There are many beautiful places to go on safari, and one of the most spectacular sights in East Africa is the great wildebeest migration crossing the Mara River. A million and a half of these majestic animals’ travel throughout the year as they look for fresh grazing pasture and follow the rainfall for better water sources. The migration is unique in that it includes many animals and that it is a reliable path that the wildebeest take year after year. Spectators can catch a glimpse of the magnificent migration on different points of their migration route with some research and a little bit of luck.
One of the best places to observe the wildebeest migration is at the Mara River. The Mara River runs through Kenya and Tanzania and lies directly in the path of migration for multiple animals in the Masai Mara & Serengeti National Park. It is also a vital part of the river system that brings water to the region. The wildebeests’ crossing at this river is celebrated as one of the most spectacular points to observe it. The animals often cross the river multiple times during the migration, following the rainfall to get to the best grazing areas and it is a perilous crossing. The crossing itself takes a great deal of strength and agility to maneuver up and down steps or slick riverbanks and through the often-heavy currents of the water.
Crocodiles are looming just under the surface as well to snatch up any unsuspecting prey. Even if an individual makes it across the river in one piece, there are often lions or other predators waiting to pick off any weaker members of the group. Huge herds cross at once, and the mass of bodies and frantic scramble across the river is amazing!
