What is the best time to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration in Africa?
The Great Wildebeest Migration is an incredible journey that happens every year in Kenya and Tanzania. Over 1.5 million wildebeests and thousands of zebras move from the southern parts of Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater to the southern areas of Masai Mara National Park in Kenya, and then back again. This journey covers about 3000 kilometers and is called the Great Migration because it’s so special and difficult.
The migration usually occurs during the dry season, which is from July to October. This time of year, there isn’t much food or water in the southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, so the animals have to move to find better conditions. During the migration, the wildebeests and zebras also have their babies.
The best time to see the Great Migration is during August and September, although the whole period from July to early October is good. In these months, you might even get to see the animals crossing rivers, which is a spectacular sight. By late October, the rains start again in Tanzania, and the herds begin their journey back south.
This migration isn’t easy for the animals. It’s a long and tiring journey, and many of them don’t make it. Predators like hyenas, cheetahs, and lions take advantage of the weakened animals to find food.
Best Time to See the Great Migration in Kenya
If you want to see the Great Wildebeest Migration in Kenya, the best time is during the dry season, which is from July to early October each year. During this time, in places like the southern parts of Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, the land becomes dry and the vegetation sparse. This forces the wildebeests and zebras to migrate to the northern plains, particularly the southern part of Masai Mara National Park, in search of fresh food and water. This migration is not easy as it covers more than 3000 miles and is a life and death journey for many animals. August and September are particularly good months to see the migration and experience river crossings. After October, the rains return to Tanzania, and the herds start their journey back to the southern parts of Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater grassland areas.
Best Time to See the Great Migration in Tanzania
Similarly, the best time to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania is also during the dry season, between July and early October. During this period, the southern parts of Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater experience dry conditions, pushing the wildebeests and zebras to migrate to the north, particularly the southern part of Masai Mara National Park, in search of food and water. Like in Kenya, this journey is challenging and spans thousands of miles. August and September are ideal months to see the migration and witness river crossings. By late October, the rains return to Tanzania, prompting the herds to start their journey back to the southern parts of Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater grasslands.
Why Book with Iconic Africa Safaris
Iconic Africa Safaris offers various trip options, ranging from budget to luxury, for experiencing the Great Wildebeest Migration in both Tanzania and Kenya. We have popular trip packages available, but we are also open to customizing trips according to the needs, interests, budget, and time constraints of their clients. Whether you’re interested in witnessing the migration in Kenya or Tanzania, Iconic Africa Safaris will tailor a dream trip for you. Simply get in touch with us to start planning your unforgettable safari experience.
