best time to visit kenya

The Best Time to Visit Kenya

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The answer to the question "when is the best time of year to visit Kenya ?" is best answered with another question: What do you want to do while you're there?

If you're hoping to go on safari, the best time to visit Kenya is from June to October, the country's dry season. Often, these peak times are dictated by the weather , but sometimes there are other important factors to consider. Of course, if you're looking to explore Kenya on a budget, you may want to avoid peak season altogether, because a slight compromise on weather or wildlife sightings usually means much cheaper rates for tours and accommodation.

The Weather in Kenya

Because Kenya is located on the equator, there is no real summer and winter. Instead, the year is divided into rainy and dry seasons . There are two dry seasons: a short one in late January and early February, and a much longer one lasting from late June to October. The short rains fall in November and December, but by far the wettest season is the period from March to May. Temperatures are relatively consistent in each region of Kenya, but vary from one place to the next according to elevation. The coast, for example, is considerably hotter than the plateaus of central Kenya, while Mount Kenya is so high that it is permanently capped with snow. Humidity also increases at lower elevations, while the arid north is both hot and dry.

Catching the Great Migration

Every year, Tanzania and Kenya provide the backdrop for one of the world's most breathtaking wildlife spectacles—the Great Migration . Millions of wildebeest and zebra start the year in Tanzania's Serengeti National Park, then gradually make their way northward to the more plentiful grazing grounds of the Maasai Mara . If you want to witness the herds cross the crocodile-filled Mara River (the holy grail of Great Migration safaris), the best time to travel is in August. In September and October, the animals that survive this treacherous crossing fill the Mara plains. This is the most reliable time to see the herds and the predators that follow in their wake.

The Best Time to Go on Safari

If you're not trying to catch the Great Migration, you have more choice in terms of the best time to go on safari season. Generally, the best time to travel is during the dry seasons (January to February or June to October). At these times, animals are easier to spot not only because the bush is less dense, but because the scarcity of water means that they spend much of their time around the waterholes. The short wet season also has its benefits. At this time, the parks are beautifully green and there are far fewer tourists. The rains fall mainly in the afternoon, and migrant birds arrive to take advantage of the sudden abundance of insects. It's best to avoid the March to May wet season, however, because the rains are often relentless.

The Best Time to Climb Mount Kenya

The best (and safest) time to climb Mount Kenya is during the dry seasons. January, February, and September are generally considered the most reliable months in terms of weather—at these times, you can expect clear, sunny days with enough warmth to counteract the chilly nights brought on by high elevation. July and August are also good months and can provide an alternative option for those who prefer their routes less crowded. Whatever time of year you decide to attempt the summit, make sure to pack for every occasion, as temperatures and weather can both change dramatically depending on the time of day and your elevation.

The Best Time to Visit the Coast

The weather on Kenya 's coast remains hot and humid throughout the year. Even in the dry season, rain can fall—but humidity and rainfall are at their worst from March to May. The short dry season (January to February) is also the hottest, but cool coastal breezes help to make the heat bearable. Generally, the best way to decide on when to visit the coast is to prioritize the other aspects of your trip first. If you're planning on combining a trip to Mombasa with a few weeks looking for wildebeest herds in the Maasai Mara, travel in August or September. If you're planning to relax at Malindi after hiking up Mount Kenya, January or February are better months to visit.

March is typically the last dry month before rainy season moves in April. While temperatures remain steady, the weather is extremely humid. May is slightly dryer and can be a good time for safaris, as many animals are migrating.

Events to check out:

• In March, Nairobi is home to the East African Art Festival. The three-day event features art, music, theater, music, fashion, literature, architecture, sculpture, and traditional crafts.

Summer's calendar months actually mean winter for Kenya—but this means great weather, too. While June is the last of the country's rainy season, July and August are very dry and not too hot, with temperatures around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Both months are excellent for visits to the Maasai Mara National Reserve.

• The International Camel Derby and Festival is held each August in Maralal, a town in northern Kenya. Camel racing takes place over several days through the desert and visitors attend from all over the world.

September in Kenya is dry, but precipitation will usually move in by early October. Still, daytime temperatures are warm, usually above 80 degrees Fahrenheit. November gets even hotter, so many tourists will flock to the beaches. Migrating birds peak in both the Aberdare National Park and Great Rift Valley.

