Kenya migration safaris are truly rewarding. Every year, the wildebeest move from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. More than two million wildebeests, alongside other ungulates like antelopes, zebras, and gazelles, take part in the greatest wildlife animal movement in pursuit of fresh grass and water.
The animals walk for over 800 km; however, it is not a smooth journey as they come across hurdles such as predator attacks and challenging river crossings. In Southern Kenya, the animals have to cross the Mara River, and once they do so, a lot of drama unfolds as the animals struggle to get past the rushing waters and the hungry crocodiles. See some of our Kenya migration safari packages below.
Ultimate Guide for Booking Migration Safaris in Kenya
Every year, the wildebeest move from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Masai Mara Reserve in Kenya.
More than two million wildebeests, alongside other ungulates like antelopes, zebras, and gazelles, take part in the greatest wildlife animal movement in pursuit of fresh grass and water.
The animals walk for over 800 km; however, it is not a smooth journey as they come across hurdles such as predator attacks and challenging river crossings.
In Southern Kenya, the animals have to cross the Mara River, and once they do so, a lot of drama unfolds as the animals struggle to get past the rushing waters and the hungry crocodiles.
The great migration safari is known for being a very tiring adventure; however, if enjoyed in luxury, it provides the best comfortable experience as one won't have to travel long distances in order to have the experience.
They can actually camp at a hotspot ahead of time like the Mara River, and the animals find them ready.
The great Wildebeest Migration in Southern Kenya
The best time to visit Kenya to catch up with the wildebeest movement is between the end of July to October.
Here you will be able to witness the animals camp at the riverbanks of the Mara River before they finally cross over.
The Masai Mara Reserve not only consists of the migration but is also a nest for the big five safari animals, which are lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes.
The predators also take part in the migration.
It also has a rich culture that stays in the neighborhood; the Masai culture is the most common tribe in Kenya identified by their colorful wraps used as clothing, pastoralist lifestyle, and large body piercings.
Wildebeest Migration Reasons - Why does the Migration Happen in Kenya?
Ever wondered why the migration happens in Kenya?
This is due to the fact that the Masai Mara reserve is located in Southern Kenya and it neighbors the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania where the wildebeest migration starts from.
The starting point is in Tanzania, and as the animals start looking for food and water when the dry season starts, it is easier for them to cross into Kenya where there are fresh grasses and water, and by that time, the rains have also started in Kenya.
So the seasonal climate that happens in Tanzania and Kenya influences the migration patterns from Tanzania and Kenya. When Kenya dries up, the animals move to Tanzania, and the reverse is true.
Tips for Planning Migration Safaris
Plan for the right time to visit
It being an annual event that occurs in two different countries, it is better to know whether the animals are in Kenya or Tanzania.
To get to know the best time for your visit, there has been data collected for generations that shows the movement patterns of the animals, so it is easy to now know when the animals are either in Kenya or Tanzania.
For example, in the months of July to October, the animals have been observed to always be in the Masai Mara National Reserve, hence a chance to witness the popular Mara river crossing.
Therefore, knowing where to be at the right time is essential when planning your migration safari.
Make your bookings early enough
The great wildebeest migration is a popular event amongst wildlife enthusiasts.
Therefore, during peak seasons that happen from June to October, there are lots of tourists flocking the country, and as a result, the hotels and lodges get filled up quickly, and the same happens to tour operators who are overwhelmed by the numbers.
Therefore, it is advisable to book a year earlier.
Practice patience and flexibility
This event occurs naturally, and therefore there's no need to rush the events to happen.
Studies may predict the river crossings on a particular date, and when it reaches, the animals have still not crossed the river.
Therefore, you should be ready to be patient and let nature flow.
Work with experienced and professional tour companies
Having a guide who understands the migration offers you the best experiences because they are more knowledgeable about the wildebeests and are aware of what to do when events don't go as planned.
They also have the skills to track the hard-to-find animals and know the most satisfying spots in the migration.
Interesting Facts about the Wildebeest Migration Safaris
Here are some interesting facts about the wildebeest migration safaris that you might not know:
The wildebeest migration is also known as “the greatest show on Earth” or “the World Cup of wildlife” because of its magnitude and the drama involved in it.
