Seeing the Big Five and the Great Migration in Tanzania

Tanzania is renowned for its incredible wildlife and is one of the best places in Africa to see the Big Five and experience the Great Migration. Here’s where you can find these experiences:

The Big Five in Tanzania

1. Serengeti National Park

   • Lions: The Serengeti is home to a large population of lions. They are commonly seen on game drives, particularly in the central and northern parts of the park.
   • Leopards: Leopards are more elusive but can be spotted in the Serengeti’s wooded and rocky areas, particularly in the southern and western parts.
   • Elephants: Large herds of elephants are commonly found in the Serengeti, especially in the southern and western regions.
   • Buffaloes: Buffalo herds are frequently seen throughout the Serengeti. They are often found grazing in the open plains.
   • Rhinos: Black rhinos are more challenging to spot but can be seen in the Serengeti, particularly in the western corridor and the Ndutu area.

2. Ngorongoro Crater

   • Lions: The Crater is known for its dense lion population.
   • Leopards: Leopards are occasionally seen but are rarer in the Crater compared to the Serengeti.
   • Elephants: The Crater’s elephants are often found grazing in the lush grasslands.
   • Buffaloes: Large herds of buffalo are commonly seen in the Crater.
   • Rhinos: The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places to see the endangered black rhino. They are often spotted in the Crater’s more secluded areas.

3. Tarangire National Park

   • Elephants: Tarangire is famous for its large elephant herds, especially during the dry season when animals congregate around the Tarangire River.
   • Lions: Lions are present in the park, often seen near the river and in the open plains.
   • Leopards: Leopards are less common but can be spotted in the park’s more wooded areas.
   • Buffaloes: Buffaloes are frequently seen in Tarangire, particularly in the dry season.
   • Rhinos: Rhinos are not commonly found in Tarangire. For rhinos, Ngorongoro Crater is a better option.

The Great Migration

The Great Migration, one of nature’s most spectacular events, involves the annual movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles across the Serengeti and Maasai Mara. Here’s how you can experience it:

1. Central Serengeti

   • When to Visit: June to July.
   • What to See: The migration herds move through the central Serengeti, and you can witness them crossing the Seronera River and grazing on the lush grasslands.

2. Western Serengeti (Grumeti River)

   • When to Visit: May to July.
   • What to See: The herds reach the Grumeti River and cross it in dramatic fashion, often encountering large crocodiles.

3. Northern Serengeti (Mara River)

   • When to Visit: July to October.
   • What to See: The migration reaches the Mara River, where dramatic river crossings occur. This is one of the most iconic and photographed aspects of the migration.

4. Southern Serengeti (Ndutu Area)

   • When to Visit: January to March.
   • What to See: During the calving season, large herds are found in the Ndutu area, and it’s an excellent time to see newborn wildebeest and predator activity.

Tips for Viewing the Big Five and the Migration

1. Plan Ahead: To witness specific migration events or the Big Five, it’s essential to plan your safari itinerary and book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.

2. Guided Safaris: Consider using experienced safari guides who are familiar with wildlife movements and the best viewing spots.

3. Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance, especially if you’re undertaking a high-end safari or traveling during the rainy season.

4. Prepare for Variable Weather: The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater can experience different weather patterns, so pack appropriate clothing for both hot and cold conditions.

Conclusion

Tanzania offers some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in Africa. The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are excellent for seeing the Big Five, while the Great Migration provides a thrilling experience of nature’s grand spectacle. Combining visits to these areas can provide a diverse and enriching safari experience.