Every year between July and October, something extraordinary happens across the vast savannahs of Kenya’s Maasai Mara. Over a million wildebeest—joined by hundreds of thousands of zebra and gazelles—thunder into the Mara from Tanzania’s Serengeti, crossing rivers, dodging predators, and fueling one of the most dramatic wildlife spectacles on Earth: the Great Migration.
Often described as the “World Cup of Wildlife,” this event is nature in its rawest, most cinematic form—an epic, untamed cycle of life and death that plays out across the Mara’s golden plains.
What Is the Great Migration?
The Great Migration is the largest overland wildlife movement on the planet. Over two million herbivores move in a circular route between the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya, in constant pursuit of fresh grass and water.
While many associate the migration with the Mara River crossings, it’s actually a year-round journey. The herds never stop moving. They give birth, breed, feed, and survive across this dynamic ecosystem—chased by the seasons and trailed by Africa’s fiercest predators.
Why Witness It in Kenya?
First things first, while the Migration is phenomenal, wildlife viewing in the Maasai Mara (and the Serengeti) is excellent all year round. So, anytime is a good time to visit; you just need to know where to base yourself. And that’s where we, Mackay Africa come in handy! We can help you navigate the best locations to maximize your wildlife encounters.
As one of the Seven Wonders of the World, don’t expect to have the Migration all to yourself. You’ll be sharing this spectacle with many other safari vehicles. However, if you’re looking to escape the crowds, we can book you into exclusive private conservancies adjacent to the Maasai Mara. These offer a more intimate experience, fewer crowds, and often allow for activities like night drives and off-road game viewing, which aren’t permitted in the main reserve. You’ll be close enough to dip in and out of the action as you like, without getting stuck in a “traffic jam”!
When to Go: Migration in Motion
Here’s a general breakdown of where the herds tend to be—and when:
– July: The wildebeest reach the northern Serengeti and begin crossing over the sand river and into Kenya’s Mara. The first crossings at the Mara River begin shortly after.
– August–September: Peak migration in the Maasai Mara. The plains are filled with wildebeest, zebra, and predators. This is the best time to see dramatic crossings, big cat action, and the sheer scale of the migration.
– October: The last of the herds begin to move back south towards the Serengeti. This is when the tourist crowds also thin out. You may still witness a late crossing, but excellent wildlife sightings remain throughout the Mara, especially in its conservancies.
Note: Nature doesn’t follow a calendar. Rains and climate shifts affect timing each year. Our Mackay Africa team is on the ground year-round, ensuring we get you in the right place at the right time.
Where to Stay: Permanent Camps vs. Mobile Camps
Your base during the migration can shape your entire safari. At Mackay Africa, we help you choose between:
Permanent Luxury Camps – Luxury, comfort, and panoramic views. These properties offer a stable home base and high-end amenities, ideal for those who want to retreat to comfort after an intense day in the wild.
Permanent Basic Camps – These are a perfect base for photographers wanting to spend all their time in the field and just want a comfortable tent with a bed and on suite.
Mobile Camps – These camps can be set up in select locations and are ideal for private groups seeking exclusivity in premium settings.
Want the best of both worlds? Not sure which camp or location? Reach out – we’re here to assist!
Pro Tips from Our Team on the Ground
– Book Early: River crossing season is peak safari time. Lodges and camps fill fast—often a year in advance.
– Stay Longer: Nature doesn’t run on a schedule. Allow yourself more than a few nights for a better chance of witnessing a crossing. The best way to experience the migration and a crossing is to stay for 9-10 days in 2-3 locations throughout the Mara, which is 1,510 square kilometers!
– Beat the Crowds: Our guests enjoy access to private conservancies bordering the Mara. These areas offer off-road driving, night safaris, walking safaris, and most importantly—privacy.
– Mix It Up for diverse wildlife viewing : The migration is a must-see, but we often add a few nights in quieter, less-visited areas like Laikipia or Shompole for a more rounded Kenyan experience with rhinos, rare species like the black leopard, or time in luxury hides.
– Add Side Trips to Maximize Your African Adventure: You’re already in Africa, so why not extend your adventure? Consider gorilla trekking in Rwanda or unwinding on the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar.
– Soar Above the Action with a Hot Air Balloon Safari: For an unparalleled perspective, a hot air balloon ride over the Maasai Mara or Serengeti offers a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the vast herds and the stunning landscape below. It’s a truly unforgettable and tranquil experience.
Ready to Witness It?
There’s nothing like standing on the edge of the Mara River, camera in hand, heart racing as the herds gather. Will they jump? Will they wait? You can feel the tension in the air—and when they finally plunge into the water, it’s a moment you’ll never forget.
At Mackay Africa, we live and breathe this landscape. We’re not just safari planners—we’re also the people on the ground, out there with the herds. We know when to go, where to stay, and how to craft the migration safari that suits your exact travel style.
Let us design your front-row seat to the greatest wildlife show on Earth.
