On this information, you’ll uncover the most effective time to go to Kenya and its wildlife safaris, historic websites, cities, seashores, festivals, mountains, and extra.
This submit accommodates some detailed data and my opinions on totally different journey seasons, climate situations, and the most effective issues to do in every month.
Kenya has three fundamental journey seasons: peak, shoulder, and low. These seasons are based mostly on climate situations skilled within the nation all year long (wet intervals or dry months).
The coastal area is normally sizzling and humid all year-round, however in Nairobi and the hinterland, daytime temperatures vary between 17°C and 29°C.
Kenya usually experiences lengthy rains from March to Might and quick rains from late October to mid-December. January and February are normally heat, whereas the months from June to October are dry. Typically July is chilly, however travels inside the nation are tremendous.
In my travels round Kenya, my house nation, I’ve skilled all seasons in several areas. So, that can assist you plan your journey, listed below are my suggestions for the most effective time to go to Kenya.
Fast Look: Finest Time to Go to Kenya For
Wildlife Safaris: January and February, June to October
Seashore Trip: Year-round
Fewer Crowds: March to May
The Finest Climate: January and February, June to October
General Finest Time To Go to Kenya
I used to be born and raised in Kenya’s central highlands and lived in Nairobi and Laikipia. As a traveler and native tour information, I’ve additionally wandered to many corners of the nation throughout totally different months.
For essentially the most half, climate situations are good, and deciding when to go to Kenya relies on your finances, out there time, and stuff you wish to see and do.
For finances vacationers and those that want fewer crowds, the shoulder season (November and December) and off-season (March to Might) are your greatest guess.
Nevertheless, the general greatest time to go to Kenya is in the course of the dry season, from June to early October. This peak season additionally coincides with the annual “twin migration” – wildebeest and zebras in Masai Mara and the humpback whales in Watamu.
Peak Season in Kenya (Finest Season to Go to Kenya)
June to October
Though wildlife viewing in Kenya is comparatively good all year long, the height season falls between June and October. That is the dry climate interval, and most locations are open to vacationers.
You may go to for safari journeys to Masai Mara, historic excursions in Mombasa, humpback whale watching in Watamu, wildlife viewing at Nairobi National Park, and a lot extra fantastic causes.
Throughout this excessive season, safari parks and game reserves (particularly Masai Mara, Nairobi, Amboseli, and Tsavo) are crowded, and lodging charges are excessive. The identical goes for seaside locations and well-known locations like Hell’s Gate National Park and Mount Longonot.
January and February
The season from January to February is one other nice time to go to Kenya. As a result of dry climate throughout these months, wild animals go to waterholes in giant numbers, providing vacationers an ideal probability to see them up shut.
It’s additionally a wonderful season to discover seashores, go climbing, and attend festivals just like the Safaricom International Jazz Festival and Nairobi Restaurant Week.
For my part, that is the most effective time of yr to go to Kenya. Most locations are much less crowded, and charges on safaris and lodging are comparatively low.
☞ SEE ALSO: Top 10 Best Beaches in Kenya
Shoulder Season in Kenya (Late October, November & December)
Though Kenya experiences heavy rains between October and December, tourism isn’t largely affected. Throughout this era, peak season crowds are changed by native vacationers and holidaymakers.
Recreation parks and seaside locations like Mombasa are normally flocked to capability, however charges are comparatively higher than in the course of the peak season – owing to Christmas season reductions.
In addition to safaris, climbing, and wildlife viewing, this time of yr can also be nice for festivals and vacation occasions. You may attend the Lamu Cultural Festival (November), Nairobi Metropolis Pageant (December), and the superb Rusinga Festival (additionally in December).
The highlights for Kenyans throughout this era are Mashujaa Day (Heroes) in October and Jamhuri Day (Republic) in December. Beneath The Baobabs can also be the proper occasion to attend to shut the yr and usher in a contemporary one.
☞ SEE ALSO: 15 Best Places to Visit in Kenya
Off-Season in Kenya (March to Might)
March to Might is the interval of lengthy rains in Kenya. Wildlife retreat into the bush, and driving to most locations turns into a problem. Nevertheless, locations like Masai Mara and coastal locations are nonetheless simply accessible.
