The Ultimate 2026 Great Migration Calendar: Where to Be and When
To see the Great Migration in 2026, visit the Southern Serengeti (Ndutu) from January to March for the calving season. For the iconic Mara River crossings, book your safari in the Northern Serengeti (Kogatende) between July and October. Blessing Safaris recommends a minimum of six to eight days to track the herds effectively across these vast ecosystems.
Understanding the 2026 Migration Cycle
The Great Migration is a circular, year-round journey of 1.5 million wildebeest and zebras. While the movement depends on rainfall patterns, the following timeline is the most accurate guide for travelers in 2026.
January – March: The Calving Season (Southern Serengeti)
- Location: Ndutu Plains and Southern Serengeti.
- Event: Over 8,000 wildebeest calves are born daily. This abundance of life attracts high concentrations of predators (lions, cheetahs, and hyenas).
- Blessing Safaris Tip: This is the best time for high-action predator photography. The plains are open, making sightings easy to track
April – May: The Migration Moves Central (Seronera)
- Location: Central Serengeti and the Western Corridor.
- Event: As the southern grass pales, the herds move north. This coincides with the “Long Rains,” turning the Serengeti into a lush, green paradise.
- Blessing Safaris Tip: The “Green Season” is perfect for travelers seeking lower rates and fewer crowds.
June – July: The Western Corridor and Grumeti River
- Location: Western Serengeti.
- Event: The herds congregate near the Grumeti River. You will see the first dramatic river crossings, often involving giant Nile crocodiles.
- Blessing Safaris Tip: The Western Corridor offers a more “exclusive” feel compared to the busy northern sections later in the year.
August – October: The Great River Crossings (Northern Serengeti)
- Location: Northern Serengeti (Kogatende) and Kenya’s Maasai Mara.
- Event: This is the most famous phase of the migration. The herds must cross the Mara River to find fresh grass.
- Blessing Safaris Tip: This is peak season. We recommend booking your 2026 Northern Safari at least 8–10 months in advance to secure lodges near the river banks.
November – December: The Return South
- Location: Eastern Serengeti and Lobo area.
- Event: With the “Short Rains” starting, the herds begin their rapid trek back to the southern plains to start the cycle again.
- Blessing Safaris Tip: This is a fantastic “secret” time for a safari—the herds move quickly, and the scenery is refreshed by early rains.
2026 Great Migration FAQ
When is the best month to see the Great Migration in 2026?
The best months are February (for calving and predators) and August (for river crossings). However, since the herds move year-round, any month is great if you are in the right region of the Serengeti.
Do I need a private safari to see the migration?
The best months are February (for calving and predators) and August (for river crossings). However, since the herds move year-round, any month is great if you are in the right region of the Serengeti.
Can the migration timing change?
Yes. The migration is driven by rainfall. If the rains arrive early or late in 2026, the herds may move faster or slower. Guides use high-frequency radios to track movements in real time every morning.
Is it possible to see the Big Five and the Migration on one trip?
Absolutely. All of our 2026 Great Migration packages include game drives in the Ngorongoro Crater, which is the best place in Tanzania to see the Big Five (including the Black Rhino) alongside the migration herds.
How to Book Your 2026 Migration Safari
Ready to witness the greatest wildlife show on Earth?
- Select Your Dates: Match your travel window to the calendar above.
- Contact Elibariki: Reach out via our Official Website or WhatsApp.
- Customize Your Route: We will build a 2026 itinerary that places you exactly where the herds are predicted to be.
- Contact us on WhatsApp: +255 625 466 200
Great Migration Packages
From $6,830
14 Days, 13 Nights
14 Days Tanzania Guide Safari
Tarangire ,Serengeti , Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar
From $6,760
10 Days, 9 Nights
10 Days Tanzania Luxury Sky Safari
Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Serengeti National Park
From $3,160
8 Days, 7 Nights
8 Days Wildebeest Migration Serengeti (River- Crossing)
Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara
