OVERVIEW
The great Wildebeest Migration is the most spectacular wildlife event on Earth, drawing visitors to the plains of East Africa. It is an annual movement of millions of wildebeest, zebras and other herbivores across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. This cyclical journey is driven by the search for fresh grazing and water, it is a dramatic spectacle of nature, fraught with challenges and predator interactions.
HISTORY
The Great Migration in Masai Mara has a history shaped by ecological shifts and human influence. For centuries, the plains of the Serengeti and Mara were home to nomadic pastoralist communities coexisting with wildlife. In the late 19th century there was a major outbreak of rinderpest which killed a lot of wildebeest and reduced its population across East Africa.
Around the 20th century the wildebeest began to rebound due to natural recovery. As the numbers increased, the need for grazing land increased as well, leading to pronounced and cyclical movement between the Serengeti and the then established [1961] Masai Mara Game Reserve.
The herds would move North into the Mara in July to August and return south to the Serengeti in October to November. The pattern solidified over time, creating the spectacle that is there today.
GEOGRAPHIC BIODERVISITY
The Great Migration takes place in Serengeti National Park. The Park is characterized by a variety of habitats and is a home to over 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras and other species.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The most ideal time to visit The Masai Mara for The Great Migration Safari is from July to October, this period offers the chance of witnessing the river crossings as the wildebeest and Zebras herds migrate from the Serengeti into the Masai Mara in search of fresh grazing.
In July to August is the peak time to witness the significant crossing of the Mara River. The sheer volume of animals attempt to cross, facing the dangers of strong currents and waiting crocodiles, creates unforgettable safari moments. The herds are usually concentrated in the northern part of the Serengeti and are making their way into Masai Mara.
In September, the herds are usually well established in the Masai Mara grazing on the abundant plains.
In October, as the short rains begin in the southern Serengeti, the herds begin to make their journey back to south.
HOW TO GET TO SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
Serengeti National Park has several accessibility options for travelers. The most common starting point is Arusha, a city located about 500 kilometers from the park. From Arusha visitors can choose to fly directly to one of the park’s airstrips.
For those preferring a more adventurous route, self- driving or safari tours from Arusha are popular choices. The journey by road can take 8 – 10 hours depending on route and road conditions.
WEATHER AND CLIMATE IN SERENGETI
The climate at Serengeti National Park is characterized by a distinct wet and dry season. The dry season normally experienced from June to October is characterized by warm temperatures and minimal rainfall therefore the best season for wildlife viewing.
The wet season normally experienced from November to May brings more rainfall. During this season some areas in the park are less accessible, it also transforms the landscape into a lush paradise which attracts a plethora of migratory birds.
CONCLUSION
The Great Migration in the Masai Mara is a truly inspiring natural spectacle, a testament to the raw power and enduring cycle of life in the African Savanna. Witnessing this grand procession is an emotional experience and a powerful reminder of nature and sheer resilience of the animals. The Great Migration is more than just a wildlife event, it is a profound journey into the heart of the natural world.