The Great Migration is often referred to as one of the most incredible wildlife spectacles on Earth. Every year, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores make an epic journey across the plains of East Africa, from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya.
It is a survival-driven trek, as animals cross crocodile-infested rivers and risk predation by lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. This detailed guide will provide everything you need to know about the Great Migration, from timing and routes to the best camps and expert tips for witnessing this natural wonder.
What is the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is a year-round, circular journey undertaken by approximately 1.5 million wildebeest, 500,000 zebras, and hundreds of thousands of gazelles and antelopes. They follow seasonal rains and the growth of fresh grass, crossing into different territories, notably between the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. While the migration is continuous, the most dramatic events—such as the river crossings—occur in specific seasons.
Key Highlights of the Migration
- The Mara River Crossing: One of the most famous and dramatic events of the migration occurs when wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River. This often happens between July and October, when the herds reach the Masai Mara. The river crossing is fraught with danger, as Nile crocodiles lurk beneath the waters, waiting to prey on the animals as they swim across. Thousands of animals are also at risk of drowning in the chaotic stampede.
- Predator Interaction: As the herds move across the savannah, they attract the attention of the Mara’s numerous predators. Lions, hyenas, leopards, and cheetahs follow the herds, offering excellent opportunities to witness hunting scenes. The Masai Mara is home to some of the largest lion prides in Africa, making it a prime location for seeing these magnificent cats in action.
- The Wildebeest Calving Season: Although most of the migration drama happens during the river crossings, the journey begins in the southern Serengeti around January when the wildebeest calving season starts. Thousands of calves are born daily, and while this is a spectacle in itself, it is also a time of increased predation, as lions, hyenas, and cheetahs prey on the vulnerable young.
Best Time to Witness the Great Migration
The migration is a year-round event, but the timing of the river crossings and the concentration of wildlife in the Masai Mara occurs primarily from July to October. This is when the herds move into the Mara in search of fresh grazing grounds, and it is also when the river crossings happen.
- July to October: Peak migration season in the Masai Mara. This is when you’re most likely to witness the famous Mara River crossings and experience the highest concentration of wildlife in the reserve.
- January to March: Calving season in the southern Serengeti, a spectacular time to see thousands of newborn wildebeest and intense predator action.
The Migration Route
The migration is an almost circular journey that takes the herds across the Serengeti and into the Masai Mara, and then back again. The primary migration route involves:
- January to March: Wildebeest calving season in the Ndutu region of the southern Serengeti.
- April to June: The herds begin moving northwest towards the Grumeti River in the western corridor of the Serengeti.
- July to October: The herds cross the Mara River into the Masai Mara, where they stay until the rains begin to fall again in the Serengeti.
- November to December: The herds return to the southern Serengeti and Ndutu plains, completing the cycle.
Best Camps and Lodges to Stay For the Migration
Witnessing the migration can be done from numerous camps and lodges scattered across the Masai Mara and Serengeti. Here are some top picks for prime access to the Great Migration:
- Governor’s Camp: One of the most famous camps in the Masai Mara, located along the Mara River, offering an excellent vantage point for river crossings.
- Mara Plains Camp: A luxury camp within the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, offering excellent game viewing and a high level of privacy.
- Kambu Campers Masai Mara/Kambu Mara Camp: A budget-friendly option located outside the reserve but within driving distance of key migration hotspots.
- Serian Camp: Known for its walking safaris and unique locations near migration routes, offering a more intimate view of the wildlife.
- Elephant Pepper Camp: Positioned in a quiet, private area of the Mara North Conservancy, it’s perfect for watching the herds without the tourist crowds.
Expert Tips for Witnessing the Migration
- Timing is Crucial: The timing of the Mara River crossings can vary slightly from year to year, so flexibility in your travel dates is helpful. It’s often best to plan for multiple days in the Mara to increase your chances of witnessing a crossing.
- Travel During Peak Season: For the best chance of seeing the migration in the Masai Mara, plan your trip between July and October. While these are peak months, and the reserve may be crowded, this is when the migration reaches the Mara.