The wildebeest migration involves over 1.5 million wildebeests, 300,000 zebras, and 200,000 antelopes that create columns only noticed from an aerial view.
The wildebeest migration attracts thousands of predators, such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, crocodiles, and vultures that prey on the weak, the young, the old, and the lazy that lag behind. The predators are always moving along the migrants.
The wildebeest migration is not only a spectacle but also a vital ecological process that maintains the balance and diversity of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. The animals fertilize the soil, disperse seeds, control pests, and act as food for other species like the predators.
The wildebeest migration is also influenced by the moon phases, as the animals tend to move more during the full moon when there is more light provided by the moon, hence clear visibility at night.
The wildebeest migration animals depend on each other, for example, the Zebras eat up the first tall grass shots to make it easy for the wildebeests to also eat. In return, the wildebeest lead the journey due to their senses that determine the next destination and have strong senses that can hear predators that are coming closer and they are able to alert other animals.
Luxury Wildebeest Migration Safaris in Kenya
If you want to enjoy the wildebeest migration safaris in Kenya in an extraordinary way that is both stylish and comfortable, you can select from a range of luxury options that offer high-end services and facilities, such as luxurious tour operators, luxurious camps, and accommodation facilities.
Some of the benefits of luxury wildebeest migration safaris in Kenya are:
You can stay in elegant and spacious lodges or camps that have amenities such as swimming pools, spas, gyms, libraries, bars, and restaurants. They bring the world in the wild such that you don't feel completely remote.
You can have access to private conservancies that are less crowded and more exclusive than the main reserve. They also provide exclusive experiences.
Visitors can have personalized and flexible itineraries that suit their preferences and needs. They can also have private vehicles and guides that cater to your interests and pace.
You can have extra activities and experiences that enhance your safari, such as bush dinners, sundowners, cultural visits, helicopter rides, or hot air balloon safaris. Some of these may come as complimentary services among the packages some tour operators offer.
You can have a positive impact on the environment and the local communities by supporting conservation and social projects that protect the wildlife and empower the people.
Other Kenyan National Parks worth visiting
Lake Amboseli in Amboseli National Park
After your Kenya migration safari, you can consider visiting these parks too to add a spice to your safari.
Amboseli National Park
Situated on the piedmonts of Kilimanjaro mountain, one sight into the park leads you to see huge and elegant elephants, as well as the eye-catching views that can be captured at dusk and dawn.
One can visit the park between July and September to enjoy hiking on Kilimanjaro mountain and meet the Masai tribe.
Tsavo National Park
Standing in total wilderness is Tsavo National Park, one of the oldest and largest parks in southeastern Kenya, with vast landscapes, plateaus, and grasslands.
This vast conservation area is divided into Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks.
A safari to Tsavo is perfect between June and October, where visitors will get to experience Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, Mzima Springs, and Lake Jipia.
Lake Nakuru National Park
Are you a bird lover? Lake Nakuru National Park offers you a break from the common views of the wild by introducing you to the spectacular bird species up close.
Don't forget to carry that binocular or telescope, as the park is filled with different birds, flamingos, and endemic wildlife species that roam the entire park.
Birdwatchers can visit from June to March to enjoy watching the flamingos on Lake Nakuru and experience other wildlife safaris.
Hell's Gate National Park
This uncommon name of the park is derived from the natural activities that happen here.
The park is one of the most beautiful regions that Kenya has to offer to travelers.
June and March are the best times to experience the nature trails, hot springs, and wildlife viewing in Hell's Gate National Park.
Samburu National Reserve
The Samburu tribe that settled in this particular part of Kenya since time immemorial later gave birth to the name of this national park.
The fact that it is open, Samburu inhabits uncommon species of birds and animals like the long-necked gerenuk and the Oryx Beisa.
Between December and March is when one can visit to get a chance to experience wildlife safari, bird watching, as well as Samburu cultural tours.
Shimba Hills National Reserve
This stunning reserve is located near Mombasa and is rich in green vegetation and forested landscapes, hosting a large number of elephants in the country.
Get to experience night game drives, cheetah sightings, and memorable shopping.
