Best time to travel to Kenya

Wildebeest Migration in Kenya

Witness one of the greatest miracles of the world

Best time: August–October

Wildebeest Migration
Wildebeest Migration
Wildebeest Migration

One may think that annual migration of wildebeest is a unique and mysterious event, with millions of animals crossing the rivers and fields to get to the new pastures. But if you look at it from a more scientific point, the animals' migration is their daily life. To move from one place to another means finding food. Still, it's miraculous and spectacular! And also it's a unique eve​nt, happening so vividly only in Serengeti (Tanzania) and Maasai Mara National Reserves (Kenya).

Safari is the best option to see the migration of over 2 million of animals, including the biggest populations of lions, zebras, gazelles, elands, and others are heavily grouped together. The migratio​n leads to major hunts by carnivores, so only the survivors reach peaceful pastures.

The journey usually takes animals from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania in late July or August to the greener at this time fields of Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. During September, you might be lucky to see the massive herds grazing before they start getting ready to migrate back to Tanzania. In October and November, the rains in the Serengeti national park allure the wildebeest to head back, so the migration cycle goes on again. Make sure to check with the national park authorities the dates not to miss such a great show!

Practical info

When can the wildebeest migration be seen in Kenya and Tanzania?

The wildebeest migration is best observed in Kenya and Tanzania between late July and November when the animals journey from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya before moving back in October and November. This period provides a frequent movement of animals visible across the two countries for tourists to observe and enjoy. Show more

What are the locations for the wildebeest migration in Kenya and Tanzania?

Witness the wildebeest migration in Tanzania's Serengeti National Park, and Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve in East Africa. These two locations are famous for their variety of wildlife, with the annual migration taking the animals from Tanzania to Kenya in search of water and greener pastures. Visitors can observe a spectacular view of the animals moving, snacking, grazing, and crossing rivers. Show more

How many animals migrate during the wildebeest migration?

Over two million animals participate in Kenya and Tanzania's annual wildebeest migration, dominated by wildebeest, followed by zebras, gazelles, and elands. The large number of migrating animals attracts predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, creating significant hunting events. This migration is one of the most massive land movements globally, making it a significant tourist attraction. Show more

What other animals are part of the wildebeest migration?

In addition to wildebeest, the migration displays zebra, gazelle, eland, and large populations of big cats like lions and cheetahs in Kenya and Tanzania. Tourists also have the opportunity to learn about local culture from tour guides, including the locals' food, folk-wisdom, and way of life. Show more

What dangers do animals face during the migration that causes predators to be a threat to survivors?

The wildebeest migration presents challenges that lead to animals' death. These challenges include traversing dangerous water crossings that are home to crocodiles preying on any animal crossing, and predators like lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and leopards hunting weak, tired, or injured migrants. The predators carefully position themselves to ensure they attack their prey effectively. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin