Below is detailed information on the best time to visit Kenya to enjoy the different tourist activities that it offers.
Weather in Kenya by Month
The weather in Kenya can be explained using a month-by-month guide, which will help you know the best month to visit Kenya for various tourist activities.
One of the best times to visit Kenya is from July to September, during the country’s dry season, which also coincides with the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra.
Kenya’s Weather in January
January is one of the best times to visit Kenya for prime safaris. It falls under the dry season. It is a hot month with average temperatures of about 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C).
Many animals congregate around watering holes during this month. For instance, animals gather near the Mara River, despite the river’s heavy crocodile infestation.
Some of the top places to visit in Kenya during January include the Masai Mara National Reserve, Laikipia Plateau, Mombasa beaches, central highlands, Mount Kenya, and Nairobi city, among other places.
Interesting Safari Activities to Do in January
- Photography
- Bird watching
- Game viewing
- Cultural tours
- Water sports like diving and snorkelling around the areas of Mombasa
- Hiking on mountains like Mount Kenya
- City tours
- Spending beach vacations in beach games like beach soccer.
Consider packing light and comfortable clothes since the month is generally hot. Contact our safari experts for a tailor-made safari.
Whether in Kenya in February
February is also among the right months to visit Kenya for fascinating safari experiences. It is a shoulder season with temperatures ranging from 61°F to 79°F (16°C to 26°C).
The month usually has only three days of rain, and the rest of the days are sunny, a condition that causes the vegetation to thin, making it easy to trace wildlife. The ground is always dry, easing game drives and many other safari activities.
Outstanding Places to Visit in February
- Masai Mara National Game Reserve
- Samburu National Game Reserve in Northern Kenya
- Cities like Mombasa and Nairobi
- Sandy beaches such as Diani Beach
- Amboseli National Park
- Meru NP
- Tsavo NP
- Hell’s Gate NP
- Mount Kenya
- Lake Victoria
Fun Things to Do
- Helicopter Safaris
- Bird watching for the flamingo lovers and other migratory bird species
- Game viewing action continues in different parks for herbivores and other animal species
- Engaging in water sports like scuba diving, snorkelling, and fishing
- Game drives in the morning, evening, and night for nocturnal animals.
- Camel riding in Samburu National Game Reserve in northern Kenya
- Relaxing on the pristine beaches of Mombasa and Malindi along the Indian Ocean coastline
- City tours in Nairobi, Mombasa, and many other vibrant cities.
- Photography while on game drives, doing water sports, on beaches, and in many other activities.
Note that in the dry season, which runs from January to February, you may not see migratory animals like the wildebeest. This migration only happens in the dry season that runs from June to October.
Weather in March in Kenya
March in Kenya marks the end short dry season, especially in the last week. It is a shoulder season that ushers Kenya into the longer rainy season, from high season to low season.
The country in March receives an average temperature ranging from 59°F to 91°F (15°C to 33°C). It is in this month of the green season when the vegetation recovers from the scorching sun, and it becomes greener and lusher, which adds to the natural beauty of the country.
As the foliage begins to grow tall towards the end of March in the green season, game viewing becomes a bit difficult since some animals tend to hide in the bush.
Note that in March, there are sometimes very heavy rains, as evidenced by the recent scenarios in March 2010 and 2011, when excessive rainwater destroyed the bridge linking northern parks like Samburu and Buffalo Springs National Reserve. It also damaged several lodges and safari camps in Northern Kenya.
Though the grasses grow tall, especially in the last week of March, game viewing action continues in many other parks
Best Places to Visit in March
Interesting Things to Do in March in Kenya
- Game viewing
- Nature walks, which involve enjoying the blooming of flowers, lush green landscapes, among others.
- Bird watching for flamingos and bird species
- City tours that involve enjoying the country’s culinary scene and nightlife, and visiting remarkable places
- The East African Art Festival for literature, fashion, music, art, and theatre activities
- Cultural tours
- Photography
- Hiking on mountains like Mount Kenya and Meru, among others
- Indoor games, among others.
March offers discounts on holiday packages, accommodation, and permits because there is less competition. Trekking and doing other activities seem quieter.
April Weather in Kenya, Also Known as the Peak of the Long Rainy Season
April remains the wettest month in Kenya during the long rain season/green season. The country receives heavy rains that are on average 110mm to 200mm. During this time, the sun shines for about 6 hours each day, and the average temperature ranges from 15°C to 28°C. In most cases, it rains at night and then in the morning with short showers.
The long rains make most of the roads muddy and impassable, though some safaris to different destinations are still possible with the aid of 4X4 safari vehicles. However, some camps close during this season due to too much rain.
The long rains bring forth lush vegetation. The best way to have different views of wildlife is to visit different game reserves, sanctuaries, conservation centers, and a few game parks.
Enduring too much rain offers you the opportunity of a front row seat to watch the birth and interaction of the newborn with their mothers, since April to June is a calving season. You will also observe how the young animals learn to hide from the steady and watchful predators.
Top Places to Visit in Kenya during April’s Long Rains
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy
- Borana Conservancy
- Ol Kinyei Conservancy
- Ashulai Maasai Conservancy
- Sera Conservancy
- Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
- Mara Naboisho Conservancy
- Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
- Namunyak Conservancy
- Giraffe center
- Mount Kenya
Interesting Things to See in April
- Game viewing for animals in conservancies and sanctuaries, such as Borana Conservancy, which is known for its high population of elephants and black rhinos.
- Birding, especially the migratory birds
- Cultural tours
- Attending different concerts and festivals during important holidays like Easter
- Water sports along the Indian Ocean coastline, Kenya’s white sand beaches
- Indoor games
- Visiting art galleries and museums
- Participating in traditional cuisine cooking classes.
Since there are long rains in April, endeavour to pack attire like raincoats and boots fit for the wet weather. Expect lower prices in such a low season, so book your safari now.
Weather in May in Kenya
Just like April, May also receives too much rain. The month is associated with an average temperature of about 19ºC, with highs of 24ºC and lows of 14ºC in Nairobi. The rainfall in this month is around 90mm to 110mm. It shines for about 8 hours a day.
For those interested in camping, in May, some safari camps close since the ground is always wet.
For wildlife enthusiasts, wildlife viewing also happens in game reserves, conservancies, sanctuaries, and some game parks that are dispersed in different parts of the country. For water sports lovers, games like scuba diving and snorkelling can be enjoyed in hotels’ and safari lodges’ swimming pools instead of coastal beaches.
Top Places to Visit in May
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy
- Borana Conservancy
- Ol Kinyei Conservancy
- Ashulai Maasai Conservancy
- Nairobi city
- National museum
- Art galleries in Nairobi
Amazing Things to Do in May in Kenya
- Visiting art galleries
- Game viewing in conservancies, game reserves, and other protected areas
- Cultural tours
- Shopping at different malls in the country
- Birding for both native and migratory birds
- Photography
- Water sports like snorkelling, scuba diving, and swimming
- Take part in culinary
Note that Kenya receives long rains in late April, May, and early June, and the relatively cool season that runs from late June to October receives less rain.
Contact our safari experts to book a Kenya safari during this period, as most safaris and other itineraries are offered at a discount because of reduced competition in the off-season. As you pack, consider waterproofs and mosquito repellents, which are very essential.
Weather in June in Kenya —Low to the Peak Season
June marks the beginning of the long dry season in Kenya, which is characterized by minimal rainfall, high temperatures, and clear skies. The average temperature ranges from 18°C to 27°C (64°F to 81°F). During this month, the country receives short rains of about 39mm, especially in the early days of June, which continue to be wet.
The monsoon winds, which blow from the Kenyan coast to the mainland, greatly contribute to this month’s rainfall. These short rains continue until late June, and some grasses remain tall; however, as the month ends and it becomes sunnier and drier, the grasses begin to thin. This season makes it possible to spot animals.
It is in this month that some animals begin to gather around water points.
Places To Visit in June
- Masai mara national game reserve
- Amboseli National Park
- Diani beach
- Meru NP
- Mombasa and the coastal region
- Nairobi city, among other places
Interesting Things to Do in June
- Community tours
- Good Game viewing
- Enjoying water sports like snorkelling and scuba diving
- Birdwatching for bird species such as the African pygmy kingfisher and African fish eagle in Meru NP and flamingos at Lake Bogoria.
- Photography of different attractions in different destinations, like the Masai Mara National Game Reserve
- Attending to different cultural experiences
- Hiking at Mount Meru, Mount Kenya, and Mount Elgon
Consider June to visit Kenya for your mesmerizing safari tours.
Weather in Kenya in July—for the Great Wildebeest Migration in The Masai Mara National Reserve
July is a high season known for the great migration of wildebeest, or a fantastic time to witness great migratory herds. The month is characterized by mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 23°.
