24-07-2025
Tour groups block millions of wildebeest during iconic ‘Great Migration.' ‘Chaos'
Dozens of safari tour groups in Serengeti National Park were photographed blocking the river crossing of millions of wildebeest during their annual 'Great Migration' — widely regarded as one of the most impressive spectacles in nature.
In an Instagram photo shared July 21 by wildlife guide and photographer Nick Kleer, tour vehicles and spectators could be seen standing along the banks of the Mara River, obstructing routes that have been traveled by the species for generations.
'These ancient migration routes, shaped by instinct and generations of survival, were blocked by humans who should know better,' Kleer said in the post.
'The herds were forced to scatter. Some ran for cliffs and jumped in panic,' Kleer said, calling the situation 'chaos.'
'The rangers who blocked these passages today are meant to be custodians of the wild,' Kleer said in the post. 'In my opinion, they ended up being as bad as poachers.'
In a video about the experience, a shaken up Kleer said his small group was parked a safe distance away from the river on the opposite side, with extra space to allow the wildebeest to pass through since their usual entry and exit paths were blocked.
Responses to the images
The Tanzania Association of Tour Operators condemned the 'unethical safari practices' in a new release shared July 21.
'This behavior not only compromises the safety of guests and wildlife but also threatens the integrity of one of nature's most spectacular phenomena,' Executive Director Elirehema Maturo said in the release.
Training sessions were held for over 1,000 guides across Tanzania to 'reinforce best practices in ethical and responsible guidance,' Maturo said.
Kleer shared a photo of a press release from Tanzania National Parks stating that all vehicles involved had been identified and 'strict disciplinary measures will be taken' against the guides, according to a July 21 post on X.
It is against park rules for tourists to get out of their vehicles at the area, officials said.
The Great Migration
The Great Migration is the largest mammal migration on earth.
During this event, between 1 and 2 million wildebeest travel nearly 500 miles, beginning in Tanzania's southeastern Serengeti and trek north to Kenya's Masai Mara before returning in the fall.
The massive heard travels in lines up to 25 miles long, facing perils including crocodile-filled rivers and lions, according to experts.
