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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 02 March, 2023

This remarkable natural phenomenon sees an annual circular trek of around two million creatures – wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelle and zebra – from the southern Serengeti to the wooded grasslands of Kenya’s Masai Mara, and back again.

The numbers are terrific, as are the snorting and ‘gnu’ sounds that permeate the air, and the predators that follow this moving feast – from lion and great crocodiles, to scavenging vultures. Possibly the greatest wildlife spectacle on Earth.

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 8+
Frequency: daily
When: All year round
Duration: Ongoing

Getting there & doing it

The migration can change direction or pace – so there is no guarantee they will be in the same place one year as they were in previous years. Generally, the herds are in the Southern Serengeti from March, Grumeti Private Reserves in June and July, Masai Mara in September and October, and eastern Serengeti and conservation areas to the park’s east in November and December (although it rains at this time). The best way to see the creatures is either from a permanent camp right on the route, or in a mobile camp that moves with them.

Hot air balloons are expensive (about $500 per person per hour, booked through most camps), but it’s the most glorious – and peaceful – place to appreciate the animals’ impressive numbers. Horseback safaris get up close, as the herds are not scared of other four-legged grazers. Experience is required though; lions like horsemeat as much as wildebeest and zebra!

Mobile camps offer the best experience but can be daunting for first-timers. Night-time, when lions and other predators can wander through camp, will thrill or terrify.

When to do it

July and August are the peak tourist season, best avoided if you can. April and May is rainy season (as is November) – so if you go then, be prepared to get wet. However, sightings can be excellent during this time.

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

3-day Masai Mara Safari Tour to see the big five and wildebeest migration

3-day Masai Mara Safari Tour to see the big five and wildebeest migration

Nairobi

Joining a safari tour and share in a group of 7 Passengers per vehicle while still observing social distancing with a visit to the Maasai Ma...

$420 | Rating 5 / 5 [7 ratings]

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Tour supplied by:

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Private Masai Mara Wildebeest Migration Safari from Nairobi

Private Masai Mara Wildebeest Migration Safari from Nairobi

Nairobi

This one-of-a-kind adventure takes you to Kenya’s most popular park Masai Mara National Reserve. Masai mara is one of Africa’s Greatest Wi...

$988 | Rating 4.94 / 5 [17 ratings]

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Tour supplied by:

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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Lamai Serengeti

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania[30 miles]

This stylish, understated camp enjoys a striking position overlooking the northern Serengeti, surrounded by big game.

Official star rating:

Kicheche Mara Camp

Masai Mara National Park, Kenya[30.8 miles]

An elegant, tented camp offering great-value, traditional safaris in the game-rich Maasai Mara conservancy – but without the heavy crowds.

Official star rating:

Singita Sasakwa Lodge

Grumeti Private Reserve, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania[93.3 miles]

The grandest lodge in Tanzania, with breathtaking views over hundreds of miles of Serengeti plains.

Official star rating:

Singita Sabora Tented Camp

Grumeti Reserve, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania[121.3 miles]

The most glamorous, contemporary tented safari camp in Tanzania, great for simple sophistication and tented romance. Children over 10 are welcome.

Official star rating:

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