The Great Migration: Nature's Greatest Show
The Great Migration is one of the most spectacular natural events on Earth. Every year, over 2 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles embark on a circular journey across the Serengeti ecosystem in search of fresh grazing lands.
Understanding the Migration Cycle
The migration follows a predictable pattern throughout the year:
- January-March: Calving season in the southern Serengeti
- April-May: Movement towards the central Serengeti
- June-July: Crossing the Grumeti River
- August-September: Reaching the Mara River and crossing into Kenya
- October-December: Return journey to the southern Serengeti
The Mara River Crossing
The most dramatic part of the migration is the Mara River crossing:
- Thousands of animals gather on the riverbanks
- Nervous energy builds as they prepare to cross
- Crocodiles wait in the water for easy prey
- Chaos erupts as the first animals plunge into the water
- The crossing can take hours or even days to complete
Best Viewing Locations
To witness this incredible spectacle:
- Mara River: The most famous crossing point
- Grumeti River: Earlier in the season with fewer crowds
- Seronera Valley: Excellent for seeing the herds gather
- Ndutu Plains: Perfect for calving season viewing
Photography Tips
Capture the perfect migration moment:
- Use a telephoto lens for close-up shots
- Set your camera to continuous shooting mode
- Focus on the eyes of the animals
- Include the landscape for context
- Be patient and wait for the right moment
The Great Migration is a testament to the incredible resilience and determination of wildlife. Witnessing this natural wonder is an experience that will stay with you forever.