Every year, wildebeest travel in a loop of about 1,500 kilometres between the southern Serengeti plains and the northern Mara River, following the rains and fresh grass. Calving happens on the southern plains in February. River crossings between July and September are among the great wildlife spectacles on Earth.
Antelopes
Blue Wildebeest
Connochaetes taurinus
The star of the Great Migration, with more than a million animals on the move.
Size
140-290 kg
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Short grass.
Habitat
Open plains and short-grass savannah.
About the blue wildebeest
Did you know?
01
Around 500,000 calves are born within a few weeks each year.
02
Calves can run within minutes of birth.
03
The herds follow rain by smell and sight.
When to see it
Gold months are usually the easiest time to find it.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Trips that go there
Where to meet the blue wildebeest
More wildlife to discover
Antelopes
Thomson's Gazelle
Eudorcas thomsonii
A small, fast antelope that flicks its tail as it grazes.
Serengeti, Ngorongoro Conservation Area +1 more
Antelopes
Impala
Aepyceros melampus
A graceful antelope, common in herds, known for high jumps.
Serengeti, Tarangire +5 more
Antelopes
Common Eland
Taurotragus oryx
The largest antelope in Africa, a calm giant of the plains.
Lake Natron, Serengeti +2 more
Antelopes
Gerenuk
Litocranius walleri
A long-necked antelope that stands on its hind legs to browse.
Tarangire, Lake Natron
Start Planning
Your wildlife wish list, our job
Tell us what you most want to see and we will plan the season, the place and the guide to match.
Prefer to talk? Call +255 754 123 456