Typically the lengthy rains are late and vacationers who dare to go to throughout this off-season are extremely rewarded. The nation is amazingly inexperienced, there aren’t any crowds alongside seashores and climbing trails, and journey prices are considerably decrease.
For the final couple of years, climate patterns have modified. The lengthy rains have been unpredictable, and it’s been widespread to see just a few days of downpours in April.
So, for those who’re planning a visit to Kenya, don’t be discouraged by the off-season. You may simply get pleasure from all the advantages of peak season at extremely discounted charges.
☞ SEE ALSO: 15 Best Trails For Hiking in Kenya
Finest Time of 12 months for a Safari in Kenya
The height season between June and October is the most effective time to go to Kenya for safari. The climate is dry, roads resulting in nationwide parks and sport reserves are satisfactory, and wildlife is considerable throughout this time.
The Masai Mara Nationwide Reserve is the preferred vacation spot within the nation for wildlife safaris. Worldwide and native vacationers flock to the sport reserve to expertise the annual wildebeest migration, which peaks in August.
Apart from the Masai Mara, Kenya is house to different locations that are equally nice for safaris. You may go to Amboseli for elephants, Tsavo East for lions, Lake Nakuru for rhinos, Arabuko Sokoke for birdwatching, and Watamu Marine Park for diving and snorkeling.
For those who’re into much less traveled safari locations, head to Meru National Park for the large 5, Samburu National Reserve for the large cats, Lake Bogoria for flamingos, or Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park to swim and snorkel with dolphins.
For those who’re planning a safari journey to Kenya, be a part of this guided tour to find the wonders of the Masai Mara Nationwide Reserve. It’s an epic 4-day safari that features visiting Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park.
When to Go to Kenya for Seashores
The Kenyan coast has a tropical local weather and might be explored year-round. Nevertheless, the height season is the most effective time to go to its magnificent seashores and islands. Visiting in peak season lets you mix a seaside trip with safaris and outside actions in different components of the nation.
Aside from December, most seaside places are much less crowded, permitting you to chill out and rewind. It’s also possible to boost your expertise with watersport actions corresponding to browsing, swimming, snorkeling, and dhow (a conventional crusing vessel) cruising.
Mombasa, Nyali, Diani, Galu Kinondo, Watamu, and Shela are a number of the best beaches in Kenya. These seashores function stretches of white sands, luxurious resorts, and good eating places, splendid for every type of vacationers – solo, {couples}, and households.
☞ SEE ALSO: Top 10 Best Beaches in Mombasa
When to Go to Kenya For Festivals
Festivals in Kenya happen all year long. They embrace occasions and actions referring to native tradition, arts, music, sports activities, literature, and movie.
Based mostly on my experiences within the nation, February, June, August, November, and December are the most effective months to go to Kenya for festivals.
That will help you resolve when to go to, beneath, is a listing of a few of Kenya’s greatest festivals and occasions – and after they happen:
- Nairobi Restaurant Week (10 days in January or February)
- StoryMoja Pageant (5 days in February)
- Safaricom Worldwide Jazz Pageant (1 day in February)
- Madaraka Day (1st June)
- The Lewa Safari Marathon (June)
- Rhino Cost (1 day in June)
- Lake Turkana Pageant (4 days in June)
- Maralal Worldwide Camel Derby (3 days in August)
- Lamu Yoga Pageant (5 days in October)
- Mashujaa Day (twentieth October)
- Lamu Cultural Pageant (normally 3 days in November)
- Nairobi Metropolis Pageant (December)
- Jamhuri Day (twelfth December)
- Rusinga Pageant (final Thursday and Friday earlier than Christmas)
- Beneath The Baobabs – Kilifi New 12 months (3 days in December)
When to Go to Kenya For Cities
There are 4 cities in Kenya (Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru) and several other main vacationer cities like Nanyuki, Diani, Watamu, and Naivasha. These cities and cities have distinctive points of interest and experiences for all types of vacationers.
I’ve visited all Kenyan cities in all months of the yr, and I like to recommend visiting them in the course of the dry season. The wet interval (March to Might) comes with floods, and most locations are much less accessible.
For those who’re interested in wildlife and city walking tours, go to Nairobi. For stunning seashores and genuine Swahili meals, go to Mombasa. Watamu and Diani are good for watersports, whereas Naivasha is a superb city for journey.