The many days of sunshine make the lush greenery thin, thereby creating room for better animal sightings. However, the vegetation at the beginning of July is still beautifully green since it’s just a few days from the long season of rain. This phenomenon cuts across almost all other African countries.
During this month, due to scarcity of water, many animals congregate around the remaining few watering sources like the Mara River. This makes game drives and good game viewing at these places and in the field possible.
Although there are always a small number of animals crossing the river by the end of June and the eve of July, the massive river crossing normally happens in mid-July. You will see wildebeest start arriving at the Maasai Masai from Serengeti national Park. In addition to the massive river crossing, there are also migratory birds coming to the Maasai Mara.
Other Places to Visit in July
- Amboseli National Park
- Tsavo NP
- Nairobi NP
- Nakuru NP
- Meru NP
- Hell’s Gate NP
- Giraffe Center
Things to Do in July in Kenya
- Game drives
- Bird watching
- Wildlife spotting, such as observing crocodiles in the Mara River
- Cultural tours in the Masai land
- Hiking on mountains
- Nature walks
- Safari camps in some game parks and forest reserves
- Wildlife photography: for example, taking photos of wildebeest crossing the river as they migrate to Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.
Though the migratory animals in July are considered the best attraction, Kenya is a year round destination for different safaris.
July is considered a high season due to the famous animal migration. Witness wildebeest and a few other animals start arriving at the Maasai Mara. Booking for the July Kenya safari should be done in advance. Also, expect to find safari packages and related itineraries at high prices.
August Weather in Kenya
Kenya experiences warm and mostly dry weather conditions, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), at least 40mm of rainfall, low humidity, and approximately 8 hours of sunshine each day.
This month, you will see a few animals crossing the river while others settle in the Maasai Mara. You are likely to see some predators like crocodiles fight with animals as they cross the river.
Places To Visit in August in Kenya
- Masai Mara national Game Reserve
- Mount Kenya
- Mount Meru
- Nairobi NP
- Beaches like Diani beach, among other white sand beaches in Malindi and Mombasa on the Indian Ocean coastline
Things To Do in August in Kenya
- Visiting markets and interacting with the locals
- Wildlife viewing of zebra, gazelle, and wildebeest in the great animal migration
- Water games like swimming, snorkelling, and diving, among others
- Hiking in the highlands
- Nature walks
- City tours, like visiting museums, among others
- Beach vacations on beaches like Diani
Given that August is a high tourism season, expect safari prices for accommodation and related services to be high. Book your Kenya safari in advance to avoid missing an unforgettable safari tour.
Weather in September in Kenya
September is also among the hottest months in Kenya. It is dry with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C and approximately 8 hours of sunshine per day.
Though September is considered hot, the country receives a little rain in the first weeks, making the latter part of this month good, which is a fantastic time for quieter safaris. September is considered part of the high season, although the number of tourists begins to decrease during this month.
Places To Visit in September
- Lake Naivasha
- Lake Nakuru
- Ol Pejeta
- Diani beach for beach vacations
- Masai mara national game reserve
- Nairobi NP
- Amboseli National Park
Activities to Do in September in Kenya
- Wildlife viewing opportunities include observing species such as hippos, impalas, giraffes, and zebras.
- Bird watching, which includes observing flamingos at Lake Nakuru.
- Photography
- City tours
- Cultural tours
- Engaging in beach games and activities like beach soccer and sunbathing, among others.
Why wait? Consider visiting Kenya in September for an amazing safari experience.
Weather In Kenya in October
This is the month that marks the end of the long dry season and closes the high season in Kenya. It completes the dry season with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C. The rainfall amount in this month is 60mm, but there can still be sunshine for at least 8 hours a day. Toward the end of October, Kenya’s short rains begin.
As the great migration of animals has departed from the Maasai Mara, visitors to Kenya will have views of other wildlife grazing in the southern part of the Masai Mara National Game Reserve.
Top Places to Visit in October in Kenya
- Maasai Mara Game Reserve
- Lake Nakuru and Lake Bogoria, which are known for the flamingo birds
- Amboseli NP
- Nairobi NP and Nairobi city
- Central Highlands
Fun Things to Do in October in Kenya
- Birding at Lakes like Bogoria and Nakuru, and in other parks in other parts of Kenya
- Photography
- Game viewing
- Major celebration of Halloween every 31st October to remember the departed souls. This involves a blend of global traditions.
- Participate in cultural tours and celebrate holidays, such as the Huduma and Lamu festivals.
- City tours in Mombasa, Nairobi, and other vibrant cities and towns.
