The Great Migration: July 2022 Update

July 19, 2022Posted in Conservation Through Tourism, Great-Migration Updates, Great-Migration-Camps, Great-Migration-SafarisWritten by Sally Grierson1 Comment

Great Migration Update from Tanzania 19 July 2022

As per our great migration predications last month, the river crossings started in the Northern Serengeti in early July. It’s been a cracking start to the great migration crossing season, with the majority of the herds arriving near Makutano. The early river crossings were at Crossing Points 7 & 7B. As more great migration herds arrived in the second week of July, the Mara River crossing point shifted west to coincide with the arrivals of the Western Herds. There were some spectacular great migration river crossings at Numbers 4 and 5. The steep banks and intensive herds, created billowing dust for some impressive crossings. Superb sightings for happy guests who were up early to enjoy Nature’s greatest show. Large herds are now grazing leisurely in Lamai Wedge.

Mara River crossing at No 4 from south to north MIGRATION UPDATE: 16 July 2022

Great Migration Update from Kenya: July 2022

Last week there were some huge crossings of the Sand River into Kenya. The herds that crossed the Mara River are moving slowly and should reach the Mara Triangle soon, they seem to be hanging around Miles Turner Hill and taking a leisurely break.

MIGRATION UPDATE JULY 2022: Huge herds of the Great Migration cross the Sand River into Kenya

Let’s hope it’s a great year for the Maasai Mara and Mara Triangle, where we are monitoring how long they spend in the Maasai Mara and Mara Triangle and how far north they go into the Mara Conservancies this year of 2022 (if at all). Results will be good indicators if the Kenyan conservancy model (where cattle also graze the land), will allow enough grazing for the wildebeest of the great migration, who seem to be competing for the same resources as cattle. Holding thumbs for the great migration to have a longer stay in the Maasai Mara this year.

MIGRATION UPDATE JULY 2022: Serengeti Great migration, Mara River crocodile kill 2022

Great Migration predictions for July and early August 2022.

It is fairly dry up in the Northern Serengeti, with no real rain forecast in the next two weeks. Despite a build up of some moisture from Lake Victoria creating some amazing clouds, there has been no rainfall and very little is predicted. We are hoping for some light showers here and there, to provide short green grass for the wildebeest to eat, otherwise it becomes tough going for the great migration herds. The drier spells accentuate the pressure on the eco-system and limited food becomes obvious when there is no rainfall. We are even noticing that the low water levels of the Mara River this 2022 are making it hard for the crocodiles to feed.

Until there is big rain in the north to pull them further, we predict smaller crossings back and forth across the Mara River in the next few weeks. There are still some herds arriving from the south, so it’s likely there will be lots of to-and-fro with wildebeest herds on both sides of the Mara River.

Great Migration: News update July 2022

More good news from Kogatende is that the bridge to the Lamai Wedge is now open. Thanks to TANAPA for coordinating the repairs to the bridge across the Mara River for the great migration crossing season. It is wonderful to have road access on both sides of the river, when staying at Great Migration Camps for the great migration river crossing season 2022.

Visit the Great Migration in 2022

Join us for the world’s largest overland mammal migration as 1.5 million wildebeest, 400,000 zebra, 18,000 eland and 200,000 Thompson’s gazelle move through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. We don’t wait for the herds to come to us, we take you to them – leaving no trace.

Email info@greatmigrationcamps.com to book your seat to the great migration. We still have some availability first week of August & the last two weeks of August, into September. Book soon to avoid disappointment. The show must go on.

Finding the Great Migration- June 2022

June 18, 2022Posted in Great-Migration Updates, Great-Migration-Camps, Great-Migration-SafarisWritten by Sally Grierson1 Comment

Finding the Great Migration: Migration Update June 2022

Great Migration update 18 June 2022. This is a difficult time of year to find the great migration. In years of normal rainfall, the statistics and literature indicate that the large herds should be on the western side of the Serengeti National Park. The western side of the Serengeti gets more rain due to its physical location close to Lake Victoria, so the logic is that in dry years the wildebeest herds should migrate through the North Western Serengeti. Finding the herds can be tricky as vast tracks of the area is privately owned hunting blocks of the park buffer zone.

Serengeti Great Migration Update, Serengeti Balloon Safaris, 16 June 2022

Finding the great migration in the west – June 2022

It’s mid-June 2022, and the majority of the herds are in the western corridor of the Serengeti. This is the longer route to the Mara River and northern Serengeti. The herds are moving slowly and a full Grumeti River has also slowed the progress of the herds moving northwards.

There was a lot of early rain in the NW corner of the ecosystem. The rains stopped early this year, so the southern plains dried out quickly causing the wildebeest herds to migrate. The wetter north-west corner is the preferred dry season grazing. Wildebeest love the red oat grass that grows in the moist, deeper soils. June 2022 is becoming a classic text book year for the great migration. By the end of June, all the Western herds should have crossed the Grumeti River, and we can expect the migration to reach Kogatende and the Mara River from the west for river crossings in 4-6 weeks’ time.

June is a privileged time to find the great migration. You may have to work a bit harder out in the west – which is further away and fascinatingly wilder. If you are lucky to find the great migration in June- it is spectacular. Witness this great natural phenomenon of hundreds of thousands of animals marching in columns up to 40 kilometers long and be blown away. Check out the video below from the Western Serengeti and the marching herds. It’s insane! Follow up your watch journey to the western Serengeti with Episode 24- West End . There’s more great migration, as well as river animals of the Serengeti on show.

