Journal15 August 2025
The 2026 migration calendar, with caveats
When the herds are expected to arrive, where to see them, and the three weeks we cannot predict.
The Great Migration follows a pattern. It does not follow a schedule. Our best estimates for 2026, based on historical data and the current state of the Serengeti grasses:
Late June: Leading edge reaches the Sand River from the south. First Mara crossings possible by July 4–8.
July 10–25: Peak crossings at Paradise Plains (Mara Reserve). Expect 40+ balloons on some mornings. Book Mara North if you want space.
Early August: Herds disperse north across the full reserve. This is when the Triangle comes alive.
Mid-September to mid-October: Herds slowly drift south again. The second round of Mara crossings. Less predictable, less crowded, often more dramatic.
The three weeks we cannot predict
The period between peak July and the second-round September crossings is notoriously variable. In 2023, the herds stayed in the Mara until September 28. In 2024, they were back in the Serengeti by September 12. If you're booking for this window, we'll tell you the current state two weeks out — not before.