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The Great Kenya Migration Safari is one of the most extraordinary natural events that take place every year in the Masai Mara region of Kenya, in which an estimated 2.5 million animals cross the Mara River in the Masai Mara in search of food and water. An unparalleled spectacle to witness with your own eyes, this natural phenomenon is often referred to as one of the “new” seven wonders of the world and is the last one of its kind. The Great Migration Kenya 2023 dates are expected to fall between July and October. This is a worthwhile trip for naturists, wildlife lovers, and photographers to see nature in all its glory. Within the time frame of the Great Migration Kenya 2023, you can also see the hunting spree of the local predators, such as the big cats and the crocodiles, that wait for prey in the Mara River. The migration offers an exclusive opportunity to witness the raw African wildlife in full bloom. Watching the migration is only possible by booking a Masai Mara migration safari.
| Day 1 |
Arrival at NairobiNairobi is crowned the "Green City in the Sun" due to its rainforests and grasslands, which offset an urban, cosmopolitan city bustling with activity. As an international air hub, it is the beating heart of Kenya. You can walk around for some shopping and have a city tour by yourself. The weather is pleasant even during the summer, and locals prefer to commute on foot through the city. Apart from the rainforests along the city borders, there are also beautiful and lush green parks to enjoy, along with museums and great restaurants. After reaching the hotel, retire for the day because the Great Migration of Kenya awaits you. |
| Day 2 |
Drive to Masai MaraThe next morning, we will drive through the roadways to the Masai Mara Game Reserve. Masai Mara is now one of the seven new wonders of the world, notable primarily for its temperate climate, varied landscapes (valleys and grasslands), open spaces, and diverse species of the animal kingdom in their natural habitat resulting from the Great Migration of Kenya. During the Masai Mara game drive, you can even catch glimpses of the cheetah chasing its prey. At Masai Mara, you will observe that the three conservancies—Naboisho, Mara North, and Olare Orok—sustain the vegetation and wildlife in pristine form.
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| Days 3 - 5 |
Wonders at Masai MaraThe major highlight of the trip is the Great Migration of Kenya, which finally arrives on the third day. Migration takes place throughout the year through various parts of East Africa, and it is a result of the cattle's search for food and water. The Great Migration of Kenya is the last surviving massive mass terrestrial migration in the world, with hordes of over 1.5 million wildebeests, over 200,000 gazelles, and 350,000 zebras arriving at Masai Mara in search of food and water. You have three full days to indulge as a spectator of the largest mass terrestrial movement of hordes of animals in the world. You will be enthralled to watch a large number of zebras and wildebeests make a huge migration across the Mara River. By roaring, snorting, and bucking, they continuously pave their way west to Kenya and then back. The showstopper of the Kenyan safari is the river-crossing scene. You can have the rare sight of hippopotami and crocodiles enjoying the river and also the cycle of the devour. As the wildebeests cross the Mara River, they need to overcome great odds, such as the big cats looking for prey and the crocodiles that lay motionless, ready to make an unexpected leap to catch one of the migrating animals for the day’s meal. The big cats welcome the migration into the meadow as it provides them with a surplus of prey to feed upon. Watching the animals travel in the Great Migration of Kenya is an awe-inspiring sight to behold. The possible Great Migration of Kenya 2020 dates will be approximately from July to October. You will also get to explore the Maasai Manyatta experience, enjoying the traditional dances and folklore of the villages. Another attraction that awaits is a bird's-eye view of the majestic Masai Mara plains from a hot air balloon. And one of these days, you will get the chance to enjoy your breakfast by the Mara River and have a sumptuous bush lunch. |
| Day 6 |
The last leg in NairobiAt last, it is the final day and final lap of the journey through the Masai Mara Safari. Post-breakfast, we will drive back to Nairobi City. After reaching the city, relax in the hotel and indulge in some delicious local cuisine. You can be proud that you could witness this new wonder of the world, especially the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Great Migration of Kenya. Just like a beautiful sunrise in Savannah, the memories of this trip will be beautifully etched in your mind. |
The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the most dramatic wildlife events in the world. It takes place in East Africa and attracts people from all over. Every year, millions of wildebeest, zebra gazelles, and other animals move into the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. This natural phenomenon is now classified as the newest addition to the ‘seven wonders of the world.
Wild Voyager promises to provide you with an unforgettable journey to witness the Great Migration of Kenya at the Masai Mara.
