Great Wildebeest Migration
Overview
The Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania is one of the most spectacular natural events on the planet, often referred to as the “Greatest Show on Earth.”
This awe-inspiring phenomenon involves over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, embarking on a perilous journey through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of greener pastures.
The Journey
The migration is a continuous cycle driven by the seasonal rains and the growth of fresh grazing grass. It begins in the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, where the wildebeest give birth to around 500,000 calves between January and March. As the dry season approaches in May and June, the herds start moving northwards towards the Grumeti River, facing the first of many challenges: crossing crocodile-infested waters.
Major Crossing Points
One of the most dramatic highlights of the migration is the crossing of the Mara River, usually between July and September. This river marks the boundary between Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Maasai Mara. The sight of thousands of wildebeest and zebras braving the swift currents and lurking predators is both heart-stopping and mesmerizing.
Best Times to Visit
To witness the Great Migration in its various stages, timing is crucial:
- December to March: Calving season in the southern Serengeti plains.
- April to June: Movement towards the central Serengeti and western corridor.
- July to September: River crossings at Grumeti and Mara Rivers.
- October to November: The return journey to the southern Serengeti.
