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    How to plan and book a wildebeest migration safari

    14 minutes read
    plan book great wildebeest migration tanzania Easy travel tanzania

    Every year, over a million wildebeests undertake an extraordinary journey through East Africa, known as the Great Wildebeest Migration. This event is a must-see, but planning such a trip can be overwhelming.

    Don’t worry, though! This comprehensive guide is here to simplify your planning process, offering essential tips to help you embark on this unforgettable safari adventure.

    The great wildebeest migration safari: The what, where, when, and why

    Chances are if you’re reading this, you already know at least a bare minimum about the Great Wildebeest Migration safari. Regardless, before we get into the nitty-gritty on planning and booking your Great Wildebeest Migration Safari Tour, let’s first examine some need-to-know info and that will help orient and inspire you:

    • WHAT: Great Wildebeest Migration safari. The largest land migration of over 1.2 million wildebeest, 500,000 gazelles, and 200,000 zebras. These herds move in clockwise rotation in constant search of fresh grass and water. For more, here are the Top 10 Facts on the Great Wildebeeest Migration.
    • WHERE: Serengeti National Park. The great wildebeest migration safari occurs primarily in Northern Tanzania but also extends into Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve.
    • WHEN: Year-round. The great wildebeest migration follows seasonal changes and dances around rainy/dry spells, so it’s possible to experience the migration at any month of the year. Read more about when we think it’s best to see the Great Migration.
    • WHY: The two million ungulates work together yearound, crossing crocodile-filled rivers and predators of the savannah in a 1,000-kilometer endless circuit to stay alive and procreate by grazing on grasses and water. For you this creates an unfiltered experience found nowhere else on Earth.
    • The two million ungulates work together yearound, crossing crocodile-filled rivers and predators of the savannah in a 1,000-kilometer endless circuit to stay alive and procreate by grazing on grasses and water. For you this creates an unfiltered experience found nowhere else on Earth.

    5 steps to plan your Easy Travel Great wildebeest migration safari tour

    Great wildebeest migration safari

    Step 1: Choose your dates. True story: your availability to travel always depends on your personal schedule (read: life), but you also want to ensure you are visiting at primetime for migration sightings.

    Step 2: Select a package. Once you determine your dates, take a look at the five Migration Tour package options. All of them last 7-8 days, start and finish in Arusha, and include multiple days of game drives in the Serengeti, with a specific focus on migration locations. Also included in each package are side trips to Tarangire National Park and to the Ngorongoro Crater, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a look: Click Here

    Step 3: Find the perfect location and lodge. Once you’ve determined the dates and desired package, Easy Travel representatives will finalize safari accommodations in Serengeti National Park, based on the specific location of the herd at that time. Our staff are seasoned experts and have decades of experience with the prime locations for optimal viewing.

    Step 4: Firm up details. After determining the dates, the tour package, and locations for migration viewing, we will email an invoice to you. After making the deposit, we secure the lodging. Game on.

    Step 5: Let the migration begin!. After months of preparation, you arrive into Tanzania and one of our friendly drivers will pick you up at the airport, and this will mark the beginning of a life-changing experience, something you’ll never forget.

    Step 6: Share your future adventure. . Impress your friends (read: make them super jealous) by sharing your Great Migration plans on social media. The more people know about these incredible migrations, the more we humans will seek to protect them, right?

    Understanding the Wildebeest Migration

    The Great Wildebeest Migration happens all year round. But when you see it depends on where you want to go. Usually, the best time is between July and September. The animals cross the Grumeti and Mara Rivers in Tanzania and Kenya during these months.

    You can see the herds cross rivers, maybe see them meet predators, and watch as they fill the grasslands. But other times are good to visit too. In February and March, you can see newborn wildebeests being born. And from April to June, you can watch many birds in the Serengeti.

