Best time to go on Kenya Safari
The wildebeest migration usually reaches the Masai Mara in July and remains until October when they move back to the Serengeti in Tanzania.
A diverse geography means a variable climate across the country but Kenya is considered a year-round destination for both safaris and beach holidays.
The best time to go on Kenya Safari is between January and the end of March; the climate is mild, mostly dry and game viewing is at its peak. Alternatively, a rainy season visit – between mid-March to June and again between October and December – is well worth considering in order to avoid the peak-season crowds and to take advantage of cheaper, off-season rates on accommodation and tours.
If you’re when to go on Kenya Safari for the Masai Mara wildebeest migration, then go between mid-August and late October when the herds have returned from their months in Tanzania’s Serengeti.
The best time to visit Kenya for beach holidays is a moot point: Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast is hot and humid all year round and rain can fall at any time. We would however recommend avoiding the coast during the mid-March to late May season when temperatures and rainfall are at their highest.
Best Time — June to October, January to February (All parks)
High Season — July to November, January and February (Some of the parks get very crowded especially the Masai Mara, Amboseli and Lake Nakuru)
Low Season — March to May (Some lodges and camps in high rainfall areas close down)
Best Weather — June to October (Little to no rainfall)
Worst Weather — March, April and May (Peak of Wet season)
June to October –Dry Season
- Wildlife is easier to spot because the bush is less dense and animals gather around waterholes and rivers
- It’s unlikely to rain, the days are sunny with clear skies, and there are fewer mosquitoes
- July to October are the best months to see the wildebeest migration
- It gets very busy and crowded in the most popular parks
November to May –Wet Season
- The scenery is beautiful and green
- Rates drop because it’s the low season
- Newborn animals can be seen, and in general, you will still see plenty of wildlife
- Migratory birds are present from September to April
- Except for March, April and May, rains are short showers in the afternoon or evening and will rarely compromise your safari
- During March to May the rains can be continuous – some lodges and camps close down during part of the Wet season
For more information on when to go on Kenya Safari, simply enquire with one of our Africa Safari Experts.