Migration Madness. Episode 23 of the Serengeti Show Live Series in 2020.
Discover the Western Corridor of the Serengeti and the classic long columns of wildebeests migrating through the area- it’s astounding!

Finding the great migration in the east – June 2022

Finding the great migration in the east, is sometimes forgotten when the western herds dominate the wildlife news. This June many of the Eastern Herds, moved west through Seronera to join the western herds and contribute to the big numbers on that side of the Serengeti National Park.

20% of the Eastern Herds remained on that side of the Serengeti, and those wildebeest can currently be found near Togoro Plains. The eastern great migration herds are moving northwards fairly quickly so we anticipate them reaching the Sand River in the first week of July. This means there could be some Sand River Crossings into the Mara Reserve as early as July 2022 for the first river crossings of the 2022 season.

This seasonal river with a sandy bottom, is the virtual game drive of Episode 28 exploring the Serengeti. Watch for an unexpected crossing.

If the conditions in the Mara reserve aren’t suited to the wildebeest needs yet, the early herds may back track to the Serengeti and cross the Mara River from north to south. These would be the first Mara River Crossings.

The third, yet least likely scenario for the first river crossings of 2022, is that the eastern herds don’t cross the sand river in early July. They would move north and west, slowly gathering near crossing point No 10 or Makutano for a potential Mara River crossing at the junction.

Finding the great migration in July. Predictions for river crossing season ’22

We predict some small river crossings to start in the first half of July. Crossings would likely be the Sand River or Eastern Mara River.
The first herds of the great migration coming from the West, should arrive at the Mara River in mid-July 2022. Big herds are already gathering as the wildebeest migrate northwards.
At Great Migration Camps we are eagerly waiting for a bumper season. We are expecting some big river crossings starting in July ’22.

Email info@greatmigrationcamps.com to book your seat to the great migration. We still have some space still available in early July & late August. Book soon to avoid disappointment.

Great Migration Update: Where are the wildebeest? May ’22

May 27, 2022Posted in Great-Migration Updates, Great-Migration-CampsWritten by Sally Grierson1 Comment

Great Migration Update 27 May 2022

Where are the Wildebeest of the Great Migration?

The annual migration cycle is one of movement in May and June, making these tough months for accurate location predictions of the wildebeest herds. The migration is on the move due to some contributing factors. So far this May 2022, most of the migration updates have been coming from Seronera as wildebeest herds move through the central Serengeti.

The back-end of the migratory herds are still in the southern and western sectors of the Serengeti National Park. These pockets of wildebeest are moving slowly.

The Eastern herds, were moving northwards fairly quickly, and there are still some migratory herds on the Eastern Plains. There are some scattered herds around Mbuzi Mawe, Banagi Hill and Togoro Plains. Many of the wildebeest that were heading north on the eastern border, crossed through Seronera to the west.

The eastern herds that crossed over to the western Serengeti have become the leaders of the great migration. They can easily travel 10km per day, often in long lines as they head north. A few large herds were crossing the Orangi River near Hembe and heading North-West.

Why is the wildebeest whereabouts significant to the great migration?

It is far easier for the wildebeest herds to cross the Upper Grumeti river which has fewer obstructions and geographical barriers than the lower stretches of the river. The lower Grumeti River can be treacherous as it is far larger in size with more water which is dangerous & can slow the wildebeest down.

The impact of the Grumeti River on the great migration

The Grumeti River is a lifeline that cuts through the incredible Serengeti scenery from the north east of the national park and west to Lake Victoria. In river terms, the Grumeti River is short at only 180km, with the upper catchment area near Klein’s Gate. Water from the Lobo Hills and Bologonja areas, feed into the Upper Grumeti River.

The real water comes from the Upper Orangi River whose catchment area is a vast area in the Serengeti (from Central Banangi Hill, Ngare Nanyuki, Seronera Valley and Makoma). All the water from the central Serengeti flows into the Oranji River, which feeds the lower Grumeti River, providing a huge catchment area with the Upper stretches of river. The confluence of the Orangi and Grumeti Rivers is just west of Hembe.

The Grumeti River flows for 3-4 months a year during the wet season, and yearly flooding can occur, as the River is on a broad floodplain, with typical sandy soils and riparian forests.

The impact of the change in vegetation on the great migration

In the south-eastern plains of the Serengeti, there is shallow volcanic ash soil, ideal for the wildebeest during calving season as the grass is short, nutritious and abundant – enough to sustain 1.5 million wildebeest for a few months. As the plains dry out, the wildebeest are forced to move north, where the changing landscape and soil types alter the vegetation.

It’s wetter in the west – there is more water and more rain as you closer you get to Lake Victoria. There is lots of water at all the springs and granite zones all the way north from Seronera to the Masai Mara. Navigating through the wet takes longer and slows the wildebeest herds down.

In addition to the water, there is a lot of grass. The deep sandy soils of the North-western Serengeti have rich, nutritional red oat grass – in abundance right now. One can hardly blame the wildebeest for taking their time, through 80km of delicious red oat grass to graze.

Flashback to this video taken in 2017 where we stopped to look at the red oat grass – beautiful grass that the wildebeest love, and had a lovely interaction with this young bull elephant on the plains of the Lamai Wedge, Northern Serengeti,

To date, we are not aware of any fires, which are commonly lit at the beginning of the dry season by park rangers, to prevent larger-scale fires later in the season, that can reduce woodland cover.

Great Migration Updates: movement of the wildebeest herds

These migration updates are gathered from a network of guiding professionals and safari experts in the field. Reports are shared directly from the Serengeti itself. We share these updates for those planning a safari, as well as those who guiding safaris or supplying supplementary services to the industry.

