Masai Mara Wildebeest Migration in Kenya

Wildebeest Migration (The Great Migration) is an annual incredible spectacle of wildlife in Africa. Masai Mara Wildebeest Migration in Kenya and Tanzania is an immense circular movement of over two million animals (Wildebeests, Zebras and the Gazelle) from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Masai Mara Reserve in Kenya. The Wildebeest Migration happens during the months of July to October.

Whereas the whole phenomenon is worth following, the most spectacular part of it are the river crossings or the Death Fall. These have attracted many people to come and witness the magical shows put up by the animals as they maneuver through huge rivers infested with crocodiles. The immense jumps over river beds and cliffs create a show that never happens anywhere else. That’s why it’s called/recognized as the 7^th wonder of the world.

Where do wildebeests start their migration from?

The animals move in a clock-wise circle. They are coming from southern through western Serengeti to Mara River in the north then to Masai Mara in Kenya for a couple weeks before they start moving back south around mid or late October.

Why do animals migrate?

From their movement pattern/circle, it’s without a doubt that wildebeests are drawn into migrating by the needs of their stomachs. You find that they always move to fresh grazing areas. Another thought but lacking scientific proof is that the wildebeests move following distant lightning and thunderstorm. Perhaps this is true considering the total distance they make in each circle every year and the fact that they move to areas with rain. All in all, the wildebeest move in response to weather and their feeding demands.

Best time to see the Wildebeest Migration

For the Masai Mara Wildebeest Migration in Kenya, plan to go mid-July to September. However, nature is never predictable and so are the rains and the wildebeests themselves. The exact route and timing of the migration cannot be predicted either. And moreover, the crossings are not happening on one place on the river. We know animals will have to cross the river every year around July and September but no body knows exactly when. Not even the animals know when they are going to cross. Some arrive at the water and swim immediately; some arrive and turn back to where they came from while some arrive and spend days hanging around grazing. In this case, we draw from our experience to advise our travelers to come in August to be assured of seeing the spectacle.

Best way to experience the Wildebeest Migration

The best way to see the wildebeest migration in Kenya is through game drives in the park. Also be reminded that the crossings do not happen on one side of the river so always make use of our experienced local guides to help you establish an ideal vantage point. Our migration leaning visitors should always plan to stay more days at the park since the crossings are generally unpredictable.

Other things to do in Masai Mara

Witnessing the wildebeest migration is a pretty sensational spectacle and if you are not careful you might miss on other thrilling adventures the world-famous Masa Mara has to offer. These include: the regular game drives to increase wildlife sightings, hot air balloon safaris, birding expeditions, Masai Village visits, Bush meals and sundowners, horseback safaris, walking safaris and nature walks.