Ensure you go to Nakuru metropolis for wildlife and archaeological sites, Nanyuki city for nightlife and conservation, and Kisumu metropolis for hidden gems and historic websites – like Kit Mikayi and Thimlich Ohinga.
See extra articles about Kenyan cities and cities:
When to Go to Kenya For Historic Websites
Most vacationers go to Kenya for wildlife safaris, seashores, climbing trails, cities, and cultural facilities. They usually overlook museums, wealthy historic websites, and ruins distributed throughout the nation.
For my part, the most effective time to go to historic websites in Kenya is in the course of the dry season as a result of you can too do different actions like safaris throughout your keep. The dry season is in the course of the months of January and February and the excessive season is between June and October.
For those who’re interested by Kenyan historical past, heritage, and tradition, a number of the greatest locations to go to are listed beneath. They embrace museums, historic facilities, ruins, and nationwide monuments.
- Lamu Previous City, Lamu Archipelago
- Mombasa Previous City, Mombasa Island
- Nationwide Museum of Kenya, Nairobi
- Kenya Railway Museum, Nairobi
- Equipment Mikayi, Kisumu
- Thimlich Ohinga, Migori
- Kimathi Monument, Nyeri
- Italian Battle Memorial Church, Nyeri
- Kaya Kinondo Sacred Forest, Galu
- Kobi Fora Museum, Turkana
- The Crying Stone, Kakamega
- Ruins of Gedi, Watamu
- Jumba La Mtwana, Mtwapa
- Kongo Mosque, Diani
- Mnarani ruins, Kilifi
When to Go to Kenya For Whale Watching
Kenya is synonymous with the good wildebeest migration within the Mara. Nevertheless, an much more spectacular migration happens alongside its coast – the humpback whales migration.
1000’s of big humpback whales journey from the Antarctic to Kenya between July and September to breed and nurse their calves.
Because of its secure and heat tropical waters, Watamu is among the greatest locations to observe these marine creatures on their journey. Guests flock to the coastal city and wait expectantly for the breathtaking spectacle of watching the whales bounce and dance fantastically within the waters.
Dolphin watching can also be widespread in Kenya between November and March. These stunning marine mammals fill the waters round Wasini Island and might be simply noticed from dhows.
For those who’d prefer to swim and snorkel with dolphins, join this trip to Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park and Wasini Island.
Hemingways Watamu is among the greatest locations to remain whereas within the space. It’s a phenomenal boutique resort providing nice lodging and eating companies. The resort additionally organizes humpback whale-watching journeys in Watamu.
When to Go to Kenya For Mountain climbing
My favourite outside exercise in Kenya is climbing, and I’m ever grateful that trails are accessible all year long. Nevertheless, the wet season from March to Might isn’t the most effective time to trek tougher trails like Mount Kenya.
The height season between June and October attracts many hikers for the reason that trails are dry. The identical goes for January and February when many individuals hit the outside as a brand new yr decision.
There are quick rains within the shoulder season between October and December, however this doesn’t cease hikers from venturing outdoor. You’ll see teams heading for day journeys to hills, and others going for multi-day climbing journeys to Mount Kenya.
There are various hiking trails in Kenya. These embrace massive climbs like Mount Kenya and Elgon, difficult treks like Rurimeria and Elephant Hill, and scenic hikes like Mount Satima and Mount Longonot.
When to Go to Kenya For Low-cost Costs
The moist season from March to Might is the most effective time of the yr to go to Kenya for low costs. Most lodges, lodges, safari parks, and different attraction facilities are abandoned throughout this time. Costs are pocket pleasant, and it’s simple to remain at a luxurious lodge for as much as 80% lower than the common charges.
One other splendid time to go to Kenya for reasonably priced costs is on weekdays. Over weekends, native vacationers and expatriates normally go to leisure joints, eating places, and attraction websites. The probabilities of good bargains on lodging and excursions are additionally unlikely throughout weekends.
The Finest Time to Go to Kenya By Month
For those who’re questioning when the most effective time, month, or season to go to Kenya is, try the next information. It’s a month-by-month breakdown of the climate and the most effective issues to do whilst you’re there.
