Migration of wildebeest and zebras

World-famous spectacle in East Africa

The annual migration of wildebeests and zebras in Africa is well-know from television. Think of hordes of wildebeests and zebras crossing the savannah and leaping into rivers to cross to the other side, but there’s more to this migration. You can witness it, but it is not cheap.

It’s as beautiful as it is brutal: thousands of wildebeests and zebras jump into the river to swim across, while hungry crocodiles snap at them, some of the animals get trampled by others, and others drown in the river due to the strong current.

The migration of wildebeest in Tanzania.

How can I experience the migration?

You can experience this spectacle, either in Tanzania where the animals cross the Grumeti river, or in Kenya in the Maasai Mara National Reserve where they cross the Mara river. But there’s more to the migration than river crossings, you can see the long caravan of animals searching for juicy grass, hundreds of thousands of animals will pass right by.

In October, around half a million herbivores make their way from the north of Tanzania to the south via the east, because of the drought. After the wet season, in April, they head back via the west to Kenya. Their route resembles the shape of a clock.

The migration as is takes part in Kenya.

During their trek, the animals make good use of the weather conditions that enable vegetation to grow. Scientists have discovered that the animals cover around 800 kilometres each year, with predators such as lions following their tracks. About a third of the Serengeti is in Kenya, the rest is in Tanzania.

A crocodile attacks a wildebeest during the migration in Africa.

Best time for the migration

As a tourist you can be there and watch the animals take the plunge. Although you have to be lucky, their behaviour depends on the weather. Be prepared for few friendly images.

By the way, you almost always see something of the migration, as this process continues almost all year round. You see a long caravan of animals slowly passing by.

Serengeti National Park

The best time to visit the Serengeti is April, May and June when the animals have to cross the dangerous Grumeti and Talek rivers.

Maasai Mara

To see the migration in Maasai Mara the best time is July, August and September, when the animals cross the Mara river.

Tourists can witness the animals leaping into the river to cross, but be aware that some of the things you’ll see won’t be pleasant, the animal kingdom is brutal. You’ll always see parts of the migration, because this takes place year-round. You’ll always see a caravans of animals walking past.

So you can choose whether you want to see the migration in Kenya or Tanzania. But there are differences.

Kenya

For example, night safaris are prohibited in Kenya. Just like walking safaris. But a tour in the Maasai Mara is cheaper.

Tanzania

Night safaris and walking safaris are permitted inTanzania. This country also has more rivers to see animals crossing those during migration. But a safari in Tanzania ia also more expensive.