Witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration

The Grand Circular Journey

The Great Migration is not a single event but a year-round cycle covering approximately 1,800 miles. Driven by the seasonal rains, the herds move in a clockwise pattern through the Serengeti in Tanzania and into Kenya's Maasai Mara, following the growth of new grass.

What makes this migration truly spectacular is not just the sheer number of animals but the dramatic river crossings, intense predator activity, and the raw display of nature's survival instincts.

At Kitumo Mara Lodge, we're ideally positioned in the Nashulai Conservancy bordering the Maasai Mara, giving our guests prime access to witness this natural wonder during the key months when the herds are in Kenya.

The most dramatic moments of the Great Migration are undoubtedly the river crossings, particularly at the Mara River. These crossings are not just a physical challenge for the herds but also deadly gauntlets where crocodiles have waited patiently for their annual feast.

The herds can spend days gathering courage at the riverbanks before one animal makes the first move, triggering a frantic rush as thousands follow. The chaos, noise, and drama of these crossings create some of the most memorable safari moments.

• The Mara River crossings usually occur between July and early September
• Main crossing points include Paradise Crossing, Cul-de-Sac Crossing, and Main Crossing
• Each crossing may involve thousands of animals in a single event
• Crossings can be unpredictable, sometimes occurring multiple times in a day or not at all for days
• Nile crocodiles wait in the river for migrating animals, creating dramatic predator-prey interactions

The migration creates a predator's paradise. Lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and crocodiles all take advantage of the abundance of prey. This interaction creates spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities and showcases the raw intensity of nature's food chain.

Predator sightings increase dramatically during migration season, with multiple hunts often visible in a single day. The plains predators follow the herds, while river specialists like crocodiles wait at crossing points.

• Lions - Many prides position themselves along migration routes
• Leopards - Often seen in trees along riverbanks, waiting for migrating herds
• Cheetahs - Hunt on the open plains where wildebeest and gazelles gather
• Hyenas - Work in groups to target weaker animals in the herds
• Crocodiles - Ancient predators that wait in the Mara River for crossing herds

There are several ways to witness the Great Migration, each offering a different perspective and experience. From traditional game drives to aerial views from hot air balloons, you can choose the option that suits your preferences.

At Kitumo Mara Lodge, we offer customized migration safaris led by experienced guides who know the best locations and timing for optimal viewing. Our location in the Nashulai Conservancy gives you the advantage of witnessing the migration away from the crowds of the main reserve.

• Game drives - Traditional 4x4 safari vehicles offer flexibility and close-up views
• Hot air balloon safaris - Aerial perspective of the vast herds moving across the plains
• Photography hides - Specialized locations for unobtrusive wildlife photography
• Multi-day safaris - Extended trips to follow the migration's movement
• Private concessions - Exclusive viewing away from the crowds

The Great Migration offers incredible photography opportunities, from vast landscapes filled with animals to dramatic river crossings and predator-prey interactions. Being prepared with the right equipment and techniques will help you capture these once-in-a-lifetime moments.

Our guides are experienced in positioning vehicles for optimal photographic angles and lighting, and can help you anticipate animal behavior for those perfect action shots.

• Use a telephoto lens (at least 200mm) for wildlife shots
• Bring extra memory cards and batteries for full-day shooting
• Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting
• Consider a beanbag or monopod for stability in safari vehicles
• Protect your equipment from dust with appropriate covers