Best Time to visit Kenya

Q: Which is the best month to visit Masai Mara?

June – July – August – September – October Pleasant temperatures, warm and dry weather, and mostly clear blue skies above. Perfect weather for wildlife sightings and wildebeest migration and crossings the major mara rivers.

Q: Which is the best month to visit Amboseli National Park?

January to March and June to October The perfect time to visit Amboseli and see Mount Kilimanjaro is between January and March when it’s dry and hot. The season is short since the long rains usually arrive end of February. The mountain is all up this time with all its glory and lots of snow. The dry season from June to October is generally considered the best time to see wildlife in Amboseli with the hot and dry seasons. Wildlife is in plenty, hence making it a perfect time for Amboseli Safaris.

Best Time for a Kenya Safari Holiday

Best Time to visit Kenya for safaris

Best time for safaris and holidays in Kenya

The best time to visit Kenya for Safaris and Holidays, is from January to April and June to November, during the drier hot months. During this month the vegetation is low, and short and making it easy to enjoy wildlife sightings. These months are the best due to the hot and dry climate that favors wildlife activities.

If you visit Kenya during the months of January to March, you will enjoy amazing wildlife sightings from Masai Mara to Samburu and Amboseli. Bits cats are always out looking for food, while other wildlife species are enjoying the green grass that grew due to the short rains of November to December.

The best time to visit Amboseli and view Mount Kilimanjaro views is between January and March. The mountain has lots of snow, the weather is hot and the vegetation is green, making the perfect time to visit Amboseli to have these magical views. Elephants are in plenty too, while spotting big cats is easy as well.

While Amboseli is best from Jan to March, The best time to Visit Masai Mara is from June to October of every year when the weather is hot and dry, just after the long rains that start in March ending in June. The best time to see the wildebeest migration and crossings in Masai Mara is between June to October, which is peak season in Kenya.

A beach holiday in Kenya is a vital and important aspect of your holiday while in Kenya. Combining both your bush expeditions and a beach holiday, your vacation becomes complete. You would wonder when is the best time for a beach holiday in Kenya. Diani is Kenya’s leading beach and is always recommended to visit. Well, the best time to visit Diani is during the hot seasons, that’s in January to March and July to October, as well as December too.

Same to Tanzania, Kenya offers amazing hiking expeditions in mountains and hills. Mount Kenya is the second-highest mountain in Africa and offers amazing climbing adventures who would want to conquer it. The best time to climb Mount Kenya is between January and March, and also between August and October to December.

We have done a complete month-to-month Kenya traveling guide on when is the best time to visit, which are the best activities to do in the different months and seasons. This guide will help you plan your Kenya Safari with ease.

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Month by month Kenya Travel guide

month by month Kenya safari guide

The below chart shows the best time to visit Kenya and also the not recommended time to visit. Kenya has different rain patterns, hot and dry seasons of the year, and different climate changes. We have briefly shown how the weather and seasons change by month. The chart is to guide you on which is the best month to visit Kenya, and the weather is subject to change.

Click on each to go to the detail section of the month to understand how the month looks, and what activities you can do on safari in Kenya.

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Best Time To Visit Kenya

brief travel guide to Kenya for holidays

Generally, Kenya & Tanzania are best to visit in the dry-season months of July – October when the parks are dry and wildebeest herds are in plenty, viewing is dramatic, easy and action packed.

LOW SEASON:

1^st April to June 15th and 15^th Nov to 15th Dec

During this Season, the herds are in Central & North Serengeti in April to June. The grass are tall and better time to spend with them.

In Nov, they wll have Migrated from the Masai Mara down back to the Serengeti National Park.

high SEASON:

Jan 10th to 1^st April and 1^st Nov to 15^th Dec

The best time to witness the calving of wildebeest calves in the Southern Serengeti. Ndutu Conservation area offers the best ground for calving of more than 8000+ Calves.

In April, they start moving up to Northern serengeti, and in Nov, they start moving down to Serengeti from Masai Mara.

PEAK SEASON:

15th June to 30th Oct, 15th Dec to 10th Jan

These are the best month to witness the dramatic migration and crossings in Serengeti and Masai mara with over 1.5 Million wildebeests crossing the Mara River.

It’s easier to spot them in Masai Mara Kenya and Northern Serengeti in Tanzania.

