Best Time to Visit
Kenya
Kenya stands as a year-round destination, boasting a rich tapestry of cultures, abundant wildlife, and over 40 distinct tribes. The country experiences two main rainy seasons, albeit with shifting patterns due to climate change. The short rains typically occur from November to early December, while the long rains span from March to May.
The rainy seasons have their charm, they transform the landscape into a lush and vibrant expanse, attracting migratory bird species between November and March. The resulting greenery, coupled with fewer tourists during the rainy season, sets the stage for heightened predator activity and the presence of numerous adorable baby animals in December.
For those seeking an extraordinary experience, the optimal time to visit Kenya is during the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra, unfolding from July to October, with the peak spectacle unfolding between August and September.
Kenya's month-by-month visit guide
Visiting in January
January, the peak of Kenya’s summer, is an ideal month for game viewing. It falls between the ‘long’ and ‘short’ rain seasons, offering pleasant conditions. While temperatures are high, occasional showers provide relief, and the landscape is lush with post-November and December rains. Coastal areas boast sunny days and crystal-clear seas, making it perfect for beach holidays. Whether you’re into wildlife safaris or seaside relaxation, January offers an excellent balance of both experiences in Kenya.
Visiting in February
February is a prime time for a Kenya safari. The central highlands offer warm days and cool evenings, while the coast boasts scorching daytime heat that continues into the evening. The Masai Mara experiences minimal precipitation, making it ideal for wildlife sightings at watering holes. This month is perfect for conquering Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak. Additionally, in the conservancies, February sees the resident wildebeest calving, providing a captivating spectacle.
Visiting in March
March brings a swift transition in Kenyan weather, shifting from ‘hot and dry’ to ‘wet and rainy’ by month’s end. While rain becomes widespread, it transforms the savannah into a muddy terrain, occasionally impacting accessibility. On the bright side, this period offers the advantage of fewer crowds and cost savings. Despite increasing rainfall as the month progresses, game viewing remains favorable. As Kenya approaches the ‘long rains,’ wildlife sightings are still rewarding.
Visiting in April
April is among Kenya’s rainiest month. Nairobi and the central highlands offer hot days and comfortable nights, while Mombasa remains consistently hot. The lush, green landscape and rain-washed skies create an ideal backdrop for photographers, with minimal dust. Game drives can be challenging due to muddy roads, but it’s a fantastic time for capturing wildlife in stunning detail. Just ensure your equipment stays protected from the elements.
Visiting in May
May in Kenya brings mixed blessings for travelers. While it marks the long rains, leading to heavy downpours and challenging wildlife sightings, it also translates into quieter properties and budget-friendly accommodations. The lush landscapes, adorned with vibrant flowers, beckon safari enthusiasts, although spotting wildlife amidst tall grasses becomes more of a game. However, for sunseekers, it’s not the ideal time, especially as coastal beaches lose their sunny charm during this wet season.
Visiting in June
In June, post-rain tranquility reigns, with occasional light showers and cool nights at higher altitudes. The lush grasses make wildlife spotting a delightful challenge. As anticipation mounts, the Great Migration’s imminent arrival in the Masai Mara adds to the allure of this beautiful season.
Visiting in July
July offers a favorable climate in Kenya, with temperate, mostly dry conditions that aren’t excessively dusty. Occasional showers remain possible, making it an ideal time to visit. It marks the lead-up to the peak travel and game viewing season, especially in the Masai Mara, where the awe-inspiring wildebeest migration typically begins. As July progresses, you can witness riveting river crossings, and the weather maintains its pleasant balance between dryness and occasional showers.
Visiting in August
In August, enjoy pleasant, mostly dry weather, making it an ideal time to visit. Across the parks, fantastic game viewing awaits, and the Masai Mara hosts the peak of the Great Migration. Witness thousands of zebras and wildebeest embarking on daring river crossings, while hungry crocodiles add to the suspense, creating awe-inspiring wildlife spectacles.
Visiting in September
September is the optimal time to explore Kenya, primarily due to the awe-inspiring Great Migration, where vast herds congregate in the Maasai Mara. This month marks the dry season, ensuring exceptional wildlife sightings as animals gather around limited water sources. While prices may peak, early reservations are advised, and September often surpasses July and August for availability. With clear skies, it’s a photographer’s dream, and the abundance of wildebeest entices predators, creating thrilling hunting scenes. Kenya in September promises dry, game-rich conditions, with the Mara region offering exceptional wildlife encounters that extend across the country.
Visiting in October
In October, as temperatures gradually increase, expect a chance of light showers. It’s an ideal period for a crowd-free yet rewarding journey with abundant wildlife sightings. While the migratory herds exit the Mara, resident populations ensure fantastic game viewing. Throughout Kenya, this season promises fantastic wildlife experiences in Big 5 territory.
