SERENGETI
Migration of Wildebeest & Zebra
THE GREAT MIGRATION SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
Every year around October, nearly two million herbivores migrate from the northern hills to the southern plains, crossing the Mara River in search of water and pasturage. Six months later, every April, they make their way back north via a western route, once again crossing the Mara River. This occurrence is sometimes referred to as Circular Migration.
The Great Migration is the top of the 10 natural travel wonders of the world.
HISTORY AND ECOLOGY
The Serengeti is located in northern Tanzania and extends into south-western Kenya, covering an area of some 12,000 sq miles (30,000 km2). In 1940 it was declared a protected area, and in 1951, the park was given National Park status. Years later in 1959, extensive boundary modifications took place. Today the government of Tanzania and Kenya give legal protection to over 80% of the Serengeti.
The Serengeti ecosystem is contiguous with the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), both awarded Serengeti-Ngorongoro International Biosphere Reserve Status and World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1981. The Site includes the adjoining Maswa Game Reserve.
The name Serengeti translates into “Endless Plains” (Serengit), originating in the language Maa spoken by the Maasai, who lived alongside wild animals surviving entirely from their cattle.
The high diversity of habitats in Serengeti, ranging from forests, rivers, grass- and woodlands sustain many different animal species. From approximately 70 larger mammals to some 500 bird species, it is host to millions of animals altogether.
SAFARI DESTINATIONS INCLUDED IN OUR ITINERARIES
OUR SAFARI ITINERARIES
Nestled between a shallow soda lake and the Great Rift Valley's western escarpment, Lake Manyara NP is known for its large flocks of flamingos and tree climbing lions.
The world's largest intact caldera and natural World Heritage site. At the crater's base, the crater walls offer a dramatic backdrop and an abundance of wildlife.
One of Tanzania's smaller parks, Tarangire draws less visitors. The park contains large elephant herds and is home to three rare animal species - the Greater Kudu, the Fringed-eared Oryx and a few Ashy Starlings.