- Hiking and trekking
Consider October one of the good months to visit Kenya to engage in a variety of outdoor games before the dry and high season ends.
Weather In Kenya in November—Beginning of the Short Rainy Season
The November short rains mark the beginning of the short rains, ushering us into another low season in Kenya. November is another shoulder season since it has sunny days and rainy days. The month receives an average rainfall of around 100mm with an average temperature ranging from 20°C to 26°C. In November, the rift valley’s countryside and the western interior tend to be hot during the day, cool at night, and occasionally receive moderate rainfall.
During this month, you are most likely to spot animals still gathering around the watering holes, especially as the month begins. Some of the animals that you may see in Maasai Mara may include the big five and other animals.
As the short rains increase, traversing to different game parks and other destinations may become difficult since roads tend to be muddy. Only a few game parks, conservancies, and sanctuaries now offer wildlife sightings.
During this month, fewer visitors tour Kenya due to muddy roads and high mosquito populations in the game parks, but if you are traveling, pack mosquito repellent, a raincoat, and other related rain clothes.
Best Places to Visit in November in Kenya
- Nairobi National Park
- Meru NP
- Sera Conservancy
- Ol Kinyei Conservancy
- Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy
- Hell’s Gate N P
- Samburu National Game Reserve
- Tsavo NP
- Nairobi city
Fun Activities in November
- Wildlife sightings in different conservancies, sanctuaries, and reachable game parks
- Engage in indoor games like
- City tours that involve enjoying the country’s culinary scene and nightlife, and visiting remarkable places
- The East African Art Festival for literature, fashion, music, art, and theatre activities
- Cultural tours
- Photography
Due to less competition, holiday packages, hotels, safari lodges, and permits tend to sell at lower prices in November. Trekking and doing other activities seem quieter.
December Weather in Kenya
December is also among the wettest months, especially in early December, but towards the end of December, it starts to shine. Prices of safaris increase since it is a period of transformation to the high season.
In this month of the short rains, the country receives an average temperature of 18°C to 27°C, approximately 80 mm, and around 65%.
Given the fact that December is a festive season, it is a wonderful time when many tourists, both within and outside Kenya, are attracted to visit Kenya’s tourist destinations and spend their holidays there.
Top Places to Visit in December in Kenya
- National museums, the National Museum of Kenya
- Pristine beaches in Mombasa along the Indian Ocean coastline
- Nakuru National Park
- Meru NP
- Major towns like Lamu
Best Things to Do in December in Kenya
- Water sports
- Bird watching
- Shopping from Kenyan malls
- Engage in culinary to learn how to prepare Kenyan local food.
- Visit museums like the National Museum of Kenya.
- Game viewing
- Visiting art galleries and enjoying views of paintings and other artwork
Please ensure you book your Kenya safari early, as game parks and other destinations tend to be crowded, even during the wet season. Since it is the festive season, safari prices are hiked.
Best Time to Visit Kenya FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What Is the Best Time of Year to Go on Safari in Kenya?
The best time of the year to travel for a safari in Kenya is during the dry season that runs from June to October and December to March. However, the Kenyan climate is favourable enough to allow country safari year round.
Which Months Are Best to Visit Kenya?
The best months to go to Kenya are June, July, August, September, and October. This is because they coincide with the great migration of wildebeest. These months provide excellent opportunities for spotting wildlife, including the big five, and witnessing the great migration of wildebeest in July.
What Is Peak Season in Kenya?
The peak season in Kenya is the two dry seasons, one from June to October and the other from December to March. These create a lovely time for spotting wildlife, including the Big Five game, and witnessing the great wildebeest migration in July.
What Is the Rainy Season in Kenya?
Kenya has two rainy seasons, long and short. The long season runs from March to May, and the short season runs from November to December.
What Is the Hottest Month in Kenya?
The hottest month in Kenya is February. The country in this month receives high temperatures of around 78-81°F (25-27°C).
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Kenyan Coast?
The dry season, which is June to October the prime time to visit the Kenyan coast. This time offers an opportunity to enjoy your beach vacations and water games like sunbathing and swimming, among others.
When Should I Fly to Kenya?
The best time to fly to Kenya is during its long dry season, which is June to October. This period coincides with the great migration of the wildebeest. During this time, you will have excellent views of numerous attractions in Kenya.
In conclusion, for safari enthusiasts, the long dry season that runs from June to October remains the best time to tour Kenya for the best safari experiences, which include game viewing, witnessing the great migration of animals, the best time for relaxing at Kenyan beaches, and hiking, among other activities. Book a Kenya safari now.
