Witness the greatest animal spectacle on earth
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!
Often called the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’, the Wildebeest Migration is a must-do for every serious safari goer. Nowhere else can you see literally millions of herbivores on the move through an ancient route that includes evading predators, wading treacherous rivers and always being deeply aware of the rain and state of grazing.
River crossings are a highlight because they combine two of the most exciting parts of safari: unpredictability and the thrill of potential danger. Strong currents, huge Nile crocodiles and wily leopard all await the wildebeest, with many of the females being pregnant after the rut and mating season.
Lodges close to traditional crossing points fill up anywhere from a year to two years in advance so careful planning and early booking are crucial. Be aware that crossings can be very emotional moments: many of the animals drown, are eaten or suffer broken legs while trying to manoeuvre down or up steep and constantly eroding riverbanks. Calves may get separated from mothers and there will be bleating, bellowing and crying. It is not recommended for very young children or anyone who dislikes seeing animals in possible distress. That said, river crossings are an impressive reminder of the indomitability of wildlife and the incredible feats of nature we are lucky enough to witness in the fight for survival.
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).
Visit The Serengeti
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.
Visit The Masai Mara
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.
Visit The SerengetiHere are our favourite Migration Itineraries to inspire you. All of our itineraries can be tailored to meet your specific requirements.
We Sell What We Love: We are genuinely passionate about African travel and safaris. Every itinerary we design is shaped by first-hand knowledge, personal experience and a deep respect for the destinations we represent. It is company policy that our consultants experience the destinations and lodges they sell, giving them practical insight into the areas, logistics and overall journey.
Your Financial Security Comes First: We mitigate financial risk by being accredited members of ASATA, SATSA and ATTA, ensuring your funds are handled responsibly and in line with industry best practice. You book with confidence, knowing your investment is protected. For more detail, please visit our Why Book With Us page.
Transparent, Independent Reviews: Our reputation is verified through open, independent reviews on Trustpilot, Google and TripAdvisor — real feedback from real travellers, with nothing hidden. Please visit our Reviews page for more information.
Tailor-Made – Not Template – Trips: No two travellers are the same. Every journey we create is fully personalised and customised, designed around your interests, pace and expectations. This may take longer to organise but it means our clients get an unforgettable experience.
Established, Stable & Experienced: Founded in 2014, we are proud that we still have our first consultants working with us today. This continuity reflects the strength of our team culture, depth of experience and the long-term relationships we build with our staff, clients and safari partners.
Responsible Travel & Carbon Offsetting: We believe in protecting Africa’s wild places for generations to come. As part of our commitment to responsible travel, we offset our travellers’ carbon footprint through bed-night calculations, and fully offset all kilometres driven by our vehicles through verified carbon credits. Every journey therefore contributes to conservation, climate responsibility and the long-term sustainability of the destinations we love. Visit our Sustainable Travel page for more information.
Want more detailed information or advice about Migration Safaris? Speak to one of our friendly consultants today!
Enquire Now
