Join for a Front-Row Seat to the Wildebeest Migration
The Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania
The Wildebeest Migration is one of nature’s most spectacular events, drawing travelers from all over the world to witness the sheer power and beauty of this massive wildlife movement.
Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, embark on a life-or-death journey across Tanzania’s Serengeti and into Kenya’s Maasai Mara.
Known as the Great Wildebeest Migration, this event is a true spectacle that captures the raw, untamed essence of the African wilderness. Whether you’re fascinated by the iconic Mara Migration or eager to catch the Great Serengeti Migration, planning your trip around the wildebeest migration season is essential for an unforgettable safari adventure.
Let Buluma Adventures guide you through this unforgettable experience.
Our Top Tanzania Great Wildebeest Migration Safaris
Our Mara River Crossing Safari Packages
1. Mara River Crossing Season
Each year between July and October, the wildebeest migration crosses over the Mara River in Tanzania (Northern Serengeti) and into Kenya (Masai Mara). These dramatic river crossings, where thousands of wildebeest plunge into crocodile-filled waters, offer some of the most breathtaking wildlife scenes on the planet.
To book a once-in-a-lifetime experience, explore our Mara River Safari options and let Buluma Adventures take you to the heart of the action!
Our Grumeti River Crossing Safari Packages
2. Grumeti River Crossing Season
If you’re planning to visit Tanzania between May and June, you’ll have the chance to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration making the Grumeti River Crossing (Western Serengeti) a perilous journey across crocodile-infested waters in the heart of Serengeti National Park.
Experience nature’s most famous show with one of our customizable safari tours, tailored to immerse you in the action and the beauty of the wild.
Our Ndutu Calving Safari Packages
3. Ndutu Calving Season
Every year between late December and March, over 500,000 wildebeest calves are born in the Ndutu Area of the southern Serengeti. This lush landscape, located within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, becomes the prime calving ground for the Great Wildebeest Migration, offering travelers a unique chance to witness the cycle of life unfold.
Explore our Ndutu calving safari options, and be part of one of the most magical wildlife events in Tanzania!
Where’s the most popular place to spot the Migration?
Popular Wildebeest Migration Safari Packages in Tanzania
Miracle of Life – Calving Season Safari
Essential Tanzania Travel Tips from Buluma Adventures
Our Clients Testimonials
WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY ABOUT US
At Buluma Adventures, we provide unforgettable experiences through Tanzania safari tours, climbing Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar tours. Our clients praise the personalized attention, expert guides, and seamless planning that make each journey special. From witnessing the Great Migration on a Tanzania safari to reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro, or enjoying the rich culture and pristine beaches of Zanzibar, every adventure is crafted to inspire. With a commitment to safety and cultural immersion, Buluma Adventures turns travel dreams into reality, earning glowing reviews and repeat visits from satisfied travelers.
Getaway159640853052024-06-17Verified A Safari to Remember We have just returned from a 4 day safari ending in 4 days in Zanzibar. A special thanks also to Mr. Martin, our guide who was fantastic. His understanding of animal behaviour allowed us to watch lions mate, a cheetah hunting Impala, leopards up trees. Mr. Masunzu managed to book our domestic flight to Zanzibar and hotels. Also, he organized some amazing tours in Zanzibar like walking in the old stone town, prison island and beach stay. Just a perfect trip in every way. Many memories were made. Thanks. Sunshine480877647072024-06-01Verified The best decision for my Tanzania vacation Usually, I meticulously plan every detail of my vacations myself. However, this time I was short on time and decided to use a travel agency. Buluma Adventures made everything incredibly easy and effortless. They allowed me to customize our trip to suit our specific needs and wishes. With so many travel companies in Tanzania offering similar packages, I chose Buluma Adventures because of their excellent communication. I couldn't be happier with my decision and would gladly choose them again. john b2024-04-14Verified Summit success on Kilimanjaro with Climbing Kilimanjaro! Incredible guides, delicious food, and unforgettable experience Summiting Kilimanjaro had been a dream of mine for a very long time, and Buluma Adventures excelled in every aspect during the process. Not only did we feel safe throughout the entire trip, especially during summit day, but the guides were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. A special shoutout goes to Gamba for leading this amazing team during our journey, and to every porter and worker involved in making our hike a success. The food provided was exceptional and satisfying (a big thank you to the chef), and we appreciated the thorough health check-ups conducted twice a day. Moreover, we thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie on the trail, singing and chatting as we made our way up. I wholeheartedly recommend Buluma Adventures to anyone considering this trip! Maryfester Z2024-04-02Verified