Wildebeest Migration in East Africa

Wildebeest Migration in East Africa: Serengeti vs. Masai Mara

When it comes to witnessing the raw beauty of East African wildlife, few experiences compare to the Great Wildebeest Migration across Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve. Together, these iconic ecosystems span over 16,000 km² of untamed wilderness, forming one of the most biodiverse and spectacular safari regions on the planet.

This annual migration is a natural phenomenon like no other—over 1.5 million wildebeests, 300,000 zebras, and 350,000 gazelles move in a life-or-death journey across predator-filled landscapes in search of greener pastures. Whether you’re exploring Tanzania or Kenya, this awe-inspiring event is a must-see for any safari lover.

The Great Wildebeest Migration: Nature’s Greatest Show

The Wildebeest Migration is East Africa’s most dramatic and sought-after wildlife experience. From the calving season in the southern Serengeti (January–March) to the river crossings into Kenya’s Masai Mara (June–October), this epic journey delivers unforgettable safari moments.

As the herds thunder across the savanna like a living tidal wave, predators such as lions, cheetahs, leopards, and crocodiles lie in wait. The Mara River crossings, in particular, are a test of courage and survival—with crocodiles hidden in murky waters and lions lurking on the riverbanks.

The sight of thousands of animals braving these obstacles is one of the most thrilling wildlife spectacles in the world.

Wildlife Beyond the Migration

While the migration is the headline act, Serengeti and Masai Mara offer so much more:

Large Mammals & Grazers

Alongside the migrating herds, you’ll encounter:

Elephants
Buffaloes
Giraffes (especially the elegant Masai giraffe)
Antelopes such as eland, topi, kongoni, impala, and dik-dik

Predators Galore

Both parks boast healthy populations of:

Lions (numerous prides across both ecosystems)
Leopards (often found in shady forested areas)
Cheetahs (roaming the open plains)
Hyenas, jackals, and other smaller carnivores

Masai Mara has long been dubbed the “Land of Lions”, featured in films like African Cats and BBC’s Big Cat Diary. Serengeti is equally famous for its large lion prides—sometimes 20+ strong.

Birdwatching Paradise

Bird lovers will be equally impressed. Combined, Serengeti and Mara are home to over 500 bird species, thriving in ecosystems roughly 5,000 feet above sea level. Notable sightings include:

Grey-breasted spurfowl (Seronera area)
Fischer’s lovebird
Rufous-tailed weaver
Usambiro barbet
Grey-crested helmet-shrike

The best time for migratory bird watching is from November to April, when the plains are teeming with life and color.

Scenery: Africa’s Living Canvas

Both parks offer breathtaking landscapes that define the East African safari dream.

Serengeti

Endless plains dotted with granite kopjes
Riverine forests and seasonal wetlands
The name means “Endless Plains” in Maasai

Masai Mara

Rolling grasslands with scattered acacia trees
“Mara” translates to “spotted” – a nod to the shadows and tree clumps across the savanna
Highlights include the Mara Triangle, with dramatic inselbergs and Balanites woodlands

With minimal tree cover, predator-prey visibility is high—resulting in excellent game viewing and photographic opportunities.

Activities in Serengeti & Masai Mara

Walking Safaris & Fly-Camping

Get closer to nature with guided walking safaris, where you learn about animal tracks, plants, and behaviors. For the adventurous, fly-camping offers a raw, immersive wilderness experience.

Hot Air Balloon Safaris

Take to the skies at dawn and float silently above herds of wildebeests and elephants. Though early wake-ups are required, the sunrise views and aerial perspectives make this an unforgettable experience.

Imagine drifting over thousands of animals stretched across golden plains—a once-in-a-lifetime safari highlight.

Accessibility: Getting to the Parks

Masai Mara (Kenya)

Easily accessed via daily flights from Nairobi
Eastern regions are more accessible by road and thus more popular
Western Mara (Mara Triangle) is quieter and ideal for premium experiences

Serengeti (Tanzania)

Connected via flights from Arusha, Kilimanjaro International Airport, and Zanzibar
Can be combined with Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara for a Northern Circuit safari

When to Visit: Timing Is Everything

The best park to visit depends on the season:

Time of Year	Best Destination	Migration Activity
Jan – Mar	Southern Serengeti	Calving season, predator action
Apr – May	Central/Western Serengeti	Herds moving northwest
Jun – Oct	Masai Mara	River crossings, predator drama
Nov – Dec	Serengeti (return leg)	Herds move back south