The Great Wildebeest Migration

Nature’s Greatest Show on Earth

The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the most awe-inspiring wildlife spectacles on the planet. Each year, over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles embark on a never-ending journey across the Serengeti and into Kenya’s Maasai Mara, following the rains and fresh grazing. This epic cycle of life and survival—complete with thrilling river crossings, dramatic predator encounters, and the birth of new life—offers visitors a front-row seat to nature at its rawest and most powerful.

What to Expect During the Migration

Depending on when and where you visit, the migration offers different highlights:

  • December to March: The herds gather in the Southern Serengeti (Ndutu area) for the calving season, when around 500,000 wildebeest calves are born—bringing with them intense predator action.

  • April to June: As rains fade, the herds move north through the Central Serengeti, creating endless columns of animals crossing open plains.

  • July to October: The migration reaches its climax at the Mara River crossings in the Northern Serengeti—a heart-pounding spectacle as wildebeest plunge into crocodile-infested waters while predators wait on both sides.

  • November: The herds begin their journey south again, completing the circle of life.

Why the Migration is Special

More than just numbers, the migration is a story of endurance, instinct, and survival that has played out for thousands of years. It’s a chance to witness Africa’s true wilderness drama—and no two migrations are ever the same. Whether you’re watching a newborn calf take its first steps or holding your breath as wildebeest brave the Mara River, every moment is unforgettable.

At Shafino Wildlife Safaris, we craft tailored migration safaris that put you in the right place at the right time, guided by expert trackers who know the Serengeti’s rhythms inside and out.

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