Great Migration is one of the most extraordinary natural spectacles on Earth, captivating wildlife and nature enthusiasts worldwide. This continuous, circular movement of over a million animals across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem is a breathtaking display of survival and instinct. Massive herds of wildebeest, accompanied by zebras, topi, and gazelles, traverse ancient routes in search of fresh grazing and water. The journey begins in the southern Serengeti of Tanzania, near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where the wildebeest give birth to their calves.
The Great Migration is the largest movement of animals on the planet, with herds so dense—up to 1,000 animals per square kilometer—that they can be seen from space. This awe-inspiring event involves over 1.2 million wildebeest, 300,000 zebras, and numerous other antelope species, all driven by the need to find nutritious grass and water. Each wildebeest travels an astonishing 800 to 1,000 kilometers during the migration, guided by ancient instincts. The journey is a relentless test of survival, as predators like lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, wild dogs, and crocodiles ensure that only the fittest survive. This natural phenomenon is often referred to as “the greatest show on Earth.”
The migration route begins in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in southern Tanzania, though the herds do not enter the crater itself. From there, they move northward through the Serengeti, cross into Kenya’s Masai Mara, and eventually circle back. The journey is fraught with peril: young calves fall prey to predators, the slowest are hunted by lion prides, steep riverbanks claim the lives of brave individuals, crocodiles lie in wait for stragglers, and the weak or exhausted often drown during river crossings. Despite these challenges, the Great Migration remains a powerful testament to the resilience and beauty of the natural world.
Each year around January, the Great Migration nears the end of its southward journey. The herds move along the eastern edge of the Serengeti into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This region has nutrient-rich plains, perfect for nurturing newborn calves.
The migration has no true start or end, but the calving season often marks its beginning. By late January or February, the herds gather on the short-grass plains. These plains stretch across the Ngorongoro Crater highlands and Olduvai Gorge. Around 400,000 wildebeest calves are born in just two to three weeks. That’s nearly 8,000 newborns daily.
The vulnerable calves attract many predators. Lions, cheetahs, and other big cats hunt frequently, creating dramatic scenes. To witness the calving season and predator action, stay at Asilia’s migration camps—Olakira, Kimondo, or Ubuntu. These camps are ideally located in the southern Serengeti.
After calving, the herds drift northwest in April toward the central Serengeti. They are joined by thousands of zebras and antelope seeking fresh grazing. By May, the migration gains speed. Long columns of wildebeest gather near the Moru Kopjes, close to Dunia Camp. This camp offers front-row seats to the migration.
In late May, the wildebeest mating season, or “the rut,” begins. Males fight for dominance while the herds graze and move slowly. The migration shifts toward the Serengeti’s Western Corridor. Ubuntu Migration Camp relocates to follow the herds, allowing guests to see crossings at the Grumeti River.
The Grumeti crossings are less dramatic than the Mara River but still perilous. Crocodiles wait in the pools, and massive herds gather along the banks. May is low season at Ubuntu, making it a great time for affordable safaris. Fewer tourists and excellent wildlife viewing make it ideal
June marks the dry season. Large herds gather in the Western Serengeti and along the Grumeti River. Here, they face their first major obstacle: crossing the crocodile-infested river. This tense event sets the stage for future challenges.
By July, the herds move north along the park’s western edge. Their next test is the Mara River. These crossings are among the most thrilling wildlife spectacles. They often begin in July as high season starts, but timing depends on nature.
By July, the herds usually reach the Northern Serengeti. Asilia’s mobile camps and Sayari Camp offer prime viewing. Later, wildebeest that cross the Mara River enter Kenya’s Masai Mara. Guests at Rekero Camp can watch daily crossings from the deck. The Mara and Talek rivers provide dramatic backdrops. This period is a highlight for safari enthusiasts.
By August, the herds have crossed the Mara River. They spread across the northern Masai Mara and Serengeti. In years with strong river flows, crossings are chaotic. Predators lurk, and currents claim many lives. Even in calmer years, crocodiles and big cats take a heavy toll. Crossings vary—some involve small groups, while others see thousands surging for hours.
By September and October, crossings slow. The herds begin moving east. But they must cross the Mara River again to return to Tanzania. This marks the start of their journey south.
After the short rains in late October and November, the herds move south into the eastern Serengeti. They pass Namiri Plains, known for cheetah sightings. By December, they spread across the eastern and southern Serengeti.
As the new year nears, seasonal rains revive the southern Serengeti’s grasses. Wildebeest, zebras, and other animals return to the nutrient-rich plains. The calving season begins again, with hundreds of thousands of births. The cycle continues, and the Great Migration starts anew.
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