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The Great Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti

The Great Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Wildlife Adventure

The Great Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti is one of the most incredible natural spectacles in the world. Over 2 million animals (wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle) migrate in a clockwise direction across the ecosystems of the Serengeti (Tanzania) and the Masai Mara (Kenya).

Embark on an annual journey of over 1,000 kilometers in search of fresh grazing and water. This epic journey takes them through some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in Africa, including the Serengeti National Park, the Masai Mara National Reserve, and the Grumeti Reserve.

What is The Great Wildebeest Migration?

The Great Migration is the journey of enormous herds of wildebeest through the Serengeti, accompanied by big herds of zebra and smaller herds of Grant's gazelle, Thomson's gazelle, eland and impala. These move in a pretty regular yearly sequence.

They move all year, looking for new pasture and water. The precise time of the Serengeti wildebeest migration is totally reliant on annual rainfall patterns.

Why Do Wildebeest Migrate?

The massive wildebeest herd’s 800-kilometer movement is the world’s greatest animal migration. The migration corresponds with the greening of nutritious grasses in the short grass plains during the wet season. These regions are safer since predators can be easily identified, making them excellent for calving.

However, when the plains dry up, the wildebeest are forced to migrate to the western corridor in search of better pastures. The Northern stretch of the habitat receives the most rainfall, but the grasses are the least nutritious.

When Do Wildebeest Migrate?

Best Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Packages 2024/2025.
migration of wildebeest in serengeti

When is The Best Time to See The Great Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti?

It is entirely up to you whether you want to schedule your safari to Serengeti around the Great Migration. As I explained before Serengeti National Park Great Migration is a year-round visit because of its huge size and surprised animal watching.

The chance of being at an exact location of the Great Migration herd crossing a river either Grumeti or Mara river are small. Furthermore, the timing of herd migrations cannot be assured.

However, if you select the correct region of Serengeti: The Southeast and Ndutu from December to May, the Western Corridor from May to July, the Serengeti Mara area from July to October and the Northern Serengeti whereby large herds of wildebeest and their companions should be easily spotted.

The Great Wildebeest Migration: Month By Month

General Summary of the great wildebeest migration Tanzania

The Great Migration is a true representation of the circle of life. The cycle continues throughout the year as the herds follow the rains in search of food, water and a safe place to give birth. What you can expect to see varies month by month.

Month Description
January: Herds spread over the Southern Serengeti's short-grass plains to feed.
February: They disperse throughout the short- grass plains with the majority calving within 3- week span.
March: Remains widespread over the Southern Serengeti, Loliondo and Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) short-grass plains.
April: The herds start to migrate North, passing through the Southwest of the Central Serengeti /Moru Kopjes and Seronera regions.
May: The migration passes through Seronera on its way to the Western Corridor.
June: Herds congregate in the western corridor before crossing the Grumeti River.
July: Some cross the Grumeti & proceed through Grumeti Reserve; others head North in the park.
August: Herds move through Ikorongo and into the extreme North-west of the Serengeti National Park.
September: Herds in the Northern Serengeti National Park & in Kenya's Maasai Mara.
October: Grazing in the far north of the Serengeti and across in the Mara
November: Moving South via Loliondo, on the East side of the Serengeti National Park
December: Arriving on the East side of the short-grass plains in time for the rains. Then the whole Great Migration starts again
The Serengeti Animal Migration Dates

Serengeti National Park Wildebeest Migration

The Great Wildebeest Migration Serengeti River Crossing

Understand Serengeti National Park Great Migration Time of Year

When planning your Safari to Serengeti National Park, you will most likely want to include  watching the Great Migration in your Serengeti safari itinerary. So, how can you ensure that you  are present when it occurs? The quick answer is that you can't. The Great Migration is described  in details below and this is how often occurs.

