Getting the Most out of the Wildebeest Migration

The wildebeest migration, between the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, is one of the world’s greatest events. Between June and October, more than a million wildebeest traverse the endless African plains looking for greener pasture.

Witnessing this Great Migration is truly a once in a lifetime event where you will experience nature in all its glory. Watching the powerful wildebeest thunder across the plains is breathtaking, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a wildebeest calf hiding among the adults, seeking protection from predators. Head to the Mara River to see the wildebeest cross the water en masse. Keep your eyes peeled for the crocodiles that use this opportunity to grab a wildebeest for dinner!

Here’s how you can get the most out of your wildebeest experience:

 

What to Wear

Be prepared for the warm, dry weather by layering up. Wearing vests under cotton or linen shirts is a good idea. Pair these with loose trousers or shorts to help you keep cool. Stick to neutral or sand-coloured clothing to minimise the dirt and dust marks, and invest in a pair of sturdy, waterproof shoes.

It’s important to wear clothes that will make you feel comfortable all day long, as you may have to wait around for a while before you see anything camera worthy. Bring a sun hat and apply sunscreen generously (and regularly) to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.

 

Where to Stay

There is a vast range of excellent accommodation offering incredible views of the annual wildebeest migration. Here are a few of our favourites:

Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp

This safari lodge is located on the plains of the Masai Mara. From here, you’ll have unrivalled views of the migration from the comfort of the camp, which means that you’ll never be too far from the action.

Klein’s Camp

Set on the edge of the Kuka Hills in Tanzania, off the beaten track and deep in the reserve, this remote and exclusive camp offers you the perfect place for witnessing the magic of the wildebeest migration.

Exclusive Mobile Camp

This camp changes location throughout the year according to the movement of the wildlife, which means that you’ll always be close to the migration. The Mobile Camp is fully integrated into the African bush, providing isolation and amazing opportunities to view wildlife in its natural habitat.

 

Patience, Patience, Patience

A big lure of safari is to expect the unexpected. Nature is unpredictable and this is what makes a safari holiday so exciting. One minute you’ll see the animals in action, the next minute you’ll be waiting patiently for another sighting. So it’s important to relax, have patience, and understand that nature plays by its own rules, but you will certainly enjoy your time nonetheless.

This unpredictability is also true of the weather. Even though the wildebeest migration is an annual event, changes in the weather can mean that specific routes and timings can change from year to year. Therefore, it’s a good idea to consult with the safari specialists at Somak in order to plan accordingly, with the weather in mind, to get the most out of your visit.

Top Tips

 Bring your own binoculars.

• Keep your eyes peeled for wildebeest calves in and amongst all the adults.
• Be aware that changes in the weather may affect the wildebeest migration route.
• The famous wildebeest river crossings usually occur around late June to July when the wildebeest cross the Mara River into Kenya, and once again around late September to October when the wildebeest head back into Tanzania.
• Speak to a safari expert at Somak to work out what the best holiday options are for you.

 

Contact Somak today!

To see the incredible wildebeest migration for yourself, travel to the Masai Mara or the Serengeti between June and October. Somak can help you plan and organise this trip of a lifetime, just call us on 020 8423 3000.