals. Many calves do not survive the first few weeks due to predation.
The calving season is not just important for the wildebeests but also for the entire ecosystem. Predators rely on this season for food, and the large number of births helps maintain the balance of nature. The lush grasslands in this area provide enough food for the mothers to produce milk, ensuring the survival of their young.
As the dry season begins to set in, food and water become scarce. By March, the herds start preparing to move northward in search of better grazing areas. This marks the beginning of the migration journey, as they leave the calving grounds behind and start their long trek toward the central and western Serengeti.
The Great Migration in April and May: Moving Towards the Grumeti River
As April arrives, the dry season begins to set in, and the fresh grass in the southern Serengeti starts to disappear. The wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles sense the change and begin moving northward toward the central and western Serengeti. This was an important phase in the Great Migration as the herds had to cover long distances in search of better grazing land and water sources.
During April and May, the migration is at its slowest pace as the animals spread out across the central Serengeti feeding on the remaining grass. This is also the time when the long rains occur, turning the landscape green again. However, the rain also makes the ground muddy, which can slow down the herds and make it harder for weaker animals to keep up.
As May progresses, the herds continue their journey towards the Grumeti River in the western Serengeti. This river is the first major water obstacle in the migration. Although it is not as dangerous as the Mara River, it still has strong currents and is home to large crocodiles waiting to ambush the crossing herds. Some animals do not survive the crossin,g but most make it through to the other side.
By the end of May, the wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles have gathered near the Grumeti River preparing for the next stage of their migration. The journey is about to become even more dangerous as they move towards the northern Serengeti and the deadly Mara River where the most dramatic and intense part of the migration takes place.
The Great Wildebeest Migration in June: First Major River Crossing at Grumeti River
By June, the dry season is in full effect, and the wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles continue moving westward towards the Grumeti River in the Serengeti. This marks the first major river crossing in their journey.
Unlike the Mara River, the Grumeti River is wider and slower, but it still presents significant dangers. Large Nile crocodiles live in these waters, waiting for the migrating animals to cross. Some wildebeests and zebras become easy prey while others drown due to the strong currents.
Despite these risks, the migration must continue. The surviving herds regroup on the other side of the river and keep moving northward toward the Mara River, where the most famous and dangerous crossing of the Great Migration takes place.
This period also sees the start of the mating season for the wildebeests, as the strongest males compete for dominance.
The Great Migration in July, August, and September: Mara River Crossing (Most Iconic Phase)
From July to September, the herds reach the Mara River, which is one of the most challenging obstacles of the entire migration. This is the most dramatic and iconic phase of the Great Migration, as thousands of wildebeests and zebras must cross the dangerous waters to reach the Maasai Mara in Kenya.
The Mara River crossing is extremely chaotic and deadly. The animals gather in large numbers at the riverbank,s hesitating for hours or even days before taking the leap. Once the first group decides to cross, the rest follow while creating a massive stampede.
Strong currents, steep riverbanks, and waiting crocodiles make this a deadly journey. Many animals drown, break their legs, or fall victim to predators, but the survivors continue on.
This is also a prime hunting season for lions, leopards, and hyenas, as the exhausted animals that make it across become easy targets. However, those that survive the crossing enter the Maasai Mara, where they find fresh grass and rest before their return journey.
The Great Migration in October and November: Return Journey to Tanzania
By October, the dry season in Kenya starts to intensify, and the grasslands of the Maasai Mara begin to dry up. The wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles sense the changing conditions and begin their return journey southward. The first groups start moving towards Tanzania, retracing their steps across the Mara River and heading back into the Serengeti.
During November, the short rains start falling in the Serengeti, creating lush grazing areas. The herds gradually move into the eastern and central Serengeti and take advantage of the fresh grass. However, this journey is still dangerous as predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas continue to follow the herds, hunting the weaker and slower animals.
The Great Migration in December: Arrival in the Southern Serengeti
By December, most of the migrating animals have reached the southern Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Here, the cycle begins again as the pregnant wildebeest females prepare for the calving season, which starts in January. The land is green and fertile, which provides enough food for the thousands of newborn calves that will soon arrive.
At this stage, the herds slow down and spread out across the grasslands and taking advantage of the fresh food and resting before the next migration cycle begins. However, predators remain active knowing that the calving season will soon provide an abundance of easy prey.
The Great Migration never truly stops. It is a continuous journey of survival that is driven by the need for food, water, and safety. Each phase plays a major role in maintaining the balance of Africa’s ecosystem, which makes it one of the most important and breathtaking wildlife events in the world.
When to go to see the Great Migration
The best time to visit the Great Wildebeest Migration depends on what part of the migration you want to witness. Each season offers a different experience, from dramatic river crossings to peaceful calving seasons. Travelers should consider the movement of the herds, the weather conditions, and the overall safari experience they are looking for.
- From July to September, the Mara River crossing is the most dramatic phase, with thousands of animals facing crocodiles, strong currents, and predators. This is peak tourist season, so expect high prices and crowds.
- From January to March, the calving season in the southern Serengeti offers a chance to see 500,000 newborn wildebeests and intense predator action. The landscape is green, and wildlife is easy to spot.
- For budget-friendly safaris, April and May are ideal. The migration moves towards the Grumeti River, and fewer tourists mean lower prices. However, the rainy season can make travel challenging.
Each season offers a unique experience, which makes the Great Migration a must-see year-round.
How to Plan Your Great Migration Safari?
Planning a Great Migration safari requires careful timing, the right location, and a good safari package. Since the migration happens year-round, choosing when and where to go depends on what part of the journey you want to witness.
- First, decide the best time to visit based on what you want to see. If you want to witness the Mara River crossing, then plan for July to September in the northern Serengeti or Maasai Mara. For the calving season, visit January to March in the southern Serengeti. If you are looking for a budget-friendly trip with fewer tourists, then April to May is a good option.
- Next, choose the right safari type. You can book a luxury lodge safari with high-end accommodations and private game drives or go for a budget camping safari for a more adventurous experience. Mobile tented camps are also available following the migration closely for the best wildlife viewing.
- Booking with an experienced safari company is important. You should find guides with local knowledge and packages that match your budget and travel style. Many tour operators offer customized itineraries, including game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and cultural visits to Maasai villages.
- Finally, prepare for the trip by packing lightweight clothes, binoculars, a camera, and insect repellent. Since some areas can be remote, so will make sure you have the right vaccinations and travel insurance. A well-planned safari provides you experience of the Great Migration at its best.
Final Verdict
The Great Migration is one of the most amazing wildlife events in the world. No matter when you visit, you will witness huge herds of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles moving across the Serengeti and Maasai Mara in search of food and water. Planning your safari at the right time gives you the experience of the best moments of this incredible journey.
FAQs
What month is the Great Migration in Tanzania?
The migration happens year-round in Tanzania. However, the best months to see it there are January to March (calving season in the southern Serengeti) and June to November (as herds move through central and northern Serengeti towards Kenya).
What is the best time to see the Great Migration?
The best time depends on what you want to see. For dramatic river crossings, visit from July to September. For baby wildebeests and predator action, visit from January to March.
Where is the best place to see the Great Migration in Africa?
The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya are the best places to see the migration. These areas offer excellent safari lodges and game drives to witness the movement of the herds.
Who moved during the Great Migration?
Over 1.5 million wildebeests, along with zebras, gazelles, and other animals, move across the Serengeti and Maasai Mara in search of fresh grazing land. Predators like lions, cheetahs, and crocodiles follow them, which makes the journey even more intense.