The Great Migration is one of the most spectacular sights a travel lover can see. One of the natural wonders of the world, the Great Migration is an extraordinary occurrence that one must visit during a trip to East Africa. Every year, around two million wildebeests, and thousands of animals, such as zebras and antelopes, go through an epic journey of 3000 kilometres, to migrate from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara, searching for water, and lush plains. In January, the animals move to grasslands that can provide food for their newborns, which are born in February’s calving season. March or April, the area dries out so the animals move westwards, following the rains towards Lake Victoria where the mating season begins. In June or July, the animals move north towards the Maasai Mara and can be seen galloping across the plains and crossing the Mara River. In September, the herds cross back into the Serengeti moving south and the process begins all over again. Here is the best way to visit East Africa for the migration:

1. When To Go
   1. January to March

For those who wish to be present during the calving season, this is the ideal time to watch out for the Migration. As the newborns make the herds vulnerable, game viewing is at its peak during this time. The wildebeests give birth to up to 500,000 calves in this time, so they attract lots of predators, so game viewing is excellent. The views of the massive herds and the lush green vegetation are also incredible.

1. April to June

Because of the rainy season, April and May are the low season, so the area is much less crowded and accommodation and other facilities might offer lower rates. This is a good time for bird watching as migratory birds are also present, Tourists can watch the herds moving north and west. Some animals move to the Western Corridor and Grumeti River before going to the north, while others might go through the Loliondo area.

1. July to December

These are the best months to see the migration in the western corridor, and in the north of the Serengeti. The herds move into the Maasai Mara by crossing the Mara river. In September, they begin crossing back into the Serengeti. Wildlife viewing is excellent as vegetation is less thick, and the animals tend to gather around water sources so they are easy to spot.

2. Where To Go
   1. The Serengeti is a great place to witness the Migration. Travellers can watch the herds grazing on the vast grassland, or see them gathered around the Grumeti river. One can go to Naabi Hill in Eastern Serengeti, or Lobo Valley in Northern Serengeti to watch the Migration.

1. Maasai Mara

The Maasai Mara is another wonderful location to witness the Great Migration. Tourists can spot the newborns, or watch as wildebeests fight to compete for a mate during the mating season! Witnessing the herds crossing the Mara River is an extraordinary and unforgettable experience.

3. How To Witness the Migration
   1. Tourists can book a private safari, where a luxury, mobile, tented camp follows the migrating animals, and allows the guests to choose how to spend their day. Guests can view the animals from up close, while guards ensure their safety, and expert guides provide interesting information.
   2. An adventurous way of watching the Migration is by hiding at specific vantage points, and witnessing the migrating animals. Visitors can closely observe the animals undisturbed in their natural environment.
   3. One can also join a public safari, where tourists travel in groups. They can witness the scene from many viewpoints, as different people can point out views and animals that a single person might not have been able to see.
   4. Another exciting way to witness the Great Migration is a hot air balloon ride, which offers a unique perspective, as guests glide above the herds, watching them in their natural habitat, without disturbing them.