• The Lamu Cultural Festival draws visitors each November to the Lamu Archipelago on the eastern coast of Kenya. The three-day festival celebrates life in this old-world island destination off the beaten path, about a two-hour flight from Nairobi.

With high temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, "winter" is the perfect time for seaside vacations along the Indian Ocean. January is quite hot and dry and even the ocean's water temperature climbs into the 80s. This is a great season for both beach activities and exploring the more than 40 national parks and game reserves in the country.

• Jamhuri Day, held on December 12, celebrates Kenya's independence from Great Britain on this day in 1963. Many towns host performances and fireworks displays.

The best time to visit Kenya is during the country's dry season, from June to October, especially if you want to go on a safari.

Kenya experiences two rainy seasons: March to May is considered the time of the “long rains,” and “short rains” happen from October to December.

February is the hottest month in Kenya, with an average high temperature of 80 degrees F (27 degrees C).

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Best Time To Visit Kenya

Understanding Kenya’s climate

The best time to visit Kenya depends on what you want to do. Kenya is divided by the equator and is characterized by a tropical climate.

The weather in Kenya is often ideal, although the coast can be very humid and there are hot, desert-like conditions around Lake Magadi and in the northern areas of the country around Lake Turkana. Most regions in Kenya have temperatures between 71-91°F a day, and they rarely drop below 55°F at night. Even during the short rains, the humidity during the day is mostly low and the sky is clear enough to see the Milky Way at night. 

During the coolest months of June, July and August, temperatures in Nairobi are around 60°F, which can drop to about 50°F in the Aberdare region and the Mount Kenya massif.

Best Time To Visit Kenya By Month

We recommend.

• Head to the northern coast of Kenya and discover a colorful underwater world where you can go snorkeling or soak up the sun on one of the palm-lined beaches
• With a little luck you can see the Big Five among the endless bush landscapes of Tsavo East National Park
• Witness giant elephant herds following ancient hiking trails in the rocky landscape of Samburu and spot the rare Grévy’s zebra on the banks of the Uaso Nyiro River
• Travel to Laikipia in central Kenya for exclusive nature and wildlife experiences
• Explore Chale island just off Kenya’s southeastern coast and discover an idyllic retreat dotted with inland tidal lakes, pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs.
• Head to Kisumu on Lake Victoria – the principal city of western Kenya has a relaxed ambiance and is a haven for fresh fish enthusiasts, given its many fish markets!
• Plan a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum in the bustling capital city, Nairobi, to learn about the changing history of Kenya
• Head to the Amboseli National Park, at the foot of the imposing Mount Kilimanjaro, and spend time in one of the best places to see African elephants
• Visit the most arid region in Kenya – Chalbi Desert – and marvel at its stunning natural landscape replete with volcanoes and ancient lava flows and towering sand dunes
• Witness the Great Migration in the Masai Mara National Reserve, where millions of antelopes, zebras and wildebeest cross the savanna landscape from July to October
• If you want a break from the wildlife, the pristine paradise at Kiwayu Island with its virgin beaches, crystal clear waters, dolphins and whales and a host of water sports awaits!
• Head to Meru National Park, made famous by the movie ‘Born Free’, home to stunning natural beauty as well as a diverse range of animals
• Head to Lake Elementaita, a small soda ash lake as the dry season is the ideal time to catch a glimpse of its diverse wildlife
• Make the painstaking journey to remote Lake Turkana and be rewarded with views of the world’s largest desert lake and its fearsome Nile crocodiles!
• For something different, travel to Kericho, Kenya’s tea territory!
• Witness the flamingos at Lake Nakuru – over one million of these graceful birds can be found fishing in the lake for their feast of delicious algae!
• If you are yearning the great outdoors then we recommend a hike in the foothills of Mount Kenya
• Enjoy the diverse birdlife at Lake Naivasha and game viewing at Hells Gate National Park, to the south of the lake
• Before the rains arrive, discover Kakamega Forest National Reserve, the only tropical rainforest in Kenya, home to some of Africa’s best-known tree species and exquisite orchids
• Make the most of the dry conditions by enjoying the abundant wildlife at The Aberdares
• If you are keen on birdwatching, this is right time to make a trip to the saline Lake Bogoria with its two million migratory birds!
• While the Great Migration is over, the increasing greenery heralds the arrival of newborns in the Mara, giving you unique wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities
• Spend time in the city of Mombasa, with its beautiful beaches and touches of Arabic and Portuguese architecture. Witness the vibrant Mombasa Carnival held during this month!
• Visit the dramatic collection of ancient volcanic cinder cones of Chyulu Hills and spot large herds of elands, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, lions, buffaloes and elephants
• Enjoy a rich cultural experience by visiting the old town of Lamu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, an almost car-free town with diverse architectural influences

Best time to visit Kenya by season

• Hot months:  January to March
• Long rains:  April to June
• Cold months:  June to August
• Short rains:  November to December. It is rarely raining all day. Short, heavy rainfalls are usually replaced by sunny periods, which makes this time in Kenya very pleasant.

