The Great Migration generally arrives in the Maasai Mara between July and October. All through the year, the mega herds — 1.5 million wildebeest and zebra — make their round-trip journey of around 600km between Kenya’s Maasai Mara in the north, and the southern Serengeti plains in Tanzania. Imagine dramatic river crossings with death-defying leaps, dodging of crocodiles and big cats waiting for them on the other side. For a deeper dive into this extraordinary event, read our Guide to the Great Migration.
When is the Great Migration?
Contrary to popular belief, the Great Migration isn’t a singular event, but rather a year-long trek as the mega herds make their way from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the lush grasslands of the Mara in Kenya and back again.
The calving season starts in the Southern Serengeti, where thousands of wildebeest give birth in the early months of the year
As the plains dry up, the herds start moving towards the Grumeti River in Tanzania to take on their first major river crossing
The Grumeti and Mara River crossings provide the spectacle that the Great Migration is known for with crocodile-infested waters
The herds enjoy the Mara, grazing on the lush grass until the rains begin in the south again
The herds are never alone and predators like lions and leopards take full advantage of the season of plenty
As the short rains start in the Serengeti, the herds begin their journey back to start the cycle anew
The most dramatic events of the Migration, particularly river crossings, occur between late July and early October. This period sees the herds facing perilous crossings of the Mara River, where they must navigate both strong currents and predators. Angama Guides are in constant communication with each other to ensure guests are at the right spot at the right time.
While guests staying at Angama Mara or Angama Safari Camp benefit from close proximity to prime viewing areas, river crossings are never guaranteed. It’s all up to the herds as they decide whether to take the plunge or not — part of the excitement is being at the mercy of nature taking its course.
The Great Migration understandably attracts significant numbers of visitors, it’s not called the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’ for nothing. This can lead to crowded viewing points, but with both Angama’s properties in the Mara being close to key locations, guests can get early access to these coveted spots.
Guests wanting to see the very best on their safari are encouraged to set off early to maximise wildlife viewing opportunities and minimise waiting times. Patience is key, as wildlife behaviour can be unpredictable, but luckily the surrounding Mara ecosystem offers constant activity and interest.
Witnessing the Great Migration can be intense for children, particularly during dramatic river crossings. To enhance the experience for families, Angama recommends private safaris. These personalised tours offer flexibility and comfort, making it easier to manage the intensity of the Migration and ensuring a memorable adventure for younger guests.
Private safaris allow families to enjoy the natural spectacle at their own pace, providing an unforgettable and child-friendly wildlife experience. When not at the crossing sites, Angama Guides use their wealth of knowledge of the Mara to take guests to less crowded areas that are peacefully, yet plentifully, filled with wildlife.
The most dramatic events of the Migration, particularly river crossings, occur between late July and early October. This period sees the herds facing perilous crossings of the Mara River, where they must navigate both strong currents and predators. Angama Guides are in constant communication with each other to ensure guests are at the right spot at the right time.
While guests staying at Angama Mara or Angama Safari Camp benefit from close proximity to prime viewing areas, river crossings are never guaranteed. It’s all up to the herds as they decide whether to take the plunge or not — part of the excitement is being at the mercy of nature taking its course.
The Great Migration understandably attracts significant numbers of visitors, it’s not called the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’ for nothing. This can lead to crowded viewing points, but with both Angama’s properties in the Mara being close to key locations, guests can get early access to these coveted spots.
Guests wanting to see the very best on their safari are encouraged to set off early to maximise wildlife viewing opportunities and minimise waiting times. Patience is key, as wildlife behaviour can be unpredictable, but luckily the surrounding Mara ecosystem offers constant activity and interest.
Witnessing the Great Migration can be intense for children, particularly during dramatic river crossings. To enhance the experience for families, Angama recommends private safaris. These personalised tours offer flexibility and comfort, making it easier to manage the intensity of the Migration and ensuring a memorable adventure for younger guests.
Private safaris allow families to enjoy the natural spectacle at their own pace, providing an unforgettable and child-friendly wildlife experience. When not at the crossing sites, Angama Guides use their wealth of knowledge of the Mara to take guests to less crowded areas that are peacefully, yet plentifully, filled with wildlife.