    Calving Season

    During the Great Wildebeest Migration, there’s a moment when life blossoms gloriously amidst the untamed Tanzanian wilderness. In what is often a feature of Wildebeest Migration Safaris, these magnificent creatures engage in a collective birthing phenomenon. Over 500,000 calves take their first steps on Tanzania’s plains in just a few weeks.

    The scale of this spectacle is incomparable worldwide and is a highlight of a Great Wildebeest Migration Safari. On your Tanzania Safari, witnessing this burst of new life against the backdrop of the wild is an experience of unmatched thrill. To see a sea of trembling newborns making their first brave strides is a joy that words fail to encapsulate fully.

    Mara River Crossing

    As the wildebeest migrate across the vast African savannas, they confront an intense and challenging affair that leaves visitors on the edge of their seats. In this heart-stopping scene, a crucial event in Wildebeest Migration adventures unfolds before your eyes. Countless wildebeests valiantly swim through treacherous river currents, all while outmaneuvering the stealthy predators that lie in wait.

    This nail-biting encounter showcases the tenacity of these remarkable animals persevering against the odds. To enhance this unforgettable experience, consider taking a balloon safari, where you can watch the drama unfold from a bird’s-eye perspective. Suspended in the skies, you’ll gain a fresh viewpoint on the epic struggle on your Wildebeest Migration adventure.

    Timing Your Safari

    Choosing the perfect time for your safari hinges on the particular highlights of the migration you wish to witness. Remembering migration patterns can shift due to varying rainfall levels and other environmental influences is essential.

    As you plan your trip to the Masai Mara and the Northern Serengeti, these seasonal fluctuations play a significant role in the wildebeest’s movements. If you desire a glimpse of life emerging amidst nature’s grandeur, consider visiting the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania during the calving season.

    Ultimately, your safari experience is shaped by how well you align your travel dates with the migration’s unique events. By being attentive to these ever-evolving factors, your journey becomes all the more enthralling.

    Selecting the Perfect Location

    Choosing between Tanzania and Kenya for witnessing the migration presents an intriguing puzzle. Both countries vie for our attention with their unmatched views of migration and unique regional attractions. 

    Yet, the prospect of deciding can be manageable, thanks to the assistance of knowledgeable safari specialists. They can provide excellent insight into what each country offers during safari vacations. 

    For instance, if witnessing the nerve-wracking suspense of the river crossing season is on your bucket list, consider Kenya’s Maasai Mara during July and August. Ultimately, the choice hinges on your personal goals and expectations for your safari vacation, a decision made more accessible with professional guidance.

    Serengeti National Park

    The Serengeti National Park, known for its vast plains, offers various viewing points for the migration unfolding throughout the year. The Central Serengeti stands out within these diverse regions, teeming with wildlife and offering remarkable year-round viewing opportunities. Planning a private safari here allows you an intimate and personal connection with nature.

    With a reputable safari operator, you can easily navigate the migration transitions across the Serengeti. Moreover, these safaris offer more than just game viewing, incorporating cultural and community activities for a well-rounded experience. This blend of wildlife, culture, and community ushers in a true sense of immersion in your African adventure.

    Maasai Mara National Reserve

    The season from July to October is synonymous with the gripping drama of river crossings, captivating visitors with its raw intensity. During this time, a group safari becomes a gripping shared experience, full of collective breath-holding moments and shared joy. 

    Choosing the right safari company ensures that you’re positioned in prime viewing spots to observe these daring wildebeest crossings. Wildebeests, in their thousands, throw themselves into the raging rivers, a dangerous passage fraught with dangers like solid currents and lurking predators.

    Such astonishing sights draw not just tourists but also a myriad of wild animals, coming together in a thrilling display of the circle of life; indeed, an unforgettable spectacle.

    Choosing the Right Accommodation

    The accommodation you select elevates your safari encounter, adding layers of comfort and immersion to your adventure. Options span from rooftop stargazing in luxury lodges and tented camps to the thrilling wildness of Serengeti camps nestled within the landscape.