What to Pack

Safari wear should be comfortable and casual. Evenings and early mornings can be chilly so warm sweaters are recommended. Low heeled comfortable sports or trekking shoes are the most suitable walking shoes, should you intend joining any walking safaris.

We recommend you bring warm clothes, including a fleece or light wool sweater and socks, apart from the normal safari gear. During the day it can get quite hot so don’t forget sunglasses and a high factor sunscreen, as well as a sun hat with a small brim.

Some specialist trips, i.e. mountain climbing, require extra items of clothing and footwear. Many hotels, lodges and camps have swimming pools so you are advised to bring swimsuits.

Due to limited space in the vehicle and light aircraft, we advise you to keep your luggage to the minimum. We suggest you pack your luggage into a small bag of no more than 15 kgs – the luggage limit for local flights issued by the airlines. Almost all safari lodges and camps provide same day laundry service.

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Best Places To Visit

The Aberdares offer striking mountain scenery, combined with stretches of dense jungle and amazing waterfalls, the largest ones plunging dramatically more than 300 meters!

Amboseli National Park is located in Kajiado County, Kenya. It only covers 151 sq miles but is part of the much larger Greater Amboseli ecosystem that totals some 3,088 sq miles.

Amboseli National Park

This beautiful Lake Baringo, surrounded by picturesque islands and encircled by majestic mountains, is truly a sight for sore eyes! Filled with fish, the freshwater lake attracts many herons, cormorants and marabous. Lake Bogoria is visited by up to two million migratory birds!

Baringo & Bogoria

Surrounded by volcanoes and ancient lava flows, Chalbi Desert is the hottest and most arid region in Kenya.

Chalbi Desert

Chale Island is a tropical haven located on the pristine Msambweni Bay just off Kenya’s southeastern coast. Discover a breathtakingly idyllic retreat accessible only by speedboat or a tractor-trailer depending on the tide.

Chale Island

Visit this dramatic collection of ancient volcanic cinder cones and you will not be disappointed! The rolling Chyulu Hills lie to the northwest of Tsavo West National Park and offer splendid views of the magnificent Mt.

Chyulu Hills

Kenya Travel Guide

Things to do.

Live your safari dream on your Kenya tour with us – Masai Mara, the Great Migration, endless savannas and pristine beaches beckon. Follow this link and discover our list of top ten highlights, attractions and activities in Kenya.

Kenya is generally considered a safe country to travel in. As a rule of thumb, it is safer to travel in a group or with a local tour guide in Kenya, rather than on your own. Our experts have compiled some general safety instructions to ensure that your trip is stress-free.

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A Monthly Guide

A month by month guide to kenya.

Deciding when to go to Kenya is an enduring point of consideration for visitors, and for the most part, it’s a country that can be visited successfully at any time of year. However, there are certain periods within the year that are more favourable than others.

The onshore monsoon winds and altitude are the primary influences on climate in Kenya, with the Kusi winds from the southeast bringing the heaviest rainfall; a period from late March to the middle of May known as the “long rainy season”. There is another rainy season later in the year, which lasts for a few weeks across November, and is characterised by shorter bursts of rainfall – usually isolated afternoon thunderstorms – known as the “short rains”.

Despite this, game viewing in Kenya remains consistently good year round, and – being equatorial – temperatures remain high even in the rainy seasons. Of course, Kenya’s major drawcard is the Great Wildebeest Migration which it plays host to, usually from July to October. Our month-by-month guide is designed to give you an idea of what to expect at a given time of year, and help you decide when to travel.

January is a dry season month in Kenya, which provides excellent game viewing and really good hot and clear weather conditions.

With the mercury having been gradually rising over the previous few months, so too has the water temperature, making January a great time to add a visit to the coast, especially for keen divers.

