Wondering what the best time to visit Kenya, Africa, is? This article is the ultimate guide for when the best time to go to Kenya really is.
Kenya’s weather is varied, but that’s what makes it exciting! The country’s geography, which spans the equator, means that temperatures are generally consistent, but humidity and rainfall can vary significantly.
The Kenyan climate is shaped by two main factors: the Indian Ocean’s monsoon winds and altitude. The winds bring two rainy seasons: the “long rains” from late April to early June and the “short rains” in November and December. The dry seasons occur from November through mid-December to March/April and June to October.
The best time for a safari is from July to October, when the Great Migration happens. This fantastic time is also great for climbing and outdoor activities in Kenya’s national parks and national reserves.
If you love the beach, Kenya’s coast is warm and humid all year round. If you’re on a budget, consider visiting during the wet seasons (March to May and November to December) when safari prices are lower.
Overall, Kenya is a great travel destination to visit any time of the year, whether by birdwatchers, wildlife, or safari enthusiasts, and this is a detailed overview of the weather and climate.
Kenya Weather by Month
The Kenya weather varies by month, with a long/short rainy season from March to May and November to December and long/short dry seasons from June to October. This is a detailed description of the months:
1) Kenya in January
January is one of the best times to visit Kenya, with dry season weather making it ideal for safaris, birdwatching, hiking, and beach activities.
The country experiences hot days and warm nights in this month, January, which is a high season/shoulder season, with average temperatures ranging from 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C), making it the height of summer in Europe.
Best Places to Visit in Kenya in January
- Maasai Mara Game Reserve
- Hell’s Gate and Amboseli National Parks
- Mombasa, Diani, Malindi beaches
- Mount Kenya
- Laikipia Plateau
- Lewa conservancy
- Central highlands
- Nairobi for city exploration and attending festivals like the Nairobi Restaurant Week to attend and savor the local cuisine.
Fun Tourist Activities Done in January
- Game viewing as animals gather around watering spots like Mara River, giving tourists front-row seats to Kenya’s incredible fauna.
- Guided safari drives (to see big cats, crocodiles, and Big 5 safari animals)
- Birdwatching at L. Nakuru
- Wildlife photography
- Hiking and trekking
- Cultural tours and visits to local communities
- Beach activities and water sports in coastal regions like diving, snorkeling, and scuba diving
When visiting Kenya in January, be sure to book accommodations and safari tours in advance and pack wisely, including warm clothing and comfortable shoes.
2) Kenya in February Weather
February is another of the best time to visit Kenya, with sunny and dry season weather prevailing throughout the country.
Temperatures are mild in this shoulder season, ranging from 61°F to 79°F (16°C to 26°C), making it ideal for outdoor activities like safaris, hiking, and beach relaxation.
It’s a peak tourist season, with higher safari prices and larger crowds, but the dry season conditions are perfect for game viewing (to see predatory action and young herbivores), with minimal rainfall and easy access to savannahs, ideal conditions for several other Kenya safaris.
Top Kenya Tourist Places to Visit in February
- Maasai Mara National Reserve
- Amboseli National Park
- Nairobi City
- Central Highlands
- Hell’s Gate NP
- L. Nakuru NP
- Mombasa and Malindi
- Mount Kenya NP
- Tsavo NP
- Samburu, Buffalo Springs, and Shaba National Reserves
Adventurous Activities Done In February
- Game viewing to spot the Great Migration and predators in Maasai Mara Game Reserve, large herds of elephants, and Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli NP, etc.
- Game drives to spot the big 5 safari animals
- Kenya Photo Safaris
- Cultural tours and visits to local communities
- Enjoying Mombasa and Malindi Beach activities and water sports in Indian Ocean coastline regions (diving, snorkeling because of clear skies, excellent water visibility, etc.).
