The mysterious wildebeest migration starts in the month of July at the northern edge of Serengeti National Park, gathering numerous herds who begin packing due to the dry season that dries up the ground. By mid-July, a journey of a thousand miles commences, leaving no young calves behind. The migration is a decade-long journey, running from July to August and finally declining in late September unpredictably. These species can gather near the River Mara and still not cross over to the paradise, so always be alert and patient. Good things take time. The movement is influenced by factors such as climate, mating, and calving, and when it comes to these factors, these animals are highly sensitive. They keep heading forward, no matter if they are to encounter fierce crocodiles or meet hungry predators; they don’t give up until they reach their final destination, which is Masai Mara, where they end their journey and make their way back home after the hot seasons cease, typically in late October, moving at a slower pace. By the time they reach Masai Mara, they would have first covered the southern, central, and western Serengeti National Park. When the pasture is exhausted, they finally move into Kenya, though in different groups. Don’t be surprised when you see one group move, and then, a few days later, another group lines up to cross over. The trekking of these animal species is not triggered by leadership or their king telling them to move; it’s automatic, where each species is free to lead the frontlines. Remember, this journey is for the fittest, so the weak ones perish, and the survivors continue.
Many tourists wonder how they can witness the migration taking place. The answer is a game drive is better for this adventure, as the tour guide can easily transfer to another location in case the wildebeest don’t appear in the area they expected. Game drives are conducted in shifts, but for the wildebeest, one has to stay in an area for a given time since there is no specific time for the movement. That’s why tourists are advised to stay around the area, and some book camping to avoid missing out on the glorious crossing, which may be a new sight for some. Other relaxing activities include a hot air balloon, which involves observing the ground from up in the air, Nature walks, touring the park on foot, and interaction with the local Maasai people, who are very friendly natives. All your questions about nature can be answered when you decide to embark on this journey to the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.
