The Wildebeest Migration in Kenya is a spectacular natural wonder that occurs annually in Kenya and a must witness before you retire. Wildebeest migration in Kenya’s Masai Mara is the second largest terrestrial Mammal migration on earth – a natural wonder in the world. The phenomenon is one of the most sought after experiences by wildlife and nature enthusiasts when planning safaris to Africa. The annual migration of giant herds of mammal grazers moves through the Serengeti - Mara ecosystem in search of water and fresh pastures to graze. The spectacular is surely one of the greatest wonders of the world.
The Great Migration is the ever-moving circular migration of over millions wildebeests and their entourage across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. Each year round, over 2 million wildebeest upon thousands of zebra and others mammal grazers mark their long legendary journey of over 1,800 miles that is embarked on a circular movement, in a large round trek from the drier lands in Tanzania, heading towards the north to the Kenya’s Masai Mara in search for lush grass to graze. A breathtaking natural phenomenon and a must-see safari for adventurers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking a little more extra ordinary experience on safaris in Africa.
As the herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles enter the Masai Mara they are met by more than their fair share of lethal predators. In addition to the danger posed by the big cats, the lemming-like herds must cross the Mara River while dodging around 3000 crocodiles that hide in pitch-black waters. Watching the herds blindly jump from riverbank ledges and into the river waters is spectacular, to say the least. The huge herds are eventually repaid with the richness of the vast Masai Mara plains.
Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is a top safari destination in Kenya and perhaps stands as Kenya’s National treasure and Africa at large. The National Reserve hosts the second largest terrestrial mammal migration on earth, “The Great Wildebeest Migration”. The National Reserve has a lot of more other attractions that will keep you excited on your African adventure. Masai Mara National Reserve comprises of 1,500 square kilometres that encounters vast endless plains with short sweet grasses - a great source of ample feeding for the plentiful herbivores within the region.
The premier Masai Mara is made up of two major rivers that are the Mara and the Talek that race through the reserve and provide the required water for the wide range of wildlife in Masai Mara. The National Park is a top place tosspot different wildlife species including the African Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Elephants, Rhinos, and Buffalo).
A visit to Kenya’s Masai Mara offers a great experience of the natural mammal migration and is a shouldn’t miss on your safari to Kenya.
The Great Migration is highly dependent on the seasons and where the rains are. The migration may not take specific routs since it is influenced by the factors such as; where the best grass is and the presence of predators. Many people think that the Great Migration only occurs once a year, but in reality, it is a year-round phenomenal event that offers a variety of fascinating and unusual wildlife encounters over the year. The River crossing is one of the most popular events of the migration and usually coincides with the peak safari season. The crossing usually occurs at Mara River starting in late July to August with parts of September and again on their return south, around the last two weeks of October through early November. This is therefore the best time to witness the migration in Kenya.
During the migration, crossing the tremendous Mara River infested by with crocodiles lying in the waters waiting to catch their prey, is the climax of the migration and recommended by many travellers as the best time to see the Migration.
The best time to visit Masai Mara National Reserve is during the long cool-dry season from July to October but also costliest season too. The absence of rain means that the flora is less dense, so animals are easier to observe. Additionally, insect levels, including mosquitoes, are lower during the dry season and thus many travelers find it more convenient.