An epic journey – the Great Migration

Widely regarded as one of the most magnificent natural spectacles on earth, the Great Migration draws countless travellers each year to East Africa to witness this marvel firsthand. We've compiled some of our most-asked questions to give you an easy overview of this incredible occurrence.

Millions of wildebeest, along with zebra and impala make the life-preserving journey across the plains of Tanzania towards Kenya, driven by an instinctual need to find food and, in so doing, ensure the survival of their herds.

The migration is the cycle of life playing out in real time. This phenomenon demonstrates the order and wisdom of nature – how changes in the seasons drive the movement and dictate the behaviour of wildlife. As the weather shifts and food sources dwindle or become more prolific, so the herds move in accordance with where grazing is more plentiful, ensuring their health and abundance.

Abundant plains game in the form of thousands upon thousands of wildebeest, as well as antelope and zebra moving in herds across their migratorial path. Great numbers of game in turn attract numerous predators – as this is a prime opportunity to hunt. As such you can expect to witness dramatic encounters between predator and prey.

Additionally, in the course of their journey, these herds encounter other challenges, such as the famed river crossings, which are fraught with danger (from rushing water to the crocodiles that lie in wait). As well as an awe-inspiring game-viewing spectacle, the migration and all its tension is a visceral and poignant reminder too, of the duality of nature’s great power and fragility.

Our five lodges in Tanzania all offer varying proximity to the migratory herds, while also benefitting from the exclusivity of our private concession within Singita Grumeti’s vast wilderness, thereby putting you in the middle of the wildlife action while simultaneously offering a truly peaceful and secluded experience.

Each lodge and camp in this region is unique, but all honour and celebrate the awe-inspiring splendour of the landscapes that have made the Serengeti such an iconic safari destination. From the close-to-nature appeal of Singita Explore and Sabora Tented Camp on the plains, and Mara River Tented Camp in the Lamai Triangle (where you will experience awe-inspiring proximity to the river crossings synonymous with the migration), to the earthy luxury of Faru Faru Lodge, and classic sweeping grandeur of Singita Sasakwa, which offer a higher vantage point of the scenery, Singita offers many ways to immerse yourself in Tanzania’s iconic beauty. For groups, explore Singita's three exclusive-use villas, Milele, Kilima and Serengeti House.

Our travel experts are well situated to advise on the best lodge for you and your travel companions and facilitate a seamless and easy journey into East Africa – click here to get in touch.

The migration is typically unpredictable in nature, and any number of slight shifts in the environment can alter the precise timing of the herds’ journey each year. How long they remain in any one place, and ultimately the duration of the process itself is all dependent on the subtle nuances of nature itself.

Because the Great Migration is such a popular attraction, lodges and camps located within prime areas for access to the action are in high demand over key periods and as such, we do advise you plan and book in advance where possible.

While there are certain points of the year at which the action and activity of the game is at a peak, the migration is an annual journey rather than a single event, and there is a plethora of wildlife to be seen throughout the year in this spectacular part of Africa.

Based at any one of Singita’s Tanzanian lodges or camps, you will have access to a range of activities in the lodge, and out, beyond simply game viewing. From hot-air ballooning over the plains, to picnicking on them, or wine tasting guided by our expert sommelier, to conservation-oriented excursions and community visits, a stay with us will inspire and offer enjoyment on many levels. We also encourage an itinerary that includes more than one of our lodges and camps in the area – as each has unique appeal and personality – to further enrich your experience.

In terms of what to bring with you on safari to East Africa, see below a list of some of the items we recommended to ensure you have the most comfortable experience possible:

Due to flight regulations and the size of the aircraft that will carry you to and back from the Serengeti, our airline partners also require that you travel with luggage of max 15kg (33lb) per person and a piece of hand luggage weighing no more than 5kg (11lb). Only soft-sided luggage is accepted (duffel bag).

Wind down an adrenaline-filled stay in the Serengeti by making the easy transition over to Rwanda and spending a few days soaking in the peace and tranquility of Singita Volcanoes National Park and trekking with golden monkeys and the rainforests' mountain gorillas.