- Whale watching in coastal regions
- Climbing Mount Kenya
- Helicopter tours
- Exploring Nairobi’s cultural and historical sites and nightlife
- Hiking and biking in Hell’s Gate NP
- Birding to spot pink flamingos in L. Nakuru NP
This is a high and peak tourist season, so booking your safaris in advance is strongly recommended!
3) Kenya in March Weather
March is also one of the best times to visit Kenya, with warm weather, lush landscapes, and exciting events.
Although March in Kenya marks the start of the wet season (the beginning of the green season rains), the early part of the month offers excellent game viewing opportunities.
The key highlights of this month are warm temperatures ranging from 59°F to 91°F (15°C to 33°C), providing ideal conditions for lush landscapes to bloom, perfect for safaris, and lower prices and discounts on accommodations and tours before the heavy rains start.
Good Places to Visit in Kenya in March
- Maasai Mara Game Reserve
- Amboseli National Park
- Nairobi City
- Mount Kenya NP
- Coastal Kenya
- L. Nakuru NP
- Hell’s Gate NP
- Tsavo NP
Interesting Activities Done in March
- Wildlife sightings (witness the calving season)
- Safari drives (witness the big cats in action in Tsavo)
- Birdwatching (spot migratory bird species and flamingos at L. Nakuru)
- Photography (get stunning captures of Mount Kilimanjaro and fauna in Amboseli)
- Nairobi City tour to see the city’s cultural and historical sites, e.g., the Nairobi National Museum, and attend events like the East African Community Arts Festival.
- Hiking and trekking (Mt. Kenya and Hell’s Gate)
- Cultural tours and visits to local communities
- Beach activities and water sports in coastal regions (snorkeling and diving before the last week of March when the rains start)
- Fishing
Book your Kenya safari today and enjoy all these tourist activities!
4) Weather in Kenya in April—Long Rainy Season
The month of April is a low or green season characterized by warm and rainy weather, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) and considered the best month to visit Kenya.
The long rainy season (green season) brings significant rainfall (some short rains or short showers may occur at night), bringing rise to lush, beautifully green vegetation, but with challenging safari drives due to muddy roads, smaller crowds, and hence lower safari prices.
Amazing Places to Visit in Kenya in April
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy for endangered species
- Aberdare
- Mt Kenya
- Giraffe Centre for up-close giraffe encounters
- Central Highlands
- Mombasa and the Kenyan coastline for hot and sunny weather
- Kenya National Parks for lush vegetation and challenging safari drives
Safari Activities Done In April
The moody skies and lush green landscapes in this long rainy season are perfect.
- Photography
- Visiting animal conservancies and sanctuaries
- Mild Safari drives
- Indoor Birdwatching
- Cultural experiences
- Beach activities and water sports in coastal regions
- Easter celebrations and festivities
When visiting Kenya in April, be prepared for rain and muddy roads, protect your equipment with waterproof gear, and take advantage of lower safari prices and smaller crowds.
5) Weather in Kenya in May—Low Season
Kenya in May is characterized by warm temperatures, high humidity, and heavy rainfall, making it a long rainy season or low season for tourism but a good month to visit the nation for those seeking tranquility.
However, it’s a wonderful time characterized by quieter tourist spots, lower accommodation rates, and tour packages that are perfect for several tours.
Best Places to Visit in Kenya in May
- Samburu Game Reserve in Northern Kenya
- Nairobi City
Fun Safari Activities to Do in May
- Cultural experiences
- Moderate safari drives
- Photography to capture stunning photos of the lush vegetation, vibrant colors, and dramatic skies.
- Good Game Viewing (Spot wildlife gathering on the riverbanks of Ewaso Ngiro River)
- Nairobi City tours to see the city attractions as you enjoy the cooler temperatures, with daytime averages of 70°F to 77°F (21°C to 25°C).
- Birding tours
- Swimming can be done, but in hotels and safari lodges with swimming pools.
- Partake in the Rhino Charge, a charity event.
Please note that safari drives in the national parks could be challenging unless you use a 4×4 safari vehicle to navigate the muddy trails.
