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Africa’s Wildebeest Populations: Where to See the Great Herds

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The wildebeest is one of Africa’s most recognizable animals. Although it is best known for the Great Migration across Tanzania and Kenya, wildebeest populations are also found throughout southern Africa.

Population estimates vary by survey, season and ecosystem. The migrating herds seen in Tanzania and Kenya largely belong to the same Serengeti–Mara population, so the two countries’ figures should not be added together.

Tanzania and Kenya: The Great Migration

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Tanzania protects most of the Great Migration’s annual route. From January through March, the herds gather on the southern Serengeti and Ndutu plains for calving season. They then travel through the Serengeti toward northern Tanzania.

Between approximately July and October, many herds enter Kenya’s Masai Mara. This is when travelers may witness the famous Mara River crossings, although the exact timing is determined by rainfall and cannot be guaranteed.

Read our Kenya Migration Safari Guide for advice about when to travel, where to stay and what to expect.

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Wildebeest Across Southern Africa

Zambia is home to an important wildebeest migration in remote Liuwa Plain National Park. Smaller populations also live in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Angola, Eswatini and Lesotho.

Travelers can encounter wildebeest while exploring destinations such as Zambia, Botswana and Kruger National Park.

Why Wildebeest Matter

Wildebeest help maintain Africa’s grasslands through grazing and the distribution of nutrients. They are also an essential food source for lions, hyenas, cheetahs, crocodiles and other predators.

Protecting these herds means preserving rivers, grasslands and traditional wildlife corridors throughout Africa.

Plan Your Migration Safari

The best time to travel depends on whether you want to experience calving season, moving herds or possible river crossings. Our African Safari Seasons Guide can help you select the right month.

For 27 years, Safari Ventures has created personalized journeys supported by knowledgeable safari specialists and exceptional local guides.

Request your customized African safari and experience one of nature’s greatest wildlife spectacles.

Safari Ventures — The Wild of Africa… Within Your Reach!

Population figures are estimates and may vary according to ecosystem, season, source and survey year.

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Benjamin Bowman

Incredible adventure, amazing guide, and such an awesome experience. We had a 7 day / 8 night in Tanzania in early July and had near perfect weather. We went with a regular tour - not a luxury package - and each of our lodgings were excellent - plenty of space, clean, really well maintained, and all of the staff went above and beyond to make sure you had a good stay. And the food was excellent! Even the lunches you take out on the safaris were good. Highly recommend doing the hot air balloon ride - an unforgettable experience. Robin was our agent that ensured everything went smooth. She was awesome and available at any time to answer any and all questions.

csganley

Our 3-week journey through Africa was nothing short of Amazing! Safari Ventures planned the ultimate trip of a lifetime for us with no details left out. We loved working with Robin right from the start. We spoke with her many times on the phone and exchanged lots of emails. She really listened to what we were interested in and gave us suggestions on what to include and how to make it all happen. We’re so glad we met her!! Our adventure started in Sabi Sands, near Kruger NP. From there, we spent a few days in Cape Town, with a terrific personal driver. Then it was on to Victoria Falls and Chobe NP in Botswana. Next, we had a quick stop in Nairobi and then headed off to Tanzania for a week-long journey through the amazing and wild Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater – just WOW! All of our guides and lodges/accommodations were terrific. Our guides worked hard to make every game drive feel like the most exciting one, and they felt like friends after a day or so. The lodges were clean, comfy, spacious, and just so nice. Everyone we met on this journey - staff, other tourists, and even strangers - were welcoming and friendly. We met so many wonderful people along the way. We never worried about airport transfers or flights – everything was taken care of. Not only was Safari Ventures so professional and organized, but that was also true of every company we worked with in Africa. We never felt forgotten or confused about what we were doing. Robin checked in with us from time to time and kept us updated on any flight changes, and immediately had an alternative plan when needed – only twice. We were worried that this so-far-from-home excursion might be stressful, but it was the most stress-free trip we’ve taken, and we travel a lot. We saw more animals than we ever expected! Many were so up-close and personal that it almost felt surreal. I can’t say enough good things about Robin and Safari Ventures. I would recommend them, her, and this trip to anyone who enjoys adventurous travel, with a splash of luxury, and some excitement mixed in!

