- The Great Migration is the largest movement of animal herds on the planet
- HerdTracker has been tracking the herd online since 2014
- Now users will be able to see predictions of the animals’ most likely paths.
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Even wilder times are beckoning safari enthusiasts, as an app tracking the Great Migration now incorporates a “world-first” AI feature that predicts where the herd will move.
The Great Migration is the largest movement of animal herds on the planet, with up to two million wildebeest traveling around 800 kilometers (500 miles) through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in Tanzania and Kenya.
Since its launch in 2014, Discover Africa’s HerdTracker, a Google web app, has been locating the herd online, maximizing the chances of those on safari seeing it. The app even incorporates live updates from rangers, guides, and other tourists on the ground, and posts videos they’ve taken.
A statement said: “HerdTracker has broadcast activity to 10.6 million viewers, who have been lucky enough to witness a giraffe calving, 30,000 wildebeest crossing the Mara River and crocodile attacks on unsuspecting wildebeest.”
Now, however, thanks to the AI feature, users will be able to see predictions of the animals’ most likely paths up to 12 months in advance. Users can choose which month they want a prediction for and see the estimated radius of sightings on an interactive map.
HerdTracker, an app that tracks the Great Migration, now features a ‘world-first’ AI feature that predicts where the herd will move
HerdTracker explained: “With the new artificial intelligence tool, data collected over ten years is used to more accurately predict where some of nature’s most extraordinary moments will occur.
‘Tracking the herd can be difficult as climate change affects the natural patterns that animals follow when migrating.
“The tool also recommends safari camps and lodges that will provide the best opportunity to experience this wildlife spectacle in person, along with planning the trip for a specific date.”
Discover Africa Safaris estimated that the average cost of an African safari can vary between £640 and £1,600 per person per day, depending on the season and level of luxury, excluding flights.
“As a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it is understandable that visitors want to plan the best possible place and time to experience the Great Migration,” Discover Africa said.
Users can choose which month they want a prediction for and see the estimated radius of sightings on an interactive map.
The tool pinpoints safari camps and lodges close to wildlife action.
Andre Van Kets, co-founder of Discover Africa and HerdTracker, said: “This is something that has never been done before for the sector, and we are excited to implement such advanced AI technology in our HerdTracker tool.
“We are proud to be the first to innovate in this space and use the valuable data we have collected to help many people experience the beauty of the Great Migration, whether from the comfort of their couch or from the front row. Seat of an open safari vehicle.
‘For ten years, we have helped tour operators and travelers track the movements of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle as they move across East Africa because our data looks at many variables to identify changes in behavior and movement.
‘We are excited to be able to offer even more specific findings on future sightings.
“It’s a testament to our commitment to redefining travel innovation and delivering unparalleled experiences for everyone.”
To learn more about HerdTracker, visit: www.discoverafrica.com/herdtracker.
