Slow Guide - Wildebeest Migration
One of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles is the migration of the wildebeest in Tanzania/Kenya. Every year, travelers from all over the world congregate in East Africa to witness the massive herds gathering in Serengeti and Masai Mara. This article is my guide for experiencing the migration in full swing, away from the crowds typical of peak season in East Africa.
Plan to travel during these months
The two peak times of year to see the wildebeest herds gathering in hundreds or thousands are mid-December until early March, and mid-July until mid-October. The July to October months are somewhat more pleasant due to milder temperatures and lack of rainfall, making it easier to cope with long days in the safari vehicle and enabling better overall wildlife sightings around rare water sources. In this ‘dry season,’ the wildebeest migrate all the way up to the Northern Part of the Serengeti, crossing over the Mara River into the Masai Mara in search of greener pastures for feeding.
The predators follow suit, making the overall wildlife experience quite spectacular. You have a chance of seeing the herds making a dangerous crossing of the river, where crocs await their prey. By Jan-March, the herds have moved mostly into Southern Serengeti where they go to give birth to their young and enjoy plentiful vegetation due to the sporadic rains. This time of year the weather tends to be hot and humid, but not unbearable. It is easier to access the Southern Serengeti, so if budget is tight this time of year may be a better bet.
Be clear about your budget guidelines
It is good to understand that most everything in East Africa is charged in dollars, and a good quality safari will not be cheap unless you are driving in your own vehicle. The park fees and conservation fees are high as it’s a huge (and expensive) responsibility to protect large mammals in their natural habitat. The quality of guides and vehicles varies greatly, as well as the standard of accommodation which can be downright awful if chosen badly. If budget is tight, it’s worth considering doing a brief mid to high end safari experience in an ideal wildlife viewing area in order to fit the budget, and tagging on a more affordable destination such as the beach for a few days after.
Choose your camps wisely
The following camps are located in secluded areas (yet with excellent access), allowing you to slow down and just enjoy the migration. I have grouped them by month so that it's clear which camp/areas will have the best access for that time of year. A cornerstone of a great safari is a fantastic camp in an ideal area with top notch guides. Here are my recommendations!
January until March (Southern Serengeti)
Ubuntu Camp // Serengeti Safari Camp // Kimondo Camp // Olakira Camp // Sanctuary Kusini
April and May
Note that this is the period of heavy rains (which dry up towards early June), so you wouldn't see the migration. However, you can enjoy amazing rates and still see excellent resident wildlife at these camps:
Dunia Camp // Pioneer Camp // Namiri Plains // Faru Faru
June until early July (Western Corridor)
Ubuntu Camp // Serengeti Safari Camp // Faru Faru // Serengeti Under Canvas
July until October (Northern Serengeti)
Sayari Camp // Olakira Camp // Singita Mara River // Serengeti Safari Camp // Ubuntu Camp // Kimondo Camp // Serengeti Bushtops
November until December (Central Serengeti)
Dunia Camp // Pioneer Camp // Namiri Plains
I hope this helps you create a really amazing experience of the wildebeest migration.
If you want my help designing a tailor made safari in Tanzania or Kenya, please email me
Happy travels!