The Wildebeest Migration of the Serengeti is not only great – but simply phenomenal, so much so that it can be seen from space! Every year over a million of these ungulates move across the plains of the Serengeti from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya in a breathtaking journey of sheer determination. It is an expedition filled with dramatic tension with up to 8,000 births a day over a distance of 2,896 km covered, and a death rate of around 250, 000 animals. The migration patterns are also affected by the rainfall, the animals flowing clockwise through the Serengeti in search of lush green grass.
JANUARY
The herds congregate in Tanzania, in the Serengeti. They gradually move south towards the Ngorongoro Conservation area.
FEBRUARY
It’s calving season and the herd remains in the area to take advantage of the healthy grazing conditions. During this time, there can be up to 8,000 births in a single day. Predators wait patiently on the outskirts for the vulnerable young prey. Hunting is prolific throughout the migration, lions and other cats following in the footsteps of abundant wildlife.
MARCH
Herds are located in the Ndutu region of the Ngorongoro Conservation area, lingering for nutrient rich grasses.
APRIL
Rainy season begins and the wildebeest embark on their northward journey across the southern Serengeti plains.
MAY
The herds are on the move! Massive columns up to 40km long head up into the central and western regions of the Serengeti.
JUNE
Herds can be found in the central and western Serengeti, their last respite before the dangerous and daring river crossings. This is also mating season, a character-filled and noisy time for wildebeest.
JULY
Time for the death defying river crossing! The herd risks life and limb to cross the Grumeti River in the western Serengeti. The herd uses sheer force and determination to cross the river where crocodiles are lying in wait, ready to snap up any unfortunate wildebeests.
AUGUST
River crossings happen from August through to October. The survivors feast in the northern Serengeti and start to head back into Kenya’s Masai Mara.
SEPTEMBER
By now the herds have broken up into smaller groups and spread out across the plains. Around half of them are in the Masai Mara and the other half are in the northern Serengeti. For those in the Masai Mara, it’s time for another dangerous river crossing of the Mara River itself.
OCTOBER
Most of the wildebeest are in the Masai Mara now, remaining in this area until the rains begin once again.
NOVEMBER
It’s time to move on again as by now the short rains have begun and there’s not much grass left. The herds return to the rejuvenated Serengeti.
DECEMBER
The wildebeest are back in the north-eastern and southern Serengeti where the grasses have had a chance to replenish.
The circle of life begins once again. Embark on an extraordinary adventure with JENMAN African Safaris on our wildebeest migration tours, immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring grandeur of the world’s greatest migration. Join the ranks of lucky individuals who have witnessed this incredible event unfold in the magnificent Serengeti. Our meticulously crafted wildebeest migration tours offer you a front-row seat to nature’s most captivating spectacle. Prepare to be mesmerized as millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other fascinating wildlife traverse vast landscapes in search of greener pastures.
Tailormade Packages to Tanzania
Let us transform your dreams into a reality as we design the perfect Tanzanian safari for you. Discover the wonders of Tanzania with our expertly crafted custom travel itineraries. At JENMAN, we take pride in curating unforgettable experiences tailored to your preferences and budget. Our dedicated team of travel consultants specializes in creating personalized packages that cater to your unique needs, ensuring you have the adventure of a lifetime.
Email Us: info@jenmansafaris.com
Talk To Us: +27 21 683 7826
