Serengeti National Park is home to over 300 wild animal species and is where the great migration begins. The migration is led by wildebeest, joined by around 300,000 zebras with their black and white stripes. There are also rare black-spotted zebras, which scientists say are albino because they lack melanin.
These albino zebras usually have a short lifespan because they are rejected by the group and left alone, making them easy targets for predators. A typical zebra has a bushy tail, grows large when fully mature, and feeds on grass.
Gazelles also join the migration, mainly Thompson’s gazelles and Grant’s gazelles. About 500,000 Thompson’s gazelles take part, but only a few make it to the Mara.
Many are attacked by crocodiles in the rivers, while others die from exhaustion or hunger. These gazelles have stripes and markings that highlight their tan coats and rumps. They are slim, fast, and strong, with permanent horns.
The shy eland, which is part of the antelope family, also takes part in the migration. Elands are the largest type of antelope, with fawn-colored coats and long, black spiral horns on both males and females. They live in large herds of more than 500 animals.
Predators gather along the banks of the Mara River, waiting for prey. Lions, leopards, and cheetahs stand by, ready to catch animals that get stuck in the mud or are busy eating grass.
Elephants, giraffes, rhinos, and buffaloes often watch from a distance as other herbivores make their way across. Reptiles search for hiding spots to avoid being trampled by the animals running in all directions.
The migration season is a busy time in the wild. To enjoy watching these events, it is important to book your trip early. First, make sure to research the tour company you plan to use, as there are some fake operators.
Check that your accommodation is secure and well-equipped, with comfortable beds, clean bathrooms, private balconies, a garden, a mini-bar, and a restaurant offering good food.
Some popular choices are Mbalageti Serengeti, Siringit Serengeti Camp, Serengeti Serena Lodge, Sanctuary Serengeti Migration Camp, Asanja Moru, Serengeti Woodlands Camp, Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, and Zawadi Serengeti Camp, among others.
During this migration event, patience is very important. Sometimes the animals gather at the riverbank but do not cross right away. Book your trip now, fly to the land of the wildebeests, and wait for nature’s show.
