Best time to visit Kenya – By season
Kenya’s two seasons, dry and rainy, occur in an alternating pattern. Temperatures are pleasant and warm throughout the year and range from 23°C to 33°C.
Winter: Since Kenya is in the southern hemisphere, winter runs from July to October and is one of the best times to go on safari in Kenya. This coincides with the peak season for the river crossings of the Great Migration. Tourists start arriving in July, and their numbers leap in August and September, as this is the best time to visit Kenya for the peak season river crossings of the Great Migration. By October, most travellers leave, and though you may experience a few showers, it is a very pleasant month to visit Kenya with plenty of wildlife sightings.
Short rainy season: November and December. Some safari camps close, but the main ones are still open, and there are plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. By end-December the rain tapers off, leaving vistas of green. It’s a good time for birding and watching baby animals take their first steps.
Summer season: January to mid-March are the driest, hottest months. It is one of the best times to go on safari in Kenya and a great time to visit the coastal cities. Kenya’s national parks teem with wildlife, and the waters off Kenya’s coast are sparkling during this period.
Long rainy season: Rainfall sets in by end-March and continues through May, petering out by June. The coast is hot and wet, while further inland, the landscape becomes more verdant. Tourist traffic plummets as road conditions deteriorate and the odds of spotting wildlife decrease.
Best time to visit Kenya – By activity
The Great Migration: The peak season for witnessing this incredible phenomenon, complete with waiting predators and dramatic river crossings, is from end-July to September, though it may vary slightly due to weather patterns and the availability of food and water. However, migration is a year-round phenomenon, and you are likely to see large herds of wildebeest at any time of year
Snorkelling, scuba diving, and beach fun: The coastal towns of Kenya are home to some of the continent’s best beaches. The waters are clearest during January and February. We recommend you avoid the rainy months from March to May.
Kenya Safaris and Tours: The best time to visit Kenya for its spectacular wildlife safaris and viewing opportunities is from end-December to February and end-June to September. October and November are also suitable for spotting animals so long as you don’t mind the occasional shower. April and May see significant rain, and spotting animals is challenging.
If you’re interested in combining your wildlife safari with a relaxing beach vacation, be sure to check out our Safari and Kenya beach holidays page for a truly diverse and unforgettable experience.
Birding: To see an astounding variety of birds and witness Kenya at its freshest, head to this East African country between October and March.
Hiking and Trekking: While you can take the challenging trek to the top of Mt. Kenya year-round, the best time is during the dry months, i.e. January, February, and June to October. The Menegai crater in the Rift Valley is one of the largest intact volcanic calderas in the world and a superb option for a day hike from Nakuru. There are plenty of options for hikes and mountain biking on nature trails throughout the country.
What to pack for Kenya?
What you pack for your Kenya trip depends on when you are travelling and your planned activities.
Safari clothes: Khaki or other muted tones that blend with the environment are best suited for safaris. Long-sleeved T-shirts and cargo pants protect you from the sun and mosquitoes, and a light jacket will keep you warm during early morning and late evening safaris.
Sun protection: Sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen are necessary for all outdoor activities.
Winter Wear: If you plan to trek up Mt. Kenya, you need specialised trekking gear that can withstand sub-zero temperatures. Also, carry thermals, jackets, gloves, woollen socks and warm headgear.
Beachwear: Pack your favourite swimsuits and coverups for a stay at any of Kenya’s coastal resorts.
Shoes: Carry hiking boots for hikes and treks and good quality walking shoes for other walks and safaris.
Contact our destination experts for more insights into the best time to visit Kenya and start planning your dream holiday.
Hear from our Experts
“I loved visiting the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage in Nairobi – seeing the baby elephants playing with their handlers was fantastic. Also pay a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum, former African home of Danish author Karen Blixen, famous for her book ‘Out of Africa’ which chronicles life at the estate.”
“If you want to contribute to Kenya’s less fortunate, take school stationery to the local orphanages – there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a child’s face light up over a new pen.”
“Don’t forget that the distances between national parks are vast – speak to a Destination Specialist to make sure you maximise your game viewing opportunities. Travel by rail from Nairobi to Mombasa on the Madaraka Express – view the beautiful landscapes and National Parks (such as Tsavo) from the comfort of a modern train.”
Overview of Kenya
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