The largest terrestrial migration in the world is also the most beautiful. The migration looks straight out of a movie. The herds of wildebeest move together and even become prey to lurking predators. Along with searching for food, the herd needs to pass the test for survival of the fittest.
. The Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is one of the top places to view this phenomenon. There are recommended dates, seasons, and months to see the migration without any obstacles.
During the African safari, one can also spot other diverse wildlife in the Maasai Mara. Giraffes, elephants, and lions are perfect to observe against the backdrop of Mount Kenya. Travelers can enjoy other unique activities, such as meeting the Maasai people and soaring high on hot air balloon rides.
Wild Voyager specializes in various great migration safari packages, catering to all kinds of tourists.
The incredible migration involves around 1.2 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, along with other hoofed animals that migrate together. These animals start their expedition in Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and end the grand circuit in Kenya’s Maasai Mara. This long journey covered by an individual wildebeest is approximately 800 to 1000 kilometers.
During the migration, the herd's sole guide is their survival instincts. The Masai Mara migration safari is one of the most difficult challenges for the animals involved. They are followed by hungry predators such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, hyenas, and more. These predators are always ready to take down their prey.
Part of the wildebeest journey also includes one of the deadliest crossings ever: the Mara River crossing. Huge Nile crocodiles residing in the river are always on the lookout to take down the animals attempting to cross over. Consequently, one of the many highlights of a Masai Mara migration safari involves watching the Mara River crossings live in action. It is an exhilarating moment to see wildebeests fighting to cross the river with Nile crocodiles waiting to pounce on them.
The Wildebeest expedition is tough and prolonged. Not all the wildebeest and other animals make it out alive for the next annual migration. More than 6,000 people were trampled on or drowned while crossing the Mara River. In most cases, they also end up losing their lives due to exhaustion, thirst, hunger, or falling into the claws of predators.
The great Masai Mara migration safari takes place for food and water. The herd plans its annual trip across the plains to search for nutrition immediately when the land starts to dry up. The wildebeest and other animals spend most of their time on the Serengeti’s southern plains. As this area has lush grass, it becomes suitable for the wildebeest to congregate and give birth.
However, once the grass and water start to diminish in the southern Serengeti, they move towards the Serengeti’s western corridor. During the latter part of the year, the herd moves into the Masai Mara reserve. They spend approximately two months in the reserve before heading to the Serengeti’s southern plains once it gets fertile again.
In short, the Masai Mara migration safari takes the herd from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area through the Serengeti. They reach the Masai Mara and then travel back to the Serengeti again. This cycle repeats itself annually without fail.
It is unclear how the wildebeest marked their routes during the expedition. Yet, it is generally believed that these animals are guided by the weather. They follow the rain and even the growth of new grass.
The wildebeest migration largely depends on the availability of food and water. However, long and short rainy seasons have become unpredictable in Kenya and Tanzania due to climate change. As a result, rain arriving earlier or later affects the wildebeest calendar altogether.
Due to this reason, it is highly recommended to plan an extended Masai Mara migration safari as opposed to 2 or 3 days. Here is a brief timeline of the great migration according to months:
During this period, wildebeest herds are largely spotted in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area as well as the southern Serengeti plains. As the grass remains short and nutritious, wildebeests begin the calving season. From January until mid-March, more than 100,000 calves are born. An estimated 8,000 babies are born every day!
The calves learn survival skills from adult wildebeests to help them during migration. Unfortunately, the abundance of newborn calves is a treat for hungry predators. Big cats like lions and leopards, followed by cheetahs and wild dogs, often hunt them with ease. Travelers interested in witnessing the calving season and dramatic chases can book their Masai Mara migration safari during these months.
April and May
After bearing their newborn, the wildebeest herd begins to drift towards fresh grass near the Central Serengeti. They attract thousands of zebras and antelopes as their journey proceeds. By May, they gather around Moru Kopjes and start their mating season. In this season, male wildebeests compete with each other to find the perfect mate.
After going at a leisurely pace, the migration gradually gains momentum. The calves become stronger, and the herd moves towards the Serengeti’s western corridor. However, these months also mark the incoming long rains in Tanzania. At times, the heaving flooding makes it harder to spot the great migration.
June
As June begins, so does the dry season. A large concentration of wildebeest congregates in the western Serengeti.