Robin Thompson

We had an excellent safari arranged by Safari Ventures. It was an 8 day Botswana adventure that took us to Chobe River (Chobe Game Lodge) and the Okavango Delta (Moremi Camp and Okavango Camp). Robin Neal of Safari Ventures did a fantastic job planning our itinerary. Robin was quick to respond to all our questions at the time of booking and during the months leading up to the trip. It was our first time on a safari and traveling to Africa so she was able to provide us with recommendations on the weather, clothing as well as potential insects. We arranged our own flights from the United States so that we could see Victoria Falls on our own before the safari and also to stay for a few days in Cape Town after the safari. Robin made sure we were picked up at our hotel in Victoria Falls with a driver who was not one pleasant but interesting to talk to about life in Zimbabwe as he drove us to the Botswana Border where another driver took us to Chobe Game Lodge. On the last day when we flew to Maun, to our surprise Robin had someone meet us at the Maun airport to help navigate the Botswana document departure requirements and get us to our Cape Town flight gate. I would highly recommend Robin Neal and Safari Ventures. At each camp, the staff knew our itinerary so we didn’t have to deal with the worry and logistics of getting to our “safari” short hop plane rides between camps. Robin had prearranged everything so we didn’t have to think about any logistics; we could simply enjoy ourselves and not worry. A couple weeks before our departure, my travel companion suffered an injury that made walking difficult. I contacted Robin and she arranged for us to have a room at each camp that would be close to the dining area and safari drive departures. It’s that kind of exemplary service that made Safari Ventures and Robin stand out truly delivering a trip of a lifetime for us.

Parisa R

As a first time safari traveler, we weren’t quite sure what to expect, but this experience exceeded every expectation we had. From the moment we booked the trip, Robin was in communication with us and did a briefing prior to our departure. Upon arrival, the staff were welcoming and informative. The game drives were absolutely thrilling. Our guide/driver (Leo) was very knowledgeable, experienced and enthusiastic. He was very professional and we felt very safe being driven all over Tanzania. He knew where to find the animals and shared fascinating insights about their behaviors and the ecosystem, which made every sighting even more memorable. His suggestions for departure time in the morning and taking picnic lunch allowed us to make the best out of everyday game drive. The accommodations were comfortable, clean, and safe. The food was freshly prepared, and the chef made sure to check on each guest personally. Overall, it was a journey that we will never forget.

Betsy Coville

I was going to South Africa to help Animal Defenders International at their big cat rescue facility as a veterinarian. I brought a friend along who had never been to Africa. We had both worked with all species before and I wanted her to do a safari. I only gave Safari Venture a few months notice and I wanted to go glamping NOT camping....those days are gone!! I have been all over Africa but never on safari in SA. I was totally surprised how quickly and thoroughly they pieced together stays at three different lodges within Kruger. Each had a different topography and different types of lodging. They were all inclusive for meals safari etc with wonderful food and very attentive staff in each place. We started at NThambo Tree Camp.....they had raised tents with balconies to watch wildlife from our tent. The guides were great and we saw almost every animal possible...but they did see a pangolin the day before!! We went from there to Nyala Lodge which was our favorite.....we had our own building with heat and AC, on the river, great food and a swimming pool. They had a better safari truck also with a top and more comfortable seats. Once again, we saw everything possible including a small lake with hippos and elephants at the same time!! I would highly recommend them. We went last to Moditio . They accommodations were great, on the river, pool, good food etc. But the brush was so dense it was often hard to see the animals. We did see elephants, lions , hippos etc but the numbers were much smaller because of the topography. Safari Ventures thought of everything and we were always met by a driver etc wherever we were. They were also available for calls from around me with any questions....even on a late Sunday night. I will be recommending them to anyone who wants to have all the work done for them and just relax and have a lifetime adventure .

