Five tips for seeing a Mara River crossing
Wildebeest crossing the Mara River is one of nature’s great dramas. Here is how to give yourself the best chance of seeing it.
1. Be at the river at the right time
Crossings happen in the northern Serengeti roughly from July to October. Travel with someone who gets daily news from guides, pilots and camps about where the herds are.
2. Stay as long as you can
The herds need to build up numbers and courage before they jump. It can take days. The more nights you spend near the river, the better your chances, and there is excellent resident game to enjoy while you wait.
3. Wait for the energy to build
When wildebeest gather on both banks and their calls grow louder, a crossing may be close. The noise becomes a giant hum.
4. Keep your distance
Vehicles too close to the bank can stop a crossing. Wait back from the river and only move closer once the herd has committed and the dust is rising.
5. Stay observant
Watch up and down the river for other herds, and look behind you too. Leopards have walked right past vehicles whose passengers were all staring at the water.