What to Expect at a River Crossing During the Great Migration

Few wildlife spectacles rival the drama of the Great Migration. Each year, more than a million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebra and gazelle move across the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing. One of the most unforgettable,  but never guaranteed, moments for guests at Hemingways River Camp is witnessing a river crossing, when herds gather at the banks of the Mara River and surge through the waters in a display of instinct, survival, and raw energy.

The Build-Up
At first, the herds mill about nervously on the riverbanks. Wildebeest may spend hours pacing, approaching the edge, then pulling back. Dust, calls, and the sheer weight of numbers create an atmosphere of anticipation. Patience is essential, crossings can begin suddenly, or not at all, depending on the mood of the herd.

The Crossing
When the first animals commit, the rest follow in a surge. The riverbanks erupt in dust and sound as wildebeest and zebras leap into the water, hooves thrashing and splashes rising. Calves cling to their mothers, while the strong currents test even the fittest adults.

The Predators
Crocodiles lie in wait beneath the water’s surface, while lions and hyenas often patrol the far banks. Not every animal makes it across, but the herds endure, driven by instinct to reach greener pastures.

The Best Way to Watch

• Patience: Crossings can take hours to begin and may fizzle out entirely. Being ready to wait is part of the experience.
• Respect: Vehicles must keep a careful distance to avoid disturbing natural behaviour.
• Exclusivity: Staying in Mara North Conservancy with Hemingways River Camp offers access to quieter crossing points with fewer vehicles.

Timing the Crossings
The migration generally reaches the Maasai Mara between July and October, but timings vary each year depending on rainfall. Witnessing a crossing is never guaranteed, but with expert guides and multiple days in the conservancy, your chances improve.

Conclusion
A river crossing during the migration is raw, dramatic, and unforgettable, if you are fortunate enough to see one. While never guaranteed, the anticipation, tension, and possibility of witnessing this spectacle form an essential part of the safari experience. At Hemingways River Camp, guests enjoy the best possible conditions to wait, watch, and hope for one of nature’s greatest shows.