The Great Migration: Ndutu Conservation Area, February 2026

The Great Migration: Wildebeest Herd in Ndutu Conservation Area

'The Great Migration' is the constant, epic circular migration of vast herds of wildebeest and zebra through the various habitats of the Serengeti ecosystem. In excess of one million animals take part in this huge movement--the timing driven by the seasonal rains that stimulate the growth of grasses on the savannah--the lifeblood of the living migratory mass. From December through April the herds congregate in the Southern Serengeti, including Ngorongoro Crater and Ndutu; it is here that wildebeest calves are born, inevitably attracting the ever present predators. The 'short rains' of November and December stimulate the growth of vegetation, drawing the animals into the region; the 'long rains' follow in April and feed more growth. After the estimated 1.5 million wildebeest have exhausted the short grasses of the Southern Serengeti, they move westward where they cross the Grumeti River, then north, in search of fresh grazing grounds. July through September is spent in the Northern Serengeti and Kenya's famous Masai Mara, where dramatic river crossings take place. Here the animals contend with hungry crocodiles that likely haven't eaten for months or more. When October arrives the rains to the south beckon, and the great living mass heads back to the Southern Serengeti, completing the great circle of life.

In February 2026 I was fortunate enough to go on a photo safari to Ndutu in East Africa with Ann and Steve Toon, who run a great safari operation aimed principally at photographers. With a maximum of six participants in two vehicles, only three photographers shared a landcruiser, leaving plenty of room for lots of gear and giving each of us unrestricted access to shots in any direction. We did two game drives each day, leaving camp at the crack of dawn to catch the morning light, and then again at 4 pm for the evening light. I would highly recommend their operation for serious photographers looking for great opportunities to capture wildlife images. They have a great website with lots of information, images and educational tutorials: