- The Great Migration is the largest herd movement of animals on the planet
- HerdTracker has been pinpointing the herd online since 2014
- Now users will be able to see predictions of the most likely paths of the animals
- READ MORE : These are the historical treasures Britons must visit
Even wilder times beckon for safari enthusiasts, as an app that tracks the Great Migration now incorporates a ‘world first’ AI function that predicts where the herd will move to.
The Great Migration is the largest herd movement of animals on the planet, with up to two million wildebeest trekking for around 800km (500 miles) across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in Tanzania and Kenya.
Since it launched in 2014, HerdTracker – a Google web app by Discover Africa – has been pinpointing the herd online, maximising the chances of those on safari of 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 streamed activity to 10.6million viewers, who’ve been fortunate enough to witness the likes of a giraffe giving birth, 30,000 wildebeest crossing the Mara River, and crocodile attacks on unsuspecting wildebeests.’
Now, though, thanks to the AI function, users will be able to see predictions of the most likely paths of the animals for up to 12 months in advance. Users can choose which month they’d like a prediction for and see the estimated radius of sightings on an interactive map.
HerdTracker, an app that tracks the Great Migration, now incorporates a ‘world first’ AI function that predicts where the herd will move to
HerdTracker explained: ‘With the new AI tool, data collected over ten years is being used to more accurately predict where to see some of the most extraordinary moments in nature take place.
‘Tracking the herd can be difficult as climate change affects the natural patterns animals follow as they migrate.
‘The tool also recommends safari camps and lodges that will provide the best chance of experiencing this wildlife spectacle in person, along with date-specific trip planning.’
Discover Africa Safaris estimated the average cost of an African safari can vary between £640 to £1,600 per person per day, depending on the season and level of luxury, excluding flights.
‘As a once-in-a-lifetime experience, visitors understandably want to plan around the best possible place and time to experience the Great Migration,’ Discover Africa said.
Users can choose which month they’d like a prediction for and see the estimated radius of sightings on an interactive map
The tool pinpoints safari camps and lodges close to the wildlife action
Andre Van Kets, co-founder of Discover Africa and HerdTracker, said: ‘This is something that’s never been done before for the sector, and we’re excited to implement such advanced AI technology in our HerdTracker tool.
‘We’re proud to be the first to innovate in the space and utilise the valuable data we’ve collected to help as many people experience the beauty of the Great Migration – whether that’s from the comfort of their sofa or from the front-row seat of an open safari vehicle.
‘For ten years, we’ve been helping tour operators and travellers follow the movements of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles as they make their way across East Africa because our data looks across many variables to identify changes in behaviour and movement.
‘We are excited to provide even more specific findings on future sightings.
‘It’s a testament to our commitment to redefine travel innovation and deliver unparalleled experiences to all.’
For more information on HerdTracker, visit: www.discoverafrica.com/herdtracker.
