great-wildebeest-migration-serengeti-tanzania-africa Taking a safari in Tanzania and Kenya to see the Great Wildebeest Migration can be one of the most exciting and rewarding travel experiences. However, with an average price of $10,000 US per person, it can also be one the most expensive adventures on Earth.

The Great Migration sees about two million wild animals move in an annual, seasonal search for fresh, nourishing land on which to graze between the vast open plains of Tanzania's Serengeti and the rolling hills of Kenya's Masai Mara. The skinny-legged, shaggy-bearded wildebeest (which, according to Zulu legend, were assembled by God from leftover bits and pieces of other animals) makes up the largest migratory population. Zebra also follow along in a loose figure-eight pattern that crosses miles of land and two major rivers. The migration can be dramatic, poignant, and even violent - with lions, crocodiles, hippos, hyenas, and vultures lying in wait for the likely event of a passing meal.

To help you make the best use of your travel budget and vacation time on a Great Migration safari, here's what to expect in terms of weather and animal activity throughout the year in Eastern Africa.

serengeti-tanzania-africa-october January to mid-March is the calving season in Tanzania's southern Serengeti and provides a chance to see thousands of newly-born animals, taking their first wobbly steps and struggling to survive their first days. This is summer in the Southern Hemisphere, which means that temperatures are at their highest. It can be scorching during the day and still quite warm at night.

April through August are the least expensive months to visit eastern Africa, with the main rainy season taking place during April and May. If you don't mind getting wet during the day and experiencing temperatures as cold as 40-50° F at night, you can potentially save hundreds of dollars a day by visiting during this time period.

Late May to early June, the rain begins to taper off, but sunshine is still not 100% reliable, creating a good bet for shoulder season savings.

Late June to August is the best time to see the most active, dramatic portion of the migration, but grasses are at their highest so views can be obstructed. Many safari camps in this area are mobile and will pick up every few weeks to follow the migration on its path, but along the way, you could potentially miss out on sightings of smaller and stealthier animals.

Late September to mid-November is the most popular and expensive time to go on safari. A couple months' worth of of grazing yields lower grasses and the most temperate weather conditions.

No matter when you choose to follow the Great Migration, you will see and experience nature's beauty and tenacity unfold before you, creating a unique travel experience you will not likely soon forget.

Photos by Melanie Waldman


Would you like to go on safari to follow the Great Migration? Share your thoughts in the comments below!