Grumeti river: Home for the great Migration
The crocodile-infested Grumeti River constitutes one of the initial challenges encountered by wildebeests on their migration from Tanzania to the Maasai Mara in the Great Migration. The Grumeti, frequently eclipsed by its larger counterpart, the Mara River, is as remarkable at the arrival of the wildebeest. Visit between May and June for optimal sighting opportunities.
The Grumeti River traverses the western corridor of Serengeti National Park, flowing westward into Lake Victoria. The western corridor extends 50 kilometers and consists of extensive savannah grasslands, riverine forests, undulating hills, and shaded acacia trees.
This region of the Serengeti is infrequently accessed because of its isolation. Nevertheless, those who proceed this far are rewarded with a diverse array of wildlife throughout the year, including giraffes, hippos, cheetahs, elephants, big Nile crocodiles, and substantial populations of leopards and lions.
Grumeti’s secluded position ensures that you will not be interrupted by a procession of safari vehicles. Approximately 30 safari vehicles congregate along the banks of the Mara River during The Great Migration, whereas Grumeti’s banks will host only half that number of vehicles.
The marching column of wildebeest, zebra, and antelope, albeit increasingly unpredictable, typically spends two weeks crossing the Grumeti River between May and June. The adjacent Grumeti Reserve is among the only locations in the Serengeti where one can traverse the African wilderness on foot for many hours.
Alternatively, traverse the early morning sky in a hot air balloon for an aerial perspective of the river and grasslands. Year-round, there are limited housing options along the western corridor; however, during peak season, mobile camps are established to track the migration.
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The Grumeti River is an excellent option for individuals seeking to circumvent travel during the peak season from mid-June to September, when the parks experience more congestion and elevated costs. The Grumeti River crossings often transpire during a one to two-week interval in May and June; however, accurately forecasting the exact timing is unfeasible, as the migration is contingent upon the rainfall.
River crossings on the Grumeti typically take place during the transition from the prolonged wet season to the dry season. Intermittent rains is anticipated, potentially impacting road conditions and scheduled excursions. The grass is generally longer and more verdant, rendering wildlife harder to detect. The Grumeti River is situated in the secluded western corridor of the Serengeti, potentially extending your travel time by an additional 3-4 hours if driving—an essential factor to consider if time is limited. Alternatively, regular flights to Grumeti Airstrip are feasible but may be costly. Accommodation choices are generally limited, comprising only a few permanent and movable camps.
The Mara River
The Mara River crossing typically transpires during the peak of the dry season when the grass is sparse, compelling animals to congregate around water sources, hence enhancing viewing opportunities.
The likelihood of witnessing a river crossing is significantly greater at the Mara River, because to the increased frequency of such events. They are also generally more spectacular due to the river’s increased velocity, depth, and the presence of steep banks, in contrast to the Grumeti. Accommodation is more developed in the vicinity of the Mara River, offering possibilities for various budgets. Mara River crossings transpire during the peak season, resulting in increased traveler volume and elevated prices.
Best time to visit Grumeti River?
The optimal period to visit the Grumeti River is from May to September. Schedule river crossings for May to June. To circumvent the residual precipitation at the conclusion of the rainy season, target mid to late May for optimal river crossing observations. Precipitation is frequently intense and abrupt, leading to last-minute cancellations of events. For a more private safari experience, the western corridor offers excellent wildlife viewing till September.