    Mobile camps attract travellers seeking authentic experiences closely connected with nature. These accommodation options move with the wildebeest migration, placing you in the thick of the action.

    One essential tip is that lodges fill up quickly during peak season. Therefore, early booking is critical to secure your preferred accommodation and fully realize your dream safari experience.

    Booking Your Safari

    Partnering with a local tour operator like Easy Travel can enormously enhance your safari adventure. Their intimate familiarity with the terrain is invaluable for navigating Africa’s wilderness. Equipped with expert knowledge, they can maximize wildlife viewing opportunities, ensuring you get the most from your safari experience.

    They know the prime viewing spots for dramatic river crossings and the best times to observe the wildlife spectacle unfold. They can steer you towards the southern plains when the wildebeest herds congregate to feast on the seasonal lush grasslands.

    Expertly planned game drives become the highlight of your day, revealing the magic of Africa’s wildlife at every corner. Essentially, the local operator’s expertise unfolds the safari masterpiece for you.

    Preparing for Your Safari

    Remember to manage some essential formalities beforehand as you plan your safari adventure. Ensure you apply for all required visas to avoid any entry problems at your chosen destination. 

    Keep your travel documents updated, organized, and readily available to stave off potential stress during your journey. Also, remember that staying healthy is integral to thoroughly enjoying your vacation, and such measures become even more vital when travelling to exotic locales. 

    To this end, schedule all advised vaccinations for your travel destination well before your departure. A successful and smooth safari experience is just as much about meticulous planning and preparation as about thrilling encounters in the wild.

    Packing for Your Wildebeest Migration Safari

    Clothing and Gear

    – Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing for daytime game drives

    – Warm layers for early morning and evening drives

    – Comfortable hiking boots or walking shoes

    – A wide-brimmed hat for sun protection

    – Sunglasses and sunscreen

    – Insect repellent

    – A raincoat or waterproof jacket, particularly during the rainy season

    – Swimwear, if your accommodation has a pool

    – Binoculars for wildlife viewing

    Electronics

    – Camera, lenses, and extra memory cards for capturing memories

    – Extra batteries or a power bank

    – A flashlight or headlamp for navigating campsites

    – Travel adapters for electrical outlets

    – Mobile phone and charger

    Personal Items

    – Travel documents, including passports, visas, and vaccination records

    – Health and travel insurance information

    – Prescription medications and a basic first-aid kit

    – Reusable water bottles and snacks

    – A good book or entertainment for downtime

    Environmentally Friendly Practices

    – Biodegradable toiletries and personal care products

    – Reusable bags for carrying items

    – Refrain from using plastic packaging when possible

    Packing thoughtfully for your Wildebeest Migration Safari will make your experience more enjoyable. Remember to prioritize light, comfortable clothing and gear, pack necessary electronics and personal items, and consider environmentally friendly practices to minimize your impact on the delicate ecosystems you’ll visit.

    Health and Safety Precautions

    When embarking on a safari adventure, it’s essential to prioritize your health and safety. Remember, as you traverse the sun-drenched African landscapes, maintaining hydration levels is crucial. 

    Protecting your skin from the potentially harsh sun rays is equally essential. Also, ensure you have enough sunscreen, and remember to wear sunglasses.

    Additionally, adopt preventive measures against diseases like malaria; using appropriate mosquito repellents or taking anti-malaria pills can contribute immensely to your peace of mind. 

    RespectIing Wildlife

    A fantastic safari experience goes hand in hand with respecting the majestic wildlife:

    – Observe their activities silently.

    – Avoid infringing on their tranquillity.

    – Always maintain a safe distance.

    Local guidelines are there for your protection and to preserve the harmony of wildlife. Adhering to them ensures the safety and respect of these natural inhabitants. 

    Ultimately, the essence of a memorable safari lies in co-existing harmoniously with nature. This makes unforgettable encounters while safeguarding your well-being.

