JanโMar โ Calving Season
Southern Serengeti hosts vast calving where newborns attract predators โ great photographic opportunities near Ndutu and eastern Serengeti.
What makes the Great Migration unique?
A year-long movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest, hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles between the Serengeti and Maasai Mara โ driven by the rain and the search for fresh grazing. Itโs predator-rich, dramatic and constantly changing โ a photographer and wildlife loverโs dream.
1.5M+
Wildebeest migrating annually
~1,800km
Approx. circular route length
12 months
Continuous annual movement
๐ Migration Calendar
AprโMay โ Green Season
Rains renew grazing and herds start moving northwest; roads may be slippery โ 4ร4 recommended.
JunโJul โ River Crossings Begin
The Grumeti and Mara River crossings begin โ dramatic scenes, crocodile ambushes, unpredictable timing.
AugโOct โ Peak Crossing Season
Maasai Mara sees the highest concentration of crossings, ideal for photography and guided viewing.
๐บ๏ธ Map & Safari Points
Explore marked locations in your custom map โ wildlife spots, lodges, routes, and landmarks in Maasai Mara / Tsavo region.
๐ธ Photo Highlights
๐ฆ Tips & Preparation
What to pack
- Neutral clothing layers, wide-brim hat, and lightweight jacket for early mornings.
- Binoculars (8xโ10x) and camera with telephoto lens (200โ400mm recommended).
- Reusable water bottle, sunscreen, insect repellent and basic first-aid.
Health & Safety
- Check routine vaccinations and consult travel clinic for malaria prophylaxis.
- Follow guide instructions, especially near rivers and during crowds.
- Keep a safe distance from wildlife โ never leave the vehicle without your guide.
๐ 5-Day Great Migration Itinerary
Day 1 โ Arrival & Mara
Arrive Nairobi โ domestic flight to Maasai Mara โ late afternoon game drive. Overnight in a tented camp.
Days 2โ3 โ Full-day game drives
Follow the herds, focus on river crossings and predator interactions. Optional sunrise balloon on Day 3.
Day 4 โ Culture & Relax
Visit a Maasai village, learn about local culture and conservation efforts. Evening sundowner in the bush.
Day 5 โ Return
Morning drive, fly back to Nairobi, connect to onward travel or beach extensions.
โญ Traveler Reviews
"Witnessing the Mara river crossing was the highlight of our lives. Our guide anticipated the action, and everything ran smoothly. Highly recommended."
"The tents were comfortable, the drivers knowledgeable and the whole trip felt effortless. Incredible wildlife and memories for life."
Ready to witness the Great Migration?
Contact Waypoint Tours Malindi for tailor-made itineraries, flexible dates and local expertise to maximize your chances of witnessing this extraordinary natural event.