The Great Wildebeest Migration: What, Where and When

The Great Wildebeest Migration is an exceptional occurrence that happens annually throughout the Masai Mara and Serengeti Ecosystem in Kenya and Tanzania. This migration is one of nature’s most magnificent occurrences offering unique views of millions of four hoofed wildlife animals which usually traverse the Masai Mara and Serengeti ecosystem looking for greener pasture to  graze on and these include; two million wildebeest, hundreds of zebras and gazelles.

These traverse the vast Savannahs of East Africa from Kenya to Tanzania every year. This occurrence follows a specific Route driven by seasonal rains and fresh grazing grounds . The journey is divided into many phases that are differentiated by environmental and physical features.

The Great Wildebeest migration Journey

The Great Wildebeest Migration happens annually as below.

1. 1. Calving Season from January to March

The great wildebeest migration starts with the calving season which starts in the southern part of Serengeti where the wildebeest get together in big numbers to give birth. This period is very essential for survival as the grasslands offer favorable conditions for raising the young calves. They are in a safe environment to enhance their survival. During this time, predation is high as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are very keen to catch prey for feeding.

              2. Rutting Season from March to May

After the calving season, the herds start to move northwards as the rains begins to subside and the grasslands in the Southern part of Serengeti become less verdant. During this phase, rutting takes place as the male wildebeests start to compete for dominance and mating rights. The herds form vast groups transferring in columns stretching as far as the eye can see. The herds are driven by the search for fresh pastures and the need to stay ahead of the encroaching dry season.

             3. Northern Plains from June to October

By June, the herds reach the verdant, green plains of the Northern Serengeti and the Maasai Mara in Kenya. This is the peak of the migration, with thousands of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles grazing in the rich green grasslands. While in the Northern region, the herds relax here to feed before the dry season. At this time, the herds often go through many challenges, like traversing the Mara River that is so difficult to cross due to the many predators in the nearby bushes as well as hungry crocodiles waiting beneath the waters waiting for a catch.

            4. The Return Journey from October to December

When the rains begin in the Northern region, the herds transfer on journey back Southwards to the Serengeti following the reduction in food sources and the short rains in the southern plains. The herds retrace their steps along the same routes as taken earlier in the year. On their way, they face some difficulties and challenges facing predators while traversing  the River.

Cost of the Great Wildebeest Migration

The great Wildebeest Migration Tour varies extensively depending on many factors like the tour operator, period of the year, length of the tour, level of luxury.

Various give you differing packages ranging from budget to luxury as offered by many Tour operators with authentic reputation offering exceptional  experiences. Prices of the Tour change regarding the season i.e High season which is the peak in the months of June to October hence higher demand with higher prices.

Extensive Tours covering many destinations as well as adventures including balloon safaris or guided walks will cost you more. The cost will also vary depending on the safari lodges you prefer to sleep in (form budget to super luxury lodge). Inclusions of the tour make it expensive and these include; meals, park fees, game drives, transfers, guides, international flights,

The group size of the travelers also affects the cost i.e private tours/ smaller group sizes are more expensive compared to the larger groups due to the per person costs that are required by each individual.

Price Range for the Great Wildebeest Migration Tour

Budget Tours offering a more less costly friendly experience start from about US $1,500 to $3,000 per person interested on a 5 to 7-day tour. These come with basic accommodation, transportation and park fees.

Mid-Range Tours costs between US $3,000 and $6,000 per person on a 5 to 7-day tour inclusive of comfortable lodges or tented camps, extra packages and additional activities.

Luxury Tours cost ranging from US $6,000 to $12,000 or more per person inclusive of overnight stays in exclusive lodges or high-end tented camps, gourmet meals, private guides and other premium experiences.

Additional Costs

• International Flights to and from East Africa that range from US $800 to $2,000 depending on departure location.
• Travel Insurance depending on coverage.
• Visa Fees according to nationality to have access to Kenya or Tanzania.
• Tips and Extras for guides and staff, optional activities, and souvenirs.