Detailed Month by month Travel guide

Kenya TRAVEL GUIDE - best safari guide to Kenya

We have a detailed month to month Kenya safari guide that will you plan your safari accordingly. This guide is detailed per month with information, on whether the month is suitable for a Kenya Safari or not. Also, it advises you on the best activities to do in the different months of the Year.

East Africa is blessed with a very conducive, and favorable climate, and weather conditions that as perfectly suitable for an African Safari. If you are planning to visit Kenya any time soon, please let Cheetah Safaris help you plan your next holiday with ease and our expertise. ‘

We will guide you on when is the best time to visit Kenya, and also help you understand what factors will make your holidays a memorable experience in Kenya. Your safari will planned precisely according your needs and preferences, our work is to help you customise it, advise you and make the best decision to plan a one in a lifetime safari.

January

Dry and Hot Season :- High Season

Temperatures:- High of 26°C and lows of 14°C

One of the best months in Kenya to visit for safaris. The country is hot and dry after short rains in November and December. It’s easy to spot big cats and other wildlife species. The temperatures are favorable for a beach holiday in Diani, Lamu, or Watamu. Also the best time to enjoy climbing expeditions on Mount Kenya, the second highest mountain in Africa.

What to do in January

Best for big Cats Saightings

You can do so much in Kenya during this time of the year as you enjoy your safari. Some of the best things to do are to summit the second highest mountain in Africa, Mt. Kenya, go on a beach holiday vacation in Diani or Lamu, or enjoy a safari in any of the National Parks. The best National parks to Visit in January are Amboseli and Masai Mara.

February

Dry and Hot Season :- High Season

Temperatures:- High of 26°C and lows of 14°C

Same to January, February is a good month for big cats’ sightings during the Safari holidays in Kenya. Also counts to be a good month for a beach holiday on the Kenyan coast, visiting Lamu Island, Diani, and Watamu. February is also the best month to see the snow-capped Mt. Kilimanjaro in all its glory. This is possible with a safari in Amboseli.

What to do in February

Best for a Safari in Amboseli

February marks one of the best months to visit Kenya since the weather favors lots of activities that you can do. One of the most and arguably the best places you can visit in Kenya in the month of February is Amboseli National Park. You will enjoy scenic views of the lush green savannah plains, and the snow-capped Mt. Kilimanjaro with lots of snow and its glory.

March

Wet Season :- High Season

Temperatures:- High of 22°C and lows of 14°C

In March, the weather tends to change, and the start of the wet season begins. Rain is expected to stay long in so many parts of the country including the Diani beaches and the northern part of the country. The long rains become intensified as the month ends. The plains start to look greener, and dense due to the regeneration of the plantations and bush around these parks. Our recommended safaris are our short tours and flying safaris.

What to do in March

Best for affordable safaris

During this month of the Year, March has nothing much to do due to the rainy season. The start of wet season begins in March. The long rains that stay from March to June, also make these season low in tourism due to the rough roads and fewer wildlife sightings. During this wet season, you can not hike the mountains or visit the beach. Though these are not limitations, you can still make them happen. Safaris are cheap and affordable during this season but recommended you fly.

April

Wet Season :- Low Season

Temperatures:- High of 20°C and lows of 14°C

In April, the rains intensifies in most parts of Tanzania, making it hard to travel. Roads become impassable and hard to drive through them. Although it’s the best time to visit for a luxury safari and enjoy exclusive safari holidays, it will be hard to spot wildlife and enjoy sightings. The best way to safari during this season is by choosing our flying safaris. The wildebeests keep on moving north, staying around Seronera and the Eastern part of Serengeti.

What to do in April

Best for affordable flying safaris

During this month of the Year, April has nothing much to do due to the heavy rainy season. The long rains that stay from March to June, also make these season low in tourism due to the rough roads and fewer wildlife sightings. During this wet season, you can not hike the mountains or visit the beach. Though these are not limitations, you can still make them happen. Safaris are cheap and affordable during this season but it’s recommended you fly.

May

Wet Season :- Low Season

Temperatures:- High of 20°C and lows of 14°C

In May, the rains continue to intensify in most parts of the country, making it hard to traverse the different national parks in Kenya. Roads become impassable and hard to drive through them. Although it’s the best time to visit for a luxury safari and enjoy exclusive safari holidays, it will be hard to spot wildlife and enjoy sightings. The best way to safari during this season is by choosing our flying safaris. In some cases, the month tends to be hot and wet, offering the best chances to enjoy safaris by road.

