How long does wildebeest migration last? What is the best duration for a wildebeest migration safari?
How long does wildebeest migration last? The wildebeest migration is a natural phenomenon that takes place year-round. Over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of other mammal grazers (Zebras & gazelles) move across Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. The wildebeest migration happens each month of the year, following different phases. How long does wildebeest migration last?The migration happens over and over again allowing you to experience this natural phenomenon at any time of the year. When planning a wildest safari, most travelers prefer visiting during the peak season which is popular for its dramatic river crossings. If you are still wondering How long does wildebeest migration last? The wildebeest migration lasts for 12 months and happens each year-round.
The migration is circular and follows an old-age route that spans about 1,900 km across Tanzania and Kenya through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. Although it is unclear hoe the wildebeest understand where to go, it is believed that these mammals are guided by their natural instincts – some even suggest that the wildebeest can detect rain form a far. Book your wildlife safari tour with us and experience the spectacular wildebeest migration in Kenya or Tanzania.
Different phases of the Great Migration & how long they last? How long does wildebeest migration last?
The Great Wildebeest Calving (January to March)
The first phase of the great wildebeest migration is the calving season where over 500,000 new calves are born each day. During this time, the mammals are usually found in the southern part of Serengeti National Park, particularly the Ndutu Area. The wildebeest calving is between January to March in the southern Serengeti, where they give birth to thousands of calves. The peak of the calving season is February, over 500,000 are born each day, replenishing the lost life. During this period, the survival of the species is important since large numbers of predators come to prey on the vulnerable and weak newborns.
The Central Serengeti & Western Corridor journey (April to June)
Between April and June, the herds of mammal wildebeests move northwards to central Serengeti and the Western corridor where they congregate. The vast plains in the central area boast large herds of mammal grazers during this time making it a great place to visit. These months are however associated with some downpours but the adventures are still great during this time.
By the end of June, the herds move through the Serengeti’s central and western corridors, and the first herds start arriving in northern Serengeti where they will congregate for weeks before crossing over to the nearby Masai Mara National Reserve heading towards the northern Serengeti.
The River Crossings (June to October)
The most dramatic and popular phase of this of this spectacular natural wonder is the River crossing. Most travelers are interested in witnessing the large herds of these mammal grazers crossing the crocodile infested rivers with hopes of arriving at Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve – to a reception of nutritious grass for grazing. The River crossing especially at the Mara River happen between June to October.