The most frequently asked question about this grand movement of animals pursuing water and food across two countries with distinct environments isn't easy to answer. Rain patterns largely dictate the herds' actions, yet in general, Many safari experts observe that the Great Wildebeest Migration herds usually track a similar route each year. It starts in Tanzania's Serengeti and concludes in Kenya's Masai Mara.
A twelve-month, 1,200-mile expedition
While commonly called an annual occurrence, the Great Migration is an ongoing and fluid journey lasting throughout the year, involving animals moving across Tanzania and Kenya. Covering approximately 1,200 miles, this migration isn't solely about thrilling river crossings. It encompasses a much more intricate series of events unfolding across two countries throughout different seasons. These events involve mating behaviors, birthing of calves, and the changing dynamics of the herd, all influenced by subtle variations in yearly rainfall patterns.
From December to July: Young wildebeests and lions hunting in Serengeti National Park.
From December to early March, the herds primarily stay in the Serengeti National park in Southern Tanzania. Wildebeests gather in February, birthing around 500,000 calves within two to three weeks. They concentrate in the south for their calves to benefit from nutrient-rich milk due to the fertile soil and grass, rich in potassium, calcium, and phosphorus from volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. The Serengeti's short grass is also appealing for calving since it reduces the risk of predator attacks.
During April and May, the long rainy season arrives, prompting the herds to migrate northward across the central and western Serengeti, consuming grass voraciously as they move. The grass starts depleting by April.
As the Serengeti dries up, the herds head west along the Grumeti River from June to July. In June, the river becomes shallow, leaving crocodile-filled pools as the main water source, with wildebeests and zebras drinking nearly three gallons daily. By July, the herds reach the northern part of Tanzania near Kenya's border, approaching the Masai Mara due to rain received from Lake Victoria, about 70 miles away.
August to September: Exciting crossings over rivers in the Masai Mara Game Reserve.
During August, a considerable part of the migration typically reaches the Masai Mara, leading to busy traffic and intense river crossings at the Mara and Talek rivers. "August stands out as the prime time for witnessing these crossings, but be prepared with a book and lots of patience as it often involves waiting," says the source. Crocodiles, accustomed to periods of scarcity, rely on fish and the fat stored in their tails to sustain them for up to a year.
From October to November, the herds begin their departure from the Mara, heading southward back towards the Serengeti in search of lusher grazing lands for Tanzania's upcoming rainy season. "By early October, the grasslands of Masai Mara become remarkably flat," the source notes. This signals the start of the immense migration's journey south, consuming around 5,000 tons of grass each day.
What is the optimal approach to fully immerse oneself in the spectacle of the Great Migration?
A thoughtfully planned trip in Tanzania can position you perfectly to witness the excitement of the Great Migration. Bruno African Safari, leading the way in contemporary luxury safaris, provides a range of options, from personalized private safaris to high-end small group tours, ensuring the best experiences at the ideal locations and times during the Great Migration. Explore these popular luxury Tanzania safaris offered by Bruno African Safari to begin your journey.
Bruno African Safari Recommended journey to follow great migration in southern and northern Serengeti National park.
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