The Ultimate Safari Guide And The Great Migration

The Great Migration is one of the most remarkable processes of wildlife migration on the planet, it draws the attention of nature enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers from across the world who love to witness this incredible phenomenon.

The great migration takes place across the massive plains of the Maasai Mara in Kenya and Serengeti in Tanzania. It involves millions of wildebeest (gnu), zebras, and other herbivores, on a continuous journey of survival.

The Great Migration offers a front-row seat and the awe-inspiring power of nature for those adventurers seeking an unforgettable luxury wildlife Kenya experience. Join us this this blog,  exploring the details of the Great Migration and highlighting how a luxury safari in Kenya can elevate your safari experience.

Understanding the Great Migration

First of all, you need to understand what is the Great Migration. Here we make it simple for you,

“The Great Migration is a movement across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem over 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and countless other wild animals”

 This continuous cycle is started by the animals to search for fresh grass and water. It is influenced by the region’s seasonal rainfalls. The distance span is approximately 1,800 miles including hunters, river crossings, and harsh environmental conditions that suffer millions of animals annually.

Key Phases of the Great Migration

What’s next? Here are some key phases of the great migration. Les jump in!

1. January – March

During the early months of the year like January to March, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania and the southern Serengeti become the central point for the migration. Yes, did you know that the best part of January to March duration? Well, the best thing is, millions of wildebeest give birth to nearly 500,000 calves in the period of a few weeks.

The lush foliage and plain fields provide ample food for newborns and become a source to feed young claves. On the flip side, the calving season attracts numerous hunters, including lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. When hunters see the ample amount of wildebeest and calve, they easily attract them and create intense and dramatic scenes.

2. April – May

As the rains begin to decline, the calve group starts moving northwards through the central Serengeti. This period is popular as the wildebeest mating season. Yes, in this period April to May, the male wildebeest competes with each other to get the breeding opportunity.

As shortage of rain, the grasses start to dry up, prompting the crowd to move towards the Grumeti River and Western Corridor

3. Grumeti River Crossings (June – July)

Crossing the Grumeti River is one of the most dramatic moments of the migration and it takes almost two months June and July.  Yes, at the time of crossing the river, the herds face the challenge of crossing the crocodile-infested waters.

Many animals fall and become prey to the predators prowling in the river and waiting for the target. The fight and bravery of thousands of wildebeest, that they show while crossing the river is a true example of best effort for survival.

4. Mara River Crossings (August – October)

At the Mara River in the northern Serengeti and Maasai Mara, the climax of the Great Migration arises. This season starts in Augusta and continues till October. At the time of the crossing river, the herds faced strong currents challenge.

The dangerous and hectic crossing can take herd groups in the mouth of hunters that waiting in the rivers. However, the successful crossing of the Mara River leads the herds into the lush green grasses of the Maasai Mara. Maasai Mara is a place where they stroll and nourish until the rains begin to return in the south.

5. Return Journey (November – December)

The herd spent last month October at Maasai Mara, as the short rain starts in November. The herd begins to start their journey back south toward the Serengeti. They repeat their paths and step, for moving back to Serengeti.

When going back they face the same challenging, dangerous landscapes, and facing the same hunter waiting to target them. Thus, it is a continuous cycle of life and death of herds that starts in January, and after a year-round compilation, they run back to Serengeti again, which defines the Great Migration.

How To Experience the Great Migration on a Luxury Safari Kenya?

You can find a luxury safari in Kenya that may offer the opportunity to witness the Great Migration in style and luxurious way. Here’s how you can experience the Great Migration Safari experience.

1. Exclusive Accommodations

Luxury safari lodges and camps like Anagma Mara and Mara Plains Camp can offer you the world-class accommodations with breathtaking views of the migration routes. The amazingly designed and high-class accommodations offer spacious tents or suites with private verandas. These arrangements will ensure you have the best experience by observing the herds from the comfort of your room.

2. Expert Guides and Customized Safaris

With the expert Luxury safari operators and guides, you can get full knowledge of the behavior and movements of the migrating herds. The expert safari guides offer personalized game drives and walking safaris. These safari tours are exclusively tailored to maximize your chances of witnessing key migration events.

3. Aerial Safaris and Balloon Rides

If you want to have a grand sight of the Great Migration, you might want to consider taking an aerial safari or a hot air balloon ride.

Floating over the Maasai Mara and above the vast plains and watching the herds move below is such an incredibly amazing and unforgettable experience. You can even select a most suitable luxury safari package that will include these exhilarating activities, adding an extra layer of adventure to your trip.

4. Gourmet Dining and Exceptional Service

To have a great dining and cuisine experience in Kenya, you can choose Luxury safari lodges and get exceptionally renowned gourmet dining experience.

After a full day of thrilling game drives and enjoyment, you can enjoy a sumptuous meal prepared by top chefs, often using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

The culinary delights add a wonderful touch to the overall luxury safari experience, no matter if its a bush dinner under the stars or a champagne breakfast on the savannah.

5. Conservation and Community Involvement

By choosing a luxury safari Kenya experience, you can contribute to the preservation of wildlife and the support of local Kenya communities. Many of the amazing quality luxury safari operators are committed to conservation and community development.

There are some great Initiatives such as anti-poaching programs, habitat restoration, and community education are often funded by safari revenues.

Final Thoughts

The Great Migration is indeed such a natural wonder that showcases the resilience and determination of wildlife in the face of hardship. You can experience this awe-inspiring huge migration event on a luxury safari in Kenya. This amazing tour operator offers a perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and exclusivity.