What Time of the Day is Best for Viewing the Migration?
The Great Migration is one of the most spectacular wildlife events in the world. It happens every year as millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other animals move between Kenya’s Masai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti. If you are planning to witness this breathtaking event, you may be wondering: What time of the day is best for viewing the migration?
As your safari guide and specialist from Seko Tours, I am here to help you understand the best time of the day to see the migration and why it matters. Let’s dive in!
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Early Morning: The Best Time to Start
The early morning is one of the best times to see the migration. Animals are very active at this time because the weather is cool, and they are moving in search of food and water. If you want to capture amazing photos, the morning light is soft and beautiful.
Why Early Morning?
- Animals are fresh and active.
- Predators like lions and cheetahs are hunting.
- The lighting is perfect for photography.
- There are fewer tourists, making it a peaceful experience.
At Seko Tours, we always recommend starting your game drive early so you don’t miss the action.
Mid-Morning: More Movement, But Less Action
By mid-morning, the sun gets warmer, and animals start slowing down. You will still see the herds moving, but they are not as active as in the early morning. Many animals begin resting under trees or near water sources.
Why Mid-Morning?
- Some herds are still moving.
- A good time to watch elephants, giraffes, and other grazers.
- Great for watching hippos in the river.
While the mid-morning is still a good time for viewing, it is not as exciting as early morning or late afternoon. At Seko Tours, we usually take a short break at this time to relax and enjoy breakfast in the wild.
Afternoon: Animals Rest, But Something is Still Happening
The afternoon is the hottest time of the day, and most animals rest in the shade. You may not see much movement, but you can still find herds resting near waterholes or under trees. Predators like lions and leopards also take naps, preparing for the next hunt.
Why Afternoon?
- A good time to spot resting animals.
- Perfect for watching hippos and crocodiles.
- A chance to see some unique behaviors like elephants cooling off.
At Seko Tours, we often suggest using the afternoon for a relaxing break before heading out for an evening game drive.
Late Afternoon & Sunset: The Best for Action!
As the sun starts to go down, the migration comes to life again. Animals wake up from their rest, and predators begin to hunt. The golden light of the sunset makes everything look magical.
Why Late Afternoon?
- Animals start moving again.
- Predators are active.
- The lighting is perfect for photography.
- The scenery looks beautiful with the golden sunset.
At Seko Tours, we always recommend an evening game drive to experience the best of the migration before the day ends.
Night: The Mysterious Side of the Migration
At night, many things happen that you don’t see during the day. The sounds of wildebeests calling, lions roaring, and hyenas laughing create an unforgettable atmosphere. If you stay in a safari camp, you might even hear animals walking close by.
Why Night?
- Predators are more active.
- You can hear amazing sounds of nature.
- Some camps offer night game drives to see nocturnal animals.
While night game drives are not allowed in some parts of the migration route, Seko Tours can arrange special night safaris in private conservancies where you can experience the wild like never before.
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So, What is the Best Time of the Day for the Migration?
If you want to see the migration at its best, early morning and late afternoon are the perfect times. This is when animals are most active, and you will witness incredible moments like river crossings, predator hunts, and herds moving together.
Seko Tours specializes in planning custom Kenya safaris, making sure you get the best migration experience based on your interests and schedule. Whether you prefer early morning adventures, sunset game drives, or a mix of both, we can help create the perfect safari for you.
