Seeing the Wildebeest Migration for the first time is exhilarating to say the least. First on the horizon is rising dust as the number of galloping Wildebeest (along with Zebra) increases, followed by the thunder of a hundred thousand hooves getting closer and closer. In the frenzy to cross the Mara River, Wildebeest pushing from the rear create a 'wildlife traffic jam,' literally forcing the leaders to leap into the frothing water below. Often the crossings are steep or in contrast, so well trodden that it looks like a landslide with Wildebeest slipping downwards, treading over each other. Once in the water their eyes glare wide with fear as they swim amongst the mayhem, aiming for the opposite bank - fully aware the water is teeming with mega giant Crocodiles. Once safely back on land, the Wildebeests' legs are wobbly with exertion, only sheer adrenalin getting them up the slippery banks to new pastures. As if this was not enough sometimes huge groups of Wildebeest dotted with Zebra suddenly decide to retrace their steps and return from whence they came and choose another route to go through the whole terrifying crossing again. One wonders, except for parts of Mara River that crisscross, why the Wildebeest cross only to realise they are still on the Kenya side of the river.
As the Migration continues, Nile Crocodiles sleep along the banks. Too fat to move. Meanwhile it is comical watching regional Wildebeest almost somersaulting with excitement knowing their cousins are approaching. What makes us unique is we cover the Wildebeest crossings continuously so you don't watch this natural phenomenon amongst a traffic jam of other safari vehicles vying for a view.
DAY 1: Nairobi-Maasai Mara National Reserve:
Accommodation – Mara Intrepids Permanent Tented Camp - Full Board
DAY 2: Masai Mara National Reserve:
Accommodation – Mara Intrepids Permanent Tented Camp - Full Board
DAY 3: Maasai Mara – Kenya/Tanzania border crossing into the Serengeti:
Accommodation - Luxury Permanent Tented Camp - Full Board
DAY 4 & 5: Serengeti North - Mara River:
Accommodation - Luxury Permanent Tented Camp - Full Board
DAY 6: Leave Serengeti North for Central Serengeti
Accommodation - Luxury Permanent Tented Camp - Full Board
DAY 7: Central Serengeti - Luxury Tented Camp:
Accommodation - Luxury Permanent Tented Camp - Full Board
DAY 8: Exit Serengeti , en route to Karatu, via the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Accommodation - Gibbs Farm Half Board
DAY 9: Karatu - The Elephant Caves
Accommodation - Escarpment Luxury Lodge Half Board
DAY 10: Depart for Namanga Tanzania/ Kenya border (2 OPTIONS AVAILABLE)
DAY 10 OPTION 2:
Instead of heading to Nairobi and your International flight enjoy two extra nights in Amboseli National Park, which hugs the Kenya/Tanzania border.
It is home to some of Africa's Biggest Tuskers.
Enjoy a game drive en route to the lodge, lunch and relax.
Your afternoon game drive is prime for wildlife action as the sun cools.
Return to refresh yourself and join your guide for sundowners, dinner and overnight at our prefered lodge in Amboseli.
Accommodation:
Ol Tukai Lodge Amboseli - Full Board
WILDEBEEST MIGRATION SEASONS:
Mid July to October:
Central Serengeti becomes the hotspot for Big Cat action.
Wildebeest Migration criss-crossing the Mara River Mid July to October. Kenya & Tanzania ideal.
2023: 158 different crossings reported.
December - March:
Wildebeest birthing season starts as early as Dec in the short grass plains of Tanzania, South Serengeti & Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
December:
Massive herds of Wildebeest reach South Serengeti, Tanzania. Slowly heading for the Serengeti Western Corridor.
Early February - March:
Wildebeest Calving commences. In 2013 reports indicated 8000 calves born per day. The gestation period is 8 to 8.5 months.
May - June:
is the Rutting (Mating) Season for Wildebeest, in Tanzania, close to the first river crossing into Kenya.
Crossings Usually Start June, July: According to season and rains. Massive numbers take suicidal jumps into the Mara River (that winds its way across the Maasai Mara in Kenya), and is infested with Mega Nile crocodiles
ADDITIONAL: 'Moru Kopges', South West, Serengeti - Black Rhino Sanctuary. 90% chances of sightings. Prebook $100pp.
ACCOMMODATION
Permanent Luxury Tented Camps & Lodges, offering elegance, style & comfort.
VEHICLES:
All vehicles are well equipped with inverters and power outlets by each seat. Everyone has a window seat with space for camera bags. Beans Bags are supplied. Car Fridge with refreshments (Water, Sodas, Beer & Snacks), Wildlife Books, 1 pair of Binoculars per vehicle, first aid box, Maasai Blankets, Emergency communication system, Driver & Guide.
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