What is the Great Wildebeest Migration?
The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife events. Every year, more than 1.5 million wildebeest, alongside hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, migrate across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing and water.
The migration follows a continuous circular route between Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Kenya’s Maasai Mara. Along the way, the herds face predators such as lions, cheetahs, hyenas and Nile crocodiles, making every stage of the journey a remarkable display of survival.
Recognised as one of the Seven New Wonders of the World, the Great Migration is often called the “Greatest Show on Earth.” From dramatic Mara River crossings to the calving season in the southern Serengeti, every part of the journey offers unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Rather than following a fixed schedule, the migration is driven by rainfall. As the seasons change, the herds move in search of fresh grass, creating a year-round safari experience across Kenya and Tanzania.
How many wildebeest migrate each year?
Around 1.5 million wildebeest take part in the Great Wildebeest Migration each year. They travel alongside approximately 400,000 zebras and 200,000 gazelles as they move between the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya.
The migration also marks the start of a new generation. Between January and March, around 400,000 wildebeest calves are born on the southern Serengeti plains, with thousands born each day during the peak calving season in February.
Not every animal completes the journey. Around 250,000 wildebeest die each year due to predation, river crossings, exhaustion and other natural causes. Despite these losses, the migration continues to thrive as one of Africa’s greatest wildlife spectacles.
Why do the wildebeest migrate?
The Great Wildebeest Migration is driven by one simple need: survival. The herds follow seasonal rainfall in search of fresh grass and reliable water sources across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.
As the seasons change, the wildebeest, zebras and gazelles travel in a continuous clockwise loop between Tanzania and Kenya. Although the migration covers a route of around 640 km (400 miles), many animals travel much farther as they respond to changing weather and grazing conditions.
Because the migration depends on rainfall rather than fixed dates, no two years are the same. This unpredictability is what makes every Great Migration safari a unique experience.
What animals can you see during the Great Migration?
The Great Wildebeest Migration includes around 1.5 million wildebeest, 400,000 zebras and 200,000 gazelles. Along the way, you may also spot Thomson’s gazelles, Grant’s gazelles and other antelope species.
The migration attracts some of Africa’s top predators, including lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas and Nile crocodiles. River crossings offer some of the most dramatic wildlife encounters, as crocodiles lie in wait while the herds attempt to cross.
Because each species follows different grazing conditions, you won’t always see them together. Every stage of the migration offers a unique wildlife experience.
Where does the Great Migration take place?
The Great Wildebeest Migration takes place across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in Tanzania and Kenya. The herds follow a continuous circular route from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area through Serengeti National Park, across the Mara River and into the Maasai Mara before returning south.
This cross-border journey covers some of East Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. While the migration can be seen in both countries, the best place to witness the famous Mara River crossings depends on the time of year.
The Great Migration in Kenya
The Great Wildebeest Migration reaches Kenya’s Maasai Mara between August and October. During this time, thousands of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles cross the Mara River before spreading across the reserve in search of fresh grazing.
The Maasai Mara is one of the best places to experience the Great Migration. In addition to the famous river crossings, visitors have an excellent chance of spotting the Big Five and a wide variety of other wildlife. Its accessibility from Nairobi also makes it a popular choice for a Great Migration safari in Kenya.
Experiencing the Mara River crossings
The Mara River crossings are the most dramatic stage of the Great Wildebeest Migration. Thousands of wildebeest and zebras plunge into the river, where strong currents and Nile crocodiles make every crossing a test of survival.
Because the migration follows rainfall, river crossings are impossible to predict and are never guaranteed. The best chance of witnessing one is between August and October, when many herds move between the Serengeti and the Maasai Mara.
River crossings attract visitors from around the world, so choosing the right camp and guide is essential. Our team can recommend locations that offer excellent viewing opportunities while helping to avoid the busiest crossing points.
When is the Great Wildebeest Migration?
The Great Wildebeest Migration is a year-round wildlife spectacle, with the herds constantly moving in search of fresh grazing and water. Because the migration follows seasonal rainfall, its exact timing varies from year to year.
The best time to see the famous Mara River crossings is typically between August and October, when the herds move between Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Maasai Mara. Earlier in the year, the southern Serengeti hosts the calving season, while the return journey begins as the short rains arrive.
No matter when you visit, each stage of the migration offers a unique safari experience.
The Great Migration: month by month
The Great Wildebeest Migration is a year-round journey through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. While the migration never stops, the experience changes with the seasons. Here’s what you can expect each month and where to find the herds.
The Migration: January, February and March
From January to March, the herds gather on the southern Serengeti plains for the calving season. Around 400,000 wildebeest calves are born during this period, with thousands arriving each day in February. The short, nutrient-rich grass provides ideal grazing, making this one of the best times to witness newborn wildlife.
The Migration: April to May
As the long rains begin, the herds leave the southern Serengeti and start their journey west and north. Fresh grazing draws them across the plains toward the Grumeti region, marking the next stage of the Great Wildebeest Migration. This period offers fewer crowds and beautiful green landscapes.
The Migration: June to July
By June and July, the herds continue north through the western Serengeti toward the Maasai Mara. Along the way, many cross the Grumeti River, where crocodiles lie in wait. This is an excellent time to witness large herds on the move before the famous Mara River crossings begin.
The Migration: August, September and October
August to October is the peak season for the Great Wildebeest Migration. During these months, many herds cross the Mara River into Kenya’s Maasai Mara, creating one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife spectacles. While river crossings are never guaranteed, this is the best time to witness the migration at its most dramatic.
The Migration: November to December
As the short rains begin, the herds leave the Maasai Mara and head south into the Serengeti. They continue their journey toward the southern plains, where the cycle begins again with the arrival of the calving season early in the new year.
Where to stay for the Great Wildebeest Migration
Choosing the right camp is key to experiencing the Great Wildebeest Migration. In Kenya, the Maasai Mara offers a wide range of luxury safari camps and lodges, many with easy access to the Mara River and key wildlife areas. With regular flights from Nairobi, it’s one of the most accessible places to experience the migration.
In Tanzania, both permanent lodges and seasonal mobile camps offer excellent viewing opportunities. Mobile camps move with the herds throughout the year, allowing guests to stay close to the action while enjoying a comfortable and authentic safari experience.
Our travel specialists can help you choose the best camp based on the time of year and the experiences you’re looking for.