Kenya is famous for hosting one of the most spectacular wildlife migrations in the world: the Great Wildebeest Migration. While the majority of this migration occurs in the neighboring country of Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, a significant portion of it also takes place in Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve, which shares a contiguous ecosystem with the Serengeti.
The Great Wildebeest Migration is an annual event where millions of wildebeest, along with zebras and other herbivores, migrate in search of fresh grazing lands and water. The migration is driven by the seasonal rains, and the animals move in a cyclical pattern between the Serengeti plains in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya.
The migration typically follows the following pattern:
- Calving Season (January-March): The migration begins in the southern Serengeti, where wildebeest gather to give birth to their young. This period sees an influx of predators drawn to the vulnerable calves.
- Grasslands of the Serengeti (April-June): As the rains subside, the herds start moving northwest towards the western corridor of the Serengeti, crossing the Grumeti River. This stage of the migration is characterized by large herds spread across the vast plains.
- Crossing the Mara River (July-October): The climax of the migration occurs when the herds reach the Mara River, which forms the border between Tanzania and Kenya. Here, they must navigate treacherous river crossings, facing the dangers of crocodiles and fast-flowing currents.
- Maasai Mara Grazing (July-October): After crossing into Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve, the herds spread out across the grasslands in search of fresh grazing. This period offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, with predators such as lions and cheetahs following the herds.
- Return Journey (November-December): As the short rains begin, the herds start their journey back towards the southern Serengeti, completing the migration cycle.
Witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration is a bucket-list experience for many wildlife enthusiasts, offering unparalleled opportunities to witness the drama, excitement, and natural beauty of one of nature’s greatest spectacles.