The extraordinary annual Great Migration of wildebeest and other grazing herbivores across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem is one of the greatest spectacles in the natural world. Over two million herbivores partake in this journey, with about 200 000 zebra and 500 000 Thomson`s gazelle behind the main players... one-and-a-half million wildebeest! Essentially the wildebeest are taking advantage of the strongly seasonal conditions, spending the wet season on the Ndutu plains in the south-east, and the dry season in the woodlands of the north-west. However, the sheer weight of their numbers also plays an important role in shaping the environment to their needs.
The five nights will be spent exploring the grassy plains and woodlands in the area, tracking the massed herds of wildebeest and zebra, watching the birth of new calves if we’re lucky, and seeking predators such as lion, cheetah and hyena on the hunt. The area also teems with other wildlife, including elephants, eland, various gazelle species, Kirk’s dik-dik, giraffe and the elusive leopard, rarely seen wild dogs.
In December through March the Serengeti plains and the Ngorongoro Conservation areas in northern Tanzania are just buzzing with life, this is calving season. Most of the wildebeest calves are born in just a three week period, usually the beginning of February. Calves attract predators and this is an amazing time of year to watch impressive lion kills. It`s also quite spectacular to see almost half a million little wildebeest being born and running alongside their mothers. You will find yourself with hundreds of world wildlife Photographer around.
The southern Ndutu and Salei plains are the best areas to see the large herds during this time of year. The best places to stay include Ndutu Safari Lodge, Serengeti Savannah Camp, Lake Masek Tented Camp, Dunia Luxury Camp and Kusini Camp, and any mobile tented camps in the area.