When visiting Kenya in May, be prepared for heavy rainfall and high humidity, pack waterproof gear and mosquito repellents, and take advantage of lower prices and quieter tourist spots.
6) Kenya in June Weather
June is also the best time to visit Kenya, as it is characterized by warm and sunny weather, with minimal rainfall, making it an ideal time for outdoor safari activities.
The country transitions from the rainy season to the peak and long dry season, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F), characterized by warm and sunny weather giving way to cooler temperatures in the mornings and evenings. Therefore, late June marks the end of the “long rains.”
Good Kenya Tourist Places to Visit in June
- Masai Mara National Reserve
- Amboseli National Park
- Meru National Park
- Kenya highlands
- Diani Beach
What to Do in June
During these long rains or wet season, travelers can partake in
- Wildlife Spotting (witness the start of the Great Migration)
- Safari drives (enjoy stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and giant elephants at watering holes in Amboseli)
- Birdwatching and photography (spot distinctive bird species and watch animals congregate at water sources)
- Hiking and trekking
- Cultural tours and visits to local communities
- Water activities like diving and snorkeling in coastal regions
- Attend festivals like the Lake Turkana festival in the Rift Valley.
- Participate in major celebrations and events like the June 1st Madaraka Day.
- Mid-year school holidays, ideal for family travel
When visiting Kenya in June, be sure to book accommodations in advance, pack warm clothing for cooler mornings and evenings, and enjoy the scenic landscapes and abundant wildlife on safaris
7) Weather in Kenya in July
July is the best month for safari in Kenya; therefore, it is often referred to as the peak season/high season/long dry season/migration season.
Kenya in July is characterized by mild and dry season conditions, ideal for several outdoor activities. The country experiences a cool, dry season, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 27°C (63°F to 81°F), bringing the peak tourist season in full swing.
Amazing Places to Visit in Kenya in July
- Masai Mara (witness the migration of the first large migratory herds of wildebeests as they start arriving from Serengeti crossing Mara River)
- Nairobi (tour the city’s vibrant downtown and Nairobi National Park)
- Mombasa (enjoy the beautiful white sand beaches, water sports, and vibrant culture)
- Amboseli National Park (to spot wildlife and migratory birds)
- L. Nakuru (spot huge flocks of pink flamingos)
- Tsavo East NP (if looking for fewer crowds)
What to Do in July
- Easy animal sightings due to thinning vegetation
- Wildlife viewing as animals flock to the scarce watering holes available
- Spotting the migration of wildebeest and zebras as they start arriving in Masai Mara.
- Safari drives
- Birding tours
- Photography safaris
- Hiking and trekking
- Cultural tours
- Water sports and beach vacations in coastal regions
When visiting Kenya for safaris in July, book accommodations in advance at least 3 months prior, expect high safari prices and crowds in popular destinations, and enjoy the exciting wildlife experiences and comfortable weather conditions.
8) Weather in Kenya in August
The month of August is also a high season/peak tourist season considered one of the best times to visit Kenya that is characterized by mild and long dry season conditions with pleasant temperatures, ranging from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F), and ideal for outdoor tourist activities.
In this month, August, the Great Wildebeest Migration is in full swing, with easy animal sightings due to thinning vegetation.
Top Places to Visit in Kenya in August
- Masai Mara
- Nairobi National Park
- Other national parks, sanctuaries, and conservancies if seeking fewer crowds
Things to Do in August
Safari activities to enjoy in this high season are
- Wildlife viewing, as it is peak migration season in Masai Mara.
- Safari drives
- Birding tours
- Kenya photo safaris
- Hiking and trekking
- Cultural tours
- Water sports and beach activities like scuba diving, surfing, swimming, kayaking, etc. in coastal regions
For a memorable Kenya African safari, book accommodations in advance, as August is peak tourist season, so expect high safari prices and crowds in popular destinations.