For starters, a number of the greatest annual occasions in Kenya embrace the wildebeest migration (June-October), the Maralal Camel Derby (August), Lamu Cultural Festival (November), and whale watching in Watamu (July-September).
Kenya in January
January in Kenya marks the start of a brand new yr and the tip of quick rains. Throughout this month, most vacationers (native and worldwide) return house from holidays.
Climate in Kenya in January
This is among the warmest months in Kenya, with temperatures reaching as much as 30°C in cities and the countryside. The coastal area is sizzling and humid in January – splendid situations for watersports and seaside actions.
Issues To Do in Kenya in January
January is ideal for wildlife, hen watching, metropolis sightseeing, and seaside rest. Lodging services are nonetheless stuffed up, but it surely’s doable to get some good offers with a bit of looking out.
A number of the greatest actions in the course of the month embrace sport drives in Amboseli and Tsavo, and climbing within the Aberdares. It’s also possible to log on in Mombasa, diving in Diani, or go to historic websites and museums countrywide.
Kenya in February
February is taken into account a excessive season in Kenya. Many vacationers go to the nation to make the most of the dry climate simply earlier than the wet season.
Climate in Kenya in February
Identical to January, February is normally a sizzling and dry month throughout the nation. In some locations like central highlands, nights are chilly and require some heat clothes. The coastal area is heat throughout this time of the yr.
Issues To Do in Kenya in February
In addition to wildlife safaris, climbing adventures, and seaside holidays, February is among the greatest months in Kenya for festivals. You may attend the well-known Safaricom Worldwide Jazz Pageant, Nairobi Restaurant Week, and StoryMoja Festival.
Masai Mara, Samburu, and Lake Nakuru are nice locations for safari lovers in February. I like going to Naivasha to hike Mount Longonot or Mount Eburru, cycle at Hell’s Gate, or discover Lake Naivasha.
For those who’re planning on touring round Kenya, be sure that to take a look at our information on the most effective game reserves and safari parks.
Kenya in March
There are higher instances to go to Kenya than March, however selecting to journey presently comes with the good thing about slashed costs on excursions and lodging for individuals who dare.
Climate in Kenya in March
Marking the beginning of the low journey season, March sees the hotter days off and ushers within the lengthy rains. Typically heavy downpours are skilled in nearly all components of the nation.
When it’s not raining, the sky is commonly cloudy, decreasing the possibility of sunshine. Roads to many locations, together with nationwide parks and reserves, are impassable. Wild animals additionally retreat into the bush from March.
Issues To Do in Kenya in March
Though climate situations in March aren’t pleasant, there’s nonetheless hope for journey. Some parks like Masai Mara are nonetheless accessible, as are climbing trails, seashores, museums, and historic websites.
Within the final couple of years, the lengthy rains have been late. Wild animals stick round near waterholes presenting vacationers with a outstanding alternative for sport viewing.
Because of decreased vacationer visitors, you’re additionally prone to discover nice reductions on lodges, lodges, camps, and safari excursions presently.
Kenya in April
April is not any totally different from March. Heavy rains proceed, that means you’ll discover few guests in parks, lodges, and vacationer websites. Lodging and tour costs are at their lowest throughout this era.
Climate in Kenya in April
The lengthy rains proceed to hit nearly the complete nation in April. Visibility in parks is minimal, Nairobi is chilly, and the coast area is humid with occasional showers. Though wildlife viewing is difficult, vegetation is blooming, and the nation is fantastically inexperienced.
Issues To Do in Kenya in April
For those who love nature and indoor actions, April may very well be your greatest time to go to Kenya. Flora within the nation is exceptionally lush, and birds are in all places. Museums, cultural facilities, and indoor sports activities facilities are open throughout this time, providing a substitute for nationwide parks and different websites.
A number of the greatest locations to go to in April are Bomas of Kenya and the National Museum of Kenya in Nairobi, Mount Kenya Climbing Gym in Nanyuki, and Fort Jesus Museum in Mombasa.
Are you touring to Kenya in April? Take a look at this walking experience in Mombasa metropolis.
Kenya in Might
Kenya in Might begins to look brighter. The nation is inexperienced, grass in parks is taller, however wildlife viewing remains to be difficult.