- Book a Private Conservancy Safari: While the main Masai Mara reserve can be crowded during migration season, opting for a safari in one of the private conservancies (like Mara North or Olare Orok Conservancy) offers a more exclusive experience. These areas limit the number of vehicles, allowing for quieter, more personal wildlife encounters.
- Be Prepared for River Crossings: River crossings are unpredictable. Sometimes the herds hesitate for hours before crossing, and at other times, they rush across without warning. Patience is key to witnessing these dramatic moments.
- Engage an Experienced Guide: A knowledgeable guide makes all the difference in maximizing your migration experience. They understand the animals’ behavior, can predict movements, and get you to the right spots at the right time.
Conservation and Responsible Tourism
The Masai Mara faces various conservation challenges, including habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and tourism pressure. Visitors should prioritize responsible tourism by choosing eco-friendly camps and engaging in practices that minimize their impact on the environment. Many conservancies, like Mara North Conservancy, operate under sustainable tourism models, where tourism revenue helps support local communities and wildlife conservation.
Common FAQs About the Great Migration in the Masai Mara
1. How long does the Great Migration last in the Masai Mara?
The Great Migration is a year-round event, but the peak migration season in the Masai Mara is from July to October. During this time, the herds cross into the Masai Mara from the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing, and the dramatic Mara River crossings happen. After October, the herds typically begin their return journey south to the Serengeti.
2. Is it possible to predict exactly when the Mara River crossings will happen?
No, the river crossings are unpredictable. The wildebeest gather along the riverbanks, often hesitating for hours or days before crossing. Weather conditions, herd size, and river levels all play a role in determining when the animals will cross. Staying for multiple days in the Masai Mara increases your chances of witnessing a crossing.
3. Can I witness the Great Migration outside of the Masai Mara?
Yes, the Great Migration takes place in both the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya. In the southern Serengeti (January to March), the wildebeest calving season is a major event, while the Grumeti River crossings (May to June) occur in the western Serengeti before the herds head north to the Masai Mara.
4. What other animals are part of the Great Migration?
In addition to 1.5 million wildebeest, the migration includes 500,000 zebras and around 200,000 gazelles. These animals travel together, forming massive herds. Predators such as lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, and crocodiles follow the herds closely, providing thrilling wildlife interactions.
5. How many wildebeest typically die during the Great Migration?
It is estimated that around 250,000 wildebeest die each year during the migration, primarily due to predation, drowning during river crossings, and exhaustion. The Mara River crossing is particularly perilous due to strong currents and crocodile attacks.
6. Is the Great Migration affected by climate change?
Yes, climate change has increasingly affected the timing and patterns of the migration. Shifts in rainfall patterns can influence the availability of grazing areas and water sources, altering the movement of the herds. Conservation experts are closely monitoring these changes to understand their long-term impact on the migration.
7. Do I need special equipment to photograph the Great Migration?
Yes, for wildlife photography, especially during the river crossings, a good quality DSLR camera with a telephoto lens (300mm or more) is recommended. Binoculars are also helpful for spotting wildlife at a distance. Having a guide who understands the best lighting and viewing angles can also greatly enhance your photography experience.
8. Are there any conservation issues related to the Great Migration?
Yes, the Great Migration faces conservation challenges, including habitat loss due to human encroachment, infrastructure development (such as roads and lodges), and poaching. The Mara-Serengeti ecosystem is under pressure from population growth and expanding agriculture, making sustainable tourism and conservation efforts critical.
9. Can I see the Great Migration from a hot air balloon?
Yes, a hot air balloon safari offers a unique and breathtaking way to observe the Great Migration from above. Balloon flights take off at dawn and provide a panoramic view of the vast herds and wildlife, including the Mara River crossings. These safaris are popular during peak migration season but can be costly.
10. What should I pack for a Great Migration safari?
For a Great Migration safari, pack light, neutral-colored clothing (for blending into the environment), comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, binoculars, and a camera with a telephoto lens. Temperatures in the Mara can vary greatly, so pack layers, including a warm jacket for early morning game drives. Also, don’t forget insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes.