In the south, the Serengeti borders the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. In the north, the Serengeti borders Kenya’s Masai Mara. Surrounding the Serengeti National Park are buffer zones: Maswa, Loliondo, Grumeti and Ikorongo. The entire eco-system is open and unfenced, which in itself allows the great migration to take place.

Wildebeest being out of the park boundaries, partially explains why they can be hard to find. It may seem strange that nearly 2 million creatures can’t be found, as if the great Houdini had performed a vanishing act in the Serengeti. Remember, the Serengeti is huge- it’s the size of a small country – about 30,000 square kilometers (12,000 square miles), and 160km (100 miles) of bush from north to south. (Manhattan Island in New York which is 21.6 km (13.4 miles) long and how hard it is to find someone in that city.

We love maps, especially when they include Tanzania, the Great Migration or the Serengeti National Park. Check out MapFight – it’s a really cool map comparison tool – you can compare the sizes of any areas or country. Let us know how your country or state compares in size to the Serengeti and you will have a better idea of the vast scale, and why we are constantly looking for wildebeest.

Connecticut, USA is 0.97 times as big as Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)

Kuwait is 1.21 times as big as Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)

Northern Ireland is 0.94 times as big as Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)

Rwanda is 1.79 times as big as Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)

Join Great Migration Camps or follow us, as we follow the Great Wildebeest Migration . A journey through the Serengeti from the southern plains to the Mara River and back. We follow the wildebeest, zebra , eland and Thomson’s gazelle as they migrate through the Mara-Serengeti Eco-system.

We have mixed availability in Kogatende area for the River Crossing Season 2022. Book early for the great migration river crossing season. Email: sally@greatmigrationcamps.com #Conservationthroughtourism

Great Migration: Where to cross the Mara River?

May 22, 2022Posted in Great-Migration Updates, Great-Migration-CampsWritten by Sally GriersonLeave a comment

Part 2: Where the wildebeest cross the Mara River?

Knowing where the wildebeest cross the river, can improve your great migration experience, as you should choose which side of the river to observe the wildebeest crossing the Mara River. If the herds cross to the north then it is probably better to be on the northern bank of the river and visa versa for the return journey.

Where the wildebeest cross the Mara River? Changing crossing points

In Part 1 we talked about favourite or geographically determined crossing points for the wildebeest during the Mara River Crossing Season. This also changes! The Mara River Floods of 2018 and 2020, changed its course, making new bends in the river and causing a shift in Crossing Points. Knowing recent climatic events can get you front row seats to observe this natural show.

Where the wildebeest cross the Mara River? The inside bend

Let’s take a river crossing example.

The river crossings from South to North take place in the inside bends of the Mara River:- these are crossing points Makutano, No 8, No 6, N0 4, No 3 and No 1 in front of Singita.
The return journey from North to South, takes place on the alternate (now inside bends) of the river at crossing points No 2, No 5, No 7 and No 9.

Where the wildebeest cross the Mara River? Early season crossings

The crossings early on in the season will come from the Eastern side. The eastern herds are mostly bachelor herds, with fewer obstacles in their way, so they move quickly. The first river crossings of the year will probably be Sand River crossings between Bologonja Spring and the Sand/Mara river confluence. Sand River crossings have taken place as early as June.

The first Mara River crossings are commonly at No 10, No 9, No 8 and Makutano in July each year.

When the western herds arrive from Ikorongo and the Grumeti Reserves they would start crossing at the western crossing points from late July onwards at crossing points No 1 – 4 and perhaps at No 5 and No 6 in front of Sayari.

Conservation Talking Points

Flash flooding and fast runoffs during the dry season (July – October). Fast flowing water is difficult for wildlife and animals to judge in general. The wildebeest sometimes miss the exit points of the Mara River due to the strength of the fast flowing water of the Mara River, resulting in drowning. These changing climatic conditions (Floods 2018, 2020) have an impact on the survival rate of the Mara River crossings. The solutions can often be found in the catchment area, the source of the Mara River, the area where trees should be holding the water.

In case you missed Part 1 in our river-crossing series: here’s the link. Great Migration 2022: Where to cross the Mara River?

Book now to see the Great Wildebeest Migration: info@greatmigrationcamps.com
Contact us now for River Crossing availability 2022 season.
Follow our migration updates from the Serengeti National Park here: Great Migration Updates

Great Migration ’22: Where to cross the Mara River?

May 21, 2022Posted in Great-Migration Updates, Great-Migration-CampsWritten by Sally Grierson2 Comments

Part 1: Where to cross the Mara River?

The Mara River Crossings of the wildebeest & zebra, of the annual Great Migration in Tanzania & Kenya is an event like no other in the natural world. It’s not a single event, nor a single herd, nor a single stretch of river, nor a specific date or time. Wildebeest crossing the Mara River is a visually magnificent 3-D, confusion of tangible adrenalin with stereo sound. In the animal history world, these dramatic & chaotic river crossing scenes must rank at the top due to the raw visual, auditory & sensory intensity. It will take your breath away. The 2022 Mara River Crossings are the next event in our part of the planet.

In case you missed it: The Great Migration Explained 2022

Things to consider when crossing a river

As kids we were taught various bush survival skills which included river crossing techniques for our safety. We knew if the river was too wide, flowing too fast or was too high & discoloured, the crossing point was not acceptable. Acceptable crossing places had shallow water, easy banks to get out on the other side and a nice gravel or boulder river bed. Deep, slow water was okay if it wasn’t too wide. As humans we had to remove loose clothing, belts & backpacks.

