Wildebeest Migration Safaris
The Great Migration Safaris in Kenya and Tanzania
What is ''wildebeest migration safaris''
Understand about Wildebeest Migration in Masai Mara and Serengeti
The wildebeest migration safaris are expert-led safari adventures that take place in the Serengeti and Masai Mara, tracking 1.5 million wildebeest as they search for greener pastures. These guided migration safaris are year-round adventures that give visitors a front-row seat to the Greatest Show on Earth, as they experience the sheer power of nature in the African savannah plains.
The highlight of this safari experience takes place between July and October, when the wildebeests are faced with the dramatic and crocodile-infested river crossings. The adventure is one of the most sought-after wildlife experiences for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Wildebeest Cover 800 to 1000 km Journey
The Great Migration is an enormous 800 to 1000 km circular route that never really ends. An estimated 1.5 million animals make their way clockwise through the Serengeti and Maasai Mara ecosystems in search of rain and green grass. The journey starts with the calving season in the south before the animals migrate north towards the greener pastures of Kenya. This endless migration is what keeps the species alive as they follow the ancient beat of nature.
Best Wildebeest Migration Safari Experiences
The most thrilling experiences of the wildebeest migration are the river crossings, where the wildebeest have to cross crocodile-infested rivers. Due to the high number of animals migrating, the predator-prey interaction is at its highest, with lions, hyenas, and leopards always on the prowl. Witnessing the concentration of the animals stretching as far as the eye can see is a sight to behold. It provides a real-life experience of the struggle for survival in the wilderness.
Commonly referred to as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, this safari experience provides a rare insight into the cycle of life. You get to see the birth of 1,000,000 calves and the predation that accompanies this journey. This is a very moving experience that attracts animal lovers and wildlife photographers from all over the world. Seeing 1.5 million wildebeests and 300,000 zebras conquer the plains is an experience you will never forget in your lifetime.
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Where does the Wildebeest Migration happen?
Top Locations to Visit For Wildebeest Migration Safaris
The top destinations for a wildebeest migration safari are Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park (best during January to June) and Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve (best during July to October). The two parks are where the annual migration of 2 million animals takes place, with major events including the Serengeti calving season and Mara river crossings in the northern Serengeti and Masai Mara.
Northern Serengeti River Crossings: July – October
The Northern Serengeti and the Mara River are the best destinations to witness the most dramatic occurrences of the migration. It is during the months of July to October that the herds will gather along the Mara River banks, and finally, they will take the plunge into the waters that are full of crocodiles to reach the other side. This is one of the most thrilling experiences for many tourists, giving them a glimpse of the dangers that the wildebeest face.
Kenya’s Masai Mara Plains: July – October
The Masai Mara National Reserve is where all the excitement takes place between the months of July and October as the herds migrate to feed on the rich, green pastures of the reserve. The northern plains are known for their dense population of animals, ensuring that spotting the wildlife is an easy and thrilling experience. The openness of the plains makes it very easy to appreciate the sheer size of the herds.
Southern Serengeti and Ndutu Calving Season: January – March
The southern Serengeti and Ndutu Plains are home to the amazing calving season between January and March. This is the time when thousands of wildebeest calves are born daily, and many predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas congregate to feed on the newborns. This is an exciting time when the landscape is green, and the wildebeest calving season is one of the most important events in the animal kingdom.
Tanzania Serengeti Western Corridor River Crossings: May – June
In May and June, the migration takes place in the Serengeti’s Western Corridor, where it faces the first big challenge at the Grumeti River. Although these crossings are smaller in number compared to those at the Mara River, they are just as thrilling and provide a more private experience with fewer visitors. The region is inhabited by giant Nile crocodiles that lie in wait for the herds to arrive. It is an excellent time to witness the early movement of the migration to the north.
Masai Mara Private Conservancies (Year Round)
For those looking for a less crowded experience, the private conservancies surrounding the Masai Mara offer an excellent option. The private conservancies restrict the number of vehicles that are allowed in, thus ensuring that your wildlife encounters are private and not crowded. The private conservancies also allow for night drives and off-road driving, thus providing a more flexible and intimate experience of the migration.
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Best Time for Wildebeest Migration Safaris
Perfect time to Book your Wildebeest Migration Safaris
The best time to go for a migration safari adventure would be between July and October when the animals migrate to the Maasai Mara. It is during this time that you get to experience the famous Mara River crossings, which provide the most spectacular wildlife experience as the wildebeest encounter predators to get to the green pastures of Kenya.