The yearly migration of two million ungulates,  primarily wildebeest but also massive herds of zebra, Thomson's gazelle, Grant's gazelle and eland through Serengeti National Park is the biggest natural display of its kind in Africa, if not the world.  Although there are seasonal fluctuations, the Serengeti Great Migration follows a fairly predictable  yearly cycle determined by local rainfall trends. The Great Migration cycle is divided into the  following phases: 

DECEMBER - APRIL 

The primary calving grounds may be found Southeast of Seronera (Ndutu), where typical Serengeti  grasslands extend all the way to the Ndutu region near Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The short rains in November and December prompted their relocation to this region.

The wildebeest stay in  this area until the lengthy rains finish in late April or early May. The good news is that this portion  of Serengeti National Park is relatively accessible and the environment becomes lush during this  time of year.

During the February is normally calving season in the Ndutu area and the  Southeastern plains, making it the greatest time to visit. Because there are so many wildebeest,  zebra and other ungulates, they give birth to so many calves whereby the sight acts as a magnet  for tourists.

MAY- JULY 

After feasting on the short green grasses of the Southern Serengeti and having given birth to their  offspring, the wildebeest begin preparing for their 800-kilometer journey.

The real migration  starting date might be between late April and early June. This is the moment to witness one of the  world's largest natural phenomena whereby more than a million marching animals in a column up  to 40 kilometers long.

The herds migrate towards the Western Corridor, where they encounter the  first significant challenge when crossing the Grumeti River as many animals die during the  crossing passage since the area is populated of giant crocodiles waiting for herds to cross. 

AUGUST- SEPTEMBER 

After crossing Grumeti River, the herd continues to Northern Serengeti and begins crossing the  Mara River in September. Many memorable Great Migration photographs have been taken near  the Mara River crossing. Following this crossing, the herds go to Kenya's northwest plains and the  Masai Mara National Reserve.

The months of August and September are considered good months  to visit Serengeti National Park and witness the Great Migration crossing Mara River, as the herd  migrate towards Kenya's Masai Mara.

Migration patterns indicate that around half of the herd  remains on the Tanzanian border in the Mara Serengeti region. During this time, smaller herds of  wildebeest can be found. 

OCTOBER- NOVEMBER 

Crossing the Mara River Northbound requires the herd to cross the river one more time before  continuing their journey Southward. This normally happens in October, during this time the herd  cross the northern plains and the Lobo region.

This region of Serengeti National Park is rarely  visited, so if you want to view the migration in peace and quiet, this is the time to go. In late  November, the wildebeest return to the short-grass plains and calving grounds around Ndutu. And  then Great Migration cycle starts again.

Serengeti Wildebeest Migration: Calving Season

The migration begins in the southern Serengeti, where the wildebeest give birth to their calves. Serengeti wildebeest migration calving season typically occurs from late January to March, and it is a time of great activity and excitement.

The wildebeest calves are born with their eyes open and are able to walk within minutes of being born. This allows them to join the herd quickly and avoid predators.

Journey North: The Great Wildebeest Migration

After calving, the wildebeest start to move north in search of fresh water and grazing land. The migration is a slow and steady process, and the animals may travel only a few miles each day.

The wildebeest are followed by a retinue of predators, including lions, hyenas, and cheetahs. These predators feast on the weak and the young, and they help to keep the wildebeest population in check.

Crossing the Mara River

One of the most dramatic moments of the migration is when the wildebeest cross the Mara River. The Mara River is a major obstacle for the wildebeest, and it is a place where many animals are killed by crocodiles. However, the wildebeest are determined to cross the river, and they often do so in large numbers.

Arrival in the Masai Mara

After crossing the Mara River, the wildebeest reach the Masai Mara in Kenya. The Masai Mara is a vast and fertile grassland, and it is a paradise for the wildebeest. The animals spend several months grazing on the lush grasses of the Masai Mara, and they also give birth to their calves here.

Witnessing The Great Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti

Witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration is a truly unforgettable experience. Visitors can observe the herds from a variety of vantage points, including hot air balloons, game drives, and walking safaris.

There are also a number of lodges and camps located within the Serengeti National Park that provide excellent opportunities for viewing the migration.

The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the most spectacular natural events in the world. It is a vital part of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, and it is a major tourist attraction.