    Additional Experiences and Activities

    Spicing up your safari adventure with additional experiences can take your vacation to the next level. Beginning a day cloaked under the African dawn with a hot-air balloon ride, for instance, can offer an unmatched vantage point to gaze at the vast plains below and witness the wildlife starting their day.

    On the other hand, visiting a local village provides a fantastic chance to plunge yourself in and learn about the local communities’ culture and way of life. This can complement your safari experience, providing a holistic appreciation of the region’s wildlife and human life. 

    Furthermore, weaving in a getaway to Zanzibar after your migration safari can be the epitome of relaxation. With its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, Zanzibar stands as a contrasting landscape to the safari plains and offers a tranquil space to reflect on your thrilling wildlife encounters. 

    Hence, incorporating such diversions can add layers of interest, make your safari adventure more rounded, and leave you with unique memories.

    Capturing Your Memories

    Finally, as you embark on this extraordinary adventure, remember to seize every moment and capture the essence of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Carry your camera or smartphone along to immortalize those majestic wildlife sightings or surreal African landscapes bathed in the setting sun’s glow. 

    Each photograph will serve as a precious memento, transporting you back to those mesmerizing moments long after the safari ends. Alternatively, keeping a travel journal can be an engaging exercise to document your emotions and reflections. 

    A journal allows you to artfully scribe your encounters, the adrenaline you felt during a close wildlife encounter, or your awe as you witnessed a spectacle at a dramatic river crossing, thereby immortalizing your safari narrative into words. No matter how you capture these special moments, your safari experience will carve lasting memories, painting a vivid tableau of untamed wilderness you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

    Bottom line?

    The Great Migration is unlike any travel experience you will find on Earth. Quite literally, you can’t find this scale of such animate life anywhere else in one place. Easy Travel will work with you to design a tailor-made journey and get you a front-row seat, to be right in the action when that whoosh of a million wildebeest struts by your safari vehicle. Most importantly, a migration tour will put you in touch with some of our planet’s largest ecological patterns, and you will undoubtedly return home with newfound respect for sustaining life on Earth. So let’s start your journey, and your transformation, today.

    Getting you there?

    Witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration is an unmissable wildlife spectacle that leaves an everlasting impression. Need more resources or advice on planning your dream wildebeest migration safari? Look no further! Visit our website, and let’s turn your dream into reality.

    Easy Travel can arrange your once-in-a-lifetime experience of the Great Migration today. Check out our Award Winning Tours Here!

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What exactly is the Great Wildebeest Migration?

    The Great Wildebeest Migration is an annual spectacle in East Africa. This occurs mainly between Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. 

    It’s a huge event. Over two million animals, like wildebeest and zebras, travel far and wide. 

    They’re always looking for fresher, greener places to eat. The animals move in a big circle throughout the year. 

    This is because they follow the rain to find the best food. People love to watch this, and many come from far away to see all the animals moving in a grand display of nature.

    When is the best time to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration?

    The Great Wildebeest Migration happens all year round. But when you see it depends on where you want to go. Usually, the best time is between July and September. The animals cross the Grumeti and Mara Rivers in Tanzania and Kenya during these months.

    You can see the herds cross rivers, maybe see them meet predators, and watch as they fill the grasslands. But other times are good to visit too. In February and March, you can see baby wildebeests being born. And from April to June, you can watch many birds in the Serengeti.

    What can I expect to see during the Great Wildebeest Migration safari?

    A safari trip to see the Great Wildebeest Migration is like seeing a giant move of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and antelope across the large grasslands in East Africa. You can watch the herds cross rivers in Kenya and Tanzania, taking on dangerous crocodile-filled waters to find better places to eat. You’ll also see animals like lions, hyenas, and cheetahs following the herds, leading to exciting moments between the hunters and the hunted.

    Which parks and reserves in Kenya and Tanzania can I visit to see the Great Wildebeest Migration?

