The Traveller's Magazine
The wildebeest migration is one of the most impressive animal migrations in the world as millions of these mighty creatures travel across the open plains of Africa. Are you ready for this African adventure?
Great Migrations
Every year around 1.5 million wildebeest travel from Tanzania to Kenya at the start of dry season, and what a sight to see! It’s one of the biggest animal migrations in the world and best seen from above as millions of them cross the vast plains of Africa in search of food.
Unlike other animal migrations which are cued by the weather and lunar cycles, the wildebeest migration is triggered by their continual search for food over a journey of 1,800 or so miles. When the dry season arrives they take off looking for mineral-rich grasslands elsewhere. The wildebeests are often joined by others like zebra and gazelles who are also in search of food and drinking water.
It’s not an easy journey. There are rivers to be crossed with crocodiles and hippos potentially lurking under the surface. There are lions, cheetahs, leopards and hyenas waiting for the wildebeest to cross their paths but, much like a bird murmuration, they move as one and even overcome predators as a herd.
Where to see the migration?
Wildebeests travel year-round but the best time to see them in motion is in Kenya’s Masai Mara at the start of dry season which usually arrives in late June to July. Alternatively February and March are ideal for catching the wildebeest in the Serengeti Park as they give birth to their calves, much to the delight of predators.
Flights to KenyaHave you seen this migration? Is it on your bucket list?
