The Great Migration is one of the most spectacular events on Mother Nature’s calendar. During a migration safari in Kenya, you’ll witness millions of animals travel across the plains, causing a ripple effect throughout the land.
Why Should You Go on a Migration Safari in Kenya?
Witness One of Nature’s Most Spectacular Events
During the Great Migration, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains in search of greener pastures for grazing and ideal areas to give birth to their young.
See Massive Animal Herds
The sheer density of the herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles in motion is an incredible sight in itself.
Dramatic River Crossings
The migration herds need to cross rivers teeming with crocodiles during their journey. While on a migration safari, you can see these dramatic river crossings and predator-prey interactions.
Perfect for Nature Lovers
Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers seeking unparalleled scenes, following the migration herds will take you to jaw-droppingly beautiful environments.
See the Big Five
Kenya is a Big Five safari destination, so you’ll have the opportunity to see lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffaloes in their natural habitat.
Best Destinations for a Migration Safari in Kenya
Masai Mara National Reserve
The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the best places to see wildlife in Africa, including the Great Migration herds and an impressive number of predators. See the millions of wildebeests traverse the plains of the reserve, resulting in dramatic river crossings and interactions with big cats and crocodiles.
Mara River
The Mara River is a lifeline for the reserve’s wildlife; therefore, it’s a fantastic place to go while on a Kenya safari to see a variety of animals.
During the Great Migration, dramatic river crossings take place here. You can watch great herds of wildebeests and zebras braving the crocodile-infested waters to get to the other side and carry on with their journey.
Serengeti-Mara Ecosystem
The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania borders the Masai Mara – this ecosystem supports the Great Migration, offering expansive landscapes as well as diverse wildlife viewing.
Mara Triangle
The Mara Triangle is where the herds of the Great Migration enter and exit the reserve from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, making it a perfect location to witness this incredible wildlife display.
This area of the reserve is known for its high concentrations of wildlife and fewer tourists, so it’s ideal for people who don’t want to be a part of the massive crowds that often accompany the Great Migration.
Naboisho Conservancy
This is a private conservancy adjacent to the Masai Mara offering an exclusive, uncrowded safari experience with a focus on sustainability and community involvement.
A Kenyan safari at the Naboisho Conservancy will take you across classic savannahs, rolling grasslands, and woodlands, providing stunning backdrops to many wildlife sightings.
5 Tips for a Migration Safari in Kenya
1. Choose the Right Time
Plan your migration safari for the dry season, between July and October, for peak migration activity.
2. Plan Ahead
Witnessing the Great Migration is one of the most sought-after experiences in the world of African vacations and safaris. As a result, accommodations near the migration route fill up quickly, especially during peak months. To avoid disappointment, let us book at least six to 12 months in advance for you.
3. Hire Experienced Guides
Choose experienced guides familiar with migration patterns. Discover Africa works exclusively with trusted partners who are experts in the field, so when you book with us, you know you’ll be guided by knowledgeable professionals.
4. Bring Photography Equipment
Bring quality camera equipment with zoom lenses for capturing all the Great Migration action! Binoculars are also great to have, as they can really enhance your safari experience.
5. Have Patience
Be prepared to wait for natural events to unfold; remember, nature operates on its own schedule.