Coming just after the peak season festive period, there is usually good availability across the board at all of the key game viewing regions, prices are favourable and the parks tend to be quieter than at other times of the year.

Whilst game viewing is usually excellent in January, it is not a time of year when the Great Migration mega herds are in Kenya, so it wouldn’t be entirely appropriate for those who have the Great Migration at the top of their wishlist. Despite that, with it being such a good time weather wise, and with excellent game viewing, January is a rewarding time to visit.

February provides similar overall climate and game viewing conditions to January. The days continue to be hot and dry, game viewing continues to be excellent, with great sightings of predators and herbivores alike.

It is a time of year when prices at lodges are towards their low end, and the parks remain relatively quiet.

It is still not an appropriate time to see the Great Migration in Kenya, however, it is a great time of year to spot young predators as their birthing season is just after the short rainy season in November. By February, the two to three month old cubs and pups are starting to become active, playful and visible.

Whilst March starts in a similar vein to February, with humid and hot conditions, change is in the winds as the end of the month typically sees the start of the “long rainy season”.

Before the rains wildlife is easier to spot as they congregate around water sources, however, game viewing becomes slightly more challenging towards the end of the month as the water sources become more abundant, wildlife disperses and the thickness of the vegetation increases. That being said, this is the time of year when lodge costs are at their lowest, and parks are at their quietest.

Whilst it may not be the best time of year in terms of climate and game viewing, the advantage of travelling from the end of March would be the feeling of having large swathes of lush, verdant wilderness all to yourself.

April is the month which yields the most mixed results in Kenya. Whilst the long rainy season usually includes only the end of March and the first few weeks of May, April is the month which falls entirely within the long rainy season.

Game viewing – whilst still good – is usually at its lowest ebb, with wildlife having spread out towards more water sources to choose from, and with the bush being at its thickest.

On the plus side, April is the best time of year for photography. The lush, verdant bushveld contrasts beautifully with the moody, stormy skies, creating spectacular natural backdrops and some of the best photographic opportunities anywhere at any time on the continent.

It is also the time of year when prices are at their lowest and the parks are at their quietest. April is the month which is best for photography and exclusivity, however, there are better times of year to visit from a climate and game viewing perspective.

The start of May continues in the same way that April usually ends, with heavy rainfall, lush, green bushveld, bright and colourful plant life and grey, yet emotive skies serving as a spectacular backdrop for keen photographers. Game viewing continues to be mixed, with some park roads having become boggy after the weeks of rainfall, which can interfere with both vehicle and walking safaris.

That being said, there are still great wildlife sightings to be had for those who are happy to work for their sightings, the parks are still at their quietest, and lodge rates are at their lowest.

This is also the time of year when many of the top luxury lodges will have attractive special offers in place, so May is a great month to consider for those who may be more interested in the standard and luxury of accommodations, more so than the wildlife and nature experience.

Safari aficionados will know that this is the time when the safari season really gets going. As we emerge from the long rainy season and get into winter, temperatures start to drop slightly, conditions become more pleasant, dry and, crucially, game viewing tends to improve dramatically from here.

It is still not quite the time of year to see the Great Migration, however, wildlife sightings are certainly on the rise. The occupancy levels at lodges is increasing, as are the number of visitors in the parks, yet it is still not as busy as it gets over the peak season months of July and August.

Whilst the overall conditions are improving from a game viewing and climate perspective, that naturally comes with the time of year when rates start to increase, with some lodges introducing peak season rates from the first of the month (but a select handful will still offer discounts from their highest peak season rates).

With that in mind, June can be the best time of year to target as you will likely encounter some of the best conditions to experience a safari in Kenya, whilst still avoiding the parks when they’re at their busiest, and potentially be able to take advantage of shoulder season rates.

July is the time of year which sees the optimal conditions in Kenya, from the perspective of game viewing as well as weather conditions.

The daytime temperatures, whilst still warm, become cooler, leading to wildlife being generally more active. Most excitingly though, it is the time of year when the iconic Great Migration makes its way into Kenya. Vast herds of wildebeest and zebra reach the culmination of their daunting journey north, as they make their way into the Masai Mara.

This is the time of year which sees the first river crossings, as herds in their thousands cross the mighty Mara River. Crocodiles and big cats, territorial predators who have been lying in wait for months, will gorge themselves on the veritable feast, which results in the Masai Mara offering some of the most spectacular game viewing at any time, anywhere on the continent.

