HerdTracker is a real time Google map, which shows instant updates of the migration's precise location. This is coupled with a migration map which publishes accurate monthly migration predictions, based on data from the Serengeti itself.
Real time updates are sourced weekly from pilots who fly over the Serengeti and Masai Mara, safari guides on the ground, Tanzania National Parks Authority rangers and lodges in the Masai Mara in Kenya.
A recent update, sent in by Captain Joel J Fernandes, a pilot for Coastal Aviation in Tanzania who flies over the Serengeti daily reads: “Things going pretty well. The busy season is on in full force. There seems to be a herd scattered around Kogatende, quite large but not moving anywhere it seems. As for the crew and myself, we are doing ok, loving the busy season and lots of airtime."
Another update, from Governors' Camp, a safari camp in the Masai Mara says: “Millions of wildebeest on the plains of Trans Mara moving towards Oloololo Gate.”
The migration map allows those planning their safari to see a month-by-month prediction, ensuring safari travellers are in the right place at the right time.
Both tools allow travellers to plan their safari around the weather, wildlife, migratory movements, predator interactions, river crossings and where to stay each month of the year.
Andre Van Kets, co-founder of Discover Africa Group, says, “A safari experience is a trip of a lifetime, which can be a complex process to plan for, especially for first-timers.
We've developed HerdTracker to help make the journey easier for our customers.
It's an incredible tool that allows you to not only track the great migration in real time, but predict where the herd will be at the time of your travel.
Our expert travel guides can advise customers on the best accommodation and locations to suit their needs, but this tool allows our customers to feel a part of the journey in the run up to them arriving in Africa.”
HerdTracker was started by Discover Africa's Carel Verhoef, a qualified safari guide who has lived in the Serengeti for ten years. Between 2003 and 2011 Carel led over 300 migration safaris, and developed a deep understanding of- and appreciation for the annual wildebeest migration. While living in Tanzania, Carel also climbed Kilimanjaro nine times.
HerdTracker updates are streaming through during July and August, many of these include photos and videos of the action-packed Mara River crossings.
Updates are also available on twitter via the @HerdTracker handle.
For more information contact Andre Van Kets on andre@discoverafricagroup.com, or Renier Van Schalkwyk onrenier@discoverafricagroup.com. Or call +27 21 422 3498
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