Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, 400,050 zebras, and 300,000 gazelles move in a giant clockwise loop through the Serengeti and Masai Mara ecosystems. Known as the Great Migration, this is the largest overland animal movement on earth and is rightly hailed as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. To witness this dramatic cycle of life, death, and renewal up close is a dream for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.
The journey is fraught with peril. As the massive herds seek greener pastures, they must cross treacherous rivers infested with giant Nile crocodiles, while lions, leopards, and cheetahs lie in wait along the grassy plains. The most famous and dramatic moment is the crossing of the Mara River, which usually occurs between July and October when the herds reach Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve.
To plan the perfect migration safari, timing is everything. Here is a quick seasonal breakdown: From January to March, the herds are in the southern Serengeti for calving season, an incredible time to see thousands of newborns and high predator activity. By May and June, they begin moving northwards. From July through October, the action centers around the Masai Mara, where the famous river crossings take place. By November and December, the rains return, drawing the herds back south.
When you travel with Sahan Tourism, our professional Maasai trackers know the exact movements of the herds. Staying in our selected luxury eco-lodges inside the Masai Mara allows you to beat the tourist crowds and witness these epic crossings in ultimate comfort.