Watch the far bank
Don’t fight the current
Don’t grab logs or rocks
Try to move side on to the current

Where to cross a River? Crossing points

The first question was whether we had to cross or not. Was there an alternative option?

It we had to cross, the second question was where to cross the river. What is the best river crossing point?

The nature of the river bed (is it sand, gravel, rocks, boulders?)
Speed of river flow
Depth of the water
Turbulence of the water
Temperature (coldness) of the water
Capabilities of the group
Entry and exit points
Run out

Where to cross the Mara River? Crossing Points for the Great Migration 2022

The Mara River is almost 400 km long and is wide, craggy and treacherous.
It is home to Africa’s largest crocodile population.
The Mara River represents the end of a long challenging journey for the wildebeest.
It makes logical sense that the wildebeest are hesitant to cross the river when they arrive, making them seem aimless and indecisive.
Despite facing the same river risks as humans, such as drowning in strong currents, or breaking a leg on rocks or river bank entries – the wildebeest must also contend with predators (crocodiles & carnivores)
The wildebeest cross the Mara River on instinct, in a bi annual ritual- what goes north, must return south. The herds cross the Mara River at least twice, sometimes more.
Humans have spent decades documenting the wildebeest movements to make it easier for ourselves to witness this river crossing event. The most commonly used geographical areas of the river have been named or numbered as Crossing Points.
Each point is a stretch of river not a single GPS location and is used as a guideline for finding the wildebeest

Mara River Crossings 2022: What to expect from the wildebeest?

NOTHING! They are unpredictable.
When a herd of wildebeest arrives on the banks of the Mara River, they usually search for a place to cross where the banks are not too steep and the water not flowing too fast.
The buildup is tense. Hours or days can be spent waiting near a crossing point before they get enough numbers and courage to leap into the Mara River.
Triggers can cause many false starts for the wildebeest. The ultimate trigger starts an adrenalin charged surge into the water and a race to the opposite river banks & perceived safety.
They are in the zone seemingly oblivious to the known dangers- they swim frantically, grunt loudly and move as a mass of nervous energy.
Exiting on the opposite bank, can be gentle and gradual or often tragically a near vertical slope where any good foothold changes to a slippery mudbank, with every passing hoof. The glistening bodies fight against each other to get out and avoid sliding back to the watery nightmare.
Unbelievably, within ten minutes the wildebeest can be seen calming grazing with little or no indication of their ordeal – for them it’s just another day.

Mara River Crossing Points 2022: Human behaviour at the crossings

The main objective is to observe the river crossings but not alter or impact the outcome of a crossing.
Wildlife always has right of way, don’t obstruct.
Waiting for a river crossing, vehicles should be stationary and out of sight of the animals. It is common to see safari jeeps hiding behind the tree line to avoid windshield reflections or other distractions.
There are parking areas at the crossing points – designed to stop the vehicles frightening or blocking a river crossing.
ONLY when the wildebeest have started to cross the river, may safari vehicles approach the river slowly. (In reality there is a race to the river for the best viewing spot of the greatest animal migration in Africa along the river bank.)
Do we even need to say it? Stay in the vehicle (we are not the only animals watching the wildebeest)

Part 2: Where Wildebeest Cross the Mara River

The Great Migration Explained 2022

May 11, 2022Posted in Great-Migration Updates, Great-Migration-CampsWritten by Sally Grierson2 Comments

For many people, the aim of a trip to Tanzania is “to see the Great Migration“. Not everyone realizes that the migration is not a once-off event, but rather a continuous year-round process. Each part of the cyclical journey provides uniquely different experiences. It’s coming up to the dramatic river crossings of the Mara, which is just one part of the migratory cycle, though what many think IS the great migration. It seems there is a good crossing season ahead – book early for the 2022 wildebeest migration in the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

What is the great migration?

The seasonal movement of wildebeest from one habitat to another in the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.
The migration involves a return journey.
The herds move backwards and forwards across the park (or out of it!), sometimes over 40 km overnight.
It is not one huge herd of animals, but numerous large & small herds, all with their own agenda.

Why do the wildebeest migrate?

The simple answer is for food and water. Other factors include reproduction, predation & protection.
The southern Serengeti plains are ideal for reproduction. Wildebeest have synchronized birthing and the plains are the only place that can sustain the sheer numbers and provide enough nutrition.
If the wildebeest could stay all year, they would! The plains dry out, and the wildebeest are forced to move north to permanent water sources and sufficient grazing.
Weather influences the quality of water and grazing – thus the timing, intensity, location and duration of rainfall plays a crucial role in the wildebeest movement.

When is the great migration?

Calving Season (Jan-Mar).
Most calves are born in early Feb, the wildebeest stay as late into March as possible for the mothers & calves to get enough strength to move north.
Long Rains (April-May)
Rainy season gets thr wildebeest on the move
Rutting Season (June)
Breeding season – fascinating interaction with males protecting their harems
Crossing Season (July-Oct)
Peak period of the river crossing season is August and early September.
Waiting for Rain & Short Rains (Nov-Jan)
Rain brings fresh grass to the southern plains, and the wildebeest follow for calving.

NEXT EVENT: Book Now for Great Migration River Crossing Season 2022

Book Now: info@greatmigrationcamps.com

Coronavirus Safari Blog 02

April 1, 2020Posted in Coronavirus (Covid-19), Great-Migration-CampsWritten by Leave a comment

Coronavirus-free Safaris – Coming soon

The coronavirus pandemic has forced approximately one third of the global population into quarantine. Millions more are following recommendations to stay at home to contain the spread of Covid-19. Staying home is the right thing to do. Coronavirus is spread from person to person, often unknowingly as the carrier can be without symptoms. By limiting the number of people, you are in contact with, the risk of infecting or passing on the disease to someone else is reduced.

