Why the Great Wildebeest Migration Starts in Tanzania
Witness Nature’s Greatest Show with Mandari Travel
Every year, over two million wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, embark on a dramatic journey across the plains of East Africa in what is famously known as The Great Wildebeest Migration. This extraordinary natural phenomenon draws travelers from all over the world—but did you know it all begins in Tanzania?
At Mandari Travel, we take pride in showcasing the best of what Tanzania offers, and the Great Migration is undeniably one of its most incredible highlights. Let’s explore why this world-famous migration starts in Tanzania and why you should witness it for yourself.
Where Does the Migration Begin?
The Great Migration kicks off in Tanzania’s southern Serengeti, particularly in the Ndutu region and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. From January to March, this is where the wildebeest give birth to hundreds of thousands of calves in a short span of time. This calving season marks the start of the migration and sets the stage for the dramatic journey that follows.
Why Tanzania Is the Starting Point
- Rich Grasslands for Calving
The short grass plains of the southern Serengeti and Ndutu provide the ideal setting for wildebeest to give birth. The area is rich in nutrient-dense grasses, essential for nursing mothers and their young calves. - Safety in Numbers
The openness of the terrain gives the wildebeest better visibility against predators, helping them protect their newborns. However, this also attracts predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas—creating spectacular scenes of survival and natural drama. - Favorable Rainfall Patterns
The East African rains shape the movement of the migration. Since southern Tanzania receives rainfall earlier in the year, it triggers the start of the wildebeest’s movement as they follow the growth of fresh grazing grounds northward.
The Migration Route from Tanzania to Kenya
While parts of the migration occur in Kenya’s Masai Mara, Tanzania hosts about 80% of the entire migration cycle. The wildebeest journey from the southern Serengeti northward through Seronera and Grumeti, eventually reaching the Mara River, where they make the iconic crossing into Kenya around July to September. After the dry season, they return back to Tanzania by October to December, completing the circle.
This makes Tanzania not just the starting point, but also the core of the Great Migration.
When to See the Migration in Tanzania
- January – March: Calving season in Ndutu and southern Serengeti
- April – June: Herds move through central and western Serengeti
- October – December: Wildebeest return south from Kenya
With Mandari Travel, you can time your safari perfectly to catch the migration wherever it is in Tanzania.
Book Your Migration Safari with Mandari Travel
Witnessing the Great Migration in Tanzania is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or seasoned explorer, Mandari Travel will customize your safari to put you in the heart of the action.
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