Every year in Masai Mara Kenya, one of the world’s most remarkable wildlife events takes place at the Mara River crossing. More than 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras and gazelles travel across the Serengeti plains in to the Masai Mara in search of fresh grass. They cross the dangerous crocodile infested Mara River as the big cats wait to pounce on them at a distance. It’s a powerful and dramatic moment in nature, where survival is everything.
If you dream of witnessing the magical Mara crossing – this incredible scene, it is important to know when and where to see this great wildlife spectacle – The Great Wildebeest Migration.
What is the Mara River Crossing?
The Mara River crossing is one of the most dramatic moments in the Great Wildebeest Migration. A yearly journey where over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with zebras and gazelles, move across the Serengeti plains and into the Mara region in search of fresh grass and water. They cross the Mara River, which flows through Kenya’s Masai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti.
Mara River’s strong currents, steep muddy banks and hungry crocodiles waiting – making the Mara River Crossing a dangerous affair. This risky moment makes it exciting and unforgettable as one of the most powerful wildlife scenes.
When to See the Mara River Crossing
The Mara River crossing happens between July and October, but exact dates change each year based on rain and grass growth. The Great Wildebeest Migration is a nonstop journey. This period is when the most dramatic river crossings occur.
In early July: this moment is when the first herds start arriving from the Serengeti. Smaller crossings happen at the Sand River and later at the Mara River in the north.
August to September: This is the best time to see dramatic crossings. At this moment, thousands of animals try to cross at once and predator activity is very high, making the action intense and unforgettable.
October: At this time, herds slowly move back south. The biggest crossings may be over, but many animals are still in the area and it’s a good time to visit with fewer tourists.
The Best Viewing Spots for the Mara River Crossing
The Mara River has two famous wildlife areas, Kenya’s Masai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. The Mara River is long, but most exciting crossings happen in certain places where the river is narrow. These spots give the best chance to see wildebeest, zebras and gazelles as they swim across the river, as other predators await.
Tips for an amazing Mara River Crossing Experience
- Watching the Mara River crossing is an amazing experience, but it is important to respect the wildlife and their habitat.
- Keeping a safe distance when watching the Mara River Crossing.
- Avoid crowding during the Mara crossing spots with too many vehicles
- Staying quiet during the crossing moment so that you do not scare the animals
- Booking your safari early, the right timing and plan to spend at least 5 to 7 days in Mara because Mara crossings do not happen on a set schedule
- By listening carefully to your driver guide, as they know where herds are and how animals behave
- Bring a binoculars and a good camera to see and capture the action from afar
Mara River Crossing is truly one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles and a powerful display of survival, courage and the endless cycle of life. By timing your visit between July and October and choosing the best viewing spots in Masai Mara or Serengeti, you get the greatest chance to witness this incredible event.
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| Safari Experience | Duration | Highlights | Book Now |
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| 4-Day Wildebeest Migration Luxury Safari | 4 Days |
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| 4-Day Great Migration Luxury Flying Safari | 4 Days |
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