Travel Restrictions will lift after Coronavirus

Coronavirus has been a safari stopper. Government restrictions, travel bans and grounded planes will lift, and travel will resume – slowly at first and tentatively. After being stuck indoors for weeks or months, the desire for endless open skies, the smell of the bush, open savanna, incredible wildlife and few crowds is a lure only in the imaginations of adventurers at the moment. When it is safe to do so, we welcome those who are able to join us on a coronavirus-free safari.

8 Day 7 Night Coronavirus-Free Private Safari

To all the lovers of open space and the African bush, we have created a coronavirus free safari – taking responsible healthy travellers to ridiculously remote safari destinations for a week of wildlife. Our coronavirus free safari avoids hotels, public transport and other travelers. It’s a private safari with no other guests – interacting with only 3 people.

Corona-free Virus Safari: Reduced contact, reduced risk

Exclusive use of a private villa, a private charter plane to get you to the Serengeti and back and a private mobile safari camp – exclusively for your own use.

Your 3 human interactions:

Private chauffeur for all airport transfers in Arusha
Private pilot on your charter flight
Private safari guide in the Serengeti National Park.
* There will be a small support crew of 2 or 3 at the bush camp – out of contact with clients.

Group Size for a Coronavirus-free Safari

Best for small groups of 6 – families, close friends, people known to you.
Maximum 10 clients.
Please inquire for smaller groups.

Coronavirus-free Safari and the Great Migration

GMC mobile camp follows the wildebeest herds, guaranteeing migration experiences. As travel opens up, the national parks are unlikely to be crowded, so with fewer visitors and vehicles, the migration should be spectacular. If travel opens up in time for crossing season, Carel Verhoef predicts some crossings could be many hours in duration. Resident game in any area is likely to thrive with a reduction in tourists during April – May and very likely June and beyond, so plenty of uncrowded sightings. We have no idea when travel will start again, but the herds are moving and we will be with them.

Coronavirus-free Safari Itinerary

Exclusive use of private villa, private safari camp & charter flight

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
DAY	TRAVEL	EXPERIENCE	ACCOMM	AREA	MEALS
1	Private transfer to exclusive villa	Private villa	Kili Villa	Arusha	FB
2	Charter flight to Serengeti	Private Serengeti flight	GMC_mobile	Serengeti	FB
3	Full day Migration Safari with private guide	Migration Quest	GMC_mobile	Serengeti	FB
4	Full day or 2 x Half Day game drives	Serengeti National Park	GMC_mobile	Serengeti	FB
5	Safari game drives – migration	Migration 101	GMC_mobile	Serengeti	FB
6	Game Drives – Full or Half Day x 2	Big cats	GMC_mobile	Serengeti	FB
7	Charter Flight & Private transfer to KiliVilla	Private Serengeti Flight	Kili Villa	Arusha	FB
8	Private transfer from KiliVilla to JRO	Private driver	Tour ends

Tour Summary – Coronavirus-free Safari

Country: Tanzania, East Africa

Tour Start: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – Arusha, Tanzania

Tour End: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Highlights: Exclusive use of private safari camp in remote area of the Serengeti

Private villa accommodation in Arusha at the beginning and end of the safari
Return Private Charter Flights to Serengeti

Accommodation:

Private Villa: Kili Villa, Kilimanjaro Golf Estate, Arusha (2 nights)
Canvas Tents: Great Migration Camps Mobile, Two-man Canvas Dome Tent, Serengeti National Park (5 Nights)

Meals 3 Meals per day – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Drinks Unlimited tea & coffee, drinking water. Excludes alcoholic beverages

Transport Game Drives in Toyota 4×4 Land cruiser

Private Vehicle transfers to Kili Villa

Return flights Auric Air Services Private Charter from Dolly Airstrip – Serengeti National Park

Term’s and Condition’s

Flexible confirmation, confirm when you are ready to travel
Flexible Payment terms
Free cancellation and refunds
Subject to availability

Rates $3950 per person all inclusive (based on 6 – 10 people)

Excludes

International Flights, Visas, Travel Insurance
Items of a personal nature, drinks, gratuities

Child Policy: Children welcome

0-5 years must sleep in a tent with adult guardian.
6-16 years may share with other children. Max 3 kids/tent
Children <16 years accompanied by an adult.

Coronavirus-free Safari Planning

If you are in Covid-19 lock-down, with time on your hands, please feel free to contact us to plan your coronavirus-free safari. Contact us via email: info@greatmigrationcamps.com

Migration Updates – July 2019

July 29, 2019Posted in Great-Migration Updates, Great-Migration-CampsWritten by Leave a comment

Migration Updates – Where are the Wildebeest Herds?

The great migration has been erratic in 2019, with late rains extending into June 2019. There was significant moisture in the air, especially in the North around the Mara River, causing some early movement northwards of the wildebeest herds. Patchy rainfall continued throughout June in the Mara region and Ngorongoro district also received out of season rainfall.

Crossing season for the wildebeest, is triggered by the dry season which can run anytime between June and October. The scattered moisture seemed to confuse the wildebeest herds, who decided to take it easy towards the end of June and early July – hanging out and grazing peaceful, with large numbers north of Lobo, with the exception of some of the eastern Herds, who arrived early at the Sand River and crossed into the Mara Reserve first.

