The Serengeti National Park and the adjacent Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya are best known for the annual Great Migration, when almost two million animals move in a massed throng across the plains and woodlands. This dramatic event is triggered by annual rainfall patterns that determine the availability of grazing. Tens of thousands of animals follow the seasonal rains, fording both the Grumeti and Mara Rivers in their search for fresh pastures, giving birth to their young en route. While wildebeest make up the great majority of the migrating masses, thousands of zebra, eland and Thomson’s gazelle join in the seemingly endless columns of wildlife.

The Serengeti is home to literally millions of large herbivores, as well as the accompanying carnivores and prolific birdlife. The Park is famous for its large lion population and a number of lion prides inhabit the Grumeti area. While largely nocturnal, spotted hyena are yet another species that makes the most of the passing migration. At such times, the hyena may be spotted wandering among the herds in the plain light of day. In October, when the grass is short, cheetah can be spotted hunting the plains.

The spectacular black and white colobus monkey is endemic to the area. Uniquely among monkeys, the colobus lack a thumb and are forced to feed solely on leaves by browsing them directly off the trees.