Each year, Tanzania plays host to a natural wildlife spectacle that sees countless wildebeests coursing through its terrains. This is the phenomenal Serengeti Wildebeest Migration. So mesmerizing is this event, that it will imprint visions of sprawling grasslands and awe-inspiring wildebeest congregations onto your mind’s canvas.

Garnering worldwide recognition as the largest herd movement on the planet, Wildebeest Migration Serengeti serves as a profound demonstration of the cyclical nature of life. Drawn by the allure of fresh, green pastures, herds of wildebeest and other creatures follow the rainclouds, resulting in a natural wonder that is undeniably a must-see for any visitor to Tanzania. So, prepare yourselves for an ultimate Tanzania Safari adventure that is filled with predatory crocodiles, dramatic river crossings, the miracle of the birthing season, and a diverse animal population. Welcome to The Great Migration, an extravaganza like no other on Earth.

The Great Wildebeest Migration: The Greatest Show On Earth

Regarded as “The Greatest Show on Earth,” the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration is a journey of approximately 1.5 million wildebeest accompanied by zebras, gazelles, and other grazing herbivores across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.

Covering around 800 kilometers, this annual migration is a spectacle of life and death triggered by the animals’ fundamental need to find fresh grazing and water. Most often, experts believe that this annual movement is a result of changing weather seasons that happens across Tanzania.

The rainy season in Tanzania brings an abundance of rain. This leads to the growth of rich, green grass that herbivores love to feast on. As the seasons shift, so do the rain clouds, prompting a constant movement of wildlife across the country.

The vast wildebeest herds of the Great Migration quickly set off in pursuit of new grazing grounds as soon as the change in seasons is apparent. Then the cycle starts again, bringing them back to refreshed, verdant pastures.

What is the Wildebeest Migration?

The Wildebeest Migration is a circular grazing path determined by the availability of food. Around more than 1 million wildebeest move in a pattern between the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya, following the rain and growing grass.

This odyssey is punctuated with numerous challenges, as predators lurk in wait and natural obstacles such as rivers teem with crocodiles.

When does the Great Wildebeest Migration Begin?

Typically, the wildebeest herds are observed to commence their migratory routes once the mating and calving periods have concluded. This is roughly around March around this time.

Also remember, the Wildebeest Migration is a year-round event as the herds constantly move. However, the most dramatic moments generally occur from July to September. So, most travellers opt for Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari during these months to see the migration in full glory.

What is the Best Time to See the Migration in Tanzania?

This question is very subjective and depends on exactly what you are looking for on Tanzania Safari Tours. As it has been established that June to July is the time for Mara River crossings and the starting months of the year is the time for locating the newborn calves; you can choose your best time to see the migration as per your desires and liking.

Now, as the wildebeest traverse they migrate through various routes. While some major migration routes and patterns can be tracked, it’s quite impossible to track down every possible route of such a humongous natural event. Still, we have managed to give you a month-to-month breakdown for Serengeti Wildebeest Migration across various months.

Month-to-month Breakdown

If you are interested in Tanzania Safari Tours for mainly witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration, then we have got a piece of good news for you. It is that this phenomenal event is readily accessible and can be appreciated by visitors irrespective of their budget or physical capabilities.

The challenge, however, lies in its transient nature, making it tricky to precisely forecast the herds’ location at a specific moment. This is why, we are providing you with a month-to-month overview of the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration, assisting you in tailoring your visit optimally.

But, remember, these are broad estimations, and for the most current information, it’s recommended to consult with a local safari provider.

• January-March: Calving season in the Southern Serengeti.
• April-May: The herds start their journey to the Western and Central Serengeti following the rain clouds.
• June: Wildebeest congregate in the Western Serengeti and cross the Grumeti River.
• July-September: The most spectacular river crossings occur at the Mara River.
• October-November: Herds move back through the Central Serengeti.
• December: Return to the lush plains of the Southern Serengeti.

Where are the Best Migration Safaris?

The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya offer the most thrilling experiences of the migration. Depending on the time of year, different regions of the Serengeti will be more rewarding from the point of view of migration safari.

Though we at Off We Go Tours and Safaris offer several Tanzania Safari Packages, you can check out our 7-Day Serengeti Migration Safari which has been meticulously designed to target a specific group of travelers who come to the East African destination, only to see and hear the wildebeests groove across the Serengeti plains.

Fun Facts about the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration

The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration is one of the world’s most astounding wildlife spectacles, and there are many fascinating aspects to this natural phenomenon. Here are some fun facts to enrich your understanding of the migration:

1. It’s the Largest Overland Migration. The Great Wildebeest Migration represents the most massive overland migration on the planet.
2. It follows a Circular Migration Route. The migration follows a circular route, starting from the southern Serengeti in Tanzania, heading north into Kenya’s Maasai Mara, then back south to the Serengeti. The whole cycle covers approximately 2,000 miles.
3. The path of wildebeests is driven by rain. The Wildebeest Migration is driven by the rains as the herds follow the growth of new grass. This makes the exact timing of the migration vary slightly each year.
4. Around half-million wildebeests are born in the Calving Season.  January-March is typically the calving season for wildebeests in the Serengeti. During this short period, around 500,000 calves are born, often within a few weeks of each other.
5. The herds have to travel through dangerous Crossings. The wildebeest must cross several rivers during their migration, including the perilous Grumeti and Mara rivers. These crossings are fraught with danger, as crocodiles lie in wait for the herds.
6. It’s a predator’s feast in Serengeti. The migration is a crucial time for the Serengeti’s predators. Lions, hyenas, leopards, and cheetahs follow the herds, picking off the young, old, or weak animals. Interestingly, the lion population in the Serengeti ecosystem is around 3000 in number. That’s huge!
7. Birds Benefit Too. Not only land predators benefit from the migration. Hundreds of scavenger birds, like vultures and marabou storks, follow the migrating herds to feast on those that don’t survive the journey.
8. Sustainable Grazing. Despite the massive number of grazing animals, the migration is sustainable. As the herds move on, they leave behind dung that fertilizes the grass, ensuring fresh growth for the following year.

Some Final Tips For Planning Your Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari

Planning a Tanzania Safari around the Wildebeest Migration requires understanding the movement patterns. Choose your safari location based on the time of year and the event you’re most interested in witnessing. Also, book your accommodations well in advance, as lodges can get filled quickly, particularly during the peak migration season.

• Flexibility is key. Migration is a natural event governed by weather and grazing conditions. Be prepared for changes in timing and location.
• Patience pays off. The most spectacular events, like river crossings, require waiting. Nature operates on its own schedule.
• Hire a knowledgeable guide. A good guide can enhance your experience and help you understand the behavior and movement of the herds.
• Consider a hot air balloon safari. This provides a unique vantage point to witness the enormity of the migration.
• Pack appropriately. Remember binoculars, a good camera, sunscreen, and suitable clothing for the climate.

Wrapping Up the Circle of Life- The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration

The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration is an awe-inspiring spectacle of survival and continuity. It showcases the raw beauty and brutality of nature. It’s a mesmerizing event that we at Off We Go Tours and Safaris have proudly facilitated and will continue to promote in the future.

Our skilled driver guides have become masters at tracking migration. They will enlighten you at every juncture as they chase the unfolding drama, offering an experience like no other.

We also offer an array of Tanzania Safari Tours, with knowledgeable booking experts on hand to assist you in determining the ideal time for your visit to gain the maximum possible experience. Don’t delay any longer! Get in touch with us now and embark on the journey of planning an unforgettable adventure.