Latest Updated: 08 January 2024
Current Location: Ndutu
Movement: From Nabi Gate to Ndutu
It's time for calving season!
Expected Movement:
- January 2024: The herds have moved from Nabi Gate to Ndutu for the calving season.
Calving Season:
The wildebeest migration has reached a significant milestone as the herds have moved from Nabi Gate to Ndutu, marking the beginning of the calving season. The Ndutu area, known for its lush grasslands and favorable conditions, is a crucial location for wildebeests to give birth to their young.
Current Situation:
As of January 8, 2024, the herds are concentrated in the Ndutu region, preparing for the birthing of new calves. This period is a spectacle in itself as thousands of wildebeest calves are expected to be born in the upcoming weeks.
Now, the migration is in full swing in the Ndutu area, marking a crucial phase in the wildebeest migration cycle. Observers can anticipate witnessing the awe-inspiring spectacle of wildebeest calving in this region. Stay tuned for further updates on this remarkable natural phenomenon
The wildebeest migration cycle
The wildebeest migration is an annual natural spectacle that involves the movement of vast herds of wildebeest (also known as gnu), accompanied by zebras and other herbivores, across the plains of the Serengeti ecosystem in East Africa. The migration is a continuous cycle driven by the search for food, water, and favorable breeding conditions. Here is an overview of the wildebeest migration cycle:
1. Calving Season (January - March):
- The migration cycle typically begins with the calving season in the southern Serengeti, particularly in areas like Ndutu.
- The herds move to regions with abundant grass and water, providing an ideal environment for the wildebeest to give birth.
- Thousands of wildebeest calves are born during this period, attracting predators such as lions, hyenas, and cheetahs.
2. Green Season (April - May):
- After calving, the herds continue to graze in the southern Serengeti, taking advantage of the lush vegetation resulting from the rainy season.
- This period is crucial for the young wildebeest to grow stronger and for the adults to regain their strength.
3. Rutting Season (May - July):
- As the dry season approaches, the wildebeest herds start moving northward, beginning the rutting season.
- The migration takes them through the central Serengeti towards the western and northern regions, including the Grumeti River.
- The rutting season involves courtship displays, mating, and territorial behavior among the wildebeest.
4. River Crossing (July - October):
- One of the most dramatic phases of the migration occurs during the river crossings, especially at the Mara River in the northern Serengeti.
- The herds attempt perilous river crossings, facing obstacles like strong currents and waiting predators, including crocodiles.
- This period is a prime time for wildlife enthusiasts to witness the spectacle of mass movement and dramatic river crossings.
5. Migration to Southern Serengeti (November - December):
- After crossing the Mara River and reaching the Masai Mara in Kenya, the herds begin their journey southward.
- They move through the eastern Serengeti and central Serengeti, eventually returning to the southern Serengeti, completing the migration cycle.
6. Calm Season (Late December - January):
- The wildebeest settle in the southern Serengeti once again, marking the end of the migration cycle.
- This period is relatively calm, allowing the herds to graze and rest before the cycle begins anew with the upcoming calving season.
The wildebeest migration is a continuous, circular journey, covering vast distances and involving various ecological and behavioral phases. The migration is not precisely predictable as it depends on factors such as weather conditions, rainfall patterns, and the availability of food and water. Observing this natural phenomenon is a breathtaking experience and a testament to the resilience and adaptability of wildlife in the Serengeti ecosystem.
Popular Serengeti Migration Safari Packages
If you are planning a safari to see the Serengeti Great Migration, the best time to go is between July and November. This is when the herds are concentrated in the northern Serengeti and the Mara River crossing, one of the most iconic wildlife spectacles in the world.
If you are interested in seeing the Serengeti Great Migration, I highly recommend booking a safari with a reputable tour operator SAFARIBANDO. We will be able to help you choose the best time to go and the best places to stay to see the herds.
Here are some tips for seeing the Serengeti Great Migration:
- Be patient. The migration is a vast and ever-moving event, so it takes patience to find the herds.
- Be flexible. If you are unable to see the herds in one area, try another. The herds are constantly moving, so there is always a chance of seeing them somewhere else.
- Be respectful of the wildlife. Do not get too close to the herds or try to interfere with their movements.
- Enjoy the experience! The Serengeti Great Migration is an unforgettable sight, so savor every moment.
The wildebeest migration is one of the most incredible natural wonders on Earth. Every year, millions of wildebeest and zebras migrate across the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania in search of food and water. This massive movement of animals is a sight to behold, and it's an unforgettable experience for any wildlife lover.
The wildebeest migration is a dynamic event, and the exact route that the herds take can vary from year to year. However, the general pattern of migration remains the same.
If you're planning a safari to Tanzania or Kenya, be sure to time your trip to coincide with the wildebeest migration. It's an unforgettable experience that you'll never forget.
Here are some tips for planning a safari to see the wildebeest migration
- Book your safari well in advance, especially if you're planning to travel during the peak season.
- Pack light, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and driving.
- Bring a camera with a good zoom lens to capture all the amazing wildlife you'll see.
- Be prepared for anything, as the weather in Tanzania and Kenya can be unpredictable.
The wildebeest migration is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you'll never forget. With a little planning, you can make sure your safari is everything you've dreamed of and more.
You would be very unlucky for the wildebeest not to be surrounding the Mara River if you decide to go in August. On the flip side, you would also be lucky to see a crossing, as not everyone does - no matter how many hours are spent waiting with a herd by the river banks, they may simply not decide to cross over for hours!
Read more on 5 of the best places to see the Great Migration and The best time to visit Kenya and Tanzania on safari
