Kenya
Masai Mara
Wildebeest Migration
Discovering the Marvels of the Great Migration
If an African safari is your dream holiday, you’ve likely encountered tales of the Great Wildebeest Migration. Each year, around 1.5 million wildebeests and hundreds of thousands of other plains game traverse between Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara, following the rains and greener pastures. Dubbed the Greatest Show on Earth, this awe-inspiring annual spectacle is a marvel to behold and rightfully earns a place on everyone’s bucket list.
Photo credit Mr. Arindam Biswas
Here’s your comprehensive guide to understanding and experiencing the Great Wildebeest Migration.
When is the best time to see the Experience the breathtaking Wildebeest Migration firsthand.
The Great Migration offers glimpses year-round as the herds tirelessly journey in a clockwise direction between Tanzania and Kenya. From January to June, witness the wildebeest in the Serengeti, grazing abundantly on the open plains alongside their calves as they gradually progress northward towards the Masai Mara.
For prime viewing of the migration in Kenya, aim for July to September, when the wildebeests undertake dramatic crossings of the Mara River. Prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions, from anticipation to excitement, and perhaps even heartache as some succumb to the perils of this perilous journey, unfolding before your eyes.
Photo credit Mr. Arindam Biswas
Patience is paramount in this endeavor, as rushing will yield little reward. It’s essential to understand that the timing of river crossings is unpredictable, and there’s no guarantee of witnessing one on any given day. Prepare yourself for potential waits of several hours, as you await the daring plunge of a single individual, which can suddenly spark a breathtaking stampede in mere seconds.
Conversely, luck may be on your side, presenting you with a scene of bustling activity upon arrival. You might even have the fortune of witnessing multiple crossings within a span of a few hours, as the wildebeests dart back and forth, occasionally falling prey to lions or crocodiles lying in wait on the opposite bank.
What’s the optimal way to seize the moment?
For those familiar with safaris, patience reigns supreme when observing wildlife. As mentioned earlier, be ready for extended waits at the river’s edge.
Photo credit Amazing safari
One of our clients, during their visit to the Mara, shared some valuable insights: “The migration is undeniably one of the most thrilling natural events to capture through photography. It’s easy to become overwhelmed, snapping away at everything in motion and ending up with thousands (yes, thousands) of images. However, as with many things in life, quality triumphs over quantity, especially at a crossing.
He emphasized the importance of conveying the ‘chaos’ in your photographs. To achieve this, ensure you have a wide-angle lens.
Most importantly, take a moment to absorb the scene before capturing it. Observing it firsthand, rather than through a viewfinder, offers a completely different perspective. A river crossing may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so immerse yourself fully. This approach will undoubtedly strengthen your images as you identify the most captivating focal points within the scene. In essence, familiarize yourself with your equipment, take in the moment before reaching for your camera, and remember to zoom out.”
Where is the best place to stay?
Photo credit Governor’s camp
Numerous camps and lodges serve as excellent bases for experiencing this extraordinary wildlife spectacle. However, it’s crucial to select a package that incorporates game drives. During your investigation, you might observe that many establishments advertise full board rates with an extra fee for game drives, which can lead to confusion or disappointment if not clarified upfront. Additionally, opting for a location with a water source that attracts a diverse array of wildlife passing through the camp adds to the experience.
When traveling with young ones, seek accommodations that clearly prioritize families, offering suitable lodging, meal choices, and a variety of child-friendly activities beyond game drives. Numerous establishments are situated along the banks of the Mara River and provide specially crafted Family Tent units, ideal for keeping the entire family together under one canvas roof.
What steps should I take to arrange a viewing of the migration?
Arranging an international holiday can often feel daunting and overwhelming. However, there’s no better time than the present to take action. Despite July through October being our busiest season, we still have some limited avail Luxury Safari and we’re fully equipped to coordinate your safari experience from beginning to end. Feel free to reach out to us via email us booking@happyfeettours.in or WhatsApp at 7439860539 to get started visit us Happy Feet Tours