With July being in the school holidays, this is when the parks are at their busiest and lodge rates are at their highest, however, that is more than offset by the perfect weather and sheer wildlife spectacle.

Much like July, August is regarded as a prime time to visit Kenya.

The weather conditions remain perfect, temperatures are warm but moderate, there is virtually no rainfall, and the massive migratory herds of Wildebeest from the south continue to cross the Mara River into the Masai Mara National Park. Whilst more and more Wildebeest are now settling into their grazing patterns on the plains of the Masai Mara, river crossings still take place, along with the accompanying dramatic predator activity.

Outside of the Masai Mara, August is a great month to visit other national parks in Kenya. The Laikipia plateau presents fantastic conditions and game viewing at this time of year, especially as the bush is at its thinnest towards the latter half of the dry season, and wildlife tends to congregate around water sources. August is considered peak season, national parks across the country are at their busiest, so lodge rates are at their peak and if you are looking to travel to Kenya in August, booking your safari well in advance is nigh on essential.

September is arguably the best month to visit Kenya, as there are so many positives of travelling at this time of year, with little downside.

The game viewing is truly magnificent, as most of the Great Migration is now grazing on the plains on the Masai Mara. The sheer volume of Wildebeest and Zebra on the plains entices lion, leopard and other predators to be active. We are now heading towards the end of the dry season, with the bushveld thinning out and wildlife gathering around scarce water sources, so it is truly a wonderful time for game viewing.

Knowing how good Kenya is in September, most lodges will still be charging high season rates, however, parks start to get quieter as the peak holiday season (and northern hemisphere summer school holidays) have usually ended by the start of September.

With moderate but warm temperatures, low humidity and close to no chance of rainfall, September – like July and August – presents a great opportunity to add some time at the coast.

October is the last month before the start of the short rains which set in around the end of the month, and start of November.

Coming at the very end of the dry season, it is when the bushveld is at its thinnest and water sources are at their scarcest, making October an incredible time for game viewing as wildlife is easier to spot, and tends to cluster at the few sources of water that remain. The Great Migration continues to graze on the plains on the Masai Mara, but will soon start to make their journey south, towards the short grass plains of the Serengeti in Tanzania.

It is also a time of year when parks are getting quieter and lodges become less full, and it is also when some lodges start to reduce their rates, making October a more cost effective time to travel than the preceding peak season months.

Along with September, the quieter parks and sensational game viewing – with the added benefit of lower lodge rates – make October a superb month to visit Kenya.

November is the start of the short rainy season in Kenya, which is the main thing to be aware of if planning a trip around this time.

Unlike the long rainy season earlier in the year, which sees heavy rainfall, the short rainy season is characterised more by short bursts of isolated showers, usually in the afternoons.

Despite the rainfall, game viewing – whilst not at the level it is during the dry season – can still be very good. It is also when parks are at their quietest and since visitor numbers are low, lodge prices are a lot lower than they are during the dry season months.

Whilst there is some rainfall and game viewing isn’t at its best, it is a fantastic time for photography as the moody skies contrast with ever increasing lush greenery. November is also a great time for keen birders, as it’s the time of year when migratory birds from Europe and North Africa start to become present.

With the short rainy season coming to an end, along with warm temperatures, clear skies and exceptional game viewing – especially for resident territorial wildlife such as big cats and other predators – December represents the dream safari destination to consider for a Christmas getaway.

With little to no rainfall, the bushveld getting thicker but not at its thickest and lush greenery as a result of the preceding months’ rainfall, it is an exceptional time for wildlife photography. Travelling earlier in the month will usually see rates remaining lower, however, lodge prices will increase dramatically – as will the number of visitors in the parks – from the second half of the month.

Coming in the peak summer months, days can be quite hot and humid, especially along the coast. That being said, December is an excellent time to visit Kenya and would be one of the top recommendations for anyone considering a safari for a truly remarkable festive season holiday.

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• Best time to visit Kenya

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Many visit Kenya for once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to see this nation's unique wildlife and landscapes. Yet, planning such a trip can be daunting due to Kenya's unpredictable weather — featuring two rainy and two dry seasons annually. On top of this, the optimal time for wildlife viewing varies throughout the year, making the planning process all the more complicated. Read on for our comprehensive, month-by-month guide to the best time to go to Kenya. 

• When's the best time to visit Kenya?

