What is the Wildebeest Migration?
As one of the last natural wonders left on earth – annually over two million wildebeest, as well as zebra and antelope, migrate from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. You may have seen this in a documentary but until you share the same ground with the animals, you have not experienced the Wildebeest Migration. It’s an incredible sight! Imagine around two million animals running at a pace over plains and through rivers. It’s just beautiful.
Predicting the Wildebeest Migration?
Predicting the movements of the large herds is not an exact science. It’s governed by rainfall in certain areas, and with our wealth of knowledge and time spent in national parks, we are able to make a fairly accurate educated guess. The Migration is a year-round process, and the animals move in a huge circle within the eco-system. Here is a rough guide on their movements:
December to March
In the early part of the year (December – March), they spread out throughout the southern plains of the Serengeti. This is the time that the plains are lush and green, which gives newborns the strength for the long journey ahead. But it’s not all cute and cuddly because predators lurk in the shadows…
May to August
From May to August, the long trek towards the Masai Mara in Kenya is in full swing. Some herds follow the traditional Western Corridor route, which is where the fabled river crossings occurs at the Grumeti River. The big question of survival comes up at this point… will they survive the river? Others split off to follow a more north easterly direction.
August to November
From August to November, herds are generally located in the northern reaches of the Serengeti and in the Masai Mara and beyond. The wildebeest are met with some river crossing opportunities on the Mara River, before the long return journey.
