Everything You Need To Pack For The Great Migration

1. Binoculars and Camera Equipment

While not a requirement, a pair of binoculars will come in very handy when sightings are far. In some instances, you may not be able to go off-road and when that happens, a set of binoculars might be just what you need to avoid missing a one-of-a-kind migration sighting. Binoculars are a great way to get up-and-close without actually having to get up at all.

During safari's peak season (also known as the high season, which runs from early June until mid-late October), parks can be crowded with people and vehicles. You'll often find large groups at the more popular Migration viewing sites such as the river crossings, and this is when a pair of binoculars can come in handy.

Our advice: Private conservancies are the perfect way to escape some of the crowds for an experience that is more intimate, and with little interruption. There are several Mara conservancies that will place you in exclusive reach to witness the Mara crossings from the lap of untrodden luxury, we know because we go.

While we encourage you to be present and take in every moment of the experience, you'll come across some picture-perfect moments that you will want to capture and keep forever.

Whether you've got a high-end DSLR, a pocket-sized point-and-shoot or even just your cell-phone camera, make sure to keep your device on you at all times. If you want to make use of a drone, make sure to check the regulations for the camps and parks you'll be staying at as they may differ from one location to the next. Although typically for guest privacy and wildlife safety reasons, most camps have a no-drone policy.

While photo opportunities abound in the bush, the Migration's unpredictability and movements mean your 'magic shot' could come at any moment so you should remain attentive and ready at all times. If you need to brush up on your photography skills, take a look at our guide on how to photograph animals on the move.

2. Mosquito and Insect Repellent

If you are travelling in East Africa during peak season to see the migration, depending on when you go, chances are that you're bound to run into a some pesky biters. Keep some insect repellent with you at all times, particularly during evening game drives when the sun begins to set and the mosquitos and tsetse flies come out to play.

Tsetse flies are biting insects (similar to horseflies) that are found throughout much of Tanzania's northern circuit parks. If you've been on safari in East Africa before, you have probably encountered more than a few Tsetse flies, but if you are a first-timer, these persistent insects might catch you by surprise. Tsetse flies are attracted to black and blue clothing, so we recommend avoiding these colours on safari to reduce the risk of attracting them.

3. Sun Protection, A Hat & Sunglasses

While the intensity of the African sun varies throughout the year, it can be exceptionally harsh during the warmer seasons. Make sure to always apply sunscreen with a high SPF (at least SPF 50) before heading out, and keep a bottle with you at all times. The sun can quickly become intense, especially after the early morning game drives, which start in the dark but quickly turn to full daylight.

To protect yourself from the sun's glare, make sure to wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses daily. These items will help shield your face and eyes from the intense sunlight, ensuring you stay comfortable and protected throughout your safari.

4. Warm, Neutral-Coloured, Lightweight, and Breathable Clothes with Closed Shoes

In addition to coverage from the sun, it is wise to pack lightweight and long-sleeve clothing made from breathable fabrics to provide extra protection against sunburn and to keep cool. Always remember that the sun’s strength is a significant factor in your comfort and safety while on safari, and you will be spending the greater part of your days outdoors, so preparation is key.

While the temperatures during the peak times for a Serengeti Migration safari and a Masai Mara Migration safari are warm and range from the mid to late seventies Fahrenheit (mid to late twenties Celsius), you'll need to have some layers with you. Mornings and evenings can get quite cold before and after the sun has come out.

Pack layers such as down jackets, sweaters, and anything else you might need to keep warm when it gets chilly. A waterproof jacket is also highly recommended in case of any sudden rains.

For detailed breakdowns on the weather during the Great Migration visit our best time to visit Tanzania and best time to go on safari in Kenya guides.

If you're tempted to spend your entire vacation in Africa wearing flip-flops or sandals, think again. For bush walks or hiking, you’ll need closed, walking-friendly shoes to keep your feet covered, protected, and warm. Trail shoes and desert boots are ideal, but any comfortable, closed walking shoes will work. Reserve the flip-flops and sandals for when you are back at camp or poolside.

