Many a time, travelers have debated where to go see the Wildebeest Migration. The two contenders; Kenya and Tanzania have both been battling it out for the top spot ever since the formation of the today we are here settling that age-old debate and give you an answer.

Factors to Consider

Before settling into one conclusion, here are several items to consider first.

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Travel Dates

Since it happens year-round, there’s never a dull moment and visitors receive an up-close experience at any time of year between the two countries. 

Therefore, the time you choose for your safari will critically determine your choice of destination. During the months of July to September, you will find the herds congregated in the Mara and for the rest of the year October to June they are to be found in Tanzania’s Serengeti. Have look here to see the Best Places to stay During the Migration.

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Distance Covered

Serengeti is almost ten times bigger than Masai Mara, therefore to cover the whole ecosystem of Serengeti requires one to book longer days to have a wholesome experience of the area. For travelers who like a longer stay will definitely get to enjoy the sights and sounds of Serengeti. Meanwhile the smaller size of Mara might be convenient for those that prefer a shorter stay while getting to see the vast landscape and ecosystem. Also, it is easier to get from one end to the other when the migration happens and you happen to be on the opposite end.

Overall Experience

The Wildebeest Migration is a wondrous spectacle and the sheer experience differs from each country is quite apparent. For adventure lovers and photographers, the best place to catch the action is Kenya’s Mara since you will see sheer force of nature as predator and prey clash. The steep jump makes for quite a memorable moment as lions await on land and crocodiles on the river and the open plains provide for shots. While for the reserved ones who prefer a gentler and less graphic experience, we would recommend Tanzania’s Serengeti.

Car Access

Serengeti only allows land cruisers to go into the park as the designed car of choice, therefore, self-drive travelers with other car brands are left out of the equation. On the Kenyan side, however, cars are allowed into the park regardless if it’s a Vitz or Swift (woe unto you if you get stuck though!). Additionally, overland trucks are a favorite among locals as they go in huge droves to witness the migration.

Crowds on Safari

Ever since the Migration gained its popularity, it has pulled in large crowds that go there to witness this auspicious event. The Tanzanian side is ten times bigger than its Kenyan counterpart thus providing huge tracts of lands to explore. You will find these areas less crowded as compared to the Kenyan side where it has been seen to cause quite the traffic jam in the wild! Anytime something spectacular is happening like someone spotted a pride of lions or a leopard in a tree half a dozen jeeps or more will soon pulled up to watch, too. Though to be fair even the Tanzanian side sometimes gets packed during the peak season.

Safari Budget

Making that journey requires a budget and depending on your reach this is how these two countries differ. Both Serengeti and Masai Mara require a fee before you enter, Park Fees. The Park Fees in Tanzania’s Serengeti during the peak season for a Non-Resident is USD71 per day while, Kenya’s Masai Mara charges the same $100 (Low Season and $200 (High Season) per day provided your choice of accommodation is inside the Greater Mara. 

However, for those staying in a hotel, lodge or tented camp there is a stark difference. Majority of the properties on the Tanzanian side range from high end to luxury thus the cost of accommodation is much higher. The Kenyan side accommodation caters to travelers of different budgets from affordable to luxury. Depending on your scale of spend you may consider this as a factor.

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Better Option?

So, which is the better country to see the Migration? After taking all these factors I believe you may have come to a conclusion unto which side works best you as everyone has different needs and expectation based on the above factors. Choose wisely…

Thinking of having your Migration safari this year or the next? We’re here to help, with expert information just a click away. Reach out to us and consult with our experts today: sales@bobuafrica.com or Whatsapp: +254 705 709 998