Best Time to See the Great Migration in 2026
The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the world’s most spectacular natural events — over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, moving in a continuous cycle across Kenya and Tanzania in search of fresh grazing.
If you’re planning a safari in 2026, timing is everything. Below is a clear, month‑by‑month guide to help you choose when and where to go for the best sightings — whether you’re chasing dramatic river crossings, predator action, or lush calving season landscapes.
🐘 January – March: Calving Season (Southern Serengeti & Ndutu)
Best for: Baby animals, predators, photographers
This is one of the most underrated yet magical times to witness the migration.
What you’ll see:
- Thousands of wildebeest calves born daily
- High predator activity (lions, cheetahs, hyenas)
- Wide open plains with fewer crowds
Where to go:
- Ndutu Conservation Area
- Southern Serengeti (Tanzania)
Why choose this period:
Perfect for travelers who love wildlife behavior, photography, and quieter safaris.
🌧 April – May: The Green Season (Central Serengeti)
Best for: Lush scenery, value travel, privacy
These months bring long rains, transforming the Serengeti into a green paradise.
What you’ll see:
- Large migrating herds moving north
- Dramatic skies and fresh landscapes
- Fewer tourists and lower lodge rates
Where to go:
- Central Serengeti
Why choose this period:
Ideal for experienced safari travelers and those seeking exclusivity and better value.
🦓 June – July: Migration on the Move (Western Corridor & Grumeti)
Best for: River crossings begin, classic migration scenes
The herds move toward the western Serengeti, building anticipation.
What you’ll see:
- First river crossings at the Grumeti River
- Large concentrations of wildebeest and zebra
- Excellent predator sightings
Where to go:
- Western Serengeti
- Grumeti Reserve
Why choose this period:
A great balance of action, good weather, and manageable crowds.
🐊 August – October: Mara River Crossings (Masai Mara & Northern Serengeti)
Best for: Iconic crossings, peak safari drama
This is the most famous and most requested migration period.
What you’ll see:
- Heart‑stopping Mara River crossings
- Crocodile encounters
- Massive herds stretching across the savannah
Where to go:
- Masai Mara (Kenya)
- Northern Serengeti (Tanzania)
Why choose this period:
Perfect for first‑time safari travelers and those wanting the classic migration experience.
⚠️ Note: This is peak season — early booking for 2026 is essential.
🌾 November – December: The Return South
Best for: Fewer crowds, transitional landscapes
The herds begin their journey back to Tanzania as short rains refresh the plains.
What you’ll see:
- Movement south through the Serengeti
- Excellent game viewing with fewer vehicles
- Beautiful light and skies
Where to go:
- Northern & Central Serengeti
Why choose this period:
A wonderful time for relaxed safaris and photographers.
🌍 So… When Is the Best Time in 2026?
There is no single “best” month — it depends on what you want to experience:
- River crossings: August – September
- Baby animals & predators: January – March
- Fewer crowds & value: April – May
- Balanced experience: June – July or October
The migration is wild and unpredictable, which is exactly what makes it extraordinary.
✨ Plan Your 2026 Great Migration Safari
At Wookar Adventures, we design bespoke migration safaris tailored to your travel style —luxury, family‑friendly, honeymoon, or adventure‑focused.
✔ Hand-picked lodges & camps
✔ Private guides and vehicles
✔ Seamless Kenya & Tanzania combinations
✔ Ethical, responsible travel
📩 Ready to start planning?
👉 Contact us for a personalized Great Migration itinerary for 2026.
The earlier you plan, the better your choice of camps and river‑crossing locations.
