An Unforgettable Journey
The Great Wildebeest Migration is a testament to nature's resilience and majesty. This annual journey, undertaken by over two million wildebeest, zebras, and antelope across East Africa, is a spectacle that captivates guests from across the globe. On a Great Wildebeest Migration African tour with Rhino Africa, we bring you closer than ever to this epic spectacle, offering an exclusive, front-row seat to one of nature's greatest shows.
Understanding the Great Wildebeest Migration: An Epic Cycle of Life
The Great Wildebeest Migration isn't merely a linear journey but a continuous cycle of movement influenced by the East African climate and the wildlife’s quest for fresh grazing opportunities.
Witnessing this natural phenomenon is a unique wildlife experience, but understanding the dynamics of the migration is equally fascinating.
The Great Wildebeest Migration Journey Unpacked
The journey begins in the southern plains of Tanzania's Serengeti National Park around December, with the arrival of the rainy season. Hundreds of thousands of wildebeest are born during this period, and as the herds replenish, they begin moving west and then north in search of greener pastures.
By July, the herds have reached the Grumeti River in the Serengeti and the Mara River that divides Tanzania and Kenya. These river crossings are among the most thrilling events to witness as the wildebeest confront daunting currents and lurking crocodiles.
After crossing the Mara River, the herds spend time in the lush plains of the Maasai Mara National Reserve before heading back to the Serengeti to complete the cycle.
When to Go: Timing Your Great Wildebeest Migration Safari
While the Great Migration is a year-round phenomenon, the best time to see the Great Migration in Africa largely depends on what you want to experience.
Calving Season (Late January to March): This period in the southern Serengeti is when most wildebeest calves are born, offering plenty of dramatic predator-prey interaction.
Moving North (April - May): Next, the herds make their way toward the grassier plains of the Serengeti Western Corridor.
Grumeti River Crossing (June - July): During this time, the wildebeest and zebras cross the perilous Grumeti River, trying their best to make it unscathed.
Mara River Crossing (July - August): This is arguably the most spectacular time to witness the Great Migration as the herds brave crocodile-infested waters.
Grazing in the Maasai Mara (September - October): The wildebeest and zebras take advantage of the abundant grasslands in Kenya's Maasai Mara.
Back to Tanzania (November - December): Rain starts to fall again in the south, and the animals start their long trek back to Tanzania, where they will give birth to the next generation of migrators.
Choosing the Right Great Migration Africa Itinerary
At Rhino Africa, we recognise that each traveller is unique. That's why our Great Migration Africa itineraries are carefully tailored to meet your preferences. We factor in the timing of your safari, highlights you wish to see, level of adventure you're comfortable with, and kind of accommodation that suits your style.
Whether you're eager to capture the dramatic river crossings on camera or wish to witness the spectacle from a hot air balloon, we'll help craft the perfect itinerary for you.
Luxury Accommodations for the Discerning Traveller
A great safari isn't just about what you see during the day – it's also about where you retreat to at night. We work with only the very best luxury safari lodges and tented camps that offer not just comfort and top-notch amenities but also prime locations for observing the Wildebeest Migration.
Imagine dining under the African stars, retiring to a luxurious suite, and waking up to the sights and sounds of the Serengeti or the Maasai Mara. That's the Rhino Africa difference.
Beyond the Migration: Enhance Your African Adventure
While the Great Wildebeest Migration is undoubtedly a highlight, there's so much more to explore in East Africa. Consider extending your African holiday by including a gorilla trekking expedition in Rwanda, a beach getaway in Zanzibar, or a cultural immersion in the local Maasai and Hadzabe tribes.
At Rhino Africa, we’re proud to be the best in the business when it comes to tailor-made luxury African experiences that go over and above the expected to bring you the extraordinary.
Booking Your Dream Safari: The Rhino Africa Advantage
First-hand experience, decades of knowledge, innovation, and personalised service set us apart. We call Africa home, so not only do we understand the nuances of the Great Wildebeest Migration, but we also know how to craft a safari that exceeds your expectations.
When you book with Rhino Africa, you're not just booking a trip. Instead, you're ensuring your dream African journey will be tailor-made to your exact specifications.
Reach out to our Travel Experts today, and let’s start planning your dream Great Migration safari!