Visiting in November
November marks the onset of Kenya’s short rainy season. While most parks and camps stay open, a few on the Laikipia Plateau may close. This period sees higher temperatures, yet the Mara and other destinations continue to offer superb game viewing. With thinner crowds and enticing deals, it’s an ideal time for an affordable and less crowded Kenyan safari. Enjoy the wilderness without breaking the bank.
Visiting in December
In December, the final month of the year, the weather can be scorching with the chance of rainfall. Yet, the wildlife viewing remains consistently spectacular, while birdwatchers are in for a treat as bird populations significantly swell during this period.
Curating ultimate tailor-made safari experiences for 35 years
"From the time we landed in Nairobi until the time we left, everything was effortless."
Darmasmom
"We planned this trip for 5 years and it was worth every moment plus some."
Amanda
"We had great guides at each camp who made sure every day brought new adventures."
Irene B
"After researching the best companies to use to book a Safari with, we kept seeing Gamewatchers"
GoHeels10
Talk to a Specialist
Choose a Safari Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made safari to Kenya.
Rick McIntyre
Rick McIntyre
Hello, I'm Rick, based in Ontario, Canada, with over 15 years in the travel industry and a passport filled with stamps from over 70 countries. My heart was captured by Africa during my first visit to Kenya, and since then, I've journeyed back repeatedly, exploring the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Whether you're dreaming of a "once in a lifetime" vacation or you're a seasoned safari traveler, I'm here to assist in planning your perfect African adventure.
You can contact me at rick@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +1-877-710-3014, and together, we'll make your African dreams a reality.
Rachel Chambers
Rachel Chambers
Rachel resides on the vibrant West Coast of Canada, specifically on Vancouver Island. She has a profound love for travel, having explored nearly 30 countries. However, it was a solo journey to Africa that truly ignited her passion. Upon stepping foot in Botswana for the first time, Rachel was captivated and knew she needed to explore more of the continent. Since then, she has ventured solo to Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mauritius, South Africa, Uganda, and Kenya, where she traveled with Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps.
It was during these experiences that Rachel realized her desire to be a part of the Gamewatchers team. More about Rachel
You can contact Rae at rae@gamewatchers.com or call +1-250-588-9112
Julie Roggow
Julie Roggow
Greetings, I'm Julie Roggow, and I come to you with over two decades of immersion in the world of travel. My journey into the heart of safari adventures began as I traversed Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, capturing the essence of these mesmerizing landscapes through my lens. Among these remarkable destinations, Kenya and the Porini safari camps hold a special place in my heart. Their unique blend of wilderness and conservation resonates deeply with me.
My passion for travel is matched only by my dedication to sharing that passion with others. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your very first safari, I'm here to ensure that planning your safari vacation is an enjoyable and seamless experience.
Feel free to reach out to me by email at julie@gamewatchers.com or through our toll-free telephone line at +1-877-710-3014. Let's embark on an unforgettable safari journey together, where the wild beauty of Africa awaits to enchant and inspire you.
Brad Wierman
Brad Wierman
Hello there, I'm Brad, and my safari odyssey began with my first expedition to Kenya in 1984. Since then, I've had the privilege of guiding and exploring various African destinations, from Tanzania to Ethiopia, Rwanda to Zambia, and beyond. Yet, after 34 years, East Africa still captivates me like no other. My most recent adventure here was in June 2018. As an Environmental Conservation major in college, I found my perfect match in Gamewatchers and Porini Camps, whose groundbreaking conservation efforts in Kenya are unparalleled. The moment you witness an elephant in the wild for the first time, you're irrevocably hooked, just as I was. Whether you're embarking on your inaugural safari or your tenth, I'm here to curate the ideal experience tailored to your expertise level, accommodation preferences, and budget.
I'm based in Bend, Oregon, and you can reach me at brad@gamewatchers.com or by calling +1 224-558-1887. Let's make your safari dreams come true!
Stories on Kenya Safaris
Don’t miss out on our special offers, exclusive deals, and inspirational travel stories. Keep up-to-date with all the latest news by subscribing to our newsletter.
Exploring Africa's..
Have you ever imagined taking a slow-paced adventurous tour inside Africa’s wilderness on foot? Walking safaris are exactly that. Also known as bushwalks, walking safaris are completely different from game drives as they awaken all your senses allowing you to notice smells, sounds, and even colors of the wilderness.
11 Essential..
Ever imagined yourself on a wildlife viewing safari in Africa? Maybe it’s been a dream since childhood, or maybe it’s a new idea that sparked later in life – either way, you can’t wait to get on the African savannah plains and set out on a new adventure accompanied by an expert safari guide to watch the iconic wildlife!
When is..
Since the birth of the modern safari holiday in the 1920’s, Kenya has been the destination of choice for intrepid explorers to get a taste of wild Africa and the storybook animals that roam free of cage and bars. On many people’s bucket lists, an African adventure taking in the Maasai Mara takes on a daydream quality. The Safari holiday has changed somewhat since the early days of heading out into the bush with gun and tent..