For those who think that best summer vacations are in the seasides, we recommend that they turn their route to nature for the Great Wildebeest Migration in East Africa, which has been the subject of documentaries.
Every year, one of the world’s largest animal migrations takes place in the African savannahs. The journey is not easy for the two million wildebeest, zebras and gazelles that migrate between Tanzania and Kenya, two neighboring East African countries, hoping to find food and water by following the rain. With herds of lions, crocodiles, scavenging vultures and hyenas waiting for them in the vast savannahs, the migrating herds face a life-and-death struggle. This year-round circular migration takes place between Serengeti National Park (Tanzania) and Maasai Mara National Park (Kenya). And of course, Africa’s most adventurous safaris take place during this period.
So, when and where can you watch the Great Wildebeest Migration? This is a question that requires accurate information and timing. Because the Great Wildebeest Migration depends on animal behavior and seasonal conditions, and in recent years it has been affected by climate change. Unseasonal rainfall (early or late) has a significant impact on the migration movement of animals. Therefore, it is useful to do good research before planning your trip to Africa.
However, we can easily say that the next three to four months are the best time for the Great Wildebeest Migration. Those who can spare a week from their sea vacation can witness one of nature’s most beautiful shows. Let’s take a closer look at the next four months for proper planning.
June-July
The waters of the Grumeti River, one of the most important areas on the Great Wildebeest Migration route in Serengeti National Park, begin to decrease during these months. Wildebeest and zebras can easily cool off in this river. But the river is full of crocodiles. Some of the predatory scenes you see in the Great Migration documentaries take place here. The crocodiles easily prey on the animals trying to cool off; the survivors try to get to Kenya, to the Maasai Mara National Park as soon as possible. The migratory movement moves northwards. One group has already crossed the northern Serengeti and reached Kenya.
