When is the Best Time to Go on Safari in Kenya?
Kenya is an incredible safari destination, offering a wealth of wildlife viewing opportunities. The best time to go on safari in Kenya depends largely on the type of wildlife you are hoping to see and your own preferences.
Generally speaking, the dry season from July through October is considered the best time for Kenyan safaris, with more predictable weather patterns and less dense vegetation, making wildlife spotting easier. This period also happens to be the migration season, making it the best time to visit Kenya Masai Mara.
If you want a beach holiday in Kenya, any month is okay, except December. During this month, travelers from across the world flock to the Kenyan coast – and for people who treasure space, the experience might not be as rewarding.
Kenya has a moderate climate all year round, and with the exception being the 3 rainiest months – April, May, and June – rains are generally short-lived showers in the afternoon and evening.
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4 Days Maasai Mara Camping Safari | From USD 1293 | |
6 Days Kenya Wildlife Tour | From USD 1803 | |
10 Days Kenya Wildlife Safari | From USD 3038 | |
7 Days Masai Mara & Mombasa Flying Tour | From USD 3298 | |
13 Days Group Tour Safari | From USD 4060 | |
12 Days Beach & Wildlife Tour | From USD 3230 | |
5 Days Easter Holiday Package | From USD 1854 | |
2 Days Hell’s Gate & Nakuru Tour | From USD 683 | |
3 Days Huduma Day Safari | From USD 1470 | |
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3 Days Masai Mara Safari | From USD 1475 | |
3 Days Amboseli Tour | From USD 895 |
The Ultimate Guide to the Best Time to Go on Safari in Kenya
Kenya offers some of the best safari experiences in the world and there are various times throughout the year that are considered to be ideal for planning your trip. Below we look at the best time to visit Kenya and Tanzania.
Low Season - Green Season - Wet Season
Low season in Kenya falls between April and June, with temperatures ranging from warm during the day to cool at night. This time of year is ideal for those looking to do a budget safari or take advantage of special discounts found during this period.
Although it is the cheapest time to go to Kenya, the wildlife viewing opportunities are still good. However, due to the rain and unpredictable weather, many animals migrate to different areas of the park during this time.
High Season - Dry Season
High season in Kenya falls between January to March and November and December, when temperatures are warm to hot during the day but cool at night. This is a great time to visit Kenya for safari due to the favorable weather and abundance of animals since most migrations have ended. Many parks experience an influx of tourists during this period, so prices will be higher than during low season.
Peak Season - Migration Season
Peak season in Kenya falls between July and October, when the Great Migration passes through the country. This is one of the most spectacular wildlife events on earth, and it attracts thousands of visitors to witness it firsthand. Prices will be higher than during low and high seasons due to demand, but the experience is worth every penny.
Bird Watching Best Safari in Kenya
If Birdwatching is your passion, Kenya has some truly wonderful opportunities for birdwatching, and it sits right at the top with other popular bird watching destinations in the world. Their migration season is between October and April when large populations of birds fly from Europe to East Africa.
There are almost 1000 species to see at any time, and out of this number, 230 species are migratory, and they arrive in Kenya during these months.
Diving and Beach Holiday Safari in Kenya
Kenya is a great destination for diving. The calm deep blue waters are protected by a series of reefs, and they harbor plenty of “sea life.” The reefs are home to huge shoals of fish swimming in coral gardens.
Some of the species you can see include whales, dolphins, endangered turtles and so much more. The Kenya coastal weather is generally warm, and diving is good all year round.
Visibility is poorest during July and August because of high seas and silting. January and February are the ideal time for diving in the warm Indian ocean waters. During these months, the sea is crystal clear because there is little surface runoff due to the dry season.
Mountain Climbing Safari in Kenya
There are two seasons each year for trekking up Kilimanjaro; January to March and June to October. The former is colder with the possibility of snow on the peaks.
The best time to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro depends on what you are looking for. Some people love the snow and the slopes tend to be less crowded at this time, but if you dread the extreme cold, then June to October is the best choice.
June to October is when North America and Europe have summer holidays and many people flock to the slopes to attempt the climb. The wet season is not a good time for trekking for obvious reasons.
FAQs - Best Time to Go on Safari in Kenya
Here are some of the common questions travelers ask about the best time to visit Kenya:
1. Is February a good time to visit Kenya?
February is usually a great time to visit Kenya. The weather is generally mild and sunny with temperatures ranging from the upper 60s during the day to the lower 50s overnight. Rainfall is usually at a minimum during this month, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as game drives and beach visits.
2. Is November a good time to visit Kenya?
November can be a great time to visit Kenya. Temperatures are usually in the upper 60s during the day and lower 50s overnight, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as safaris and beach visits. Rainfall is generally light this month, so it’s also an ideal time for sightseeing and exploring the country’s attractions.
3. Is December a good time to visit Kenya?
December can be a great time to visit Kenya. Temperatures are usually in the high 70s during the day and low 60s overnight, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as safaris and beach visits. Rainfall is generally light this month, so it’s also an ideal time for sightseeing and exploring the country’s attractions.
4. Is June a good time to visit Kenya?
June is usually a great time to visit Kenya. Temperatures are usually in the mid-70s during the day and low 60s overnight, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as safaris and beach visits. Rainfall is generally light this month, so it’s also an ideal time for sightseeing and exploring the country’s attractions.