What to do in May

Best for affordable road and flying safaris

As much as the rains are pounding really hard, the month of May is suitable for a relaxing safari holiday in the bushes. This month is not good for wildlife photography or sightings in any National Park in Kenya. You can do so many other activities in Kenya including balloon rides, and visiting communities and villages. You can as well travel to the countryside for farm tours. Explore some more interesting places in Kenya such as northern Kenya which offers amazing scenic views of mountain ranges and landscapes.

Explore other interesting places such as the Olpejeta Conservation and Laikipia region for family holidays.

June

Wet Season :- Low Season

Temperatures:- High of 20°C and lows of 14°C

June offers a friendly environment and weather for a comfortable safari in Kenya. The month tends to be cold and wet as the rains reduce, making the safari experience favorable. Although the cold season starts off in June and towards July. The wildebeest migration starts to form and herds move closer to crossing points in Grumeti and others almost to Mara River entering Masai Mara. The weather is favorable to do some more excursions such as balloon safaris.

What to do in June

Best for affordable road and flying safaris

June is a favorable month for wildlife sightings in Masai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu, and Tsavo West or East National Parks, and other major wildlife-protected areas in Kenya. You can as well summit Mt. Kenya, engage in farm tours around Nairobi, or even enjoy a balloon safari in the Masai Mara. With the lush green savannah grassland, the bushes are dense, and the grass is tall enough not to spot wildlife. But suitable for a wildebeest migration safari.

July

Cold and Dry Season :- Peak Season

Temperatures:- High of 20°C and lows of 14°C

July starts the peak season of safaris and tours in Tanzania. This month is best visited for the wildebeest crossings in Northern Serengeti. The month is a bit cold with lows of 15 degrees, which marks the winter season. The rains would have ended in June, but the cold season makes it a bit challenging for most people. You spot big cats, wildlife species, and much more, especially in the national parks.

What to do in July

Best for Wildebeest Crossings safaris

July is the best month for the wildebeest migration, hiking Mt. Kilimanjaro, and engaging in most activities that this country offers. Witness the wildebeest crossings up north in Serengeti towards the end of July. Visit the Ngorongoro crater and enjoy sightings of wildlife. There is much you can do in July.

August

Cold and Dry Season :- Peak Season

Temperatures:- High of 26°C and lows of 16°C

One of the best months of the year for wildlife sightings and safari holidays in Kenya. September is hot and dry in most cases. The temperatures are high at 26 degrees, making it easy to spot most wildlife species. Big cats are easily spotted this month. The temperatures are high 26 degrees making it so hot. It’s also the best time to visit various popular safari destinations in Kenya such as Diani and Lamu for beach holidays.

What to do in August

Best for Wildebeest Crossings safaris

August tends to be a busy month, with lots of tourists and guests visiting Kenya for safari holidays. The country receives enough guests making safari destinations crowded. You have a high chance of witnessing the wildebeest crossings in Masai Mara or spending some nights on Dinai or Lamu beach, the best time to hike and summit Mt. Kenya, and also the best time to spot great wildlife sightings in Amboseli and Samburu.

September

Cold and Dry Season :- Peak Season

Temperatures:- High of 26°C and lows of 16°C

September is an extension of what August offers. A pretty good month for an African Safari in Kenya. You can enjoy some interesting holiday activities in September, and enjoy sightings of wildlife since the vegetation thins out and the month remains hot and dry. Easy to Spot wildlife as they get close to water patches and sources. The wildebeest migration also tends to be massive and interesting crossings are spotted during this month. More actions are sighted in Masai Mara as more big cats have plenty of food.

What to do in September

Best for Wildebeest Crossings safaris

September tends to be a busy month, but the number of guests reduces from August, with lots of tourists and guests visiting Kenya, for safari holidays. The country receives enough guests making safari destinations a bit favorable with fewer guests. You witness the wildebeest crossings in Masai Mara or spend some nights on Lamu or Diani beach, the best time to hike and summit Mt. Kenya, and also the best time to spot great wildlife sightings in Amboseli and Samburu.