9) Kenya in September Weather—Peak and Migration Season
September is a good time for Kenya safaris as it encompasses mild and long dry season weather, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 27°C (63°F to 81°F), clear skies, and minimal rainfall, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities for every interest and adventure level.
Amazing Places to Visit in Kenya in September
- Masai Mara National Reserve
- Nairobi City
- Diani Beach
- Lake Nakuru (spot huge flocks of pink flamingos)
- Lake Naivasha
- Ol Pejeta
Fun Tourist Activities Done in September
Some of the activities done in this high season include
- Wildlife viewing (witness the last group of zebras and wildebeest migration in Masai Mara, spot wildlife, including the Big Five in Ol Pejeta, etc.)
- Game drives
- Nairobi city tours to attend events like Jamafest, Nairobi Restaurant Week, etc.
- Birdwatching at Lake Naivasha and Nakuru for pink flamingo displays
- Photography
- Hiking and trekking
- Cultural tours and visits to local communities
- Beach vacations and water sports in coastal regions
Visiting Kenya in September requires advance accommodation bookings, preparation for peak season prices and crowds, and promises exciting wildlife experiences in pleasant weather at the latter part of the month mainly.
10) Weather in Kenya in October
October is another of the best times to explore the nation, as it offers warm and dry season weather with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F); some short rains may be experienced, making it ideal for witnessing the still ongoing Great Wildebeest Migration in the Maasai Mara, with easy animal sightings and fewer visitors, while also enjoying other activities on a Kenya safari.
Best Places to Visit in Kenya in October
- Maasai Mara Game Reserve
- Nairobi
- Central Highlands
- L. Nakuru (spot huge flocks of pink flamingos)
- Lake Bogoria (the abundance of algae attracting millions of flamingos)
Interesting Safari Activities to Do in October
Some of the things to do in this high tourism season are
- Wildlife Spotting (witness the Great Migration or migratory herds leave Maasai Mara)
- Nairobi city tours (attend events, e.g., Tusker safari rugby sevens, Diwali, Mashujaa day)
- Game drives
- Birdwatching in Lake Nakuru and Lake Bogoria
- Photography
- Hiking and trekking
- Cultural Experiences
- Beach activities and water sports in coastal regions
- Halloween celebrations
Book ahead and be prepared for crowds, but October’s comfortable weather and exciting wildlife experiences make it a lovely time to visit and enjoy a safari in Kenya.
11) Kenya in November Weather
November, one of the shoulder season months/start of the short rainy season (short rains), is one of the best times to go to Kenya, characterized by warm and sunny weather, with daytime temperatures of 23-28°C (73-82°F) and nighttime temperatures of 15-20°C (59-68°F), ideal for outdoor activities and festivals, with fewer visitors and lower prices.
Outstanding Tourist Places to Visit in Kenya in November
- Maasai Mara Game Reserve
- Nairobi (for city tours)
- Indian Ocean Coastline beaches
- Mombasa
- Lamu archipelago in the northern coast (to attend the Lamu cultural festival)
What to Do in Kenya in November
- Game viewing action continues to witness elephant herds, the big five, baby animals, migratory birds, and other wildlife as the great migration is over by this time.
- Game drives
- Kenya tourism cities tours, e.g., Nairobi, Mombasa, etc.
- Birding
- Photography
- Hiking and trekking tours
- Cultural tours and visits to local communities
- Beach vacations and water sports in coastal regions
- Attend festivals like Mombasa Carnival and Lamu Cultural Festival.
Please note that it is important to book lodgings in advance, as most safari lodges and safari camps close, like in the Laikipia plateau.
Visit Kenya and enjoy wilderness safaris in this month for memorable Kenya safari experiences!
12) Weather in Kenya in December
December is a lovely time to visit Kenya, with warm and sunny weather with some short rains, daytime temperatures of 24-29°C (75-84°F), and nighttime temperatures of 16-21°C (61-70°F), supporting the bloom of lush landscapes and providing a perfect festive atmosphere.