From mid-July, the wildebeest action has leapt into full gear, with almost daily crossings at the Mara River and movement of the herds up and down the banks of the river, forwards and backwards! Don’t let this apparent confusion, distract you – the wildebeest have a natural instinct to sense rainfall and a survival ability relying on their strength in numbers.

Migration Updates – July 2019

GMC Migration Update – 13 June 2019

Herds moving north!!! This was filmed just south of Lobo, north-eastern Serengeti!! Thanks for the update Gabriele Brown from Urth Expedition #Migration

Migration Update – 14 June 2019

Update from andBeyond Travel herds crossing from Triangle to Reserve side. Big herds at Lobo and Klein’s Camp and big herds around the Grumeti side too at Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp Looks like you are covered #Migration #GreatMigration #RiverCrossings2019

Migration Update – 28 June 2019

BREAKING NEWS – Herds turn south from Lobo towards the south west with rain from Bologanja, Lobo and the western corridor #GreatMigration #RiverCrossings2019 #Wildebeest

Migration Update – 07 July 2019

Huge herds gather at Bologonja in the north-eastern Serengeti with lots of rain around Lobo and Kichwa Tembo road…. happy guiding and crossings looking good for end July and August. #Migration #Wildebeest #RiverCrossings2019

Migration Update – 08 July 2019

Nice sighting on the Sand River side at Sand River Masai Mara Camp WOW!! Herds heading north and west!!!

Migration Update – 11 July 2019

Mara River crossing at No 8 this morning, south to north, update from Miraji Gwau from Lemala Camps & Lodges – River crossings have started!! – #GreatMigration #Wildebeest #RiverCrossings2019

Migration Update – 13 July 2019

Update from @Kevin Mlay Naturalist – Mara River crossing from south to north at Makutano #GreatMigration #Wildebeest #MaraRiverCrossings2019

Migration Update – 15 July 2019

Huge herds at Kogatende, northern Serengeti, crossing at No 8 back from the north to the south, Update by superb Lemala Camps & Lodges guide Miraji Gwau, get to the Mara River NOW!! #GreatMigration #MaraRiverCrossings2019 #Wildebeest #SerengetiMigration

Migration Update – 15 July 2019

How is this for a crossing???? WOW update by Asilia Africa guide Emmanuel Qamara #Migration #GreatMigration #Wildebeest #WildebeestMigration #MaraRiverCrossings2019

This post got so much attention, it was featured in USA today!

Migration Update – 18 July 2019

From Adam Bannister Wildlife on the Masai Mara side – “Lots of small crossings yesterday at Lookout Hill. Huge gatherings under Lookout hill on the Mara Reserve side of the river a few kilometres north of Mara Purungat bridge” Thanks Adam! #GreatMigration #WildebeestMigration #MaraRiverCrossings

Image may contain: outdoor Image may contain: outdoor and water Image may contain: outdoor, nature and water

Migration Update – 20 July 2019

Predator follows prey – the drama at the Mara is real! Did you spot the Lioness? Thanks Emmanuel Qamara, guide at Asilia Africa for another action packed river crossing update – wildebeest herds headed north.#MaraRiverCrossings2019 #Migration #Wildebeest #greatmigration #WildebeestMigration

Migration Update: 26 July 2019.

The action started at 6h45am at crossing point No 4. @Miraji Gwau from Lemala Camps & Lodges picked up this huge crossing as the sun rose over the Mara River yesterday morning.#migrationupdates #greatmigration #Wildebeest #mararivercrossings2019

GMC Mobile Location

GMC Mobile camp is currently in the Northern Serengeti, close to the Mara River and almost daily river crossings. Predictions suggest that August will have countless crossings. Great Migration Camps mobile still has some availaiblity for August 2019 – contact us now to experience the greatest natural show on earth and join us on our journey following the great wildebeest migration 2019…. We follow the herds guaranteeing migration sightings all year round. Make sure you are in the right place at the right time. That time is right now!

How to book

PLEASE enquire early to avoid disappointment particularly during peak periods as additional services are also busy and booked. GMC books ALL accommodation in the path of the Great Wildebeest Migration and can arrange flights or transport in and out of the National Park. We recommend 5- 10 days for your migration safari with pre or post-safari tours extensions.
Email your inquiry to info@greatmigrationcamps.com. Kindly provide your name, country, number of people travelling and preferred dates and duration. Children of all ages are welcome.

Top 5 Tips to Experience a Wildebeest River Crossing

May 24, 2019Posted in Great-Migration Updates, Great-Migration-CampsWritten by 1 Comment

Great Migration Camps wildebeest researcher, Carel Verhoef, has witnessed hundreds of river crossings, and explains what happens in the build up to a river crossing and how best to experience the “Greatest Show on Earth”.

Carel has an incredible strike rate getting his clients, not just to the wildebeest migration, but to witness river crossing(s)! Having studied and followed the great wildebeest migration for more than 15 years, he shares his Top 5 Tips for maximising your opportunities for a wildebeest river crossings. Read to the end for his Bonus Tip.

Top 5 Tips to Experience a River Crossing

River Crossing Tip 1: You need to get to the Mara River at the right time

When planning your “river crossing safari”, it’s important to deal with a knowledgeable company and consultant who have the knowledge to get you to the right place. Great Migration Camps provides Migration Updates on our Facebook page. GMC is in the privileged position of being able to move camp as the wildebeest move, ensuring we have the latest migration news and updates. Guides, pilots, managers, lodges, camps and colleagues all supply news and updates on the movement and location of the wildebeest. Ask GMC to help with your safari plans and timings.

