Does the Wildebeest Migration Happen All Year Round?
The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the most famous wildlife spectacles in the world. Millions of wildebeests, along with zebras and gazelles, move across the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya in search of fresh grass and water. But does the wildebeest migration happen all year round? Let’s explore this amazing journey with simple words so that even a 5-year-old can understand.
The Wildebeest Migration – What Is It?
The wildebeest migration is the movement of millions of animals, mainly wildebeests, across the plains of Tanzania and Kenya. These animals move because they need food and water. When one place becomes dry, they walk to another place where the grass is fresh.
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Does the Migration Happen All Year Round?
Yes! The wildebeest migration happens every month of the year. The animals do not stay in one place; they keep moving in a big cycle. Their journey never stops because they are always looking for food and water. However, they move to different places at different times of the year. Let’s look at where they go each month.
January – March: Calving Season in Ndutu (Southern Serengeti)
At the beginning of the year, the wildebeests stay in the Ndutu area, which is in the southern part of Serengeti in Tanzania. This is where many baby wildebeests are born. Over 500,000 calves are born in just a few weeks! The land is green, and there is plenty of food.
April – May: Moving Towards Central Serengeti
After the babies are strong enough to walk, the herds start moving towards the central part of Serengeti. This is the time when the long rains come, and the grass is still fresh. However, this season is also dangerous because predators like lions and cheetahs are watching!
June – July: Grumeti River Crossing and Moving to the North
By June, the wildebeests reach the western part of Serengeti, near the Grumeti River. Some of them try to cross the river, but there are big crocodiles waiting for them! This is a very dramatic part of their journey. By July, the herds move towards the northern part of Serengeti, getting closer to Kenya.
August – October: Mara River Crossing into Kenya’s Maasai Mara
This is one of the most famous parts of the migration. The wildebeests reach the Mara River, which separates Tanzania and Kenya. Crossing this river is very dangerous because of strong water currents and hungry crocodiles. Many wildebeests make it across, but some do not. After crossing, they enter the Maasai Mara in Kenya, where they find fresh grass.
November – December: Returning to Serengeti
By November, the wildebeests start moving south again. They leave Kenya and go back to Tanzania because the short rains make the southern grasslands green again. By December, they are in Ndutu, and the cycle starts again!
Can You See the Wildebeest Migration Any Time of the Year?
Yes! Because the migration never stops, you can see wildebeests in different places at different times. If you want to see baby wildebeests, you should visit in February. If you want to see them crossing the river, the best time is from July to September. No matter when you visit, Seko Tours can help you plan a perfect safari to see the migration!
Why Is the Migration Important?
The Great Wildebeest Migration is not just an amazing sight. It is also very important for nature. The movement of the wildebeests helps to keep the grasslands healthy. When they eat grass in one place and move to another, the land gets time to grow fresh grass. Their dung also helps the soil become rich.
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How to Plan a Safari to See the Wildebeest Migration
If you want to see the migration, the best thing to do is plan your safari based on what you want to see. Seko Tours specializes in creating custom Kenya and Tanzania safaris. Here’s what we can do for you:
- Take you to the best places at the best time to see the migration.
- Arrange comfortable lodges and camps for your stay.
- Provide experienced guides who know everything about wildlife.
- Organize transport and game drives for a stress-free safari.
A wildebeest migration safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you want to see baby wildebeests in Ndutu or the dramatic river crossings in the Maasai Mara, Seko Tours can help you create a perfect safari adventure!