Weather in Kenya month by month

Seasons in kenya, festivals and holidays in kenya, tailor-made travel itineraries for kenya, created by local experts.

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When's the best time to visit Kenya?

The main tourist seasons tie in with the rainfall patterns: the biggest influxes of visitors are in December–January and July–August. Dry-season travel has a number of advantages, not least of which is the greater visibility of wildlife as animals are concentrated along the diminishing watercourses.

July to September is probably the best period, overall, for game viewing, with early September almost certain to coincide with the annual wildebeest migration in the Maasai Mara.  

October, November, and March are the months with the clearest seas for snorkeling and diving. 

In the long rains, the mountain parks are occasionally closed, as the muddy tracks are undrivable. But the rainy seasons shouldn’t deter travel unduly: the rains usually come only in short afternoon or evening cloudbursts, and the landscape is strikingly green and fresh even if the skies may be cloudy. There are bonuses, too: fewer other tourists, reduced prices, and often perfect light for photography.

Masai Mara, Kenya ©  Shutterstock

When planning a trip to Kenya, timing is everything. From the vast savannas of the Maasai Mara to the stunning beaches of the Kenyan coast, each month offers a unique experience. Here’s our month by month guide to the best time to visit Kenya. 

Weather in January

January kicks off the year with fantastic weather and prime wildlife viewing opportunities. The temperatures soar, averaging around 28°C (82°F) during the day, which is great for those planning on safari adventures. The skies are clear, offering uninterrupted views of landscapes and wildlife. However, January does fall within Kenya's peak tourist season, which can mean higher accommodation costs and larger crowds.

Weather in February

With temperatures hovering around 29°C (84°F), February is the perfect time for a romantic Valentine’s getaway or a honeymoon safari. While February sees fewer crowds compared to January, it's still advisable to book accommodations and safaris in advance, especially in popular destinations like the Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Park . 

Weather in March

March marks the transition from the dry season to the long rains, bringing lush greenery and renewed vitality to Kenya's landscapes. Temperatures remain warm, averaging around 28°C (82°F), but the occasional rain showers can be expected, particularly towards the end of the month. March is considered the shoulder season with fewer tourists and lower accommodation rates compared to peak season.

Zebra in Tsavo National Park - Kenya © ANTONIO JIMENO JIMENEZ/Shutterstock

Weather in April

April sees Kenya draped in vibrant greenery as the long rains continue to nourish the land. While rainfall can be more frequent, especially in the highland regions and coastal areas, it rarely disrupts travel plans. Temperatures remain comfortable, averaging around 26°C (79°F). Additionally, April presents fantastic opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts as migratory birds flock to Kenya's wetlands and forests.

Weather in May

May signals the onset of the shoulder season in Kenya, with fewer tourists and lower accommodation rates. While rainfall may persist in some regions, particularly along the coast and the western part of the country, it's often brief and followed by clear skies. Temperatures range from 24°C to 26°C (75°F to 79°F), creating comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. May is also a time to witness the Great Migration as herds of wildebeest and zebras traverse the Maasai Mara in search of fresh grazing grounds.

Weather in June

June marks the beginning of the dry season in Kenya, bringing cooler temperatures and clear skies. With average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 25°C (72°F to 77°F), it's an excellent time for wildlife safaris, especially in parks like Tsavo and Samburu. June is a great time to visit for cultural festivals and events.

Landscape in Mount Elgon National Park ©  Belikova Oksana/Shutterstock

Weather in July

July is the peak of the safari season in Kenya, attracting wildlife enthusiasts from around the globe. The weather remains dry and pleasant, with temperatures averaging around 21°C to 24°C (70°F to 75°F). July offers truly unparalleled opportunities to witness the iconic Big Five and other wildlife spectacles in parks like the Maasai Mara and Amboseli. However, it's essential to book accommodations and safaris well in advance, as July sees a surge in tourist arrivals and higher costs.

Weather in August

August is synonymous with the Great Wildebeest Migration, a natural spectacle that unfolds in the vast plains of the Maasai Mara. Millions of wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, cross the Mara River in search of greener pastures, creating a thrilling sight for safari-goers. The weather remains dry and mild, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 23°C (68°F to 73°F), perfect for outdoor adventures and wildlife photography. However, August is one of the busiest months in Kenya, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Weather in September

Though September is still peak tourist season, you’ll find fewer crowds and slightly lower prices. The weather remains dry and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). While the Great Migration may be winding down, there are still plenty of wildlife sightings to be enjoyed, from lion prides to cheetah hunts. 

