【Kenya - The Great Migration】A Natural Wonder You Must See in Your Lifetime

【Introduction】 Every year from July to October, millions of wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes embark on the "Great Crossing" of the Mara River between Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve and Tanzania's Serengeti—the most spectacular wildlife migration on Earth! Witness thundering herds brave crocodile-infested waters, vultures circling overhead, and lions lurking in wait. Kenya's savannas, lakes, and volcanic landscapes will immerse you in the raw, untamed heartbeat of Africa. 【Prime Viewing Period】 July-October: Migration peaks in Kenya's Maasai Mara (Mara River crossings climax in August-September). 【Secondary Window】 January-February: Wildebeest calving season (mainly in southern Serengeti, Tanzania side). 【Reserve Hours】 Maasai Mara National Reserve: 6:00 AM–6:30 PM (no night safaris). Hot air balloon rides: Dawn takeoff at 5:30–7:00 AM (advance booking required). 【Experiences】 Must-dos: 1. Game Drive: Track the migration in 4x4 vehicles; witness river crossings (best at dawn/dusk when animals are most active). 2. Hot Air Balloon Safari: Drift above herds spreading like ink across the plains (includes champagne breakfast, ~$450–600/person). 3. Maasai Village Visit: Join tribal dances and learn nomadic traditions (respect local customs; avoid unsolicited photography). 4. Lake Nakuru Flamingos: Millions paint the lake pink (best June–September). 5. Amboseli National Park: Capture elephant silhouettes against Mount Kilimanjaro. 【Transport】 Private safari jeep with driver/guide (includes fuel and park fees). 【Itinerary】 Day 1: Arrive in Nairobi → Visit Giraffe Centre/Elephant Orphanage → Overnight in Nairobi. Day 2: Fly to Maasai Mara → Afternoon Game Drive → Stay at bush camp. Day 3-4: Full-day safaris (tracking herds + Mara River stakeouts) → Optional balloon ride → Nighttime stargazing. Day 5: Drive to Lake Nakuru → Flamingo photography → Overnight in Nakuru. Day 6: Nakuru → Amboseli NP → Safari + Kilimanjaro sunset. Day 7: Morning safari in Amboseli → Return to Nairobi → Depart. 【Essentials】 Documents: Passport (6+ months validity) + Kenya eVisa ($51, apply online). Yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory). Clothing: Neutral-colored long sleeves (mosquito/sun protection), windproof jacket (cold mornings), wide-brim hat, sturdy shoes. Gear: Binoculars, telephoto lens (70–200mm+ recommended), dust covers, mosquito repellent, hand sanitizer, power bank. Health: Malaria prophylaxis (consult doctor), antidiarrheals, SPF50+ sunscreen. Cash: Kenyan shillings (KES) or USD (tips/village purchases). 【Tips】 1. Safety first: Never exit vehicles or shout during safaris; follow guides' instructions. 2. Photography: Dawn offers ideal light; carry extra batteries/memory cards. 3. Tipping: $5–10/day for guides, $1–2 for camp staff. 4. Eco-rules: No feeding animals or removing natural objects (bones/feathers).