Best Time to visit Kenya For Safaris
Best Time for a Kenya Safari Holiday
When Should I 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 January to March, you will enjoy amazing wildlife sightings from the 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 is between January and March. The mountain has lots of snow, the weather is hot, and the vegetation is green, making it 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 January to March, the best time to visit the 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 and end in June. The best time to see the wildebeest migration and crossings in the Masai Mara is between June to October, which is peak season in Kenya.
A beach holiday in Kenya is a vital aspect of your holiday while in Kenya. Combining both your bush expeditions and a beach holiday, your vacation becomes complete. You would wonder when the best time is 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.
Similar to Tanzania, Kenya offers amazing hiking expeditions in the 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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Brief 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.
Kenya Safaris Seasonal Guide
Best Weather Guide to plan your Kenya Safari. We have listed according to months and major destinations in Kenya.
| Season | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Masai Mara | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Amboseli | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Samburu | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Tsavo West | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Tsavo East | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Nairobi | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Laikipia (Lewa, Solio, Loisaba, Olpejeta) | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Meru | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Lake Nakuru | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Lake Naivasha | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Aberdares | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Mount Kenya | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
| Lake Nakuru | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Good | Best | Best | Best | Best | Fair | Good |
Low Season
High Season
Peak Season
Detailed Month by month Kenya Travel guide
month by month Kenya safari guide
We have detailed the best time to visit Kenya by month, including the best times, the climatic conditions, and recommended places to visit within that month. Kindly note that the below monthly details are guided by our long experiences through Kenya Safaris. They might change due to changes in climatic changes.
January
Dry and Hot Season :- High Season
Temperatures:- High of 20°C and lows of 14°C
January is a dry month, with very little rain falling in Kenya. It offers the best time to visit Kenya and enjoy wildlife sightings in the major national parks, reserves, and conservancies that we take our guests to. With the lush green vegetation around after the December rains, it’s the perfect time to enjoy a safari in Kenya with fewer people and less dust.
What to do in January
Best for a Safari in Amboseli, Masai Mara and Samburu
You can do a great deal in Kenya during this time of year while enjoying your safari. Some of the best things to do include summiting the second-highest mountain in Africa, Mt. Kenya, going on a beach holiday vacation in Diani Beach or Lamu, or enjoying a safari in any of the National Parks. The best National parks to visit in January are Amboseli and the Masai Mara.
February
Dry and Hot Season :- High Season
Temperatures:- High of 20°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 Beach, 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 :- Low Season
Temperatures:- High of 20°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 road and flying 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 Kenya, 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.
What to do in April
Best for affordable road and 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 Wildlife Sightings in Major Parks
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 also 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 Kenya. This month is best visited for the wildebeest crossings in Masai Mara. 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 Migration in Masai Mara
July is the best month for the wildebeest migration, hiking Mt. Kenya, and engaging in most activities that this country offers. Witness the wildebeest crossings up north in Serengeti towards the end of July. Visit the Amboseli and enjoy sightings of elephant herds, and Samburu for the special five. There is much you can do in July.
August
Wet Season :- Peak Season
Temperatures:- High of 26°C and lows of 16°C
August is one of the best months to visit Kenya 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 Migration in Masai Mara
September
Wet 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 Migration in Maasai Mara
September tends to be a busy month, but the number of guests is reduced 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 in Amboseli and Samburu.
October
Wet Season :- Peak Season
Temperatures:- High of 26°C and lows of 16°C
The Safari peak season in Kenya 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 affordable road and flying 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
Kenya in November happens to be a rainy month, 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 in Kenya 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 Family Safaris and Calving 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 inKenya such as Masai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu and Tsavo West and East.
Top Kenya Safaris and Tour Itineraries
Best Customised Kenya Safari itineraries
Cheetah Safaris carefully crafts Bush-to-Beach safaris that offer a smooth transition from the wild adventure of East Africa to the beautiful Indian Ocean beaches. Our safaris will take you from the famous Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Serengeti National Parks to the award-winning beaches of Diani, Malindi, and Zanzibar.
Whether you are on a Big Five adventure or simply looking to unwind under a palm tree, we will ensure a smooth transition from the untamed savanna to the peaceful beaches.
Each guest is different, and so should their safari. We are ready to tailor any of our safaris to your exact preferences, budget, and style. Whether you want to spend more days on the beach, go for a hot air balloon ride, or select your luxury camps, we are here to help. Contact our experts today to start planning your customized African adventure.
