Great Wildebeest Migration
Guide to the Great Wildebeest Migration in August
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The greatest challenge of all – the Mara River crossing
The infamous Mara crossing is a bloody, crazed spectacle, with hordes of animals plunging frantically into the dangerous waters of the Mara River, where Nile crocodiles snap mercilessly at the herds. The riverbanks become clogged with vultures, marabou storks and predators who feast on corpses of drowned wildebeest, and vulnerable injured survivors. This dramatic event, though drawing masses of crowds each year, is not for the faint of heart – a macabre display of the cycle of life and death.
For travelers look to witness the great wildebeest migration in August, be sure to book early, as camps and lodges in the area fill up fast. This climax is a once-in-a-lifetime bucket list experience for avid wildlife travelers around the world.
Experiences
Fly-Camping
For the more adventurous, fly-camping is a truly unique experience that can take you to some beautifully isolated locations to witness the great wildebeest migration in August. Generally offered as part of a walking safari, you will be accompanied by a guide who will walk with you to your fly-camp – an intimate temporary mobile camp, set up in a remote location – where you will spend the night under the glittering, inky African sky around a crackling fire, with nothing but distance (you hope!) separating you from nocturnal predators and prey lurking in the darkness.
Where to stay
Sanctuary Olonana
Sanctuary Olonana is a luxury eco-lodge situated in the heart of the Masai Mara on a private stretch of the dramatic Mara River – world-famous for the treacherous annual crossing of the Great Wildebeest Migration. Featuring only 14 tents that blend seamlessly into the pristine environment, guests can enjoy soothing interiors, organic materials and floor-to-ceiling glass doors that fold open to reveal magnificent river views. The lodge offers epic game drives, cultural visits, bush dinners, and hot air balloon safaris to enjoy the abundance of wildlife in the region all year round.
Sayari Camp
Overlooking golden plains in the north of the Serengeti, Sayari camp is located in a prime spot to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration as the herds clamour over the deadly Mara River. This award-winning camp comprises 15 luxury suites and a beautiful rim-flow pool that is set amongst gorgeous natural rock outcrops with views of wandering wildlife as they pass through the camp. Renowned for its world class service and superior guiding, it is no wonder Sarayi Camp is regularly voted as one of the top safari escapes in Africa.
Lemala Mara Tented Camp
Located close to the Mara River, under the shade of the Euclea trees, Lemala Mara Tented Camp comprises twelve mobile Meru style tents set up at different times of the year in two locations – the first being Lemala Ndutu, which sees the migration in the southern Serengeti earlier in the year. From July to October, Lemala Mara, situated very close to the Mara River (but far away enough to not disrupt the behaviour of the wildlife) specializes in the great wildebeest migration herds crossing the mighty Mara.
Great Wildebeest Migration Trips
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