Serengeti Wildebeest Migration and Climbing Kilimanjaro

The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro are two iconic experiences in Tanzania, East Africa and you can do these 2 activities on your safari to Tanzania. You need a minimum of 10 Days of safari for Serengeti Wildebeest Migration and Climbing Kilimanjaro.

1. Serengeti Wildebeest Migration: The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on the planet. It involves the movement of over 1.5 million wildebeests, along with zebras, gazelles, and other animals, across the Serengeti ecosystem in Tanzania and parts of Kenya’s Maasai Mara. This migration is driven by the search for greener pastures and water sources, as well as the predators that follow this massive movement of prey.

Key points about the migration:

• Cyclical Movement: The Great Migration is a cyclical event that varies in timing and location, depending on the availability of food and water. It typically involves several major stages, including calving season and river crossings.
• Calving Season: The migration begins with the calving season, usually around January to February, when the wildebeests give birth to thousands of calves within a short period. This is a vulnerable time for young animals, and predators take advantage of the situation.
• River Crossings: One of the most dramatic moments of the migration is when the animals attempt to cross crocodile-infested rivers, such as the Mara and Grumeti Rivers. These crossings are fraught with danger and often result in spectacular scenes of chaos and survival.

2. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro: Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa and one of the “Seven Summits,” which are the highest mountains on each of the seven continents. Climbing Kilimanjaro offers an incredible opportunity to trek through diverse ecosystems and experience breathtaking views from the summit.

Key points about climbing Kilimanjaro:

• Trekking Routes: There are several trekking routes to the summit, each varying in difficulty, duration, and scenery. The most popular routes include Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, and the Northern Circuit.
• Ecosystem Zones: Climbers pass through different ecological zones, ranging from rainforest at the base to alpine desert and finally to the arctic summit. The diverse landscapes and changing vegetation are part of what makes this climb so unique.
• Altitude Challenges: Altitude sickness can be a concern when ascending Kilimanjaro, as the rapid gain in elevation can affect climbers’ health. Acclimatization days are usually built into the itineraries to help minimize the risk.
• Uhuru Peak: The highest point on Kilimanjaro is Uhuru Peak, which stands at 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. Reaching the summit requires determination, physical fitness, and mental strength.

Both the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro offer unforgettable experiences and the chance to witness the natural beauty of Tanzania. If you’re considering either of these adventures, it’s important to plan ahead and be prepared for the physical and environmental challenges involved.

The migration is a prime opportunity to witness dramatic scenes of river crossings, where the herds brave crocodile-infested waters, and predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas take advantage of the abundance of prey. The best time to witness the migration depends on your specific interests. The river crossings typically occur between July and August in the northern Serengeti, while the calving season takes place from January to March in the southern Serengeti.

Here’s an overview of what each entails:

1. Serengeti Wildebeest Migration: The Serengeti Wildebeest Migration is one of the most awe-inspiring natural events on Earth. It involves the movement of vast herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores across the Serengeti ecosystem in Tanzania, along with their predators in pursuit. The migration follows a seasonal pattern driven by the availability of food and water.

Key highlights:

• Calving Season (January to March): The herds gather in the southern Serengeti to give birth to their young. This is a time of intense predator-prey interactions as predators take advantage of the vulnerable young animals.
• Migration North (April to July): As the dry season begins, the herds start moving northward in search of greener pastures and water sources, often encountering river crossings with crocodiles lying in wait.
• Crossing the Grumeti River (June to July): A dramatic river crossing event occurs as the herds navigate the treacherous Grumeti River, again facing the danger of crocodiles.
• Migration West (July to October): The herds continue their journey towards the western Serengeti and may cross the Mara River, another challenging river crossing with lurking predators.
• Return South (November to December): The herds start their journey back to the southern Serengeti as the short rains arrive, completing the cycle.

What is the best time for Serengeti Wildebeest Migration and Climbing Kilimanjaro?

The best time to see the Great Migration is during the dry season period that is between the months of July to early October every year. During this period in the southern parts of Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater the vegetation is sparse and dry, the waterways are as well dry this forces the wildebeests and Zebras to migrate to the North plains that is southern part of Masai Mara National Park to search for fresh vegetation and water. During the Migration the wildebeests and Zebras rear their young ones, this is not simple given the fact it is more of 3000 miles journey which tiresome making it a life and death migration, many die due to exhaustion giving a chance to other carnivore animals to ease their search for food like Hyenas, Cheetahs and Lions. Of the above dry months August and September are the best months to see the Great Migration given the fact this is good time as well to experience the river crossing during the migration, late October the rains will resume in Tanzania and the herds will start their journey back to southern parts of Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro crater grassland plain areas.

Why book Serengeti Wildebeest Migration and Climbing Kilimanjaro through Eco Adventure Safaris?

Eco Adventure Safaris has positioned herself as one of the leading tour operators offering authentic and value for money Summer Holiday Serengeti Wildebeest Migration and Climbing Kilimanjaro Safaris. We endeavor to provide accurate and timely information that you can rely on to organize Summer Holiday Wildebeest Migration Safaris in Africa. Our staff are always on standby to assist you with all the arrangements, and if you need more information about our service, please visit our trip advisor and website page for more information and tour options about Wildebeest Migration Safaris