Kenya’s wildlife movements follow seasonal patterns. Here’s your month-by-month guide:
Great Migration (Maasai Mara)
- July: First herds arrive from Serengeti
- August-September: Peak river crossings at Mara River
- October: Gradual movement back to Tanzania
- Best Viewing Areas: Mara Triangle, Paradise Plains
Elephant Migrations
- January-March: Amboseli herds gather at swamps
- June-October: Tsavo elephants move to permanent water sources
- November-December: Laikipia elephants descend from hills
Specialist Migrations
1. Zebra Migration (Laikipia to Lewa)
- When: January-February
- Unique feature: World’s second-largest mammal migration
- Best viewing: Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
2. Wildebeest Calving (Loita Plains)
- When: February-March
- Highlight: 8,000+ calves born weekly
- Predator action: Lions and hyenas at peak activity
3. Whale Shark Movement (Coastal Kenya)
- Peak season: March-April
- Hotspots: Watamu Marine Park
- Experience: Snorkel with gentle giants
Bird Migrations
- August-October: Eurasian migrants arrive
- November-April: Palearctic birds in Rift Valley
- Notable Events:
- Flamingo movements between Nakuru and Bogoria
- Raptor migration over Kijabe (September)
Month-by-Month Wildlife Highlights
| Month | Key Events | Best Parks |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | Calving season begins | Amboseli, private conservancies |
| Feb | Loita wildebeest calving | Mara North, Naboisho |
| Mar | Whale sharks arrive | Watamu, Malindi |
| Apr | Long rains begin, lush landscapes | Aberdare, Meru |
| May | Birding peaks | Kakamega Forest |
| Jun | Dry season begins, elephants congregate | Tsavo, Samburu |
| Jul | Great Migration arrives | Maasai Mara |
| Aug | Peak river crossings | Mara Triangle |
| Sep | Best predator action | Mara, Olare Motorogi |
| Oct | Migration starts returning | Koiyaki Lemek |
| Nov | Short rains, newborn antelopes | Lewa, Ol Pejeta |
| Dec | Coastal whale sightings | Kisite-Mpunguti |
Pro Tip: Combine migrations with:
- Hot air balloon rides during river crossings
- Walking safaris during calving season
- Night drives when predators are most active
This comprehensive guide to packing cubes and migration timing will help you travel efficiently and maximize wildlife sightings on your Kenyan safari. Remember that climate change may shift some patterns, so consult recent reports before finalizing travel dates.