Best Serengeti Migration Safari Packages

Explore our Best Serengeti migration safari packages to Inspire you

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3-Day Amazing Serengeti and Ngorongoro Safari

Accommodation Style: Mid-Range

You Visit: Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater,

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4-Day Manyara, Serengeti and Ngorongoro Mid-Range Safari

Accommodation Style: Mid-Range

You Visit: Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater,

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5-Day Tarangire, Ngorongoro & Manyara Perfect Trip

Accommodation Style: Mid-Range

You Visit: Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP,

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6-Day Arusha NP, Tarangire, Ngorongoro & Manyara Safari

Accommodation Style: Mid-Range

You Visit: Arusha, Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP,

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Tanzania | Private Tour

7-Day The Great Migration Tour at Mara River Crossing

Accommodation Style: Mid-Range

You Visit: Tarangire NP, Central Serengeti, Northern Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP,

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Tanzania | Private Tour

8-Days Great Migration Tour - Mara River Crossing

Accommodation Style: Mid-Range

You Visit: Tarangire NP, Central Serengeti, Northern Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP,

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Tanzania | Private Tour

10-Day Amazing Wildlife and Zanzibar Beach Safari

Accommodation Style: Mid-Range

You Visit: Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar, Stone Town (Zanzibar), Zanzibar (Beach),

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Tanzania | Private Tour

10-Day Great Migration and Zanzibar Beach Safari

Accommodation Style: Mid-Range

You Visit: Serengeti NP, Central Serengeti, Northern Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar, Zanzibar (Beach),

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Tanzania | Private Tour

13-Day Great Migration Tanzania + Zanzibar Beach Safari

Accommodation Style: Mid-Range

You Visit: Tarangire NP, Central Serengeti, Northern Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar, Stone Town (Zanzibar), Zanzibar (Beach),

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The Great Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti - FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions About The Great Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti National Park

The Great Wildebeest Migration is an annual journey of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other animals across the Serengeti in Tanzania and Masai Mara in Kenya in search of fresh grazing and water.

How many wildebeest migrate in the Serengeti each year?

The Serengeti is home to one of the most spectacular wildlife migrations on Earth, where vast herds of wildebeest embark on an annual journey in search of greener pastures. Have you ever wondered about the sheer number of wildebeest that partake in this incredible migration? Well, the exact count can vary from year to year, but it is estimated that over 1.5 million wildebeest migrate across the Serengeti ecosystem. This awe-inspiring sight is not only a testament to the resilience and adaptability of these magnificent creatures but also a reminder of the delicate balance of nature that exists in this remarkable African landscape.

The best time to see the Great Wildebeest Migration is during the dry season, from July to October. This is when the herds are most concentrated and active.

The Serengeti National Park is located in Tanzania, and there are a number of ways to get there. The most common way is to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport and then take a bus or taxi to the park.

  • How much does a wildebeest migration safari cost?

The cost of seeing the Great Wildebeest Migration varies depending on the time of year and the specific tour operator. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 for a week-long safari.

There are a few things you can do to prepare for a trip to see the Great Wildebeest Migration, including:

  • Getting vaccinated against malaria and yellow fever.

  • Packing appropriate clothing and gear, such as sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

  • Taking medication to prevent malaria.

The best time to see the wildebeest migration is from July to October when the herds cross the Mara River into Kenya's Masai Mara, offering dramatic wildlife viewing opportunities.

Yes, the wildebeest migration is definitely worth seeing. It's a spectacular natural event where millions of animals move across the Serengeti and Masai Mara, showcasing incredible wildlife and dramatic landscapes.

Alongside the wildebeest, zebras and other herbivores such as gazelles and eland also migrate during the Great Wildebeest Migration across the Serengeti and Masai Mara ecosystems.

The wildebeest migration lasts from about June to October, although exact timing can vary each year based on rainfall patterns and grazing conditions.

No, you cannot see the wildebeest migration year-round. The migration typically occurs from around June to October, during which time the herds move between the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya.

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