The Masai Mara is arguably the most popular wildlife reserve. The park which is the northern extension of Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is home to over 95 mammal species is one of the best places to watch the BIG 5; Lion, Leopard, Rhino. Buffalo and Elephant. Over 450 species of birds, raging from the little Bee Eaters to the Gigantic Ostriches also call this vast reserve home. One main reason why this reserve is so unique is the wildebeest migration. Between July and October, over 1.2 million wildebeests and Zebras cross over into the Masai Mara from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park in search of “greener pastures”. Having spent the months of January to June in northern Tanzania, the Gnus having depleted the grazing areas in Serengeti embark on an annual risky journey, mainly motivated by search for the Red Oat Grass which is a delicacy to them. During this annual pilgrimage, they plunge into  the Crocodile infested Mara River on a dive of “life or death”. If they are not lucky, they end up being meals to the crocs; if they make it across, they have plenty to feed on. This is what us currently being witnessed by thousands of tourists who are trailing this annual event.In the recent past, huge river crossings are being witnessed on a daily basis. In the Masai Mara, carnivores; predators and prey alike are having a field day enjoying easy kills.  With plenty of food, most BIG Cats do not need to move far away while hunting, so guests are enjoying great sightings. This is expected to continue until September – October. There is no better time to be in the Masai Mara than now. If you are still planning a migration safari to Masai Mara, talk to us, the East Africa destination specialists on safari@authentic-eastafrica.com We have the pleasure to share a video of a recent Mara River crossing as captured by one of our safari guides while on safari with our lucky guests.