Wildebeests also known as gnu are native to East and South Africa divided into 2 species of black wildebeests and blue wildebeests. The blue wildebeests in Masai Mara national reserve and Serengeti national park perform an annual migrations that gets about 1.5 million wildebeests and other antelopes in search if better pasture and water.
The month of July is the highlight of flamboyant river crossings you have higher chances of viewing river crossings although it’s not 100% sure deal. You need to be patient and stay for long so that your chances increase. This is also one of the hottest months of the year with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 25°C. Once the migration herds arrive at the riverbanks of Mara River they first linger and graze around until the first mega herd makes its move, they then graze around Lamai wedge while others continue to graze at Kogatende area.
Wildebeests migration in July
The river crossings might be dramatic to behold but deadly to the wildebeests as hungry crocodiles infest the river in wait of a meal. The wildebeests have no option than to cross the river in order to get to the greener pastures of Masai Mara national game reserve. The crocodiles are not the only threat but predators like lions, leopards and cheetahs pursue the animals to the crossing point while predators in the other side are also waiting to prey.
The river crossings start in the month of July and this is the most sought part of the wildebeests migration. Maximizing your chances of river crossings means you must visit from mid July to late July where you’re likely to spot the river crossings on the Mara River. Once the first herd crosses, then it’s a sure deal that the crossings will happen daily Until all of them conjugating at the banks across Serengeti national park cross over to Masai Mara game reserve for greener pastures.
Although July is too crowded being the peak tourism season, it also comes with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. You can see other wildlife like giraffes, elephants.
If you’re visiting Masai Mara during this time, then it’s advisable to sleep in lodges along the great Mara river such as; Little governor’s camp, Singita Tabora tented camp, Singita explore camp and many others.
July is the best time to visit both Masai Mara national game reserve and Serengeti national park.
