Best Time of Year to Visit Kenya for Safari

Kenya remains a top safari destination in Africa with thousands of tourists visiting each year to explore the country’s incredible wildlife areas like the Masai Mara Nationa Reserve, Amboseli National Park, Tsavo, Lake Nakuru, Nairobi National Park, and many more.

The Kenyan climate is always suitable year-round for game drives and other outdoor activities. There is no winter or summer but the country’s wet and dry seasons can influence animal migration patterns and what you must pack when visiting Kenya.

Most of the roads leading to Kenya’s prestigious wildlife habitats are not all weather. They often become impassable during the rains resulting in the closing of some camps. This adds to why it’s important to plan your safari in Kenya during the right season. 

What’s the best time for a safari in Kenya?

June to October is the best time to visit Kenya for safari and bush camping. There’s virtually no rain and the daytime temperatures are not too hot. This season also coincides with the famous great migration with millions of wildebeests, antelope, and zebras arriving in Kenya.

Towards the end of July, the herds start trickling into Masai Mara from Tanzania’s Serengeti. You’ll certainly have a front-row seat to the dramatic river crossing of the herds as they jump from high cliffs into the water of Mara River defying the hungry crocodiles in wait.

The migration season peaks in August and September as the weather remains conducive for game viewing. In October, the migratory herds will start heading back to Serengeti for calving but Masai Mara has no shortage of resident wildlife to keep you delighted.

More places to visit

Ambrose National Park and Tsavo ecosystems are also great places to visit during this dry season, not to mention the Aberdare National Park and private conservancies such as the Mara North, Ol Pejeta, and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. These are great places to see the Big Five and other wildlife. 

Many migratory birds including flamingos arrive in Kenya from June to October. It’s typically the best time for bird lovers to explore Lake Bogoria, Lake Nakuru, and Elementaita to witness these vibrant birds. Make sure to bring your binoculars and a camera with a good scope. 

When visiting Kenya for a safari between June and October, be prepared to deal with crowds, and high rates for hotels and parks. If you are not comfortable with that, you still have other perfect periods to come to Kenya for wildlife sightings and outdoor adventures. 

Other suitable time to visit Kenya

January and February are also the best months for a safari in Kenya. The period lies between the two notable ‘long’ and ‘short’ rain seasons. In this low season, crowds are less, the weather is relatively dry and rates are pocket-friendly. It’s also a good time for a holiday on the Kenyan coast.

If you decide to enjoy a sunbathe at Mombasa or Diani be prepared for high temperatures and a bit of humidity. However, it’s the perfect weather for diving, snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking. Any tour company you are traveling with will take you to the best place you can enjoy.

Wet seasons in Kenya

November, December, and April to June are the short and long rainy months in Kenya respectively. While most national parks and game reserves remain open, roads can become impassable due to muddy landscape. However, with a good safari vehicle, you will still manage.

There are a few benefits of traveling to Kenya for safari during the wet months. There are always no crowds and costs are generally lower. What I also like about this season is the lush green landscape that’s perfect for nature photography as long as the equipment is protected from the elements.

If you are a beach lover, April and May aren’t the right time for powder-soft sand, ocean escape. Rains will be pounding heavily on the Kenyan coast and the beaches at Mombasa or Diani will no longer be a sunshine paradise. 

Is it safe to travel to Kenya?

Kenya has experienced a few episodes of anti-government protests and a few cases of petty theft in its major cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu. This has resulted in a long-standing travel advisory from the US State Department but it’s not a blanket ban for the whole country.

So, traveling to Kenya is safe all the time except for a few areas along the Somali border. However, it’s important to remain informed of the current affairs in the country and possibly avoid traveling to the country on the day when there are street protests.

Like any other place in the world, staying vigilant is recommended especially in crowded areas. Avoid displaying opulence or wearing expensive jewelry especially when walking at night in poorly lit areas. For safe movements use a reputable taxi company or app to get a ride.