Climate in Kenya in Might
The lengthy rains normally proceed effectively into late Might. Temperatures in Nairobi and upcountry vary between 17°C and 26°C. The coastal area, nevertheless, is sizzling and moist, with temperatures growing to 35°C.
Issues To Do in Kenya in Might
In Might, crowds are nonetheless small, and costs for lodging and excursions are wonderful. It’s the proper time to go to Nairobi National Park, Mount Kenya National Park, or Samburu National Reserve within the north. May presents an ideal atmosphere for nature pictures.
I wouldn’t advocate exploring the gorges at Hell’s Gate National Park in Might due to flush floods. Poor visibility may also have an effect on snorkeling, diving, and swimming within the Indian Ocean.
Kenya in June
June in Kenya marks the tip of the wet season and the beginning of the height journey season.
Climate in Kenya in June
Heat and sunny days return slowly all through the nation, and nationwide parks begin opening up. Unpredictable rains can stay within the central highlands and western area, however journey isn’t affected.
Issues To Do in Kenya in June
The annual spectacle of the migrating wildebeests and zebras begins within the Masai Mara. June additionally sees the return of occasions like Rhino Charge, Lake Turkana Pageant (Tobong’u Lore), and Lewa Safari Marathon. Kenyans additionally have a good time Madaraka Day on the primary of June.
Cities and safari parks are a number of the greatest locations to go to in June. You may go to Nairobi for wildlife and museums, Mombasa for seashores and historical past, Nanyuki for nightlife, and Naivasha for journey.
My favourite vacation spot in Kenya in June is the Aberdare Nationwide Park. It’s a phenomenal place to see waterfalls just like the Karuru Falls or to hike alongside trails corresponding to Elephant Hill and Dragon’s Enamel (Mount Satima).
Kenya in July
Kenya in July is a near-perfect time to go to, but it surely comes at a worth. Charges are considerably larger than in earlier months, and there are larger crowds in comparison with June.
Climate in Kenya in July
Dry climate continues in July, and nice temperatures are skilled in most components of the nation. The coastal area is hotter and excellent for seaside walks, watersports, and sunbathing.
Typically Nairobi, the central highlands, western components, and rift valley areas are chilly, however there’s hardly any rainfall.
Issues To Do in Kenya in July
For those who’re questioning when to go to Kenya, July is among the greatest instances. You may go on wildlife safaris, hike mountains and hills, get pleasure from seashores, expertise nightlife, and stroll alongside metropolis streets.
A number of the greatest issues to do in Kenya in July embrace game drives in Masai Mara, seeing elephants in Amboseli, exploring Nairobi on foot, climbing Mount Kenya, visiting Lamu Archipelago, or hiking Mount Longonot.
My favourite place to spend time in July is Watamu. The small coastal city is a gateway to distinctive points of interest, such because the Ruins of Gedi, Mida Creek, Watamu Marine Park, and Arabuko Sokoke Forest.
Kenya in August
August is the most effective month to go to Kenya for sport viewing, climbing, seaside actions, and cultural experiences.
Climate in Kenya in August
The climate in August is dry and heat. It’s normally sunny in the course of the day, the magical African sundown paints the sky orange within the night, and the sky is starlit at night time – the proper setting for safaris.
Issues To Do in Kenya in August
August is my favourite month to journey round Kenya. Though costs are excessive and locations are sometimes crowded, the experiences throughout this month are magical. The wildebeest migration is normally at its greatest; seashores are clear and the ocean sparkles, journey spots are open, and landscapes are stunning.
In addition to sport viewing, there are many issues to do in Kenya in August. These embrace climbing Mount Kenya, diving in Diani, climbing within the Aberdares, sunbathing in Watamu, or exploring cities and cities like Lamu, Nanyuki, Mombasa, and Nairobi.
Yearly in August, northern Kenya hosts the well-known Maralal Camel Derby. This worldwide competition attracts guests from all over the world to expertise the wealthy heritage of the Samburu people. In addition to camel racing, the occasion is a colourful show of music, tradition, costumes, and native delicacies.
Kenya in September
September is among the greatest months to go to Kenya for cities, seashores, climbing, safaris, and historic points of interest. It’s nonetheless peak season, and costs for excursions and lodging stay excessive.