River Crossing Tip 2: Buy yourself as much time as you can on the river itself

If you are really want to see a river crossing, then buy as many nights as close to the river as you can. The decision of a herd to cross the river is not taken lightly and they need to build up numbers and energy to do the crossing. It can take days for the right conditions, often leaving visitors frustrated at the anticipated event that doesn’t materialise. Wildlife takes time, you have to be in it to see it and experience it – river crossings are no different! The longer you have the better your chances. (See our packages)

The good news is that the area around the Mara River (on both the Serengeti and Masai Mara sides), has plenty of resident plains game and a huge quantity of big cats. This gives you the opportunity for a classic safari to view general game that could include lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, cheetah, hyena, jackal and much much more.

River Crossing Tip 3: Wait for the energy to build up

The higher the water level in the Mara River, the more difficult it is to cross. The jumps are intimidating and this means that the wildebeest and zebra need to build up enough energy before they leap into the crocodile infested waters. Give yourself a few days for the wildebeest numbers to build up on the river itself and do some great game viewing or bird watching while the herds gather. The potential for a crossing is greater if there are wildebeest on both sides of the river. You will immediately realise that there might be enough energy if you hear the wildebeest calls becoming louder and more frequent. The noise can be like a giant humming.

River Crossing Tip 4: Position yourself away from the river

Don’t sit too close to the river bank – this might block the herds without your knowledge. Any barrier or obstruction can prevent the wildebeest from crossing the river. Position yourself some distance away from the riverbank, preferably slightly obscured so that you can allow the wildebeest herds to move unobstructed to the water’s edge or choose their crossing point. This way you won’t interfere. Don’t worry if you don’t have a perfect view at this stage – keep your eyes peeled for the dust as the crossing starts and the noise intensity increases. Then and only then should you move closer. Once the crossing has started it will not stop because so much energy has been created. You will easily get within a few hundred meters from the crossing herds. Moving to the river too quickly can prevent a crossing and leave you with a few days more to wait.

River Crossing Tip 5: Stay Observant

It is surprisingly easy to get stuck waiting for one herd of wildebeest to cross – especially if there are good herd numbers arriving at the river. Make sure you look up and downstream from your waiting position for other possible crossings that could be imminent. Stay observant and alert to all the build-ups on the river bank. Notice weather patterns and the behaviour of other animals. Leopards have been known to walk behind waiting safari vehicles with not a single client seeing the magical creature taking a stroll right behind them – all eyes focused on the river.

Hot Tip

During a river crossing, stop to soak up the atmosphere – it is an incredible experience. Don’t just stare through your view-finder taking pictures. Feel the energy before, during and after the crossing; let the sounds echo through you as the visual show unfolds. When you do take pictures, make sure you don’t over zoom, you need the wider angle to capture the magnitude of what is happening.

BONUS TIP: Both Sides of the Mara River

Don’t let an international border stop you from seeing a river crossing. If you are really serious about seeing a river crossing then give yourself the best possible chance by going to both the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya. If you are travelling during July and August visit the Serengeti first followed by the Masai Mara. During September and October, visit the Masai Mara first and finish your stay in Tanzania the Serengeti. This drastically increases your chances of seeing the wildebeest herds cross the river.

Map of the Mara River Basin. Source: www.frontiersin.org

How to book

Ask us. We’d love to help you. The earlier you enquire, the less chance to be disappointed, especially during peak periods when other services can also be fully booked.
We can assist with tours before or after your safari, additional accommodation in town – as well as flights or transport in and out of the National Park.
We recommend 5- 10 days for your migration safari, especially during Crossing season.
Email your inquiry to info@greatmigrationcamps.com. Kindly provide your name, country, number of people travelling and preferred dates and duration. Children of all ages are welcome.

February 2019 – Migration Updates

February 14, 2019Posted in Great-Migration Updates, Great-Migration-CampsWritten by Leave a comment

Migration Updates – Where are the Wildebeest Herds?

Feb 2019 Migration Updates: The herds moved to lakes Ndutu and Masek early this year with some good numbers around both lakes, as well as the small and big marsh areas. Good numbers of wildebeest were reported around the smaller hidden valley lakes and ponds throughout January 2019.

The short rains delivered some really good early rains across the Serengeti plains. The fresh new good grass following the rains, ignited the calving season and little wildebeest calves have been born throughout the ecosystem. The traditional special camp sites around campsite valley, Ndutu, Ndutu Safari Lodge, Alex Walker’s Serengeti South Camp and Nomad’s Serengeti Migration Camp have all reported wonderful sightings of predator interaction and new wildebeest arrivals.

Migration Predictions for March/April 2019

We believe the short rains have stopped and this means the plains will dry out fairly quickly and the wildebeest herds would shift towards more permanent water sources. The western herds would move to Maswa and Kakessio so Alex Walker’s camps and Kusini based camps would be in a good position. There might be a shift towards the eastern boundary of the Serengeti National Park this year in the region towards Gol kopjes and Nasera rock or Piyaya area.

GMC Mobile Location

GMC Mobile camp anticipates exploring the eastern plains and follow the eastern herds on their journey towards Namiri plains and Turner spring as the wildebeest head towards the Kenyan border and the start of their annual migration. The GMC team will document dates and routes of the eastern herds this year. Traditionally these herds arrive at the Sand River first and cross into the Mara reserve first every year. Join us on our journey following the great wildebeest migration 2019….

Calving Season

GMC mobile has a few spaces still available this March during calving season. Please contact us for reservations and enquiries. We follow the herds guaranteeing migration sightings all year round. Make sure you are in the right place at the right time. Game Package Rates $330 and Full board Rates $230 (excl Park Fees and getting there).