Stacy Hopkins

Incredible!! We went on a two-week safari in Kenya & Tanzania. It was unforgettable & life-changing! We saw so many animals & lots of babies too. Highly recommend Safari Adventures!

Mahesh Seshadri

Safari ventures helped us with a wonderful trip to Rwanda to see the Gorillas. Rwanda is very beautiful, clean and welcoming country. Robin did a great job in helping arrange a wonderful tour company for the trip. We landed in Kigali and drove to the Volcanoes National park and stayed two days at the Mountain Gorilla view lodge . The lodge was very cozy, the food was very fresh (farm to table vegetables) but We were most touched by the service and the hospitality of the people. We did the golden monkey and the Gorilla treks. Both were amazing, the Gorilla trek is a must do for any wildlife lovers. They were incredible and so human like. It is a very personable experience that will be remembered for a long time. The tours are very well organised with attention details, to ensure Gorilla's and the tourists are safe and having positive experience. I would strongly recommend these tours from Safari Ventures.

Reena Patel

Safari Ventures exceeded all our expectations. Robin made planning effortless—she listened carefully, customized every detail, and was always available to answer questions. Once we arrived, Leo was outstanding. His deep knowledge, patience, and passion for the wildlife and culture made every game drive unforgettable. The lodges, transfers, and daily experiences were seamless, and we felt cared for every step of the way. Thanks to Robin and Leo, our trip was not only perfectly organized but also filled with memories we’ll carry for a lifetime.

Cherie K

My family of 11 took "THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME" in May and June 2025. Everything went perfectly, thanks to our wonderful tour operator, Robin, with Safari Ventures. I have traveled to more than 60 countries and usually make all the arrangements myself. But Africa is not a do-it-yourself destination! I'm so happy that I left the planning in the hands of the Safari Ventures team We flew into Cape Town, SA, on Emirates, and were picked up at the airport by our wonderful tour guide. He stayed with us the 3 days we were in the area and was a great help. Safari Ventures selected The Victoria and Albert Hotel, which is located on the V & A waterfront with many restaurants and shops within a short walking distance. We enjoyed a fabulous dinner at the Gold Restaurant, where we learned African drumming and were entertained by local dancers. The guided day tours in Cape Town allowed us to see all of the highlights of the area. We then flew to Hoedspruit to begin our safari at Tanda Tula Safari Camp. To say we were impressed would be an understatement! The grounds and facilities were fabulous. The staff and our safari guides were very helpful and friendly and the food was superb. The guides even surprised us with a birthday cake and special drinks at a bonfire while on the evening game drive to celebrate the birthdays of my grandson and daughter-in-law. Another day we were served a bush breakfast fit for a king while on the morning drive. We enjoyed the private plunge pool in each suite. We then drove to our next lodge, Lion Sands, and it was equally as special with extraordinary game viewing. We visited Victoria Falls and enjoyed the Palm River Hotel with gorgeous views and ended our journey in Chobe National Park in Botswana. The staff of Chobe Game Lodge arranged a special farewell dinner for us under the stars. Every detail was planned so perfectly that I didn't have to worry about anything! Flights and ground transportation were right on time, no mix-ups, no last-minute hassles, lovely accommodations and food, a very memorable family trip!

Christine Gienski

Robin meticulously crafted our trip to meet our desires. No detail was overlooked. The accommodations were excellent, the safari vehicles well maintained, and the guides extremely knowledgeable. All of the transfers between hotels, airports, and other locations were seamless. We saw every animal that we dreamed of seeing and more. Robin also helped us go beyond Kenya and Tanzania to see Victoria Falls, where we had a wonderful tour of the falls, and an incredible sunset cruise on the Zambezi River that we did not expect to be only for us. We felt like royalty! At Robin's suggestion, we also went to Chobe National Park in Botswana and stayed in our first tented lodge - a pretty cool experience. Robin also helped us add Cape Town, South Africa, to the trip and arranged winery tours, a tripe to the Cape of Good Hope, and a shark cage dive. I cannot adequately describe the emotions that came over me when I saw things with my own eyes that I had previously seen only in textbooks or movies/television. What a fantastic month-long trip!