The annual migration of wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes between the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya is one of the most spectacular wildlife events in the world. This migration is a continuous, circular journey dictated by the rains and the search for fresh pasture. It is an event filled with drama, life-and-death scenarios, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Let's take a closer look at this incredible phenomenon month by month.
January: Calving Season Begins
In January, the herds gather on the short grass plains of southern Serengeti, especially in the Ndutu area and the northern part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania. By the end of the month, the calving season begins in earnest, with around 8,000 wildebeest calves born every day. This abundance of vulnerable young animals attracts a plethora of predators, making this a time of high drama as adult wildebeests work tirelessly to protect their offspring.
February: Protective Mothers
The calving season continues into February. This month is marked by intense protective behaviors, as mother wildebeests form barricades around their young to shield them from opportunistic predators like lions, hyenas, and cheetahs. The plains become a theater of life and death, with baby wildebeests taking their first steps and predators seizing opportunities.
March: Gathering for the Journey
In March, the herds remain dispersed across the southern Serengeti plains. They feed on the remaining fresh grasses as the last batch of calves is born. By the end of the month, the herds start to gather in preparation for their northward journey.
April: Northward Movement
Come April, the herds begin to move northward in search of fresh grazing and water. Some of the early movers reach the central and western Serengeti.
May: Funneling Up
May sees the herds funneling up into central and western Serengeti. Areas like Moru Kopjes and western Seronera are teeming with life as wildebeest herds are joined by zebras, Thomson’s, and Grant’s gazelles.
June: Congregation at Grumeti
By June, the migration slows as herds reach the south side of the Grumeti River. They congregate in the Western Corridor, navigating a series of pools and channels filled with lurking crocodiles. However, this crossing is less treacherous than the one they will face at the Mara River.
July: The Great Mara River Crossing
As July progresses, the herd scatters around Grumeti Reserve and Ikorongo while some spread to the heart of the Serengeti National Park. Towards the end of the month, the Mara River crossing begins. This dramatic event is filled with peril, as the animals face challenges from mighty Nile crocodiles and hippos in the river, making for a spectacular wildlife show.
August: Into the Mara
The action-packed river crossing continues into August. Millions of wildebeests, along with thousands of zebras, gazelles, and kudus, rush through the Mara River into the Masai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya.
September: Celebrating Survival
In September, the survivors celebrate in the northern plains of the Serengeti, while others feast on the lush grasses in the Masai Mara. Depending on the rains, the river crossing might extend into the first weeks of September.
October: Serengeti and Mara
October sees large herds of wildebeests, zebras, antelopes, and gazelles in the Masai Mara Game Reserve. Some herds stay briefly in the Mara before starting their return journey south.
November: Southward Journey
With the arrival of rains in November, the herds begin their southward journey, leaving the Masai Mara. They pass through western Loliondo and the Serengeti’s Lobo area as they head back to the fertile plains of the Serengeti.
December: Completing the Cycle
By December, the herds cluster around the northeastern and southern regions of the Serengeti once more. They disperse across the plains, feeding on fresh grasses. The cycle of life continues as the calving season approaches and the journey begins anew.
Looking to spend your upcoming vacation in the Mara?
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