Contact: +255 686 493 065 | Email: info@greatmigrationcamps.com

Migration Updates – February 2019

GMC Migration Update – 28 December 2018

Thanks Serengeti Balloon Safaris for the update. Ndutu is full of wildebeest!
“Today we flew for just over an hour and were in sight of the herds throughout, not to mention the accompanying zebra, as well as 2 serval cats, lions on a kill, eland, thomson’s and grants gazelle, ostrich, and jackals. Well done Capt Masudi and the rest of the team, a top day!” See post here

GMC Migration Update – 28 December 2018

Herds arrive at Lake Ndutu – update from Serengeti Nomad. Migration in ndutu following rain storm 3 days ago! Herds are in open plains at shamba la maharge moving towards naibatat hill and albida plains ! Some are moving along the lake masek into woodland! Big time for cats as they are every where. See post

GMC Migration Update – 4 January 2019

Is this the first new-born wildebeest of the 2019 calving season? Probably not but certainly the first picture of one thanks to Serengeti Nomad . See post

GMC Migration Update – 15 January 2019

Update from Serengeti Balloon Safaris– herds gather on the southern plains from Naabi to hidden valley and across into NCCA. “A magnificent day to take a balloon flight over the Southern Serengeti with Serengeti Balloon Safaris, with light winds and partially cloudy skies both balloons calmly lifted off from our Ngorongoro Conservation Area site and floated west over the plains towards Lake Ndutu. What a spectacular view to see the great migration that seemed to have increased by the tens of thousands today! They have littered the short grass plains of the Southern Serengeti from Naabi Hill to Hidden Valley throughout the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and as far as the eye could see. Though the plains were dominated by The Great Migration some of the other wildlife we experienced included Jackals, Secretary birds, Vultures, Ostrich, Hyenas, thousands of Thompson’s and Grant’s gazelle and many Giraffes.”

GMC Migration Update – 17 January 2019

And we have a zebra crossing on the Masai Mara side… The rest of the wildebeest are around the central to Southern Serengeti.. Update by Angama Mara thank you!

GMC Migration Update – 19 January 2019

Lake Ndutu crossings and herds between Naabi hill and Ndutu, marshes and the southern plains.. Thanks for the update Serengeti Nomad . “Migration is in ndutu , today we were lucky to watch migration crossing lake ndutu towards the woodland goinginto the open plains on the north east side of ndutu area like going to golini and gol mountains @nonadtanzania #migrationupdate #herdsonmove” See post

GMC Migration Update – 22 January 2019

Baby time at Ndutu.
Thanks to Chem Chem Safari Lodges – Tanzania Africa
Just love calving season on the Southern Serengeti Plains! And it’s not just the wildebeest. Scroll down for some other amazing wildlife sightings this month! Seeing is believing.

GMC Migration Update – 24 January 2019

Am I a wildebeest?? Where are we going?? Can I come with you to Kenya…. Please?
Lowis & LeakeyThe wildebeest seemed as shocked as Ninian was to find a hippopotamus way out on the short grass plains near Barafu. #lowisandleakey #hippopotamus #migration #namiri #tanzania

GMC Migration Update – 29 January 2019

Calving season has started at Ndutu and the greater NCA and Southern Serengeti plains. Yehhh a new generation of migratory wildebeest on their way. Thanks for the update Serengeti Nomad . #GreatMigration #TheGreatMigration
#SerengetiShallNeverDie #GMCMobileCamp

Serengeti Nomad - Calving Season 2019

GMC Migration Update – 29 January 2019

Too cute from Serengeti Nomad calving season underway… Early at Ndutu this year, might there be a shift to Maswa or Piyaya this year?

Other Amazing Sightings Reported from the Serengeti…

Kleins-Camp - Wild-Dog18 Jan '19 Spectacular sighting of Wild Dogs on Klein's Concession by @michaelnalleyphotography — 18.01.19 Wild-Dog Klein’s Concession @michaelnalleyphotography

Ndutu-Safari-Lodge-caracal-Feb2019Nice caracal from Ndutu Safari Lodge An incredibly beautiful and rare sighting of a Caracal Cat the other evening. — 01.02.2019 Caracal Ngorongoro Conservation Area @NdutuSafariLodge

Ndutu-Safari-Lodge-10-Feb — 10.02.19 Beautiful Storm Clouds & Rain Southern Serengeti Plains @NdutuSafariLodge

The King is Crossing - Lake Ndutu - 26 Jan 2019 Jens Cullmann Photography — 26.01.19 Lion. Jens Cullmann Photography

25 Jan 2019 - All is well with the Marsh Pride, as you can see from these photos, the cubs of Kabibi and Rembo are becoming real little characters - playing with each other and their mothers - and even learning to climb - starting with an easy tree stump! We shall be posting some more photos over the next few days. All photos kindly sent in by Moses Manduku. — 25.01.19 Marsh Pride is well Masai Mara, Kenya Photo: Moses Manduku

08.02.19 Ndutu Sunrise
@NdutuSafariLodge

How to book

PLEASE enquire early to avoid disappointment particularly during peak periods- additional services are also busy and booked. We can assist with pre or post safari tours and accommodation in town as well as flights or transport in and out of the National Park. We recommend 5- 10 days for your migration safari. Join us now for Calving Season; in June for Rutting season or between July and October for Crossing season. Email your inquiry to info@greatmigrationcamps.com. Kindly provide your name, country, number of people travelling and preferred dates and duration. Children of all ages are welcome.