The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the most extraordinary wildlife events in the world, taking place between Tanzania and Kenya. Each year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, embark on a circular journey across the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya, driven by the search for fresh grazing and water.

Key Phases of the Migration:

1. Calving Season (January-March) – Southern Serengeti, Tanzania:

   • The migration begins in the southern Serengeti, where the wildebeest give birth to hundreds of thousands of calves. This period is crucial for predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, who take advantage of the abundance of vulnerable prey.

2. Grumeti River Crossing (May-July) – Western Corridor, Tanzania:

   • As the dry season approaches, the herds move north toward the Grumeti River, where they face one of their first major challenges: crossing the crocodile-infested waters. This part of the journey is marked by dramatic river crossings and predator encounters.

3. Mara River Crossing (July-October) – Northern Serengeti, Tanzania & Masai Mara, Kenya:

   • One of the most famous and dramatic parts of the migration is the Mara River crossing between the northern Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara. Wildebeest plunge into the river, battling strong currents and awaiting predators like crocodiles. This crossing is a highlight for safari-goers due to its intense drama and wildlife action.

4. Return Journey (October-December) – Serengeti, Tanzania:

   • As the rains return to the southern Serengeti, the herds make their way back, completing the cycle and preparing for another calving season.

Why it’s Special:

• The migration is a continuous, year-round event, with different stages taking place across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.
• The wildebeest face numerous predators along the way, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and crocodiles, adding to the spectacle of the migration.
• The Mara River crossing is especially renowned for its chaotic and thrilling scenes, with thousands of wildebeest crossing at once in a frantic dash for survival.

Best Times to Witness:

• Calving season: January to March in the southern Serengeti.
• Grumeti River crossing: May to July in the western Serengeti.
• Mara River crossing: July to October in northern Serengeti and Masai Mara.

The Great Migration is not only a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts but also a testament to the resilience and survival instincts of Africa’s wildlife, creating a spectacle that draws travelers from around the globe.