Close encounters of the herd kind
The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the most remarkable wildlife experiences on Earth. It involves around 1.5 million wildebeest, plus hundreds of thousands of zebra and other antelope, migrating across the East African wilderness in search of fresh grazing. Along the way, the herds will breed, give birth, and endure encounters with many predators. They’ll also have to overcome natural obstacles, of which the most infamous are the rivers of the Masai Mara.
Witnessing the beauty, drama (and heartbreak) of this migration is something that will stay with you forever. The combination of breathtaking scenery, fascinating insights into how the savannah ecosystem operates, and almost guaranteed wildlife action (from births to hunts) makes this a bucket list experience for anyone interested in luxury African travel.
A common misconception is that the Great Wildebeest Migration is a one-off annual event. It’s actually more accurate to think of it as a continuous loop, with the ceaseless movement of the herds being prompted by new grass growth after seasonal rains.
In Kenya and Tanzania, where the migration takes place, there are typically two periods of rainfall each year – the long rains and the short rains. While these occur at more or less the same time each year, predicting them precisely can be challenging.
Get away from it all
The Great Wildebeest Migration is a world-famous event and attracts a great many safari tourists each year. Certain locations, such as river crossings, can become quite crowded with game-drive vehicles at the busiest times. This can detract from the wildlife viewing experience, and impact the behaviour of the wildebeest.
To enjoy the best of this experience, talk to Journey Beyond for an itinerary that optimizes your chances of seeing compelling action, whilst keeping you far from the crowds.
Our African travel experts can create a bespoke experience that combines luxury safari lodges and camps and renowned local guides. We know all the best secret spots (including private conservancies outside the Masai Mara and Serengeti) where the action is intense, but where there are very few other people.
Follow in the hoofprints of The Great Wildebeest Migration
The wildebeest themselves are compelled to keep moving, but we can offer you the flexibility that comes with exclusive-use luxury lodge bookings and private guides and vehicles. Being surrounded by wildebeest is one thing; being surrounded by people is much less of an adventure.
We can help you find vantage points for all the most intense action by drawing on our knowledge of past migrations, and our network of expert contacts across East Africa. While the Great Wildebeest Migration will undoubtedly be a highlight, we can combine it with other regional highlights. Relax after viewing the migration with time on a private island, or immerse yourself in Swahili culture when you spend time on Zanzibar.
From birthing season in the southern Serengeti from January to March, to the Western Corridor and central Serengeti in June and July, or the iconic (and dangerous) crossings of the Mara River later in the year… Journey Beyond will be with you every step of the way on your own epic African Journey.
If you you would like to witness the wonders of the Great Wildebeest Migration have a look at one of our favorite itineraries or contact us for any questions you may have. We look forward to hearing from you soon and making this bucket list dream a life changing reality.