Our Timeless Africa Safari consultants are experts on The Great Migration. They have all the expertise necessary to ensure the best experience. If you want more detailed information or have any other questions, please contact us at: info@tasafaris.com
What is the Great Migration?
The single greatest mass movement of land animals on the planet. Every year, approximately 1.5 million wildebeests and 300,000 zebras journey from Tanzania’s Serengeti northwards to Kenya’s Maasai Mara and then back down South again. The herds traverse plains and rivers in pursuit of fresh grass, following the flow of the seasons. The river crossings are the main attraction as thousands of animals cross the raging, crocodile-infested, predator-lined rivers. This epic spectacle is known as ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’.
Where is the Great Migration?
East Africa – Tanzania and Kenya. Roaming herds move clockwise through the Serengeti Plains in Tanzania to the Maasai Mara Reserve in Kenya and back in a great circle. Check the calendar to find out when you can see the herds in the different regions.
When is the Great Migration?
There is no start or finish and you can see the migration at different stages throughout the year. The exact timing and route of the migration changes from year to year – depending on the rains. In order to guarantee sightings, we recommend booking multiple lodges and destinations. Check the annual calendar.
What is the climate in the area?
The hottest months are late January to end of March while the coolest are July and August. There are two rainy seasons: “the long rains” from late March to early June and the “short rains” during November and December. For most of the time, rains are mainly at night or in the early morning which means there can still be sunny days in between.
How do seasons affect the migration?
During the hot months, January-March, conditions can often be dry and dusty and the animals may congregate near waterholes so that there is excellent wildlife viewing. Just after the rainy seasons in December, many baby animals are born. The migration moves into the Mara between July and September and this is when the Kenyan parks can get more crowded.
How do I get there?
Most visitors fly into Kilimanjaro airport in Arusha Tanzania on direct flights from major airlines such as KLM, Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways. Or you can fly into Nairobi, Kenya. From there you can travel by air or road:
– Fly-in: the most convenient route is to fly with a small aircraft directly into the national parks and transfer via the lodge’s vehicle to the lodge. The game drives then happen in the lodge’s safari vehicles.
Do I need vaccines?
The level of risk for vaccine-preventable diseases can change. Please be sure to see a travel clinic at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to allow for your vaccines to take effect and to start taking medicine to prevent malaria.
– All visitors to the area are required to get a yellow fever vaccination as you may be asked for a certificate after departing Tanzania or arriving at other destinations.
– Malaria risk is moderate but it is advised that you consult with your medical practitioner to take antimalarial drugs, use insect repellent, wear long pants and sleeves in the evenings, and sleep in well-screened rooms.