Climate in Kenya in September
Kenya remains to be heat and sunny in September, with barely fewer crowds. You may nonetheless catch the spectacular migration at Masai Mara, and the quick rains are but to reach.
Daytime temperatures in Nairobi are fairly excessive (as much as 29°C), but it surely’s nonetheless cool sufficient to journey round. Nights are chilly (falling to round 17°C), however you may nonetheless exit for dinner and drinks. Take a look at the best restaurants in Nairobi.
Though the coastal area is sizzling in September, you may nonetheless wander in cities and have an exquisite seaside expertise.
Issues To Do in Kenya in September
There are many issues to see and do in Kenya in September. You may go to nationwide parks like Tsavo for wildlife, hike Mount Longonot, discover locations like Ngare Ndare Forest in Laikipia, head over to the Chalbi Desert, or chill out on one in all Diani’s seashores.
The Nairobi International Trade Fair additionally takes place this month, and it’s top-of-the-line occasions to attend in Kenya. September additionally sees the final humpback whales depart Kenya and return to the Antarctic.
Kenya in October
Kenya in October is a interval of transition. Wildebeest and zebras are normally nonetheless round till mid-month because the shoulder season approaches.
Climate in Kenya in October
As quickly as the height season ends (mid-October), quick rains start and proceed all over to mid-December. These rains final a short while in the course of the day and don’t are likely to disrupt safaris. Crowds are smaller, and costs go down.
Issues To Do in Kenya in October
Kenya remains to be sunny and exquisite in the course of the first half of October. It’s the proper time to discover cities, go on safaris, head to seashores, and attend festivals.
My favourite actions this month embrace testing native markets and exploring Nairobi on foot. I additionally get pleasure from taking a brief seaside vacation in Watamu or climbing within the Aberdares in October.
Occasions and festivals embrace Mashujaa Day celebrations, Tusker Oktobafest, Safari Sevens, and the Lamu Yoga Festival.
For those who’re into adventures join this tour to Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate Nationwide Park.
Kenya in November
November is the most effective month to go to Kenya for those who love enjoyable, seashores, and native tradition.
Climate in Kenya in November
November is a part of the shoulder season, that means you’ll get each sunshine and rain. Whereas the coastal area is normally dry and heat, Nairobi, central highlands, and western Kenya might expertise quick rains. Nevertheless, these rains don’t final lengthy, and you’ll nonetheless journey round.
Issues To Do in Kenya in November
The principle spotlight for November is the Lamu Cultural Pageant. This unbelievable annual occasion celebrates the wealthy historical past, tradition, and traditions of communities dwelling alongside the Kenyan Swahili coast.
Different issues to do in Kenya in November embrace exploring previous cities (Mombasa and Lamu), visiting seashores in Diani, Watamu, or Malindi, and sport viewing in Nairobi or Lake Nakuru nationwide parks.
Kenya in December
December is a superb time of the yr to go to Kenya. Home and worldwide vacationers converge at totally different locations within the nation for holidays.
Climate in Kenya in December
Kenya turns into heat and sunny when quick rains finish within the second half of December; permitting vacationers and vacationers to have a good time Christmas and New 12 months in good climate situations.
Issues To Do in Kenya in December
December is a month of holidays and making merry. Kenyans migrate from the countryside to the coast and meet up with international vacationers.
Nationwide parks and sport reserves are normally crowded too. The identical goes for museums corresponding to Nairobi’s Nationwide Museum of Kenya and journey facilities like Wild Waters in Mombasa.
For those who’re interested in occasions and festivals, you may resolve to go to in December. Beneath the Baobabs, Rusinga Pageant and Nairobi Pageant happen this month. Kenyans additionally have a good time Jamhuri Day (Republic Day) on twelfth December.
Are you touring to Kenya in December? Take a look at this wildlife experience in Nairobi.
In Conclusion
With loads of locations to go to and issues to do, Kenya is an incredible vacation spot for every type of vacationers.
It’s dotted with wildlife parks, museums, sport reserves, sandy seashores, vacation resorts, and different locations accessible at totally different instances of the yr.
As you may see, every month presents a possibility to expertise one thing distinctive. You may discover Masai Mara in August, Amboseli in February, or go to Watamu between July and September to observe humpback whales.
So, now that you understand when to go to Kenya, begin planning and getting ready for a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
