Every year the endless plains of the Serengeti host the migrations of vast herds of wildebeest and zebras. As these animals seek out new grass that grows in new places following seasonal rains, lions and cheetahs stalk behind them, waiting to pick off weak members of the herds. The Great Migration offers breathtaking wildlife photography opportunities unlike anything else on the planet.
The Great Migration unfolds across the Serengeti in a place with a wealth of different species. In addition to the great herds of wildebeest and zebra and the feline predators that follow them, travelers often see birds such as kingfishers, lilac-breasted rollers, fish eagles and crowned cranes in the tall grasses and brush. Giraffes munch on the acacia trees. Herds of elephants wander by and water buffalo look on from rivers and lakes. You might even be lucky enough to spot a rare endangered african wild dog.
Most thrilling of all, at the peak of the migration season in January and February, travelers may see baby elephants, lion and cheetah cubs, and witness more than a million wildebeest drop their young on the plains. Avoiding the crowded, central areas and large safari camps of Serengeti National Park increases the likelihood of witnessing remarkable wildlife interactions. Some of the natural encounters travelers see are brutal as predators take down young or weak members of the great herds, but these moments are an essential part of the spectacle that is the Great Migration.
Look for trips guided by experienced photographers so that you can get the best pictures and learn tricks for great safari photos. Check out the spectacular photos below to get a taste of the gorgeous landscapes and magnificent animals you could see and capture with your camera on a wildlife photo safari to Tanzania.
What safari animals would you most like to see and photograph? Let us know in the comments!
This is a guest post by Julie Waggoner, Digital Marketing Consultant at Natural Habitat Adventures.