Planning your Kenyan adventure? With diverse climates across safari parks, beaches, and mountains, timing is everything. This definitive guide breaks down the best time to visit Kenya for every travel style and destination.
Kenya’s Seasons at a Glance
Season | Months | Characteristics |
Dry Season | Jan-Feb, Jun-Oct | Peak Wildlife Viewing |
Long Rains | Mar-May | Lush Landscapes, Fewer Crowds |
Short Rains | Nov-Dec | Brief Showers, Great Birding |
“Pair with our complete-safari-packing-list-for-kenya-what-to-bring for seasonal preparation.”
Month-by-Month Breakdown
January-February: Prime Safari Season
✔ Great weather – Warm days cool nights
✔ Calving season in southern parks (predator action)
✔ Best for: Maasai Mara, Amboseli, beach holidays
March-May: Long Rains (Low Season)
✔ Fewer tourists & lower prices
✔ Migratory birds present
✔ Best for: Photography, Tsavo, Lake Nakuru
June-October: Peak Wildlife Viewing
✔ Great Migration in Mara (Jul-Oct)
✔ Dust-free skies for Kilimanjaro views
✔ Best for: All national parks, mountain climbing
November-December: Short Rains
✔ Landscapes turn green
✔ Baby animals everywhere
✔ Best for: Samburu, birdwatching, coastal trips
Best Time for Specific Activities
Activity | Recommended Months | Why? |
Wildebeest Migration | Jul-Oct | River Crossings In Mara |
Beach Holidays | Jan-Feb, Jun –Sep | Sunny And Dry |
Mountain Climbing | Jan-Feb, Aug-Sep | Stable Weather |
Birdwatching | Nov-Apr | Migrants Present |
Photographic Safaris | Apr-May | Dramatic Skies |
“Explore top-birdwatching-spots-in-kenya-ultimate-birders-guide during migration season.”
Regional Climate Variations
1. Safari Parks
– Maasai Mara: Best Jul-Oct (Migration)
– Amboseli: Best Jun-Oct & Jan-Feb
– Northern Parks (Samburu): Best Jun-Sep & Jan-Mar
2. Kenya Coast
– Best: Jan-Feb, Jun-Oct (Avoid Apr-May)
– Water Temp: 26-29°C year-round
3. Mount Kenya Region
– Climbing Season: Jan-Feb, Aug-Sep
– Avoid: April, November (Heavy rains)
Special Events Calendar
✔ Marathon Month (Feb) – Safaricom Marathon
✔ Migration Season (Jul-Oct) – Mara River crossings
✔ Cultural Festivals (Aug) – Lamu Cultural Festival
Crowd Levels & Pricing
Period | Crowds | Prices |
Peak Season(Jul-Oct) | High | Premium |
Shoulder Season(Jan-Feb) | Medium | Moderate |
Low Season(Apr-May) | Low | Discounted |
Pro Tip: Book 6-9 months ahead for peak season!
Book Your Perfect Timing
Wildebeest Migration Safaris offers year-round itineraries:
✔ Migration Specials (Jul-Oct)
✔ Green Season Discounts (Apr-May)
✔ Custom Date Planning
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +254 707125675
🌐 View Packages: https://wildebeestmigrationsafaris.co.ke/
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