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Natural Phenomenon · Masai Mara + Serengeti, Kenya + Tanzania

The Great Wildebeest Migration

“Africa's greatest wildlife event — 1.5M wildebeest + zebras crossing the Mara River”

The Great Migration is one of Earth's greatest natural events — 1.5 million wildebeest + 300,000 zebras + gazelles migrating annually between Serengeti (Tanzania) + Masai Mara (Kenya). River crossings July-October in the Mara. Crocodile ambushes + lion prides waiting. Book 6-12 months ahead.

Upcoming dates

Next
2026
July-October (Mara River crossings peak August)
Following year
2027
July-October (Mara River crossings peak August)

Annual cycle: January-March calving in Serengeti south. May-June herds move north. July-October Mara River crossings. November-December return south.

Duration
4-month season with peak crossings in August
Crowd
Peak safari season
Budget/day
$500-1,500 mid-range lodge + game drives
Book ahead
6+ months

Booking + planning tips

Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts + safari photographers + families
  • ✓Book 6-12 months ahead for July-October Mara peak
  • ✓Private conservancies (Mara North, Ol Kinyei, Naboisho) have fewer vehicles + better sightings than national reserve
  • ✓August is peak river crossings — book August 1-2 months earlier than July or October
  • ✓Kenya-side is more compact + easier to reach; Tanzania-side has longer migration season
  • ✓Book fly-in packages — driving in Mara is unnecessary + budget-eating

Book hotels for The Great Wildebeest Migration 2026

Prices spike + hotels sell out during this event. Book 6+ months ahead.

Fly to Nairobi Wilson (WIL) — charter to Mara airstrips

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Airport transfer

Getting out of Masai Mara + Serengeti (WIL)

Skip the taxi rank and lock in your fare before you land.

Pre-book a fixed-price transfer

Our pick

Driver waits at arrivals with your name, tracks your flight, and the price you see is the price you pay. English-speaking, fixed price. No surge, no haggling at 2am.

Check transfer pricesRenting a car instead? Compare rentals with free cancellation.

Frequently asked

When are Mara River crossings 2027?
July-October peak. Best crossings typically August (unpredictable — depends on rain patterns). Book August safari 12+ months ahead.
Kenya or Tanzania for Great Migration?
Kenya (Mara) for July-October crossings — compact, iconic Mara River. Tanzania (Serengeti) for wider migration cycle + calving (January-March). Do both for full experience.
How much does a Migration safari cost?
Basic lodge + game drives $500-800/night. Mid-luxury $800-1,500. Ultra-luxury (Angama, Cottar's, Mara Plains) $2,000-5,000+/night. All-inclusive of food, drinks, game drives, park fees.
How many days do I need for Great Migration?
4-5 nights in Mara Triangle or Ol Kinyei Conservancy. Add days for Amboseli (elephant + Kilimanjaro) or Serengeti extension.
Is Great Migration worth the price?
Yes — one of the world's greatest wildlife events. Unforgettable. Not budget-friendly but priceless for wildlife enthusiasts.