Where Is the Great Migration Right Now? [April 2026 Update]
In April, the vast herds are in motion. Having left the southern plains of Ndutu and the Kusini area, the migration is generally transitioning through the Central Serengeti (Seronera Valley) and beginning to push toward the Western Corridor.
While the herds are spread out, you are likely to encounter scattered groups moving through the tall grass plains as they follow the scent of fresh rain and greener pastures. They are effectively leaving the short-grass plains behind as the long rains (masika) take hold.
What’s Happening Right Now: The Long Trek
- The Movement: The herds are no longer stationary. This is the beginning of their long journey north. You will see them moving in loose columns, heading toward the western woodlands and the Grumeti River region.
- The Landscape: April is the heart of the “Green Season.” The rains have transformed the Serengeti into a lush, vibrant green landscape. It is exceptionally beautiful for photography, though the long grass can sometimes make spotting smaller wildlife more challenging.
- Predator Dynamics: While the calving frenzy of February and March is behind us, predators remain highly active. With the herds on the move, lions, hyenas, and leopards are opportunistic, following the migrating columns or staking out their territories in the Central Serengeti, which remains a predator hotspot year-round.
April Weather: The Long Rains
April is typically the wettest month in the Serengeti. Expect heavy, usually short-lived tropical downpours, often in the afternoons. The bush is incredibly lush, and surface water is plentiful, meaning wildlife doesn’t need to congregate around permanent waterholes. You will enjoy a more private safari experience with fewer vehicles and lower “green season” rates.
Quick Facts: April 2026 Migration
| Current Location: | Central Serengeti, moving toward Western Corridor |
| Country: | Tanzania |
| What’s Happening: | Migration on the move, lush green landscape, long rains |
| Weather: | Humid, afternoon rain showers, lush scenery |
| Crowd Level: | Low (Excellent for value and privacy) |
March 2026 (Archive)
The following section reflects the state of the migration during March 2026.
Every month, thousands of safari planners search for the latest migration update and for good reason. The Great Migration involves over 1.5 million wildebeest, 400,000 zebras, and 300,000 Thomson’s gazelles moving through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in an endless search for fresh grazing and water.
Current Location: Southern Serengeti & Ndutu Plains
Currently, the bulk of the migration is concentrated in the southern Serengeti and Ndutu region of Tanzania. The herds are spread across the short-grass plains, stretching from Ndutu and Lake Masek to the Kusini Plains, all within the southern section of the Serengeti ecosystem.
What’s Happening Right Now: Calving Season Wrap-Up
The Calving Spectacle
Calving season is wrapping up. The peak was February, when an estimated 8,000 wildebeest calves were born each day. By late March, most calves have been born, though late arrivals continue across the plains.
Peak Predator Activity
March is one of the best months for predator viewing in the entire Serengeti. The vulnerable young calves attract every major predator in the ecosystem:
- Lions: The Serengeti supports approximately 3,000-4,000 lions.
- Cheetahs: An estimated 500-600 cheetahs patrol the open grasslands.
- Leopards: Approximately 1,000 leopards inhabit the Serengeti.
- Spotted hyenas: Over 7,500 hyenas follow the migration.
Ready to Plan Your Migration Safari?
Whether you’re chasing the calving season action or planning ahead for the famous river crossings later this year, we can help you find the right safari.
Start with our free Safari Budget Calculator to estimate your costs, or explore our Best Time to Visit Serengeti guide for a deeper dive into Tanzania’s most iconic park.
