The Wildebeest Great Migration
Wildebeest Great Migration
The Wildebeest Great Migration is one of the most breathtaking natural events in the world, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and thousands of gazelles embark on a year-round journey across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. This incredible movement is driven by the search for fresh grazing lands and water, making it one of nature’s most dramatic survival stories.
At Nature’s Land Safaris, we offer exclusive Great Migration safaris that bring you face-to-face with this stunning wildlife event. Whether you want to witness thrilling river crossings, newborn wildebeest calves, or predators in action, we curate tailor-made safari experiences for every traveler...
Migration Calendar and Best Time to Visit
The Great Wildebeest Migration is a year-round cycle of movement driven by rainfall and the search for fresh grazing land. While the herds never stop moving, specific times of the year offer unique experiences depending on the migration phase.
January to March – Calving Season (Southern Serengeti & Ndutu Plains)
Location:Southern Serengeti (Serengeti National Park), Ndutu Plains (Ngorongoro Conservation Area)
Highlights:
- Over 500,000 wildebeest calves are born within 2-3 weeks.
- Best time to see predators (lions, cheetahs, hyenas) hunting young wildebeest.
- Scenic landscapes with lush green grass after the short rains.
Best Safari Experiences:
- Witness predator-prey interactions.
- Stay in mobile tented camps for close encounters with the herds.
- Enjoy great photography opportunities due to vibrant scenery.
April to June – The Journey North Begins (Western & Central Serengeti)
Location: Moving from Southern Serengeti to Central & Western Serengeti (Grumeti River)
Highlights:
- The wildebeest begin their journey north, following the rains and fresh grasslands. These months mark the long rains in Tanzania.
- Fewer tourists during this time = more exclusive safari experiences.
- Grumeti River crossing (May–June) – the first major obstacle before reaching the Mara.
- Note: This river crossing is rare to witness, as it's unpredictable and doesn't attract large herds all at once like the Mara River does.
Best Safari Experiences:
- Hot Air Balloon Safari over the Serengeti for breathtaking aerial views of the migration.
- Stay at lodges in the Western Corridor to enjoy incredible game drives with fewer crowds and prime predator action as the migration moves through.
- Cheetah sightings are common as the herds move through the open plains, drawing in predators.
July to August – The Dramatic Mara River Crossing (Northern Serengeti)
Location: Northern Serengeti (Kogatende, Lamai) – Bordering Maasai Mara
Highlights:
- Mara River crossings – The most dangerous and dramatic part of the migration.
- Thousands of wildebeest leap into crocodile-infested waters.
- Big cat action! Lions, leopards, and cheetahs follow the herds.
Best Safari Experiences:
- Witness the Mara River crossing from strategically located viewing points.
- Hot Air Balloon Safari for a unique aerial perspective of the herds.
- Photographic safaris for capturing the most thrilling moments.
September to October – The Serengeti’s Quiet Period (Northern Serengeti & Maasai Mara Return)
Location: Some herds wander into Kenya’s Maasai Mara, while others start returning down south.
Highlights:
- The remaining crossings happen as herds move south.
- Fewer crowds make for a more intimate safari experience.
- Dry season means easier wildlife spotting as animals gather at waterholes.
Best Safari Experiences:
- Stay in Kogatende or Lobo areas for the last river crossings.
- Game drives to see large herds preparing for their return south.
- Elephant & buffalo encounters in the Serengeti.
November to December – Returning to Serengeti (Short Rains Begin)
Location: Moving from Northern Serengeti back to Southern Serengeti & Ndutu Plains
Highlights:
- Wildebeest start migrating back south towards the Ndutu region.
- Short rains revitalize the landscape, making it lush and green.
- Best time to witness elephants, giraffes, and resident predators.
Best Safari Experiences:
- Luxury tented camps for immersive Serengeti stays.
- Walking safaris in private reserves.
Did you know?
Fascinating Facts About Wildebeest
Not Just One Species
There are two types of wildebeest: the Blue Wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus) found in East Africa and the Black Wildebeest (Connochaetes gnou) found in Southern Africa.
Masters of Migration
Wildebeest travel over 3,000 km (1,900 miles) each year, making them one of the longest-migrating land animals in the world!
Built for Speed
A wildebeest can run up to 80 km/h (50 mph), nearly as fast as a lion! This helps them escape predators.
Wildebeest & Zebras: The Ultimate Team
Wildebeest and zebras migrate together because zebras remember water sources, while wildebeests have a strong sense of fresh grasslands—a perfect partnership!
Calving Explosion
Around 500,000 wildebeest calves are born within a 2-3 week period in January–March. This mass birthing floods predators with easy prey, helping more calves survive.
Born to Run
A newborn wildebeest can stand within 2-3 minutes after birth and run with the herd within 10 minutes!
Natural Weather Forecasters
Wildebeests can sense rain from over 50 km (30 miles) away, guiding their migration toward fresh grazing lands.
Lifespan & Strength
Wildebeests can live up to 20 years in the wild and have powerful shoulders that help them fight off predators like lions and hyenas.
Crocodiles’ Favorite Prey
During the Mara and Grumeti River crossings, thousands of wildebeest face giant Nile crocodiles, making for one of nature’s most dramatic wildlife spectacles.
Social Animals
Wildebeest are highly social and live in herds of thousands for safety. If a wildebeest gets separated, it will panic and call out until it rejoins the group.
Smelly Defense
Male wildebeest mark their territories with scent from their preorbital glands (near their eyes) and dung piles to ward off rivals.
Nature’s Engineers
Their migration patterns help shape the Serengeti ecosystem by fertilizing the land and opening up grasslands for other animals.