But they have to pass one of the grueling stages of their journey: crossing the Grumeti River. It is one of the first yet terrifying encounters the herd faces. The waters of Grumeti are infested with hungry crocodiles.
July to August
Those who make it across the other side begin to head north. However, an even riskier river crossing awaits. The Mara River is yet again filled with large Nile crocodiles, deadlier than Grumeti. This crossing serves as the climax of a Masai Mara migration safari.
Wildebeests and other animals that traveled relentlessly up until now can instantly lose their lives in the river. Moreover, predators waiting near the riverbank are always ready to ambush their prey.
Travelers can experience the thrill of watching these crossings and chase from mid-July to August. Nonetheless, keep in mind that the timing still depends on nature.
Those making it out alive from the Mara River crossing enter Maasai Mara. The reserve provides ample grazing opportunities for the herds.
September to October
Not all herds enter the Maasai Mara. Some remain in the northern Serengeti. Yet megaherds are spotted in the Mara alone.
For a luxurious Great Migration Masai Mara safari, consider staying in one of Mara’s private conservancies. They are less crowded, and travelers can enjoy various other activities besides game drives.
November to December
The short rains begin in these months. Wildebeests take it as a sign to move back to the Serengeti, which has rejuvenated again. As they head southward, the herd may further split into smaller groups. They enter the calving season once more, ready to prepare for the migration all over again.
Now that you have a basic knowledge of how migration occurs, you can pinpoint the events you’d like to see.
However, those who would specifically like to embark on a Masai Mara migration safari should consider visiting from July to October. Kenya’s Masai Mara offers a better chance to see the migration and river crossings. As opposed to Tanzania, the wildebeest route is much more concentrated in the Mara. It is also a year-round safari destination due to its flourishing landscape and abundant wildlife.
Moreover, the Maasai Mara is the prime territory for the big five African animals, making wildlife sightings more adventurous.
There are endless accommodation choices in the national reserve, from comfortable lodges to authentic camps. Olgatuni Camp is one such stunning property that is situated in the heart of the Mara. It is one of the best camps to choose from for a great migration in the Masai Mara. Others include Governor’s Camp, Mahali Mzuri, and Elephant Pepper Camp.
A great migration Masai Mara safaris can also combine Tanzania’s Serengeti with other national parks to serve as an extended itinerary. Travelers can add various other destinations, such as Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire.
Moreover, other wildlife destinations, such as Rwanda and Uganda, can be considered for unique gorilla trekking experiences. For travelers wanting to relax, stunning tropical beaches in Zanzibar and Seychelles are always welcome.
Contact Wild Voyager today to plan your very own Masai Mara migration experience. We offer a range of great migration safari packages that suit everyone!
| DESTINATION | STANDARD HOTEL/CAMP |
| NAIROBI | IBIS STYLES HOTEL |
| MASAI MARA | OLGATUNI CAMP |
| DEPARTURE MONTH/YEAR | TOUR START DATE | TOUR END DATE | PER PERSON ON TWIN/DOUBLE | SINGLE OCCUPANCY |
| JULY 2022 | Monday, July 20, 2022 | Saturday, July 25, 2022 | $1,995.00 | $2,599.00 |
| JULY 2022 | Monday, July 27, 2022 | Saturday, August 1, 2022 | $1,995.00 | $2,599.00 |
| AUG 2022 | Monday, August 3, 2022 | Saturday, August 8, 2022 | $1,995.00 | $2,599.00 |
| AUG 2022 | Monday, August 10, 2022 | Saturday, August 15, 2022 | $1,995.00 | $2,599.00 |
| AUG 2022 | Monday, August 17, 2022 | Saturday, August 22, 2022 | $1,995.00 | $2,599.00 |
| AUG 2022 | Monday, August 24, 2022 | Saturday, August 29, 2022 | $1,995.00 | $2,599.00 |
| AUG 2022 | Monday, August 31, 2022 | Saturday, September 5, 2022 | $1,995.00 | $2,599.00 |
| SEP 2022 | Monday, September 7, 2022 | Saturday, September 12, 2022 | $1,995.00 | $2,599.00 |
| SEP 2022 | Monday, September 14, 2022 | Saturday, September 19, 2022 | $1,995.00 | $2,599.00 |
| SEP 2022 | Monday, September 21, 2022 | Saturday, September 26, 2022 | $1,995.00 | $2,599.00 |
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