October

Cold and Dry Season :- Peak Season

Temperatures:- High of 26°C and lows of 16°C

The peak season ends in October. The Month is still hot and dry but short rains usually arrive toward the end of the month. It’s a better month to enjoy wildebeest sightings and crossings with fewer crowds in the reserves and parks in Kenya. The month is quiet and just easy to relax. The Temperatures are favorable for an amazing safari or a beach holiday. The weather is favorable for Mt. Kenya hiking and as well a holiday at the beach.

What to do in October

Best for Wildebeest Crossings safaris

If you are looking to enjoy activities in October in any part of Kenya, book your safari to be in October. It offers off-the-beaten-track safari experiences, hiking Mt. Kilimanjaro, you can fly to Diani and Lamu for your beach holiday and you can visit the Amboseli National Park for large elephant herds and the majestic views of Mt. Kilimanjaro from your tent balcony. Easy to drive through the Mara plains, Samburu reserve, or even through Tsavo East and West National Parks.

November

Wet Season :- High Season

Temperatures:- High of 23°C and lows of 14°C

In November, the rains are little and not much as compared to the long rains in Feb to May and June, but then welcome a cold season of June and July. The temperatures go down from a high of 24 Degrees to a low of up to 18 degrees. a better month to experience a comfortable luxury safari while the plains are green and lush. The grass is tall making sightings hard.

What to do in November

Best for affordable road and flying safaris

November offers a good chance to enjoy safaris and some other activities. The month is hot and wet, but the rains usually end during this month. You can visit the Masai Mara, Amboseli National Park, and other premium parks in Kenya. You will be lucky to spot wildlife such as big cats and other species. It’s also a good month to summit Mt. Kenya.

December

Cold and Dry Season :- High / Peak Season

Temperatures:- High of 26°C and lows of 14°C

December is the month of festivities, the Christmas holidays, and the New year. Lots of people plan for a family safari or a beach holiday during this time. The month is hot and dry. Making a perfect month for a beach holiday in Diani and Lamu. The start of December is noted to be the high season, but as the months close to the festivities, the Peak season comes in.

What to do in December

Best for Wildebeest Crossings safaris

Since December is a festivity month, we recommend you book both a wildlife safari and a beach holiday. These best suit families looking to close the year in a refreshing manner. You can as well visit other premium safari parks in Tanzania such as the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

Kenya Safaris Travel FAQs

Best Time to travel to africa Q&A

If you have any questions regarding the Best Time to travel to Kenya for Safaris, you may find your answer below in our most frequently asked questions. However, don’t be afraid to get in touch if your query is not included in order for our experts to help you design your best Kenya & Tanzania Safaris.

Our team is happy to help discuss any of our safari packages, destinations, or general information, so you have peace of mind! Get in touch with us now.

What's the Best Time to Visit Kenya?

What’s the Best Time to Visit Kenya?

To be precise, the best month to visit Kenya for Safaris is between July and October of every year. Wildlife is in abundance, and the weather is hot during this period, offering a spectacular moments of wildlife sightings. It’s also the best time to visit Masai Mara National Reserve for wildebeest migration and crossings.

What month is best for Kenya safari?

Most Kenya safari destinations are at their best between January and the end of March. The climate is favorable, mostly dry, and hot, and wildlife is in plenty, easy to spot. The rainy season in Kenya is between mid-March to June and again between November and December.

Which is the best month to visit Masai Mara?

June – July – August – September – October

Pleasant temperatures, warm and dry weather, and mostly clear blue skies above. Perfect weather for wildlife sightings and wildebeest migration and crossings the major mara rivers.

Which is the best month to visit Amboseli National Park?

January to March and June to October

The perfect time to visit Amboseli and see Mount Kilimanjaro is between January and March when it’s dry and hot. The season is short since the long rains usually arrive end of February. The mountain is all up this time with all its glory and lots of snow.

The dry season from June to October is generally considered the best time to see wildlife in Amboseli with the hot and dry seasons. Wildlife is in plenty, hence making it a perfect time for Amboseli Safaris.

What is the rainy season in Kenya?

Most parts of Kenya experience two rain seasons: March to May known as the “long rains” and October to December known as the “short rains”. The months of June to August are mainly cool and dry over most parts of the country and are considered the best time for safari in Kenya.

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