If you are looking for the most action-packed experience, then the time to visit would be between mid-July and August. This is the best time when there are the most river crossings and plenty of predator action. It is the best time for nature enthusiasts and photographers to capture the magnitude of this great animal migration.
Peak River Crossings: July – October
The most popular period for a migration safari is between July and October. It is during this time that the animals migrate to the Northern Serengeti and the Maasai Mara in Kenya, where they have to cross the Mara River, which is infested with giant crocodiles. It is during this time that the wildebeest face the biggest challenge as they cross the Mara River to get to the lush grass on the other side. Mid-July to August is the peak time for those who wish to see this struggle for survival.
Calving, New Life, and Predators: January – March
During the months of January to March, the scene moves to the Southern Serengeti and the Ndutu plains for the calving season. This is a unique season where thousands of wildebeest calves are born daily, giving the plains a sense of new life. However, due to the high number of young and vulnerable wildebeest, the predator levels are also extremely high. You will be able to witness lions, cheetahs, and hyenas preying on their victims in the open plains, making it a great time for photography.
Wildebeest Moving Through the West of Serengeti: May – June
In May and June, the herds start their move north, moving through the Western Serengeti. This marks the time of the Grumeti River crossings, which are the first major water barriers that the migrating animals have to overcome. Although these river crossings are often less crowded than the Mara River crossings, they are no less dramatic. The landscape during this migration period is a beautiful, green one, providing a stunning backdrop for the herds as they move towards the north.
Where to Stay For Wildebeest Migration Safaris
Top Recommended Camps for Wildebeest Migration Safaris
Accommodation options for Wildebeest Migration safaris range from mobile tented camps that move with the animals to fixed, luxurious lodges. The two options ensure that clients are right in the middle of all the action.
Mobile tented camps are highly mobile, moving from place to place depending on the migration of the animals. On the other hand, fixed lodges offer a permanent base with all the luxuries that come with it, such as swimming pools and spas. The decision on which one to take depends on whether you want the adventure that comes with following the migration or the consistency of a fixed location.
Mobile Tented Camps For Migration Safaris
Mobile tented camps are one of the most preferred options as they relocate two or three times a year to keep pace with the herds. This way, you are assured of being in the thick of things, whether it is calving season in the south or river crossings in the north. These tented camps provide a “rustic luxury” experience, with canvas tents that are comfortable and come with en-suite bathrooms and bucket showers. It is the best way to experience the never-ending motion of the migration.
Luxury Tented Camps For Wildebeest Migration Safaris
Luxury tented camps are semi-permanent canvas suites that are set up in the best locations for the whole season. Unlike mobile tented camps, these tents come with more advanced plumbing systems, such as flush toilets and hot running water. Camps such as Serengeti Migration Camp combine the excitement of sleeping in the wild with the luxury of a five-star hotel. They are ideal for those who want to stay in touch with nature without having to forego any of the high-end amenities.
Permanent Safari Lodges For Wildebeest Migration
Permanent lodges are made of stone or brick and are very durable, providing a classic hotel experience in the middle of the wilderness. These camps, like Mwiba Lodge, have all the amenities, including swimming pools, spas, and Wi-Fi. Since they are permanent structures, they are set up in areas where there is a constant flow of wildlife throughout the year. This makes them a great option for families or individuals who want the comfort of walls and more amenities.
Elewana Serengeti Pioneer Camp is located in South Central Serengeti – Tanzania – (within the Moru Kopjes area), Serengeti Pioneer
Gnu Mara Migration Camp is an exclusive luxury tented camp located in the heart of Kenya’s Maasai Mara ecosystem, offering
Asilia Ubuntu Migration camp follows herds of wildebeest as they move around the Serengeti from the fertile south grassland that
Tailor-made Wildebeest Migration safari packages
detailed great Wildebeest Safaris and Tailored itineraries
The Ultimate Wildebeest Migration Safari packages start from when you want to witness the majestic movement from South of Serengeti to the Masai Mara in Kenya.
Whether you want your safari adventure to last two nights or two weeks, we have you covered at Cheetah Safaris. We have an abundance of Wildebeest Migration Safaris for you to choose from in some of Africa’s prime wildlife spotting locations, such as Kenya’s Masai Mara and Tanzania.
Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari and Masai Mara Tour Packages
Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safaris in Tanzania start from Arusha. You can visit Serengeti for either the Wildebeest Calving Season or the Wildebeest Migration Crossings in Northern Serengeti. Book our amazing Tanzania Wildebeest Migration Safari Packages that will ensure you enjoy sightings of more than 1 million crossing through the vast plains of Serengeti to the Masai Mara.
