Migration safaris in Africa
The biggest wildlife spectacle on Earth
With countless hooves thundering across the plains or crashing across rivers, as big cats and Nile crocodiles lay in wait for their time of plenty, witnessing the Great Migration is a real bucket-list travel experience.
Every year, without exception, the annual mass movement of over a million animals takes place – mostly wildebeests, but also zebras, impalas, and gazelles – on a 2,900km circuit around the plains of Kenya and Tanzania, marching from the Serengeti up to the Maasai Mara and back down again following the rains and fresh grasses.
Of all Africa's incredible wildlife experiences, nothing can compare to the sheer scale and drama of the Great Migration. It can be visceral in every sense of the word.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our migration-focused example trips to start dreaming about the possibilities
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our migration-focused example trips to start dreaming about the possibilities
Death-defying dives and drama aplenty
When most people imagine the Great Migration, it is the dramatic river crossings that immediately come to mind - thousands of wildebeests and zebras diving plunge off river banks into the raging waters below and making a desperate dash to the safety of the other side, dodging predators along the way.
Dependent on rainfall, the timing of the migration’s movements are broadly predictable, and the herds migrate year-round, so there's always something to experience somewhere, whether it's calving en masse in the southern Serengeti in Tanzania, in immense columns marching north across the Grumeti or braving the river crossings to reach Kenya’s Maasai Mara.
The Serengeti and Mara host a wide range of accommodation options, from classic canvas camps through to incredible exclusive-use lodges both in national parks and private conservancies and reserves. We’ll work with you to find somewhere that fits your taste, budget, is close to the action but away from the crowds, and that has a positive impact.
When planning your migration safari, our travel researchers call on years of experience and contacts on the ground to pick the best spots that maximise your chances of being in the heart of the action, so get in touch to start planning.
Great Migration lodges
Where to stay
Find out more about some of our favourite luxury camps and lodges.
This chic, remote Serengeti safari camp is also a conservation initiative, protecting an area crucial to cheetahs and other big cats.
Experience the untouched beauty of the Serengeti on foot alongside highly experienced guides, staying at mobile campsites in areas that few others experience.
An intimate Relais & Châteaux safari camp in a private conservancy with the lowest vehicle density in the Mara region twinned with perhaps the highest concentration of big cats anywhere.
Ten elegant suites in the remote western reaches of the Serengeti with fabulous views and &Beyond luxury.
A perfect mix of traditional safari camp and comfort in a quieter corner of the Mara and perfectly located for the wildebeest migration's arrival.
Where to see the Great Wildebeest Migration
Where do you want to explore?
Find out more about Kenya and Tanzania and where a Niarra Travel safari can take you.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
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