Climbing Kilimanjaro via Marangu route (6-day) during our honeymoon My spouse and I opted to include a Kilimanjaro climb in our honeymoon itinerary in Tanzania. Buluma Adventures proved to be exceptional right from the start. Our entire team, especially our guides, Gerald and William, went above and beyond to ensure our summit success. Their warmth, professionalism, and meticulous attention to detail, including providing hot water bottles for chilly nights, made our journey unforgettable. Beyond guiding us, they shared insightful knowledge about the mountain and even taught us some Swahili! Without their unwavering support, reaching the summit wouldn't have been possible. The entire team, comprising porters, chefs, waiters, and guides, eagerly embraced us and even serenaded us with a touching song, leaving a lasting impression. Despite spending less time with the porters and chefs, their perpetual smiles and eagerness to engage with us while efficiently carrying out their duties left us impressed. We wholeheartedly endorse Buluma Adventures to anyone aspiring to conquer Kilimanjaro – their exceptional customer service exceeded all expectations. Our trip will forever be etched in our memories – thank you immensely! Dinah J2024-03-26Verified Family trip in Ngorongoro Our family had an unforgettable day trip to Ngorongoro Crater with Buluma Adventures. The stunning views and abundant wildlife left us in awe. Our guide was knowledgeable, ensuring we didn't miss a thing. It was a perfect blend of adventure and education. Highly recommend! Ridhael m2024-03-13Verified Ndutu is still in my mind: Great Serengeti Migration -calving season safari Hi , I’m Rizzy from Copenhagen Denmark.My journey through Tanzania's wildlife safaris with Buluma Adventures was nothing short of mesmerizing. The expertise of our guide Mr. Martin was exceptional, and seemed to have an uncanny ability to spot even the most elusive of creatures, enhancing our experience tenfold. One of the highlights of our safari was witnessing great migration in Ndutu, a spectacle that words cannot adequately describe. As thousands of wildebeests and zebras traversed the plains during calving season, we were left in awe of nature's raw beauty. The accommodations provided by Buluma Adventures were top-notch, offering a perfect blend of luxury and immersion in the wilderness. Each evening, we gathered around the campfire under the star-studded sky, sharing stories of the day's sightings and savoring delicious meals prepared by the camp chefs. Buluma Adventures are highly enough for anyone seeking an unforgettable wildlife safari experience in Tanzania. Their attention to detail, knowledgeable guides, and commitment to conservation make them the perfect choice for discerning travelers. will p2024-03-10Verified Best Guide, Topnotch Safari Experience My husband and I went on a Tanzania safari for a honeymoon tour. We had a wonderful experience in Tarangire and Ngorongoro crater with our guide Laurent from Buluma Adventures. He was extremely knowledgeable, fun to be with, and went above and beyond to make the whole experience one we will never forget. Thank you so much Buluma Team for organising this trip for us
Tanzania Safari Tours
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Embark on the ultimate Tanzania adventure with Buluma Adventures, where we specialize in unforgettable Tanzania safari tours, climbing Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar tours. Experience the thrill of summiting Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, or witness the majestic wildlife and Great Migration on our Tanzania safaris through iconic parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Afterward, unwind on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, explore historic Stone Town, and immerse yourself in the island’s rich culture. Let Buluma Adventures bring your travel dreams to life with expertly crafted journeys across Tanzania.
MIGRATION SAFARI FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
From the calving season in the Serengeti to the dramatic river crossings during the Mara Migration, each stage of the journey offers unique opportunities to witness the raw beauty of nature. To fully experience the magic of the Great Wildebeest Migration, planning your safari around the wildebeest migration season is key.
What is the Great Wildebeest Migration Safari?
The Great Wildebeest Migration Safari is a unique wildlife safari experience centered around witnessing the annual migration of wildebeest and other animals as they traverse the Serengeti Plains in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya. This event is considered one of the most spectacular natural phenomena in the world, attracting thousands of visitors every year who come to witness its awe-inspiring beauty.
When is the best time to go on a Wildebeest Migration Safari?
The best time to go on a Wildebeest Migration Safari depends on which part of the migration you want to experience. Here’s a breakdown of the migration timeline:
Late December to March: This is calving season when over 500,000 wildebeest calves are born in the southern Serengeti, particularly in the Ndutu Area. This is an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts to witness the miracle of life and observe predator-prey interactions as lions and cheetahs hunt.
April to June: As the rains decrease, the herds begin their journey northward through the Serengeti. In June, the migration reach Grumeti river where, an event of river crossing happening there.
