MIGRATION SAFARI

Witness the greatest animal spectacle on earth

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OUR MIGRATION SAFARIS

The Great Wildebeest Migration is the biggest remaining terrestrial movement of animals in the world. Imagine up to two million wildebeest – with assorted zebra and Thomson’s gazelle – following an annual circular route that starts at beginning of the year in the Southern Serengeti, reaches a crescendo mid-year with the crossing of the Mara River and end with mega-herds grazing on the fertile plains of the Masai Mara. At first glance, it seems like a simple exercise as the animals move along an ancient loop around Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. But, like many things, it’s a little more complicated than that!

Firstly, there isn’t one group of wildebeest; there are many huge herds spread out over a vast space. Secondly, they aren’t continuously on the move; if there is sufficient grazing and water, they may stay in one place for a while. Thirdly, they sometimes backtrack; if good rain has fallen, they may return to previous grasslands. Most importantly, it is impossible to know exactly when they will cross the Mara River. Generally, the thrilling crossings start around July, peaking in August, but rain or the lack of it could alter that. Wildebeest have been known to hang around on a riverbank for days at a time, anticipation building in the safari lovers just waiting to see them swim across… Early booking is crucial so we can give you the best chance of seeing this once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon.

WHY WE RECOMMEND A MIGRATION SAFARI

  • A unique opportunity to see how nature used to flow without human boundaries
  • Calving season in January and February in the Southern Serengeti means predator action
  • The rut in May to June around Moru and Seronera sees males competing for the right to mate

  • The wildebeest, many pregnant, dodge crocodiles during the Grumeti and Mara river crossings

  • Cheetah and lion make the most of the Mara’s wide-open plains to secure their abundant prey

  • An unforgettable phenomenon to experience from a dawn hot-air balloon ride as the mega herds stretch as far as the eye can see

SERENGETI

TANZANIA

The Serengeti is perhaps the most famous wildlife destination in the world and has become almost a byword for safari. It’s not surprising when you consider just how much game is packed into this area. It’s also the place where the majority of the wildebeest migration’s action happens: the gnu mate and give birth here (and, where there are baby grazers, predators like lion, spotted hyena, leopard and cheetah are more easily spotted). This paradise is also known for wonderful birdlife (especially of raptors like vultures, nature’s cleaning crew that follow big events like the migration).

MASAI MARA

KENYA

Named after the Maa people who have lived here for thousands of years, the Masai Mara is Kenya’s preeminent wildlife destination. Thanks to flat, open plains and seemingly endless golden grazing, game viewing here is very easy: scanning your binoculars 360 degrees can easily throw up not only masses of wildebeest but also giraffe, elephant, cheetah, lion and more. Although the national reserve is open to the public, it is adjoined by private conservancies in the Mara Triangle where the focus is on a harmonious coming together of safari lodges, traditional cattle grazing by the Masai and, of course, unparalleled wildlife.

GRUMETI

TANZANIA

Serengeti National Park is open to the public, which can mean more vehicles, but the Grumeti Game Reserve is completely private land on its northern border that encompasses much of the Grumeti River. This is great news as many of the herds must cross the Grumeti on their indomitable march to the Mara, giving you an exclusive display of this heart-stopping action. The slopes are steep, currents can be fast, crocs lie in wait and hippos can get territorial… It all adds up a rollercoaster of emotions for game watchers! Add super-luxe accommodation and you have a migration safari to savour.

ITINERARIES TO INSPIRE YOU

Here are our favourite Migration Itineraries to inspire you. All of our itineraries can be tailored to meet your specific requirements.

WHY BOOK WITH BIGGESTLEAF TRAVEL

  • We are passionate about what we sell

  • The most competitive and flexible rates

  • We offer personalised and customised experiences

  • Our consultants specialise in different safari-experiences

  • We have over 10 years’ experience in the travel industry

  • Our quick response and turnaround times

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