Wildebeest Migration – Masai Mara & Serengeti Safari Experience
Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeests, 200,000 zebras, and thousands of gazelles thunder across the plains of East Africa in the world’s greatest wildlife spectacle — the Great Migration.
Spanning the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya, this epic journey is driven by rainfall, survival, and predator pressure. It’s not just a migration — it’s a circle of life in motion, filled with river crossings, lion hunts, and unforgettable moments.
At Annest Kenya Safaris, we specialize in tailored migration safaris, helping you be in the right place at the right time for the most dramatic sightings.
What You'll See on a Migration Safari
Massive wildebeest herds stretching to the horizon
Mara River crossings – chaos, crocodiles, and survival
Predators – lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas waiting in ambush
Big Five sightings along migration routes
500+ species of birds including vultures, eagles, and storks
Great Migration Calendar – When & Where to Go
| Month | Location | What’s Happening |
|---|---|---|
| Jan–Mar | Southern Serengeti (Ndutu) | Calving season – thousands of babies born daily; predator action |
| Apr–May | Central/Western Serengeti | Herds move slowly; lush scenery, fewer crowds |
| June | Grumeti River (Western Corridor) | First major river crossings; great for photography |
| July–Aug | Northern Serengeti & Masai Mara | Peak action – dramatic Mara River crossings, Big Cats on the hunt |
| Sept–Oct | Masai Mara (Kenya) | Herds graze in Kenya; incredible predator-prey interactions |
| Nov–Dec | Southern Serengeti | Herds return south for calving season cycle |
Best time for river crossings: July to September
Best time for calving: Late January to early March
Wildebeest Migration Safari
Masai Mara Safari Tour
Masai Mara Big five tour tour
Lake Nakuru & Naivasha, Masai Mara Safari
Masai Mara safari tour & Amboseli
Amboseli , Lake Naivasha & Masai Mara
Ol Pejeta Lake Naivasha & Masai Mara
Amboseli , Naivasha, Nakuru & Masai Mara
Tsavo West, Amboseli , Naivasha & Masai Mara Safari
Amboseli, Lakes Naivasha and Nakuru, and the Masai Mara One week safari
Samburu, Aberdares, Lakes Nakuru & Naivasha, and Masai Mara
Recommended Camps & Lodges (Migration Access)
In Masai Mara:
Ashnil Mara Camp – Near Mara River
Entim Mara Camp – Front-row seat to crossings
Mara Serena Lodge – Elevated views, luxury tents
In Serengeti:
Mara Under Canvas (Northern) – Seasonal camp near river
Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge (Central) – Year-round game viewing
Ndutu Safari Lodge (Southern) – Best for calving season
Why Book With Annest Kenya Safaris?
Locally based & experienced – We know migration patterns
Custom itineraries – We match your dates to migration zones
Fly-in or road safari options
Trusted camps near migration hotspots
24/7 support and full logistics handled
FAQ – Wildebeest Migration in Kenya & Tanzania
The Mara River (July–Sept) offers the most dramatic action. But Ndutu (Jan–Mar) is perfect for calving season.
Not necessarily — but combining both gives you the full migration circle. We handle all cross-border logistics.
Nature is unpredictable, but we track real-time herd movement and place you as close as possible to the action.
Yes — fly-in safaris are available and save time. You can also go overland if you prefer scenic drives.