But it is not all plain sailing. As the Mara River flows up from the Northern Serengeti into the Masai Mara Reserve, some of the herds potentially face yet another dangerous river crossing here as well. Similarly fast-flowing and filled with hungry crocodiles lying in wait, the wildebeest plunge into the rivers from the steep riverbanks, many losing their lives here so near the very end of their journey.
But even having survived all the river crossings, this still doesn’t mean that life becomes easy, as danger then lurks in the form of hunting pride of lions and hyenas. Wherever the herd goes, the predators follow.
Cost: USD 3,228 PPS
No. of Nights 3
Destinations :-
Cost: 6980 PPS
No. of Nights 7
Destinations :-
Cost: USD 7,050 PPS
No. of Nights 11
Destinations :-
- Aberdares ,
- Lake Nakuru ,
- Masai Mara ,
- Nairobi ,
- Samburu ,
Book Your Wildebeest Migration Safaris with Cheetah Safaris
Lets Cutomise your Luxury Migration Safaris in Africa
Are you in search of a luxury safari adventure where you can view interesting wildlife? Well, you are in the right place. At Cheetah Safaris, we offer customized luxury safaris that are aimed at catering to your demand to explore and have an adventure.
In addition to its plains, Kenya also holds Africa’s second-highest mountain, Mt. Kenya. Do not forget to witness and experience one of the Wonders of the World, made possible not elsewhere but only in Kenya: The Great Wildebeest Migration. Indeed, the Maasai Mara provides an awe-inspiring view and is not just an experience but a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
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Wildebeest Migration Safaris FAQs
Having Questions? Learn about our Wildebeest Migration Safaris Q&A
If you have any questions regarding any of our Wildebeest Migration safari tours, you may find your answer below in our most frequently asked questions. However, don’t be afraid to get in touch if your query is not included for our experts to help you design your best Migration Safaris.
Our team is happy to help discuss any of our safari packages, destinations, or general information, so you have peace of mind! Get in touch with us now.
Is Kenya Safe to Visit For Holidays / Safaris?
You must be wondering is Nairobi, Kenya Safe for travels and safaris. The short answer is Kenya is safe to visit for safaris, either with your family, work colleagues, friends or just on solo travel.
Which Are the Best Destinations to visit in Kenya?
The best places to visit in Kenya for Safaris include the Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Samburu. You can add the Kenyan Coast and some more enticing activities, such as Helicopter Safaris in Northern Kenya.
Are Kenya Safaris Expensive? How Much do They Cost?
Kenya Safaris are generally affordable. You can book a safari that’s comfortable, and if you prefer a more exclusive safari, you can book our luxury safaris. A Kenya Safari can cost between USD 1,000 Per Person Per Day to USD 3,000 Per Person Per Day.
What’s the best time for a luxury Kenya safari?
The best time to go on a luxury safari in Kenya is during the dry season from July to October, focusing on the Great Migration in the Masai Mara. For other exclusive and uncrowded luxury Kenya safaris, January to March is an excellent choice, with great game viewing, excellent weather, and intense predator action, and be awed by the snow peak Kilimanjaro Mountain in Amboseli.
What should I pack for a Kenya safari?
For a Kenya Safari, carry lightweight clothing such as khaki, beige, and green apparel and sleepwear, as well as long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun and insect protection, even though it will be cold in the early morning hours. It will be important to carry a fleece, jacket, and beanie to keep warm, but it will also be warm.
Do luxury Kenya safaris include meals and transfers?
Yes, luxury Kenya safaris almost always include all meals full board, and Cheetah Safaris offers executive and exclusive transfers between the airports and lodges or between camps and lodges.
How to choose between national parks and private conservancies in Kenya?
Kenya Safaris are generally affordable. You can book a safari that’s comfortable, and if you prefer a more exclusive safari, you can book our luxury safaris. A Kenya Safari can cost between USD 1,000 Per Person Per Day to USD 3,000 Per Person Per Day.
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Cheetah Safaris is a serious advocate of sustainable safari practices in Africa. As part of our efforts and initiative, we engage and support schools and children who need knowledge to better their lives. The best gift a child can be given is education, skills, and creativity.
In this case, we request our guests booking with us, to bring an extra back of supplies. This can be in terms of books, sports materials, and any other items that would change the lives of these kids.
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