    The primary parks and reserves that offer the opportunity to experience the Great Wildebeest Migration are Tanzania’s vast Serengeti National Park and Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. The Mara River connects the two areas—one of the migration’s main river crossings—and encompasses a combined area providing a vast, rich habitat for migratory animals and wildlife enthusiasts. Other nearby parks and reserves, such as Kenya’s Amboseli National Park and Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Conservation Area, can significantly add to your safari, further enhancing your wildlife experience.

    How can I ensure I’m at the right place at the right time during the migration?

    Although the Great Wildebeest Migration is a continuous phenomenon, predicting its progress’s exact location and timing can be difficult due to different aspects, such as rainfall patterns. To optimize your chances of witnessing the migration, working with a knowledgeable local safari operator is of paramount importance.

     

    They possess invaluable insight into the animals’ movement, the regions’ unique weather circumstances, and the best spots for wildlife watching. Booking your safari during the peak season can also enhance your chances of seeing dramatic river crossings and the herds in full splendour.

    Can I take children on a Great Wildebeest Migration safari?

    The Great Wildebeest Migration safari can also be a thrilling, educational, and unforgettable experience for children. Family-friendly lodges and accommodations throughout the parks and reserves cater to young travellers. Many lodges offer special family programs, activities, and modified game drives to keep young adventurers engaged and entertained.

     

    However, be prepared for long game drives and the possibility of witnessing intense wildlife events, such as predator-prey encounters. It’s essential to assess your children’s interests and abilities prior to embarking on such a safari.

    What type of accommodation is available during the Great Wildebeest Migration safari?

    Various accommodation options cater to multiple tastes and budgets during a Great Wildebeest Migration safari. From luxury lodges and tented camps offering lavish facilities and personalized services to budget-friendly campsites and more basic lodgings, there is something for everyone. Some accommodations even reposition themselves seasonally to remain close to the migration, providing their guests with optimal wildlife viewing opportunities from the comfort of their lodges or camps.

    Is going on a Great Wildebeest Migration safari in East Africa safe?

    Embarking on a Great Wildebeest Migration safari in East Africa is generally safe, provided you adhere to the guidelines set by your safari operator and the park authorities. The trained guides and knowledgeable local tour operators prioritize their guests’ safety and ensure best practices throughout the safari.

    It’s important to remember that you’ll be near wild animals; thus, following instructions and avoiding unnecessary risks is crucial. Always ensure you have updated travel documents, relevant vaccinations, and recommended medications to protect yourself from potential health risks associated with travel.

    How long should a Great Wildebeest Migration safari last to fully experience the event?

    To truly immerse yourself in the Great Wildebeest Migration experience, consider planning a safari that lasts between 7 and 10 days. This duration allows ample time to explore different regions of the Serengeti National Park or the Masai Mara National Reserve, ensuring you can witness various aspects of the migration, such as river crossings or predator encounters. A longer safari combines the migration experience with other activities, such as visits to local villages or parks.

    Is a Great Wildebeest Migration safari ideal for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts?

    Going on a safari to see the Great Wildebeest Migration is a beautiful opportunity for photographers and people who love wildlife. It’s a special event that’s truly impressive. The landscapes are beautiful and vast, with massive groups of animals. This makes the African wilderness look amazing. Photographers get a great chance here to take striking pictures.

    Wildlife enthusiasts can revel in species diversity and delight in rare encounters with elusive animals in the region. The migration is a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle that offers incredible memories and unforgettable experiences for anyone passionate about the natural world.

    Musaddiq Gulamhussein - Owner - Easy Travel Tanzania

    About the author: Musaddiq

    Meet Musaddiq Gulamhussein, owner of Easy Travel Tanzania, a tour company creating life-changing safari experiences for over 35 years. Musaddiq has explored Tanzania, developing a deep understanding of the local cultures and traditions. Follow his journey and gain insights into the African Safari experience through Easy Travel's social media and blog.

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