The longest mammal migration

THE ZEBRA MIGRATION IN BOTSWANA 

The zebra migration in Botswana is one of the most unique wildlife spectacles in Africa and the longest migration of land animals. This happens twice a year as massive herds of zebras move across northern Botswana, from south to north and then north to south. Some 30,000 zebra cover hundreds of miles in search of green grass and grazing areas. 

The zebra migration starts heading south, crossing the Kalahari Desert, towards the moonlike landscapes of Makgadikgadi Salt Pans and Nxai Pan in December.  As it starts to rain in the pans, the rain turns the landscape into a green haven of fresh grass, lots of water and the perfect place to breed.

The best place to watch this magnificent migration is within the Nxai and Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, and the best time to watch it is December to January and March to April. This season is also the most affordable in Botswana. Combined with an Okavango Delta safari, you have a fantastic tour. 

You can visit some excellent safari camps, including Leroo la Tau and Meno-a-Kwena, which overlook the Boteti River and Nxai Pan Camp, San Camp, Camp Kalahari and Jack’s Camp. 

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Zebra Migration in Botswana
Horse Riding safaris with Camp Kalahari
Zebra Migration in Botswana
Camp Kalahari
Zebra Migration in Botswana
Camp Kalahari
Zebra Migration in Botswana
Zebra’s drinking from the Boteti River, right in front of Leroo la Tau Camp
Zebra Migration in Botswana
Zebra’s drinking from the Boteti River, right in front of Leroo la Tau Camp
Zebra Migration in Botswana
Zebra’s drinking from the Boteti River, right in front of Leroo la Tau Camp
Zebra Migration in Botswana
Zebra’s drinking from the Boteti River, right in front of Leroo la Tau Camp
Zebra Migration in Botswana

In years gone by the zebra migration rivalled the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti and Masai Mara ecosystem. Sadly,  fences and farms cut off the ancient paths, diminishing the numbers dramatically. In 2004 the fences were removed, routes have been re-established and the herds now number over 30,000 individuals. It was at this time that scientists noticed the movement and started tracking the herds. Scientists from the WWF fitted female zebras with satellite trackers and were astounded by the results, with herds covering vast distances in a few short weeks in December. 

The seasons in Botswana dictate when and where these animals moved to. Much of Botswana is dry Kalahari Desert, while the Okavango Delta and areas in the north are home to permanent water. The dry months are from May to October or November, which is the best time to visit the Delta. During these months the zebra herds are scattered across Chobe and Okavango and spend the driest months beside the river systems – the Chobe, the Kwando-Linyanti and the Okavango.  

The green season in Botswana runs from December to late February or early March. This is the best time to see the zebra migration and it is lovely in the Okavango Delta, with the arrival of migratory birds and baby animals, with the bush a verdant green. It is a favourite time for photographers and returning safari goers. 

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