Articles
The Marvel of the Great Wildebeest Migration
The Great Wildebeest Migration is an awe-inspiring spectacle that everyone must have on their travel bucket list. This event ranks among the most extraordinary wildlife experiences and one of the largest mass movements of land animals on the planet.
Let us take you on a journey through the heart of this remarkable phenomenon, revealing its two distinct seasons of migration and the staggering numbers that make it a true wonder of the natural world. Each season features its unique characteristics and highlights.
The Calving Season in the Southern Serengeti
From the last week of December to the last week of March, wildebeests and zebras undergo an incredible journey of reproduction known as "calving," which takes place in Ndutu, the Southern Serengeti. Thousands of pregnant females give birth simultaneously, creating a synchronised event that overwhelms the senses.
The vast plains of Ndutu come alive with the sights and sounds of new-born wildebeests and zebras. Their spindly legs wobble as they take their first tentative steps into the world, creating an unforgettable display of new life amidst the golden grasslands.
The Migration Season in the Central Serengeti
Following the calving season, the herds begin their epic migration from the Central Serengeti crossing over to the Masai Mara in search of greener pastures. This journey unfolds in the second week of July, as wildebeest, zebras and different antelopes cross the Mara River. It's a treacherous journey fraught with peril, as crocodile-infested rivers and prowling predators lie in wait. The crossing is a thrilling event that defies description, as wave upon wave of animals stretch as far as the eye can see, painting the landscape with their ceaseless movement.
Return Journey to the Serengeti: Completing the Cycle
As the dry season ends in the Serengeti and the first rains of October mark the start of a new season, an estimated 1.8 million wildebeests, 1 million zebras, and 750,000 different antelopes being their return journey through different routes converging once again in the Southern Serengeti, where the cycle of migration begins.
The Great Wildebeest Migration is not just a natural wonder, it's truly a spectacle that captures the imagination and leaves an indelible impression on all who bear witness—a testament to the indomitable spirit of life in the wild.
So, if you ever find yourself yearning for a different travel experience, consider Great Wildebeest Migration.