Top Tourist Places to Visit in December
- Kenya National Parks, e.g., Masai Mara, Meru National Park, Amboseli, Hell’s Gate, Samburu in Northern Kenya, among other southern and northern parks, etc.
- National museums in Kenya
- Indian Ocean coastline beaches
- Symbolic historical sites
Adventurous Safari Activities to Do in Kenya in December
Some of the activities done in this month by tourists on Kenya safari include
- Good game viewing and game drives (to see the Big Five and other wildlife)
- Birdwatching and photography (to see migratory birds)
- Hiking and trekking
- Cultural tours and visits to local communities
- Beach vacations and water sports in coastal regions
- Attending cultural events and festivals like Jamhuri Day when Kenya marks its 1963 Independence Day, Rusinga Cultural Festival (L. Victoria), and Beneath the Baobabs Festival (Kilifi), etc.
- Christmas and New Year’s celebrations and festivities
Please note that booking your accommodation at least 3 months in advance if looking forward to visiting Kenya in early December is crucial, as these tend to fill up faster because of the festive season.
Book your next vacation to Kenya today and enjoy all these safari activities firsthand for memorable experiences!
Best Time to Visit Kenya, Africa: FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
-
Is It Safe To Travel To Kenya Right Now?
This beautiful country is one of the safest African countries on the continent, with most of the tourist destinations guarded by national security operatives, but as a tourist, it’s best to be cautious in keeping your personal belongings safe.
-
Is Kenya Expensive To Visit?
This nation is a moderately priced travel destination, with reasonable costs for food, accommodation, and transportation, making it an affordable option within Africa compared to other African countries.
-
What Is Peak Season In Kenya?
The peak season in Kenya is from June to October and December to March, offering ideal safari conditions with mild and dry weather, perfect for spotting the “Big Five” in locations like Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Lake Nakuru, etc.
-
What Is The Best Month To Go To Kenya? | What Is The Best Month To Visit Kenya? | Which Is The Best Month To Visit Kenya?
July in Kenya is the best month to visit this nation, especially if interested in safaris and wildlife sightings, e.g., of the great migration, big 5 safari animals, etc.
-
What Is The Best Time Of Year To Go On Safari In Kenya? | What Is The Best Time To Go On Safari In Kenya?
The best time for a Kenya safari is during the dry season, from June to October and January to March, offering ideal game viewing conditions.
-
What Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Kenyan Coast?
The best time for a beach holiday on the Kenyan coast is from October to March, with ideal conditions for diving, snorkeling, and water sports, thanks to warm and dry weather.
-
What Is The Hottest Month In Kenya? | What Month Is The Hottest In Kenya?
February is usually the hottest month in Kenya, characterized by hot and dry weather with little to no rain and temperatures ranging from the upper 70s F to low 90s F.
-
What Is The Mosquito Season In Kenya?
In Kenya, mosquito populations surge during rainy seasons (March-May and Oct-Dec), increasing malaria risk. Pack bug spray and insect repellent cream year-round, especially for coastal and Lake Victoria areas.
-
What Is The Rainy Season In Kenya?
Kenya has two rainy seasons: the “Long Rains” from March to May and the “Short Rains” from October to December, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in April, May, and November.
-
When Should I Fly To Kenya?
It’s best to fly and tour Kenya from June to October for dry weather and wildlife spotting, but it’s a year-round destination with varying regional Kenyan climate zones.
-
Which Months Are Best To Visit Kenya?
The best time to visit Kenya is from June to October, offering dry weather, mild temperatures, and ideal conditions for wildlife spotting and outdoor activities.
In conclusion, June to October is the most wonderful time to visit Kenya, boasting dry weather, mild temperatures, and prime game spotting conditions, making it an ideal period for an unforgettable safari and beach holiday experience. Contact us, your safari experts, to customize a good Kenya safari package for you now!