11. How crowded does the Masai Mara get during the migration season?
The Masai Mara can become quite crowded during the peak migration season (July to October) due to the high number of tourists eager to witness the river crossings. Certain areas around the Mara River and popular crossing points may see a large number of vehicles, especially during the crossings. For a more private experience, consider staying in private conservancies such as Mara North or Olare Motorogi, which limit the number of visitors while offering excellent wildlife viewing.
12. What are the best places to stay in the Masai Mara during the migration?
Several camps and lodges are ideally located for witnessing the Great Migration. Luxury options include Governors’ Camp, Mara Plains Camp, and Kichwa Tembo, which are near major migration routes. For mid-range or budget travelers, camps like Kembu Mara Camp and Miti Mingi Eco Camp offer proximity to the migration action while being more affordable. Some camps also offer walking safaris and hot air balloon rides, enhancing the experience.
13. Can children join a Great Migration safari?
Yes, children can join a Great Migration safari, though some lodges and camps have age restrictions or offer special family-friendly accommodations and activities. It’s important to choose a camp that caters to families, with shorter game drives, activities geared toward children, and guides experienced in working with younger safari-goers. Camps like Basecamp Explorer and Elephant Pepper Camp are known for being family-friendly.
14. How safe is it to be on safari during the Great Migration?
Safaris in the Masai Mara are generally very safe, provided guests follow the guidance of their experienced safari guides. The camps and lodges are well-equipped to ensure safety from wildlife encounters, and vehicles used on game drives are designed for secure wildlife viewing. During the river crossings, guides keep a safe distance while still providing excellent views. In addition, most camps have night guards and fenced perimeters in areas prone to wildlife presence.
15. Is there any opportunity for walking safaris during the Great Migration?
Yes, walking safaris are available in certain private conservancies around the Masai Mara but not in the main reserve itself due to park regulations. Private conservancies like Mara North, Olare Orok, and Naboisho offer guided walking safaris led by Maasai guides, giving visitors a unique opportunity to explore the landscape on foot and get closer to smaller wildlife, bird species, and plants, all while being mindful of the larger animals.
16. How far in advance should I book a Great Migration safari?
Given the popularity of the Great Migration season, it is advisable to book your safari 8 to 12 months in advance, especially for the peak season from July to October. Luxury camps and lodges can fill up quickly during this period, so early planning ensures better availability and flexibility in choosing your preferred accommodation and dates.
17. What are the most iconic predators to see during the migration?
The migration attracts large numbers of predators to the Masai Mara. The big cats—lions, leopards, and cheetahs—are the most sought-after, with the Masai Mara boasting some of the largest lion prides in Africa. Hyenas are also common and play a significant role in scavenging. The Nile crocodiles in the Mara River are infamous for attacking wildebeest and zebras during the river crossings. Witnessing predator-prey interactions is a highlight of the migration experience.
18. Can I combine a Great Migration safari with other destinations in Kenya?
Yes, many visitors combine a Masai Mara safari with trips to other iconic Kenyan destinations. Popular combinations include:
- Lake Nakuru for flamingos and rhinos.
- Amboseli National Park for views of Mount Kilimanjaro and elephant herds.
- Samburu National Reserve for rare northern species like the Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe.
- Tsavo National Park for expansive landscapes and fewer crowds. Such combinations offer diverse ecosystems and wildlife experiences within Kenya.
19. What is the role of Maasai guides during a Great Migration safari?
Maasai guides play a crucial role in providing an authentic and educational safari experience. As stewards of the land, they bring a wealth of knowledge about the local environment, wildlife, and their cultural ties to the Masai Mara. Maasai guides often lead walking safaris, offering insights into Maasai traditions, tracking animals, and sharing their deep connection with the landscape. They are also skilled at spotting wildlife, ensuring a memorable and immersive safari experience.
20. What sustainable practices should I look for when choosing a safari operator?
Responsible tourism is vital to preserving the delicate ecosystem of the Masai Mara. When selecting a safari operator, look for those that:
- Support local Maasai communities through employment, education, and conservation initiatives.
- Operate eco-friendly camps that minimize environmental impact (e.g., solar power, water recycling, limited plastic use).
- Partner with conservancies that promote wildlife conservation and limit the number of visitors to reduce pressure on the ecosystem.
- Actively participate in anti-poaching efforts and support wildlife protection programs.