Migration approaching the Grumeti River

Map of the Grumeti River, western Serengeti and Grumeti Reserve:

Migration Status 2008: Grumeti River crossing has started

One of the highlights of the annual migration, the Grumeti River crossing, has started! The advanced party of wildebeest and zebra have already crossed the river and are moving into the Grumeti Reserve. The main herds have not reached the river yet, but their arrival and crossing is imminent. The crocodiles lie in wait and have already had successful kills. Other predators have been able to pick off prey as they approach or exit the Grumeti River. This is the start of the high season in the western corridor of the Serengeti.

All the permanent camps are busy and most of the mobile camp operators have set up camp in the area. All lodges between Seronera and the Singita camps in the Grumeti Reserve are popular at this time of year, but for the safari purist there is no beating being camped along the Grumeti River. Camp guests await the main herds and the spectacle of the greatest safari experience in Africa.

Migration Update: Grazing is sparse and dry

The grazing on the plains from Ndutu to the central Serengeti is getting sparse and dry. The herds are spread across a large area and broken into a few groups. Smaller herds can still be found east of Ndutu, but the main concentrations are moving west. There are also herds that have split and heading north west.

Gameviewing has been good with sighting of predators. Everyone is waiting expectantly for the arrival of the herds in the Grumeti.

Migration Statistics: Herds posed to cross the Grumeti River

The Grumeti River crocodiles are anxiously awaiting the arrival of the annual migration. This is one of the highlights of the annual migration calendar.

The best place to be based to see the migration is Grumeti River Camp, Kirawira Camp or one of the mobile camps. These are now based at private camps between Seronera and the Grumeti.

An good example of a safari for this time of year: June Safari route

Migration heading west from Seronera

The core herd of over one million wildebeest, zebra and Thompson's gazelle are around Seronera. There are still stragglers as far back as Gol Kopje, but the general movement is west and north west. The rains have stopped and the Serengeti is drying up, making driving around easier. Game viewing has been excellent with abundant herds and foals playing and finding their running legs. Predators continue to follow the annual migration and pick off the weak and young.

The lead herds look like they will soon start to move towards the west corridor and the Grumeti River where there is better grazing at this time. The long grass of Seronera is quickly being depleted by the vast quantity of wildlife.

The best place to be based is obviously around Seronera or within driving distance of the central Serengeti. Robanda mobile camp in Ikoma Game Controlled Area is a good option for those wanting to do game drives and some walking safaris.