July to October: This period marks the peak of the Wildebeest Migration, particularly famous for the dramatic Mara River crossings. This is when thousands of wildebeest cross into Kenya’s Maasai Mara, navigating crocodile-infested waters. This is one of the most thrilling and photographed moments of the migration.
November to Early December: As the herds begin their return south to the Serengeti, you can still see large groups of wildebeest. This period is less crowded, making it a quieter time for a safari experience.
What types of wildlife can I expect to see on a Wildebeest Migration Safari?
On the Great Wildebeest Migration Safari, you can expect to see a diverse array of wildlife, including:
Wildebeest: The stars of the migration, you’ll see large herds of both black wildebeest and common wildebeest (gnu).
Zebras: Often accompanying the wildebeest, plains zebras travel in large groups and add to the stunning visual spectacle.
Gazelles: Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles are frequently seen alongside the herds, taking advantage of the lush grasslands.
Predators: The migration draws numerous predators, including:
- Lions: Known for their powerful hunting strategies, they often stalk the herds.
- Cheetahs: The fastest land animals are seen hunting the weaker members of the herds.
- Leopards: Though more elusive, leopards can be spotted in trees or near the migration.
Hyenas: These scavengers often follow the migration to take advantage of the easy meals provided by the herds and their young.
Crocodiles: At river crossings, particularly the Mara River, you’ll see crocodiles waiting for their chance to prey on wildebeest as they attempt to cross.
Birdlife: The migration attracts various bird species, including:
- Vultures: Often seen circling above predator kills.
- Wattled Lapwings: Common in the Serengeti, they often accompany the herds.
Other Herbivores: Depending on the region, you may also encounter elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and various antelope species.
What type of accommodation is included in a Wildebeest Migration Safari?
Accommodations on a Wildebeest Migration Safari can vary widely depending on the tour package you choose, but here are some common types of lodging you can expect:
Luxury Lodges: These lodges offer upscale amenities, spacious rooms or suites, gourmet dining, and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Many are located near prime wildlife viewing areas.
Tented Camps: These camps provide a more immersive experience, allowing you to sleep close to nature. Tented accommodations can range from comfortable to luxury, with private bathrooms, cozy furnishings, and often outdoor decks.
Mobile Camps: Following the migration, mobile camps are set up in strategic locations. They offer a unique experience of sleeping in the heart of the action, with amenities similar to those found in luxury tents. This type of accommodation allows for flexibility and closer proximity to the herds.
Budget Lodges and Camps: For those looking for more affordable options, budget lodges and camps provide basic accommodations, often with shared facilities. They may lack some of the luxuries of higher-end options but still offer a comfortable place to rest after a day of wildlife viewing.
Glamping: Combining luxury and camping, glamping accommodations provide a unique experience with upscale tents that include comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and stylish decor, often set in beautiful natural surroundings.
Safari Houses/Villas: Some safari packages may include stays in private houses or villas, which can be ideal for families or groups traveling together. These accommodations often come with private staff, offering a more personalized experience.
What you may not know about the Great Wildebeest Safari with Us?
Expert Guides: Our safaris are led by experienced and knowledgeable guides who are passionate about wildlife and conservation. They provide insights into animal behavior, local ecology, and the best viewing spots, ensuring you have an enriching experience.
Customizable Itineraries: We understand that every traveler is unique. Our Great Wildebeest Migration Safari packages are customizable, allowing you to choose your travel dates, accommodation preferences, and specific wildlife experiences based on your interests.
Comfortable Accommodations: Depending on your package, we offer a variety of accommodations ranging from luxury lodges to cozy tented camps. All options are designed to provide comfort while allowing you to stay close to nature.
Cultural Experiences: Beyond wildlife viewing, we offer opportunities to engage with local Maasai communities, learn about their traditions, and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s culture.
Sustainable Practices: We are committed to eco-friendly practices and responsible tourism. Our safaris are designed to minimize environmental impact and support local communities through sustainable initiatives.
Photography Opportunities: Our tours are designed with photographers in mind. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, we ensure you have the best vantage points and timing to capture stunning images of the migration and surrounding wildlife.
Health and Safety Protocols: We prioritize your health and safety during your safari. Our vehicles are well-maintained, and we follow all safety protocols to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.
Seasoned Wildlife Spotting: Our guides are adept at tracking wildlife, increasing your chances of witnessing key moments of the migration, including dramatic river crossings and predator interactions.
Memorable Experiences: From sunrise game drives to starlit dinners in the bush, our safari experience goes beyond just wildlife viewing, creating lasting memories that you’ll cherish for years to come.
Embarking on the Great Wildebeest Migration Safari with us means immersing yourself in one of the most spectacular natural events in the world while enjoying exceptional service and unforgettable experiences!