All Facts About Wildebeest Migration(Great Migration)

The wildebeest migration is an intricate and dynamic process, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of these animals. The migration is not just a journey for food and water but a vital part of the ecosystem, supporting a diverse range of wildlife and providing a critical tourism boost to Tanzania and Kenya.

Wildebeest Migration Map

The migration map highlights the major routes taken by the herds throughout the year. Key areas include the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya.

Southern Serengeti: January to March
Central Serengeti: April to June
Western Corridor: June to July
Northern Serengeti/Maasai Mara: July to October
Eastern Serengeti: November to December

Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti

The Serengeti is the primary stage for the migration. The vast plains provide the grazing grounds needed by the herds, and the Serengeti’s river systems, like the Grumeti and Mara rivers, present challenging obstacles that are essential parts of the migration narrative.

Southern Serengeti:
- Calving Season: January to March, when around 500,000 calves are born.
- Predators: Lions, hyenas, and cheetahs are abundant due to the vulnerable young.
Central Serengeti:
- Transition Period: April to June, herds start moving north as the southern plains dry out.
- Rains: The central region sees intermittent rains, providing sporadic grazing opportunities.
Western Corridor:
- Grumeti River Crossing: June to July, a significant challenge where crocodiles lie in wait.
- Dense Woodland: Provides cover for ambush predators like leopards.

Wildebeest Migration Facts

Population: The migration includes around 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and 300,000 gazelles.
Predation: Predators play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.
Birth Rate: Nearly 8,000 calves are born daily during the peak calving season.
Mortality Rate: High, due to predation, exhaustion, and river crossings.

Wildebeest Migration 2024

While the exact timings may vary slightly due to climate conditions, the general timeline is as follows:

January-March: Calving in the southern Serengeti.
April-June: Movement towards the western Serengeti and the Grumeti River.
July-September: Major river crossings into the Maasai Mara.
October-December: Returning to the Serengeti.

Wildebeest Migration Distance

Total Distance: Approximately 1,200 miles (2,000 kilometers).
Daily Movement: Wildebeest can travel 20-30 miles per day during peak migration periods.
Challenges: Crossing rivers, predator encounters, and finding sufficient grazing grounds.

Wildebeest Migration: Wonder of the World

Significance: Regarded as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa.
Spectacle: The synchronization and sheer scale of the migration make it a unique and awe-inspiring event.
Tourism: Draws tens of thousands of tourists annually, significantly contributing to local economies.

Wildebeest Migration in Kenya

The Maasai Mara in Kenya is a pivotal part of the migration:

Mara River Crossings:
- Peak: July to September, dramatic crossings with crocodile attacks.
- Scenic Beauty: Rolling plains and abundant wildlife.
Predator-Prey Dynamics:
- Lions, Hyenas, and Crocodiles: Major predators in the Maasai Mara.
- Tourist Safaris: Popular for witnessing predator-prey interactions.

Wildebeest Migration Months

Here’s a month-by-month breakdown:

January-March:
- Location: Southern Serengeti.
- Activity: Calving season, high predator activity.
April-June:
- Location: Central to Western Serengeti.
- Activity: Herds move towards the western corridor, crossing the Grumeti River.
July-September:
- Location: Northern Serengeti to Maasai Mara.
- Activity: Major river crossings, grazing in Maasai Mara.
October-December:
- Location: Returning south to Serengeti.
- Activity: Movement back to calving grounds, grazing along the way.

Conclusion

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A Guide to a Wildebeest Migration Safari

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR A WILDEBEEST MIGRATION SAFARI:

On this A Wildebeest Migration Safari, all visitors must have a valid passport with at least 4 consecutive blanks pages. Any applicable visa and/or relevant documentation are the responsibility of the traveler. For further information on Visa requirements visitors are advised to contact their nearest Kenya or Tanzania Embassy or Consulate.

LANGUAGE ON A WILDEBEEST MIGRATION SAFARI:

English

TIME:

GMT +3

VOLTAGE:

220 Volts/AC50Hz. Sockets are UK style, 3 pin square plugs. Power is from the government in the city/major towns and generator with inverter back up in the Safari Lodges and Camps.

CURRENCY: Foreign currency must be changed at the Bank, Bureau de Change, and Hotel/Safari lodge/Camp/Resort. Major Credit Cards, Master card, Visa, American Express, are usually accepted throughout the country. Where credit cards are accepted, the payment will normally be recorded in US$ regardless of the card’s default currency.

CLOTHING:

Dress is mainly informal and should be comfortable as well as practical. Something warm should be brought along for early morning and evenings. Safari clothes are available from hotels/lodges/camps.

BAGGAGE:

Where possible, travel light. Baggage space on safari is limited to medium suitcase or soft bag per person plus reasonable amount of hand luggage. There is 15 Kilogram per person limit on all flights to the wildlife sanctuaries. Excess luggage must be stored in your arrival hotel.

WATER:

You will find many different of opinion of what is safe and what is not. We recommend for peace of mind, to drink local Bottled Mineral water. It is important to drink plenty of water especially during the hotter months. We would recommend that guests drink at least 2 to 3 liters of water per day to limit the effects of dehydration.

HEALTH;

East Africa is a safe and secure destination; however, it is a good idea to take a few precautions. Kindly consult your GP or local doctor at least 6 weeks before you travel, with regards: Malaria prophylactics. East Africa is a known malaria area and preventive measures are essential. You are advised to take one of the recommended anti-malarial drugs.

Be sure to wear long sleeved shorts and trousers after sunset and spray the exposed parts of your body with a mosquito repellent spray Remember to protect yourself from direct sun rays with sunscreen cream or safari hat.

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS:

For those guests with specific dietary requirement, please ensure we are notified prior to travel

GRATUITIES:

As a guideline and dependent on how happy you are, we would suggest the following: The General Hotel/Lodge/Camp Staff – Approximately U$ 10.00 per person per day Driver Guides – Approximately US$ 15.00 to US$ 20.00 per person per day

PHOTOGRAPHY:

Please be careful when photographing public buildings, airports, bridges, the national flag and people in uniform. Ensure that you have sought permission before photographing local people and their villages. If in doubt, please check with your guide.

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