What is the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is the annual movement of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles across the plains of East Africa, seeking fresh grazing and water. This iconic spectacle is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Best Time to Witness the Migration
The timing of the Great Migration is critical for witnessing the most dramatic scenes. Here’s a breakdown of the migration’s timing:
- January to March: Calving season in the southern Serengeti. Witness thousands of wildebeest and other animals giving birth to their young in the lush plains.
- April to May: The herds begin to move towards the central Serengeti. This is when the predators, like lions and cheetahs, are most active.
- June to July: The herds cross the Grumeti River in the western Serengeti. This is one of the most thrilling moments of the migration, with dramatic river crossings.
- August to October: The herds make their way into the northern Serengeti and cross the Mara River into Kenya’s Masai Mara. The river crossings here are a highlight of the migration.
- November to December: The herds return to the southern Serengeti, marking the beginning of the cycle once again.
Best Places to Witness the Migration
Here are the top locations to see the Great Migration in Tanzania:
- Serengeti National Park: The heart of the migration. The vast plains and river crossings are prime locations to witness the migration.
- Ngorongoro Crater: Though not a direct part of the migration, the Crater offers fantastic wildlife viewing, including predators that follow the migrating herds.
- Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya): Just across the border, the Mara River is the site of one of the most dramatic river crossings during the migration.
- Grumeti River (Western Serengeti): A major crossing point for the wildebeest herds, the Grumeti River is where the herds face one of their greatest challenges—crocodiles!
Why Witnessing the Great Migration is a Must-See
The Great Migration is one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife events, and Tanzania offers some of the best vantage points for witnessing it. Whether it’s the dramatic river crossings, the birth of new calves, or the chase of predators, this natural phenomenon is truly unforgettable.