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The most iconic Wildlife Migrations mapped around the World

The most iconic Wildlife Migrations mapped around the World

All over the world animals great and small, take part in incredible migrations that see them travel hundreds of kilometres at a time. To witness it is spectacular, not least because it’s an instinctive and natural process, something which would never happen in human society.

Whether it’s for survival or breeding purposes, to give their young a fighting chance, or to move with the seasonal rains, dozens of different species partake in some form of migration every year, traversing the dynamic and varied landscape they call home in search of something better.

One striking aspect of wildlife migration is that wherever you visit, accompanied by an expert wildlife guide, you are likely to see unique animals and nature involved in behaviours which have evolved over thousands of years.

At Ampersand Travel, we strive to understand the importance of the natural processes these species take in their habitat. That’s why we decided to create an interactive map charting the progression of different species’ migrations throughout the year.

We looked at a number of the most well-known migrations around the world, such as the wildebeest in Tanzania that travel from the Serengeti to the Ikorongo Game Reserve in search of abundant grass plains. We also explored the migration of the black cranes in Bhutan; one of the rarest birds in the world, the incredibly diverse route is taken by only 300 birds a year.

One of the most interesting migration routes we discovered during our research was that of the Makgadikgadi zebras in Botswana. There is some evidence that points to this zebra migration taking place during the first half of the 20th century, covering about 250 kilometres from the south-eastern Okavango Delta to the grasslands of the Makgadikgadi Pan National Park. However, during the 1950s and 60s, a series of extensive veterinary fences were put in place across Botswana in an attempt to minimise the spread of foot-and-mouth disease. These fences blocked the migration route until 2004, and so no zebras had taken this migration route for at least 40 years.

Given that zebras live for an average of 12 years in the wild, it’s safe to assume that none of the zebras that had taken the route before the fences went up were still alive in 2004, and yet within 3 years of the fences coming down some of the zebras began to migrate again. While it is still only 55% of the zebras that migrate to Makgadikgadi National Park, it still goes some way to highlight the genetic coding that prompts these animals to migrate. They’re not taught, but rather the zebras instinctively have these ancient migratory routes conserved in their memory.  

You can view the full set of migrations here.


For more information or to start planning a tailor-made wildlife holiday, please get in touch with us:

info@ampersandtravel.com // +44 (0) 207 819 9770



Client Testimonials

So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket
I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
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Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India

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