Great Migration in Masai Mara – Kenya
The Greatest Wildlife ‘Travelling Roadshow’ on Earth
Have you heard the saying, “the grass is always greener on the other side”? During the Great Migration, this sentiment becomes a reality. Each year, over two million wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores make an epic trek from the southern Serengeti to the lush green pastures of the Masai Mara. Recognized as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Great Migration is an iconic spectacle that every safari enthusiast must witness.
The Great Migration in a Nutshell
With over 1.5 million wildebeest, 400,000 zebras, 12,000 elands, and 300,000 Grant’s and Thomson’s gazelles making their way from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara, “great” might be an understatement. This constant, year-long migration is a natural wonder driven by environmental factors, weather patterns, and the animals’ instincts. The herds follow an 800-kilometer clockwise route through the Serengeti and Masai Mara ecosystems, in search of nutrient-rich pastures and water. While the majority of their journey takes place in Tanzania’s Serengeti, the Masai Mara offers its own dramatic chapter of this incredible odyssey.
Highlights of the Great Migration
When the herds arrive in the Masai Mara, they face their most formidable challenges. Predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs lie in wait, while the treacherous Mara River presents another obstacle. Lurking in its murky depths are over 3,000 crocodiles, ready to ambush unsuspecting wildebeest and zebras during the perilous river crossings. Watching the herds leap fearlessly into the river—their survival instincts driving them forward—is nothing short of breathtaking.
Once they’ve conquered the river, the animals are rewarded with the vast, bountiful plains of the Masai Mara, where they can graze and thrive. But this reprieve is temporary. When the rains move on and the grass is depleted, the herds continue their endless journey in pursuit of sustenance.
Showtime: When to Witness the Herds
In general, the best time to see the Great Migration in the Masai Mara is from July to October. However, it’s important to remember that nature follows its own schedule. While there are general patterns to the migration, factors like unpredictable weather and rain patterns can influence the timing. Regardless of when you visit, the Masai Mara teems with wildlife year-round, ensuring an unforgettable safari experience.
It’s worth noting that July to October is also the busiest time in the Masai Mara. During these months, safari travelers flock to the reserve, which can result in crowded game drives. For a more tranquil experience, consider staying in one of the private Masai Mara conservancies, which offer the same incredible wildlife encounters in a quieter setting.
Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of what to expect:
July
From late July into August, the herds begin leaving the dry plains of the Serengeti in search of greener pastures. This is the best time to witness the dramatic Mara River crossings, where survival is anything but guaranteed.
August
By August, most of the herds have reached the Masai Mara. The vast plains become a battleground, with big cats taking full advantage of the influx of prey.
September
In September, the herds settle into life on the fertile plains. It’s a quieter time, perfect for game drives across the Masai Mara National Reserve. Predators still lurk, but the chaos of the river crossings is behind them.
October
As October rolls in, the rains begin to fall, signaling the herds to start their return journey to the Serengeti. By November, they’ve left the Masai Mara, continuing the endless cycle of the Great Migration.
Experience the Great Migration with Osiram Safaris
The Great Migration is one of nature’s most extraordinary events, and the Masai Mara offers a front-row seat to this awe-inspiring spectacle. Whether you’re witnessing the drama of a river crossing or marveling at the serenity of grazing herds, a safari during the Great Migration is an experience you’ll never forget.
Contact Osiram Safaris today to plan your journey. Let us create the perfect safari experience tailored to your needs, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of this incredible natural wonder.
Phone or WhatsApp: +254 759 152 562 | +254 768 573 958
Email: info@osiramsafaris.com