5. A Portable Charger

Although some safari vehicles have charging ports, you may not always be so lucky as to find one. Be prepared. Whether it's for your cellphone or your camera, make sure to have a charger with you if you think you may need one. Of course, prevention is better than cure, so always leave your suite with all your devices fully-charged.

Lodges have universal plug points and USB ports installed for your convenience, so you will have access to charging points when you are within camps.

6. Travel Documents, Vaccination Certificates and Personal Medications

We'd hope that by the time you arrive on the continent, you've got all the documents you may need, but we understand that travelling requires a lot and certain items may not make it. Remember to confirm what you need to have with your doctor and travel agents to ensure you have a seamless experience of the wildebeest Migration in Africa.

While vaccinations technically can't be packed, we can't emphasise the importance of them enough. Make sure to inform your doctor that you will be travelling and where to, and consult them on what vaccines are needed to travel to Africa. We recommend visiting your healthcare provider four to six weeks before your travels to ensure that everything is up to date, and you are in good condition to travel.

Remember, different countries will have different vaccination entry requirements for different diseases. Inform your doctor of all your destinations, and make sure you know which areas require what vaccinations.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Should I View the Great Migration in Tanzania or Kenya?

The answer to this question really depends on what you want to see. Both destinations have their own highlights and completely unique scenes. While the Mara River crossings often draw to groups to the Masai Mara, the Migration spends the most time in Tanzania which means you can observe different phases of the Migration from Tanzania in the Serengeti.

When is the Best Time to See the Great Migration?

As with where the best place to see the migration is, the best time will depend on what you want to see. If you are interested in seeing the Mara River crossings from the Northern Serengeti into the Masai Mara, the August is the best time for that. However, if newborn calves wobbling around is more your speed, February-March is the time for this.

See our Great Wildebeest Migration Guide for a full scope on everything you need to know about the Migration.

Can I Self-Drive during the Great Migration?

While the option to self-drive is available, we recommend travelling with expert guides in a safari vehicle. Not only does it make for a better viewing experience as the vehicles are designed to make safaris as convenient as possible, but you will also get to fully immerse yourself in the experience without the stress of navigating your own way.

Should I Choose a National Park or a Private Reserve?

Private is the way to go! While national parks have their benefits and are usually more affordable, choosing a private reserve will provide you with the best experience, particularly during the Great Migration peak season.

National parks become extremely busy during this time of year, and the migration is a spectacle that everyone wants to witness when they can. This often leads to crowding which can affect your experience. Private reserves provide more exclusivity and accessibility to private viewing areas with great scenes of the migration that you would not otherwise have access to if you were staying in a National Park.

What is Included in our Wildebeest Migration Safari Packages?

While this may change from one itinerary to the next based on what activities are included, a brief summary of what is usually included/not included:

Can People of All Age Groups Enjoy the Wildebeest Migration?

While the Great Migration is not an age-specific experience, like many safaris it may require sitting in one place for a long time and hours of travel. Additionally, certain scenes you come across may not be child-friendly.
Consult your Africa Safari Expert on what would be suitable for a family with young children as well as what to expect so you can make an informed decision.

Is Tanzania Safe to Travel to? /Is Kenya Safe to Travel to?

Both countries are generally safe to travel to, but as with travel anywhere in the world, it is always wise to take general safety measures regarding your personal safety and that of your belongings.

For your peace of mind, when you book with Go2Africa you will have 24/7 access to an Africa Safari Expert. Your ASE will ensure you are safe from the moment you land at your destination to the moment you return to your country of residence.

For more information, have a look at our comprehensive safety guides:
Is Tanzania Safe to Travel to?
Is Kenya Safe to Travel to?

Ready To Book Your African Wildebeest Migration Safari?

With over two decades of experience and knowledge, we've travelled to each of the destinations we service, and are professionals in crafting unforgettable experiences across East and Southern Africa. Get in touch with one of our Africa Safari Experts to begin tailoring the perfect East Africa itinerary for you: