On this information, you’ll uncover the very best time to go to Kenya and its wildlife safaris, historic websites, cities, seashores, festivals, mountains, and extra.
This put up comprises some detailed data and my opinions on completely different journey seasons, climate situations, and the very best 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 durations 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 Could and quick rains from late October to mid-December. January and February are normally heat, whereas the months from June to October are dry. Generally July is chilly, however travels inside the nation are effective.
In my travels round Kenya, my house nation, I’ve skilled all seasons in several areas. So, to assist you to plan your journey, listed here are my suggestions for the very best time to go to Kenya.
Fast Look: Best Time to Go to Kenya For
Wildlife Safaris: January and February, June to October
Seaside Trip: Year-round
Fewer Crowds: March to May
The Best Climate: January and February, June to October
Total Best Time To Visit 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 completely different months.
For probably the most half, climate situations are good, and deciding when to go to Kenya relies on your finances, accessible time, and stuff you need to see and do.
For finances vacationers and those that want fewer crowds, the shoulder season (November and December) and off-season (March to Could) are your greatest wager.
Nonetheless, the general greatest time to go to Kenya is through 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 (Best Season to Visit 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’ll be able to go to for safari journeys to Masai Mara, historic excursions in Mombasa, humpback whale watching in Watamu, wildlife viewing at Nairobi National Park, and lots 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 seashore 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. Due to the dry climate throughout these months, wild animals go to waterholes in massive numbers, providing vacationers an ideal likelihood to see them up shut.
It’s additionally a superb season to discover seashores, go climbing, and attend festivals just like the Safaricom International Jazz Festival and Nairobi Restaurant Week.
In my view, that is the very best 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.
Sport parks and seashore locations like Mombasa are normally flocked to capability, however charges are comparatively higher than through the peak season – owing to Christmas season reductions.
In addition to safaris, climbing, and wildlife viewing, this time of yr can be nice for festivals and vacation occasions. You’ll be able to attend the Lamu Cultural Festival (November), Nairobi Metropolis Competition (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 be the proper occasion to attend to shut the yr and usher in a recent one.
☞ SEE ALSO: 15 Best Places to Visit in Kenya
Off-Season in Kenya (March to Could)
March to Could is the interval of lengthy rains in Kenya. Wildlife retreat into the bush, and driving to most locations turns into a problem. Nonetheless, locations like Masai Mara and coastal locations are nonetheless simply accessible.
Generally 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 only some days of downpours in April.
So, if you happen to’re planning a visit to Kenya, don’t be discouraged by the off-season. You would possibly simply get pleasure from all the advantages of peak season at extremely discounted charges.
☞ SEE ALSO: 15 Best Trails For Hiking in Kenya
Best Time of Yr for a Safari in Kenya
The height season between June and October is the very best time to go to Kenya for safari. The climate is dry, roads main to nationwide parks and recreation reserves are satisfactory, and wildlife is plentiful throughout this time.
The Masai Mara Nationwide Reserve is the most well-liked 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’ll be able to 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.
Should you’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.
Should you’re planning a safari journey to Kenya, be part of this guided tour to uncover the wonders of the Masai Mara Nationwide Reserve. It’s an epic 4-day safari that features visiting Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park.
When to Visit Kenya for Seashores
The Kenyan coast has a tropical local weather and might be explored year-round. Nonetheless, the height season is the very best time to go to its magnificent seashores and islands. Visiting in peak season permits you to mix a seashore trip with safaris and out of doors actions in different elements of the nation.
Aside from December, most seashore places are much less crowded, permitting you to calm down and rewind. You can even boost your expertise with watersport actions similar to browsing, swimming, snorkeling, and dhow (a standard crusing vessel) cruising.
Mombasa, Nyali, Diani, Galu Kinondo, Watamu, and Shela are a few of the best beaches in Kenya. These seashores characteristic stretches of white sands, luxurious resorts, and good eating places, best for all kinds of vacationers – solo, {couples}, and households.
☞ SEE ALSO: Top 10 Best Beaches in Mombasa
When to Visit Kenya For Festivals
Festivals in Kenya happen all year long. They embrace occasions and actions relating 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 very best months to go to Kenya for festivals.
That can assist you determine 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 Competition (5 days in February)
- Safaricom Worldwide Jazz Competition (1 day in February)
- Madaraka Day (1st June)
- The Lewa Safari Marathon (June)
- Rhino Cost (1 day in June)
- Lake Turkana Competition (4 days in June)
- Maralal Worldwide Camel Derby (3 days in August)
- Lamu Yoga Competition (5 days in October)
- Mashujaa Day (twentieth October)
- Lamu Cultural Competition (normally 3 days in November)
- Nairobi Metropolis Competition (December)
- Jamhuri Day (twelfth December)
- Rusinga Competition (final Thursday and Friday earlier than Christmas)
- Beneath The Baobabs – Kilifi New Yr (3 days in December)
When to Visit 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 sights and experiences for every kind of vacationers.
I’ve visited all Kenyan cities in all months of the yr, and I like to recommend visiting them through the dry season. The wet interval (March to Could) comes with floods, and most locations are much less accessible.
Should you’re attracted to wildlife and city walking tours, go to Nairobi. For lovely seashores and genuine Swahili meals, go to Mombasa. Watamu and Diani are good for watersports, whereas Naivasha is a wonderful 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 Visit 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.
In my view, the very best time to go to historic websites in Kenya is through the dry season as a result of you can too do different actions like safaris throughout your keep. The dry season is through the months of January and February and the excessive season is between June and October.
Should you’re inquisitive about Kenyan historical past, heritage, and tradition, a few of the greatest locations to go to are listed beneath. They embrace museums, historic facilities, ruins, and nationwide monuments.
- Lamu Outdated City, Lamu Archipelago
- Mombasa Outdated City, Mombasa Island
- Nationwide Museum of Kenya, Nairobi
- Kenya Railway Museum, Nairobi
- Package Mikayi, Kisumu
- Thimlich Ohinga, Migori
- Kimathi Monument, Nyeri
- Italian Conflict 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 Visit Kenya For Whale Watching
Kenya is synonymous with the good wildebeest migration within the Mara. Nonetheless, an much more spectacular migration happens alongside its coast – the humpback whales migration.
Hundreds of large humpback whales journey from the Antarctic to Kenya between July and September to breed and nurse their calves.
Due to its protected and heat tropical waters, Watamu is among the greatest locations to watch these marine creatures on their journey. Guests flock to the coastal city and wait expectantly for the breathtaking spectacle of watching the whales leap and dance superbly within the waters.
Dolphin watching can be widespread in Kenya between November and March. These lovely marine mammals fill the waters round Wasini Island and might be simply noticed from dhows.
Should you’d like 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 keep whereas within the space. It’s a lovely boutique lodge providing nice lodging and eating companies. The lodge additionally organizes humpback whale-watching journeys in Watamu.
When to Visit Kenya For Climbing
My favourite out of doors exercise in Kenya is climbing, and I’m ever grateful that trails are accessible all year long. Nonetheless, the wet season from March to Could just isn’t the very best 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 outside. 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 huge climbs like Mount Kenya and Elgon, difficult treks like Rurimeria and Elephant Hill, and scenic hikes like Mount Satima and Mount Longonot.
When to Visit Kenya For Low-cost Costs
The moist season from March to Could is the very best 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 straightforward to keep at a luxurious lodge for up to 80% lower than the common charges.
One other best 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 possibilities of good bargains on lodging and excursions are additionally unlikely throughout weekends.
The Best Time to Visit Kenya By Month
Should you’re questioning when the very best time, month, or season to go to Kenya is, take a look at the next information. It’s a month-by-month breakdown of the climate and the very best issues to do when you’re there.
For starters, a few 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 up to 30°C in cities and the countryside. The coastal area is sizzling and humid in January – best situations for watersports and seashore actions.
Issues To Do in Kenya in January
January is ideal for wildlife, fowl watching, metropolis sightseeing, and seashore leisure. Lodging services are nonetheless crammed up, but it surely’s doable to get some good offers with just a little looking.
A number of the greatest actions through the month embrace recreation drives in Amboseli and Tsavo, and climbing within the Aberdares. You can even go online 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 reap the benefits 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 seashore holidays, February is among the greatest months in Kenya for festivals. You’ll be able to attend the well-known Safaricom Worldwide Jazz Competition, 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.
Should you’re planning on touring round Kenya, be sure to take a look at our information on the very best game reserves and safari parks.
Kenya in March
There are higher occasions to go to Kenya than March, however selecting to journey at the moment comes with the good thing about slashed costs on excursions and lodging for those that 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. Generally heavy downpours are skilled in virtually all elements of the nation.
When it’s not raining, the sky is usually cloudy, decreasing the prospect 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 shut to waterholes presenting vacationers with a exceptional alternative for recreation viewing.
Due to diminished vacationer site visitors, you’re additionally doubtless to discover nice reductions on lodges, lodges, camps, and safari excursions at the moment.
Kenya in April
April is not any completely 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 virtually 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 beautifully inexperienced.
Issues To Do in Kenya in April
Should you 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 all over the place. Museums, cultural facilities, and indoor sports activities facilities are open throughout this time, providing another to 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 Could
Kenya in Could begins to look brighter. The nation is inexperienced, grass in parks is taller, however wildlife viewing remains to be tough.
Climate in Kenya in Could
The lengthy rains normally proceed nicely into late Could. Temperatures in Nairobi and upcountry vary between 17°C and 26°C. The coastal area, nonetheless, is sizzling and moist, with temperatures growing to 35°C.
Issues To Do in Kenya in Could
In Could, crowds are nonetheless small, and costs for lodging and excursions are glorious. 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 excellent atmosphere for nature images.
I wouldn’t suggest exploring the gorges at Hell’s Gate National Park in Could due to flush floods. Poor visibility can even 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 just 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 Competition (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 few of the greatest locations to go to in June. You’ll be able to 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 lovely place to see waterfalls just like the Karuru Falls or to hike alongside trails similar to Elephant Hill and Dragon’s Tooth (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 increased than in earlier months, and there are larger crowds in contrast to June.
Climate in Kenya in July
Dry climate continues in July, and nice temperatures are skilled in most elements of the nation. The coastal area is hotter and excellent for seashore walks, watersports, and sunbathing.
Generally Nairobi, the central highlands, western elements, and rift valley areas are chilly, however there’s hardly any rainfall.
Issues To Do in Kenya in July
Should you’re questioning when to go to Kenya, July is among the greatest occasions. You’ll be able to 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 sights, such because the Ruins of Gedi, Mida Creek, Watamu Marine Park, and Arabuko Sokoke Forest.
Kenya in August
August is the very best month to go to Kenya for recreation viewing, climbing, seashore actions, and cultural experiences.
Climate in Kenya in August
The climate in August is dry and heat. It’s normally sunny through the day, the magical African sundown paints the sky orange within the night, and the sky is starlit at evening – 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 lovely.
In addition to recreation 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 pageant attracts guests from world wide 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 sights. 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’ll be able to nonetheless catch the spectacular migration at Masai Mara, and the quick rains are but to arrive.
Daytime temperatures in Nairobi are fairly excessive (up to 29°C), but it surely’s nonetheless cool sufficient to journey round. Nights are chilly (falling to round 17°C), however you possibly can nonetheless exit for dinner and drinks. Take a look at the best restaurants in Nairobi.
Though the coastal area is sizzling in September, you possibly can nonetheless wander in cities and have a beautiful seashore expertise.
Issues To Do in Kenya in September
There are many issues to see and do in Kenya in September. You’ll be able to 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 calm down on one among Diani’s seashores.
The Nairobi International Trade Fair additionally takes place this month, and it’s among the finest occasions to attend in Kenya. September additionally sees the final humpback whales go away 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 right through to mid-December. These rains final a short while through the day and don’t have a tendency to disrupt safaris. Crowds are smaller, and costs go down.
Issues To Do in Kenya in October
Kenya remains to be sunny and exquisite through 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 seashore 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.
Should you’re into adventures join this tour to Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate Nationwide Park.
Kenya in November
November is the very best month to go to Kenya if you happen to 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. Nonetheless, these rains don’t final lengthy, and you may nonetheless journey round.
Issues To Do in Kenya in November
The primary spotlight for November is the Lamu Cultural Competition. This incredible 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 outdated cities (Mombasa and Lamu), visiting seashores in Diani, Watamu, or Malindi, and recreation viewing in Nairobi or Lake Nakuru nationwide parks.
Kenya in December
December is a wonderful time of the yr to go to Kenya. Home and worldwide vacationers converge at completely 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 Yr 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 overseas vacationers.
Nationwide parks and recreation reserves are normally crowded too. The identical goes for museums similar to Nairobi’s Nationwide Museum of Kenya and journey facilities like Wild Waters in Mombasa.
Should you’re attracted to occasions and festivals, you would possibly determine to go to in December. Beneath the Baobabs, Rusinga Competition and Nairobi Competition 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 a tremendous vacation spot for all kinds of vacationers.
It’s dotted with wildlife parks, museums, recreation reserves, sandy seashores, vacation resorts, and different locations accessible at completely different occasions of the yr.
As you possibly can see, every month presents a possibility to expertise one thing distinctive. You’ll be able to discover Masai Mara in August, Amboseli in February, or go to Watamu between July and September to watch humpback whales.
So, now that when to go to Kenya, begin planning and making ready for a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
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