Great migration and big cats of the Mara

Between June and October two million wildebeest, zebra and antelope gather on the Masai Mara plains. This Great Migration is one of our amazing world’s most awesome events. We can place you in a small luxury camp with expert guides close to the action! Watch the herds crashing into crocodile infested rivers, running the gauntlet of big cats and grazing peacefully on the beautiful plains. Of course, you also see thousands of other animals which remain in the Masai Mara all year round.

The passage of the migration is prime time for the local big cats, and you can expect some lively encounters. They don’t have it all their own way as a fully-grown wildebeest is a fearsome creature with horns and the ability to run at 40mph. The wildebeest run together when they see predators, protecting the young inside the herds with the large males on the outside. The cats often rely on inducing panic to isolate a vulnerable herd member and it can be thrilling to watch the action played out before you.

A Kenya safari is one of the best for seeing the big cats. Prides of lion, solitary leopard and groups of male cheetah are attracted by the great herds of antelope and migrating wildebeest.

Read more about our favourite places to see Africa's felines in our blog, The Big Cat Experience.