Sunset at Shimba Hills, Kenya © Shutterstock

Weather in October

October marks the end of the dry season in Kenya, with temperatures gradually warming up as the short rains approach. Average temperatures range from 22°C to 27°C (72°F to 81°F), creating comfortable conditions for both wildlife safaris and beach getaways. While occasional showers may occur, especially in coastal areas, they rarely disrupt travel plans.

Weather in November

See Kenya in November to see the country cloaked in lush greenery as the short rains rejuvenate the land. While rainfall may be more frequent, it's often short-lived, allowing for uninterrupted travel experiences. Temperatures range from 23°C to 28°C (73°F to 82°F). November offers the chance to witness newborn wildlife and migratory bird arrivals.

Weather in December

December brings festive cheer and fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities to Kenya. With temperatures ranging from 24°C to 29°C (75°F to 84°F), it's the perfect time for outdoor adventures and safari excursions. While occasional showers may occur, this is still a great time to visit. December is a popular time as many seek to celebrate the festive season amidst Kenya's stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.

National Park for Rothschild Giraffes Giraffe Manor © Shutterstock

Broadly, the seasons are as follows: January to March typically brings hot and dry weather; April to June is characterized by hot and wet conditions known as the “long rains.” July to October usually sees warm and dry weather, while November and early December experience warmth accompanied by brief periods of heavy rainfall known as the “short rains.”

At high altitudes, it may rain at almost any time. Western Kenya, including the Maasai Mara, has a scattered rainfall pattern influenced by Lake Victoria. At the same time, the eastern half of the country, and especially the coast itself, is largely controlled by the Indian Ocean’s monsoon winds – the dry northeast monsoon (kaskazi) blowing in from November to March or April and the moist southeast monsoon (kusi) blowing in from May to October. The kusi normally brings the heaviest rains to the coast in May and June.

Temperatures are determined largely by altitude: you can reckon on a drop of 0.6°C for every 100m you climb from sea level. 

Nairobi National Museum © Shutterstock

Lamu Cultural Festival

The Lamu Cultural Festival celebrates the rich Swahili heritage of Lamu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its historical significance and traditional architecture, with events spanning over several days, including traditional dances, dhow sailing competitions, donkey races, and showcases of local crafts and cuisine.

Lake Turkana Festival

The Lake Turkana Festival celebrates the cultural diversity of the communities residing around Lake Turkana, the largest desert lake in the world, through a vibrant display of traditional performances, music, dances, and exhibitions of artifacts and traditional attire, fostering cultural exchange and appreciation.

Mombasa Carnival

The Mombasa Carnival, held in Kenya's second-largest city situated along the Indian Ocean coast, is a colorful extravaganza featuring elaborate parades, pulsating music, energetic dance performances, and street festivities, serving as a dynamic celebration of the cultural mosaic that defines Mombasa.

Jamhuri Day

Jamhuri Day, celebrated on December 12th, marks Kenya's independence from British colonial rule in 1963, symbolizing the nation's journey towards sovereignty and self-determination, with festivities including grand parades, cultural performances, and patriotic displays across the country.

Diani Beach in Kenya © Shutterstock

Maulidi Festival

The Maulidi Festival, observed in Lamu to commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad, reflects the deep-rooted Islamic heritage of the region, attracting devotees and visitors alike for prayers, processions, spiritual gatherings, and cultural events that emphasize the values of peace, unity, and community.

Eid ul Fitr

Eid ul Fitr, one of the most significant Islamic festivals, marks the conclusion of Ramadan, a month of fasting and spiritual reflection, with joyous celebrations characterized by communal prayers, festive feasts, and acts of charity, fostering bonds of kinship and solidarity among Muslims in Kenya.

New Year's Eve and New Year's Day in Kenya are celebrated with exuberant parties, lively street festivities, and spectacular fireworks displays, as people bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one with optimism, hope, and resolutions for a prosperous future.

Nairobi Restaurant Week

Nairobi Restaurant Week, a culinary extravaganza held annually in the vibrant capital city, showcases the diversity and creativity of Nairobi's dining scene, with participating restaurants offering special menus, culinary experiences, and discounts, inviting food enthusiasts to indulge in a gastronomic journey through various cuisines and flavors.

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 1.03.2024

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