Guide to Witnessing the Great Migration in 2026

Guide to Witnessing the Great Migration in 2026

There are wonders in the world, and then there’s the Great Migration – the never-ending journey of roughly 2 million wildebeest and zebras accompanied by gazelles and other antelopes in their quest for green grazing. It’s still unclear how these animals manage to move in the right direction.

But some people suggest that they can detect rain from miles away, while others say wildebeest can detect thunder. All these speculations are not scientifically proven. Enough with lecturing: let’s dive in.

What is the Great Migration?

The great wildebeest migration happens in the giant, grass-rich Serengeti-Mara ecosystem as over 1.5 million animals, wildebeest and zebra, follow the same age-old route, finding fresh grass to feed on.

People come to witness phases of this iconic event, especially river crossings. But there’s more to see as every phase is spectacular. Below is a timeline of this fascinating event. Let’s explore.

December to March.

Fresh, lush grass erupts in the southern Serengeti due to the onset of rainfall in November. Wildebeest in small herds concentrate on the southeastern region and spread through the Ndutu Plains of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. There’s nutrient-rich grass resulting from the violent volcanic eruption of the Ngorongoro Mountains two million years ago.

Between January and March, wildebeest give birth to half a million calves. And as vulnerable prey becomes abundant, predators, such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and wild dogs, come close. For those looking for many predators in action, this is the best time. Predators also give birth during this period, when there’s more prey to feed their newborns.

April to June.

As April sets in, rain starts to decline: fresh grass dries, forcing animals to move northwards where rain is still persistent (and there’s enough pasture). They pass through the southwestern kopje-plains at the Moru Kopjes on the way to the Western Corridor.

On the western side, they face their first serious challenge: the Grumeti River. Here, animals have no other option but to cross this crocodile-infested river. Some are taken away by hungry Nile crocodiles, while others are taken by lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas.

After crossing the Grumeti, some head straight North while others enter the Grumeti Reserve. They then proceed to the north into the Ikorongo Game Reserve and finally face the mighty Mara River. For those looking for exclusive game drives (and even to go off-road), night game drives, and bush walks, they can stay in the private Singita Grumeti Reserve.

July to October.

In most seasons, July marks the beginning of the Mara River crossings. Herds arrive at the banks and brave the torrents and hungry crocodiles as they find fresh grass on the other side. By August, crossings become steady: animals have realized that they have no other option than to cross this challenging river.

Note that crossings happen in both the Serengeti and Masai Mara. The Mara River isn’t necessarily a border. It cuts through the Serengeti and Masai Mara, allowing you to watch these herds from any of the two prime destinations in East Africa.

By October, animals spread in the Masai Mara seeking green grazing grounds. Therefore, October is best for viewing the Great Migration from Kenya. However, not all wildebeest and zebras leave the northern Serengeti. You can still find large herds in Lamai, Kogatende, and Wogakuria.

November.

Rain begins in the southern Serengeti. Fresh grass and lush vegetation erupt again. Animals move southward through the Loliondo Game Controlled Area, then through the Namiri Plains (eastern Serengeti) in a hurry to calve in the nutritious grass of southern Serengeti and Ndutu.

When to go for a wildebeest migration safari?

Your interests and budget dictate. The migration is a year-long event, not a short-term event. That said, anytime you visit Serengeti, you’ll find migration herds sweeping the plains. However, you may be interested in a specific event, like the calving season or river crossings. The calving season is remote and only a few guests head to the Serengeti to watch this event. In addition, the Grumeti River crossings may be a perfect replacement for the infamous Mara River crossings (which are often busy). Plan wisely.

Bottom line.

The Great Migration promises breathtaking action at every stage. Whether it’s the birthing of masses of newborns or dramatic river crossings, there’s magic in every stage. Let’s help you customize your migration safari.