
Experience the Great Migration: A Complete Safari Guide to Tanzania’s Wildlife
Experience the Great Migration: A Complete Safari Guide to Tanzania’s Wildlife
The Great Migration is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on the planet, and Tanzania is one of the best places to experience this incredible journey. Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, travel across the Serengeti National Park and into Kenya’s Masai Mara, creating a breathtaking spectacle of survival, struggle, and triumph. This guide will help you understand everything you need to know to experience the Great Migration on a Tanzania safari, from the best time to visit to the wildlife you can expect to see.
What is the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is a seasonal journey where wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move in search of fresh grazing and water. The migration follows a cyclical route dictated by rainfall patterns, which influences where the animals travel and when. The animals face challenges along the way, including river crossings filled with predators like crocodiles, lions, and hyenas.
Best Time to See the Great Migration in Tanzania
While the Great Migration is a year-round event, the best time to witness it depends on which part of the migration you want to experience.
- January to March: This is when the herds are in the southern Serengeti, particularly in the Ndutu area, where they gather to calve. This is also a great time to see newborn wildebeest and other animals, and the landscape is lush and green after the rains.
- April to May: The migration starts to move toward the western Serengeti as the wet season transitions into the dry season. These months offer less crowded game viewing, and the landscape is still vibrant with flora.
- June to July: The herds begin to move toward the northern Serengeti and prepare for their famous river crossings at the Grumeti River. The dramatic crossings, where thousands of animals attempt to navigate crocodile-infested waters, are a highlight of this period.
- August to October: The herds are in the northern Serengeti, and this is one of the best times to witness the migration's climax at the Mara River in the Masai Mara. The dramatic crossings of the Mara River are an unforgettable sight, with dramatic river fights, predators in hot pursuit, and dramatic escapes.
Wildlife to Expect During the Great Migration
Aside from the wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, the Great Migration attracts a wide variety of predators and scavengers. Here's what you can expect to see on a Tanzania safari during the migration season:
- Predators: Lions, cheetahs, and leopards are drawn to the migration as an abundant food source. The large herds of wildebeest and zebras attract big cats, and you may be lucky enough to witness a hunt in action.
- Crocodiles: As the herds cross rivers, especially at the Mara River and Grumeti River, crocodiles lie in wait for their chance to strike. These apex predators often feature in dramatic moments of the migration.
- Hyenas & Jackals: Hyenas and jackals follow the herds, scavenging from the predators’ kills. Their presence adds to the dynamic drama of the migration.
- Birdlife: In addition to the large mammals, the migration also draws many bird species. Raptors like the vultures and eagles follow the predators' kills, while migratory species, such as flamingos and storks, are also often spotted in the region.
Where to Stay During the Great Migration Safari
Tanzania offers a wide variety of safari lodges, camps, and tented camps for an immersive experience during the Great Migration. Depending on your preferences and the season, you can opt for:
- Luxury Safari Lodges: Exclusive accommodations such as Singita Serengeti or Four Seasons Safari Lodge offer lavish amenities, spectacular views, and world-class service in the heart of the Serengeti.
- Mobile Tented Camps: For those seeking a more authentic safari experience, mobile camps like Asilia’s Namiri Plains Camp and andBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas follow the migration’s path and provide intimate and immersive experiences.
- Mid-range & Budget Lodges: Options such as Serengeti Sopa Lodge and Kati Kati Tented Camp offer comfortable accommodations that cater to different budgets without sacrificing the safari experience.
Best Safari Activities During the Migration
While a game drive is the primary way to experience the migration, there are other activities that allow you to get even closer to the action:
- River Crossing Viewing: Witnessing the herds of wildebeest and zebras crossing the rivers, often under the watchful eyes of crocodiles, is one of the most thrilling experiences. The Mara River and Grumeti River are key river crossing points.
- Hot Air Balloon Safari: For a unique perspective of the migration, take a hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti. The aerial view of thousands of animals moving across the plains is nothing short of magical.
- Walking Safari: In designated areas, you can join a guided walking safari, where a professional guide leads you through the landscape, teaching you about the ecosystem, wildlife, and plants.
Experiencing the Great Migration is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park offers a front-row seat to one of the most extraordinary natural events in the world. Whether you visit during the dramatic river crossings or during the calving season, you’ll have the chance to witness the resilience of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles and the predators that follow them. Make your safari dreams come true and witness the Great Migration in all its glory.