Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Rush of the Wild

On August 1, 2024, in the Maasai Mara, a chaotic yet mesmerizing scene unfolded as wildebeests charged across the river with incredible energy. Their powerful strides and splashing hooves created a spectacle of motion and determination, showcasing the sheer force of the Great Migration. Capturing this moment was a rare privilege, as observing such a dynamic event from a good vantage point requires both luck and patience. The raw energy and synchronized chaos of these animals crossing the river highlight the beauty and intensity of nature in its most primal form.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 08.2024
Date Uploaded: 11.2024
Photo Location: Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Camera: NIKON Z 9
Copyright: © Yoshiki Nakamura