Other Top Things to do in Kenya
Hot Air Balloon Safaris in Masai Mara
Besides wildebeest migration, below are some of the top things to do on your Kenya safari.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
The ultimate hot air balloon safari experience allows one to fly up in the skies above Masai Mara.
The landscape is always filled with exciting riverine forests, meandering rivers, irregular Savannah, and elevated escarpments.
Amidst a backdrop of elegant sunrises, these hot air balloon tours will give you an exceptional vantage point to admire abundant wildlife just below.
There is nothing quite like it; the views are exceptional and memorable.
The joy of rising at dawn during your stay is not always pleasant, but the benefits of embarking on this high-flying adventure greatly surpass the trouble of waking up very early.
The balloon crew will inflate your balloon as you enjoy a cup of tea, and once it is filled, you will be given a short briefing before setting the balloon in motion.
Visits made between July and October will give you a chance to see the Great Wildebeest Migration as you are flying above the Masai plains.
There is nothing you can compare to the stunning migration of wildebeests, zebras, and the gazelles.
Grasp the enormity of what is taking place as you are flying above these herds.
Other stunning things to see besides are watching fierce predators like lions and the crocodiles hunting their prey and spotting leopards perched high in the trees.
The pilot will make sure to fly lower at times to allow you to take the best possible pictures and videos.
If one is coming for the Masai Mara great wildebeest migration, we strongly recommend that the hot air balloon adventure should be on their to-do list.
Don't forget to carry some warm clothes plus a big bag where you will carry the camera, binoculars, and other individual items.
Safety should be the number one priority on this hot air balloon experience, and in case it has been canceled because of bad weather, you will be given another chance to experience the hot air balloon safari once the weather is suitable and stable.
Day and Night Game Drives
Visitors in Kenya are free to enjoy morning and afternoon game drives within various protected areas.
Night game drives are highly recommended since one is able to see nocturnal species and big cats on a hunt.
Game drives are the best activities that can be done in the wilderness; they are extraordinary both during the day and at night.
One can choose when to do their specific game drives, but they are always thrilling experiences.
Enjoy a worthwhile experience as you go for a full day game viewing tour, encountering different wildlife species.
You will have to carry some lunch since the day game drives always take a long time.
The night game drives will make you surprised about the population of lions in the wild, as well as other elusive predators.
Always keep your ears open, as this makes you not miss a chance to listen to numerous calls and roars of lions and hyenas.
And for bird lovers, you will be able to spot different species like the African owl, night-jars, among others, making it more thrilling.
Leopards can be easily spotted at night while hunting.
The nocturnal animal species such as bush babies, cape hares, among others, are a must-see.
The night game drive in Masai Mara starts at 7:00 pm and takes only two hours.
The guests willing to do night game drives are always advised to stay inside the park during their visit.
Night game drives are usually carried out in Mara Naboisho conservancy, a habitat for most of the nocturnal species such as the lions, leopards, serval cats, porcupines, among others.
Going out on a night game drive is the best way one is able to spot abundant nocturnal life and enjoy African wilderness under the shining stars.
Nature Walks
Beauty in the wild can be better experienced by undertaking nature walks in Kenya, with lots of destinations to explore.
You can as well get to see wildebeest migration within the Masai Mara or watch predators stalk unsuspecting prey.
Nature-guided walks are carried out with the purpose of exploring different wildlife in the wilderness, providing an adventure experience other than seeing it on a normal day game drive.
Hell's Gate national park is one of the national parks that is famous for nature walks, rock climbing, and biking experiences.
There is a geothermal activity inside this as well as an exceptional view of the great East African Rift Valley.
Nairobi Arboretum is also a great spot where nature walks can be done all year.
Established way back in 1970, this site is just opposite the state house spanning for about 30 hectares.
This place will give you a chance to spot different tree species of about 350 types of both exotic and indigenous.
The Chuyu hills also provide visitors with one of the most remarkable nature walk adventures in Kenya.
These remarkable hills are located between Tsavo West national park and Amboseli national park.
Beach Safaris
Diani Beach, Kenya
Mombasa is a famous destination for beach safaris in Kenya.
Beach holidays are a leisurely way of exploring Kenya and enjoying your time of stay.
