Each year around 1.5 million wildebeest and 300,000 zebra (along with other antelope) gather up their young and start their long trek from Tanzania`s Serengeti Plains, further north to Kenya`s Masai Mara National Reserve. They go in search of food and water. Their journey runs in a clockwise circle and the animals cover a distance of around 1800 miles. It`s a tough journey, and every year an estimated 250,000 wildebeest don`t make it.
One of the most spectacular sights of the migration crossing is when the herds gather to cross the Grumeti River (Tanzania) and the Mara River (Kenya) from July through September. As the herds cross, crocodiles are lying in wait for any weak and feeble ungulates that can`t cope with the strong currents or lose their mothers.
But the river crossings aren`t the only spectacle. Just witnessing hundreds of animals on the plains is a sight in itself. Particularly because they attract many of Africa`s impressive predators. Lions, leopards, hyenas and wild dogs follow the herds and give safari goers excellent chances of seeing a kill in action.
By August to October the rains start in Maasai Mara Game reserve and the herds begin their long trek across Mara River where you will be able to witness the most amazing nature experience. Several Camps stand In Mara River and Bologonja Area where wildebeests cross to Maasai Mara Game reserve in Kenya. Sayari Camp, Serengeti Mara Camp, Simiyu Luxury Camp (exclusive Mobile Camp) operate to make sure you will be able to see the crossing of Mara river. At the end of October the migration will start again their way back from Kenya`s Masai Mara area, down to the Serengeti plains.
During the short rains of November a stay at Klein’s Camp and Simiyu Luxury Camp is highly recommended. For thos who want to see the migration coming back to Tanzania.
