Where Do the Wildebeests Start Their Migration Journey?

Where Do the Wildebeests Start Their Migration Journey?

Wildebeest migration is one of the most spectacular wildlife events in the world. Millions of wildebeests, along with zebras and gazelles, move in a continuous cycle across the Serengeti and Maasai Mara in search of fresh grass and water. But where do these incredible animals begin their journey? As a safari specialist from Seko Tours, we are here to guide you through this amazing migration and help you understand every detail about it.

The Starting Point of the Wildebeest Migration

The Great Wildebeest Migration starts in the Southern Serengeti, specifically in the Ndutu region. This area is rich in nutritious grass, making it the best place for wildebeests to give birth to their young. The migration usually begins between December and March when thousands of baby wildebeests are born each day. This period is also known as the calving season.

Ndutu, located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area of Tanzania, provides an ideal environment for the newborns. The plains are open, making it easier for mothers to protect their babies from predators. However, this also means that lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and other predators are always around, waiting for an opportunity to hunt the weak and the young.

Why Do Wildebeests Migrate?

Wildebeests migrate mainly in search of fresh grazing land and water. They follow the rain patterns, moving through different parts of the Serengeti and Maasai Mara throughout the year. This journey is instinctive, meaning the wildebeests do not choose to migrate; they simply follow their natural cycle of movement.

The Migration Cycle

The wildebeest migration follows a predictable pattern. Let’s break it down into different months so you can understand where they are at different times of the year:

December to March – Calving Season (Southern Serengeti / Ndutu)

During these months, the wildebeests are mostly found in the Ndutu area.
This is when the majority of calves are born.
Predators take advantage of the weak newborns, making it a dramatic time for wildlife viewing.

April to May – Moving Towards the Central Serengeti

As the grass in Ndutu starts to dry up, the herds begin moving northwards.
They pass through the Central Serengeti, feeding on fresh grass as they go.
Rainy season makes some roads muddy, but this is a great time for seeing large herds.

June – Grumeti River Crossing (Western Serengeti)

The herds reach the western Serengeti, where they must cross the Grumeti River.
Crocodiles in the river make this crossing dangerous.
Some wildebeests do not survive, but the herds must move forward.

July to October – The Mara River Crossing (Northern Serengeti / Maasai Mara)

One of the most famous moments of the migration happens when the herds reach the Mara River.
This is when they enter Kenya’s Maasai Mara, crossing the river in massive numbers.
The sight of thousands of wildebeests jumping into the water, avoiding crocodiles, is breathtaking.

November – Returning to the Serengeti

After spending months in the Maasai Mara, the wildebeests start heading back south.
They return to the Serengeti as the cycle continues.

Best Time to See the Wildebeest Migration

The best time to see the migration depends on what you want to experience:

Calving season (January to March): Best for seeing baby wildebeests and predator action.
Grumeti River crossing (June): Best for watching the herds struggle through the first major river.
Mara River crossing (July to October): The most dramatic part of the migration.
Herds returning south (November to December): Best for avoiding crowds but still seeing large numbers of wildebeests.

How to Experience the Wildebeest Migration with Seko Tours

At Seko Tours, we specialize in creating custom safaris that allow you to witness the wildebeest migration up close. Whether you want to visit Ndutu during the calving season or witness the dramatic Mara River crossing, we can plan the perfect safari for you.

We arrange:

Private safaris tailored to your interests.
Comfortable lodges and tented camps in prime locations.
Expert guides who understand animal behavior and the best routes.
Game drives at the right time for maximum wildlife viewing.

Tips for Planning Your Safari

Book early: The migration attracts many visitors, so accommodations fill up fast.
Choose the right time: Decide what part of the migration you want to see.
Stay in the right location: Lodges in key areas allow you to be close to the action.
Consider a private safari: This gives you more flexibility and a personal experience.

The Importance of the Wildebeest Migration to the Ecosystem

The migration plays a big role in maintaining balance in the ecosystem. Here’s why it’s important:

Grass regeneration: The movement of millions of wildebeests helps new grass grow.
Predator survival: Lions, cheetahs, leopards, and other predators rely on wildebeests for food.
Natural selection: The weak and sick do not survive, keeping the species strong.

Conclusion

The Great Wildebeest Migration is an incredible natural event that starts in the Ndutu area of the Southern Serengeti. From there, the wildebeests move in a continuous cycle through the Serengeti and Maasai Mara, facing many challenges along the way.

If you want to experience this amazing journey, Seko Tours can help plan a custom Kenya safari to ensure you see the migration at its best. Whether it’s the calving season, river crossings, or the vast herds moving across the plains, we can create a safari just for you.