A long strand hugging a peaceful sea is the Diani paradise, a beach that will give you thrilling moments.
The beautiful setting gives visitors a sight of greenery, palm trees, and camels surrounding by.
The Diani beach has been voted three times as Africa's finest beach destination.
It is approximately 30 km south of Mombasa.
The clear and shallow waters having distinguished reefs will invite you to discover and play in the Indian ocean.
There is no better feeling than a thrilling and stunning beach safari than relaxing on one of the Indian ocean beach resorts.
Mount Kenya Hiking Safaris
Mount Kenya is the second highest mountain in Africa providing breathtaking hikes suitable for adventures.
This is one of the most tremendous, challenging, and enjoyable journeys that takes you to Mount Kenya's highest peak point, Lenana, at 4985 meters.
There is a beautiful view of the volcanic mass and two main peaks of Batian and Nelion, not forgetting the sprawling flora and fauna and the rock hyrax.
There are two trekking routes on the western side of Mount Kenya known as the Naro-Moru and Sirimon.
Trekking is more fun when done in an ascending and descending route to give some variety.
One can choose to camp or stay in the huts.
The mountain guides will provide the needed equipment to use during the hiking adventure.
Hikers are guided to pass through a distinguished zone filled with a wide range of vegetation, farmlands, and forests that harbor monkeys, buffaloes, and elephants.
Choosing the right path to take is essential while preparing to hike because different peaks provide different options suitable for the fit trekkers.
Masai Cultural Safaris
The Maasai People dancing the Adumu Dance
A Kenya safari allows for a traditional visit to the Masai village or a chance to get along with the amazing people and take part in some of their activities.
This is a unique safari experience that ushers you into village elders, famous traditional warriors, and amazing Masai women.
These people will teach you how to throw spears, make remedies from the local plants, and help create beaded jewelry, plus share their stories.
The Masai cultural experiences make you connect with nature because it makes you open your heart to a new world of experience.
Visitors who get a chance to interact with elders are able to extend their knowledge about the traditional ways of these people.
Get a chance to see Manyatta construction process; these are low raised houses built by mud, cow dung, and wood with a single entrance and no windows.
Best Time to go for Kenya Migration Safari Tours
The best time to witness this rewarding experience in Kenya, which involves a battle for survival against hungry crocodiles in the waters and furious lions ready to catch anything, is from July to November.
During this period, the wildebeest migration moves to Masai Mara, crossing the iconic river in staggering numbers.
If you are in Serengeti National Park, the best time to observe the wildebeest migration is from July to September.
This is when crocodiles are waiting to snatch any prey that attempts to cross their path.
Best migration lodges in Kenya
Below are some of the best wildebeest migration lodges in Kenya.
Angama Mara
A stunning lodge perched on the edge of the Great Rift Valley overlooking the Masai Mara plains.
It offers spacious and stylish suites with panoramic views, a fitness center, a craft studio, a library, and a pool.
It also has access to a private conservancy where you can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, or hot air balloon safaris.
Mara Plains Camp
Located in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, an extension of the Masai Mara, is a luxurious tented camp offering elegant and spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms, hardwood floors, copper bathtubs, and private decks.
It also has a lounge, a dining area, a library, and a fire pit.
It offers game drives, walking safaris, horseback safaris, and cultural visits to the Masai.
Mahali Mzuri
A contemporary camp owned by Sir Richard Branson located in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy offers 12 tented suites with bathrooms, four-poster beds, and private decks.
It has a lounge, a dining area, a spa, a pool, and a shop.
It offers game drives, walking safaris, or cultural visits.
Kenya strives to offer visitors the best chances to see some of the most amazing wildlife in the world.
One of the highlights of Kenya safaris is the great wildebeest migration, which is a natural occurrence that involves millions of animals moving from Tanzania to Kenya in search of food and water.
Luxury wildebeest migration safaris in Kenya are an unforgettable experience that can be enjoyed in different ways depending on your budget, preferences, and expectations.
Whether you choose to stay in a luxury lodge/camp or opt for a more economy mode of safari, you will be amazed by the beauty and drama of this wildlife spectacle.