Cost: 7,130 PPS
No. of Nights 10
Destinations :-
- Amboseli ,
- Lake Naivasha ,
- Lake Nakuru ,
- Masai Mara ,
- Samburu ,
Cost: USD 7,050 PPS
No. of Nights 11
Destinations :-
- Aberdares ,
- Lake Nakuru ,
- Masai Mara ,
- Nairobi ,
- Samburu ,
Book Your Kenya Safari Holidays with Cheetah Safaris
Booking with Cheetah Safaris for your Kenyan Safari vacation means that you will have a professionally guided experience with one of the best ground safari companies. With 15 years of experience, we provide smooth logistics and security for your finances, so you can visit all the famous sites in Kenya, including Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Samburu, with complete peace of mind.
We understand the excitement of discovery, which is why we use customized 4×4 Land Cruisers. Our vehicles are equipped with 360-degree pop-up roofs and charging points, so every passenger enjoys a window seat for unobstructed photography and convenience on the rugged terrain of the savannah.
At Cheetah Safaris, our passion for delivering memorable safaris is a family affair. Our guides are KPSGA Silver and Gold Award winners and expert trackers who will make the natural world come alive with their educational knowledge, so that every encounter with the Big Five or the Great Migration becomes a life-changing experience.
Financial Protection
You are guranteed of a safe, and peace of mind booking process, and as well safari payments. We ensure that your payments are secure and safe.
Sustainable Practices
Keeping in mind our efforts in wildlife, environment and natural resources protections, we are sustainable travel conscious and aware.
Ground Safari Expert
We Know Africa more than any one. We love taking our guests to the less explored destinations. Experiencing the magical touch of African Wild.
Positive Impact
Our Safaris are not only sustainable, but create very positive impacts to so many. We engage in school programmes, that inspires our future leaders.
15 Years of Experience
Cheetah Safaris has a combined of 69 years of safari expertise and practice in Africa. We will take care of your safari from arrival till departure.
Proffessional Guides
We have the best safari guides in East Africa. All our guides are Silver and Gold Guides. Hence you will learn so much with them while on safari.
Kenya safaris FAQs
Having Questions? Learn about our Kenya Safaris Bookings Q&A
If you have any questions regarding any of our Kenya Safari tours, 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 for our experts to help you design your best Bush and Kenya 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.
When is the wildebeest migration in Kenya?
The wildebeest migration takes place in Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve between July and October, with the peak river crossing taking place between August and September. During this time, large herds of wildebeests migrate from the Serengeti in Tanzania to graze the lush grass of the Mara.
Which months are best for spotting predators in Kenya?
The optimal periods for predator sightings in Kenya are June to October (dry season/migration) and January to February. At these times, the limited vegetation and water availability cause animals to congregate, making it easier to observe lions, leopards, and cheetahs in the Masai Mara, Amboseli, and other major national parks.
Are there mosquitoes in Kenya?
Yes, there are mosquitoes in Kenya, and they are always present throughout the year because of the tropical climate, and their numbers are higher during the rainy seasons, which occur between April and June and between November and December.
What should I pack for a Kenya safari?
Pack neutral-colored, breathable layers (khaki/beige) to blend in and avoid tsetse flies. Bring a warm fleece for cooler mornings, closed shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, and insect repellent. Most importantly, do not bring any plastic bags, as they are illegal in Kenya.
Pack For a Purpose
Cheetah Safaris is a serious advocate of sustainable safari practices in Africa. As part of our efforts and initiative, we engage and support schools and children who need knowledge to better their lives. The best gift a child can be given is education, skills, and creativity.
In this case, we request our guests booking with us, to bring an extra back of supplies. This can be in terms of books, sports materials, and any other items that would change the lives of these kids.
- Education
- Sustainable Travel
- Wildlife Conservation
Let us help you customize your trip
Like all of our holidays on this site, this is just an idea. All of our trips are tailor-made, so we’ll always adapt them to suit you.
Talk to an Expert
Browse our Cheetah Safaris Website. We’ll match you with a Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you plan your next safari adventure. To start, submit your Safari Inquiries.
Prepare for your trip
Our Safari experts will be of help in planning your safari from start to end. They will advise you on all that you need to pack and travel documents, too. They will be ready to answer any queries you have.
When you return
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