Travellers are heading to Masai Mara as the wildebeest migration starts early this year

The wildebeest migration has started early, resulting in high demand for safari lodges in the Masai Mara. The Daily Nation reports that many lodges are fully booked with travellers, who are keen to witness the migration. Wildebeest are making their moves across the plains about a month-and-a-half sooner than is usual.

Whilst it’s not possible to predict the movements of animals during the migration, there are patterns that are broadly followed each year. HerdTracker reports that some wildebeest have already crossed the Mara River, something that usually happens in August. The web-app tracks and updates users on where to find the herd through Kenya and Tanzania, posting video updates of the animals as they move.

This crossing is an incredible spectacle, and one of Kenya’s top experiences, as thousands of wildebeest and zebra attempt to safely cross crocodile-infested waters. Visitors that are lucky enough to be in the right spot near the Mara River can expect to see a lot of drama, as lions, cheetahs, hyenas and leopards trail the migration in the hope of catching themselves some prey.

Fascinated by animals and nature? These are some of the world’s other incredible migrations, from jellyfish to butterflies.