Stages of the Great Wildebeest Migration
The Great Wildebeest Migration is without a doubt one of the most incredible wildlife shows on the planet. Each year, around 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras migrate around Serengeti National Park in search of lush green pastures. Following the rains, the herds must brave raging rivers and avoid lurking predators to complete this annual cycle.
While nothing is certain in nature, below is an overview of the main points of the wildebeest migration and some of the best places to stay to witness this incredible phenomenon. Tanzania has been open to tourists for several months now, and with some exciting specials and very few visitors, there hasn't been a better time to visit the Serengeti.
Calving seasonAs the New Year dawns, the majority of wildebeest began to congregate in the Ndutu plains, south of the national park. Some are also spilling over into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, but this is when the herds are concentrated in their greatest numbers.
In early February, the birth season does the same. Over a three-week period, around eight thousand wildebeest calves are born each day, giving rise to even more black dots across the endless plains. The abundance of ungulates of course attracts many predators, from lightning-fast cheetahs to sneaky hyenas, it is a time of abundance for prey and predators.
Migration camps such as Serengeti Safari Camp in Nomad or Ubuntu in Asilia provide the perfect opportunity to sit among these vast herds. With their camps moving up to three times a year, you can be sure to be at the forefront of this awe-inspiring spectacle as well as beautiful luxury accommodation.
In limboAfter the birth of the wildebeest calves, slowly the herds begin to separate. Although the general direction is north, herds of shards are forming and the wildebeest are in limbo. Some herds head directly to the Grumeti region in the west, while many wildebeest move in and around the Seronera region of the park.
Even separated, herds still number in the thousands as they pass through the central Serengeti. April and May bring the long rainy season in Tanzania, but it also offers a great chance to view brilliant game at lower prices.
Asilia's Dunia is a wonderful camp this time of year. Its location is perfect for catching migrating wildebeest and exploring the variety of habitats that support many of the Big Five. If you can, it is also very useful to branch out into the Namiri Plains to observe incredible big cat sightings.
The GrumetiAs May progresses into June, the herds are still in their splinter groups. While some will head directly north of Seronera towards the Mara River, others will arrive in the Grumeti area of the park. Here, the famous Grumeti River winds through beautiful riverine forests.
While the Grumeti is certainly not on the same scale as the Mara River, there are a few small river crossings that do occur and the Grumeti area is a beautiful place to explore.
June is without a doubt the best time to visit here, Singita occupying her own private concession. Home to exceptional lodges like Sasakwa and Faru Faru, the level of hospitality, guidance and service is second to none. With their own private dealership comes the freedom to off-road, walk and drive at night without any restrictions as well as a very limited number of vehicles that allows for a truly immersive and personal experience. Even when the migration is not in this area, combining a Singita Lodge with another camp elsewhere in the Serengeti for migration makes for the perfect Serengeti experience.
Crossing the Mara RiverFrom early July to early November, the Mara River is the best place to observe wildebeest migration. Located in the Kogatende region in the northern Serengeti, herds start arriving here from mid-June and this is where the second largest congregation is located.
Contrary to popular belief, the river is not the border between Tanzania and Kenya and only about a quarter of the wildebeest enter the Masai Mara. Most herds tend to stay in the Serengeti National Park, but cross the river several times in search of the best pastures. The scenes taking place here are worthy of any wildlife documentary, with huge crocodiles lurking in the shallows as well as lions and leopards ambushing the shores, the wildebeest are truly against all odds. Thousands fall victim to predators as well as the current, but many pass through hardship and are rewarded with lush green grass to graze on.
While the migration camps follow the wildebeest to the Kogatende area, if you want an extra luxurious experience, you should definitely consider staying in one of the permanent lodges. Sayari d'Asilia as well as Lamai de Nomad offer the best permanent accommodation in the north and with beautiful views from all camps, you can be sure of a safari that is not only filled with extraordinary wildlife sightings, but also one of the best accommodations in Tanzania.
The journey southAfter the adrenaline-fueled river crossings, the wildebeest start their journey south again. From the beginning of November, the wildebeest return to the plains of Ndutu, completing their annual cycle. Some herds are dispersing again in the central regions, some stray east and some head directly south. Again, they are in limbo, but will all be gathering in the Southern Plains by the end of the year.
Choosing where to stay in November can be tricky as it is a transition month for migration. At the start of the month, you might get lucky and witness the last river crossings in the north, or you can head to & Beyond's Klein's camp to the east and enjoy a private concession that sees wildebeest pass all over the place. throughout the month. No matter where you choose to stay, the resident game around Serengeti Lodges is always fantastic.
Marc Harris is Managing Director of Tanzania Odyssey. Tanzania Odyssey has been a leading specialist tour operator in Tanzania since 1998. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to enhance your profile, please contact us.