Kenya, often referred to as the “Safari Capital of the World“, is one of the most incredible countries and was the 4th country visited on our 9-month Cairo to Cape Town trip.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of researching Kenya weather and answer the vital question “When is the best time to visit Kenya?”.
We spent 3 months exploring as much of Kenya as possible during this time and as a result Kenya now tops the list as our favourite African country.
Our reasons to visit Kenya are endless, so before we get to Kenya weather, we will try our best to summarise these briefly.
Is Kenya Worth Visiting?
Given Kenya’s title as the “Safari Capital of the World” you can expect to embark on thrilling safaris in iconic national parks like the Maasai Mara, witness the breathtaking Great Migration, and encounter the Big Five in their natural habitats.
Other than its exceptional wildlife, Kenya’s diverse landscapes, from the towering Mount Kenya to the picturesque Rift Valley lakes, offer stunning views that will make you have to pinch yourself to check if this is still real life!
You will immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture and traditions feeling welcome from each and every person you meet. This special warmth encourages and allows travelers to engage with local communities and partake in cultural exchanges.
Top this list off with pristine beaches that could compete with some of the world’s best and you have yourself a pretty unforgettable and awe-inspiring trip ahead of you.
Now that we have persuaded you to visit this fascinating country, let’s see when is the best time to visit Kenya.
Kenya Weather: Seasons in Kenya
The best time to visit Kenya can depend on various factors such as weather preferences, wildlife migration patterns, and specific activities you plan to engage in during your Kenya trip.
It’s important to check the weather in Kenya before your holiday to make sure you pack right, plan fun activities, and avoid bad weather that could spoil your dream trip.
Lucky for you we are here to help with that and have all the information you will need so keep reading!
Peak Wildlife Viewing Months (July to October):
Great Migration: Considered the best time to witness the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara National Reserve, particularly between July and September. Millions of wildebeest and zebras migrate from Tanzania’s Serengeti to Kenya’s Maasai Mara in search of greener pastures, offering spectacular wildlife sightings.
Dry Season: This period experiences drier weather, making it easier to spot wildlife as animals tend to gather around water sources.
We were just 2 weeks early for the Great Migration but our Massai Mara safari was still one of the best things we have ever done.
Shoulder Seasons *months between the peak seasons (November to March and June):
Migratory Bird Watching: From November to March, This is the best time to visit Kenya for birdwatching, with many migratory bird species arriving.
Lower Tourist Numbers: June also marks the start of the Great Migration into the Maasai Mara, and tourist numbers are relatively lower compared to the peak season, offering opportunities for discounted rates and fewer crowds.
We embarked on our Maasai Mara safari in June and just a heads up, although beautiful temperatures during the day it got quite cool at night time.
Rainy Seasons (April to May):
Longer Rainy Period: April to May is the long rainy season, experiencing heavier rainfall. While wildlife viewing might be more challenging due to lush vegetation, this period offers discounts on accommodations and fewer tourists.
Green Landscapes: The landscape is lush and green during the rainy season, creating beautiful scenery and great photographic opportunities.
What Packing Essentials Do I Need For My Kenya Holiday?
This is the same list we recommend for the majority of African travels (and travel in general).
- It gets cold in Maasai Mara so bring warm gear
- Head torch – for electricity outages.
- Dry bag – handy for beach days, protection of everyday items if it rains!
- Battery pack – for those long bus journeys as well as electricity outages.
- Download apps such as Google Translate, Google Maps, and Booking.com.
- Utilize budget apps such as TravelSpend to keep track of your spending.
- Multi Travel Adapter – so you are prepared for any plug type!
- Find our full travel list here.
Find all the information you will need to prepare for your Kenya holiday here.
Enjoy Your Best Time to Visit Kenya!
Kenya’s diverse ecosystems and attractions cater to different interests, whether it’s Kenya safaris, cultural experiences, or Kenya beach holidays along the coastal regions.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Kenya can vary based on what you want to experience. Consider Kenya weather, wildlife movements, and your preferences when planning your trip of a lifetime.
We stayed for 3 months exploring all that Kenya has to offer and would have stayed longer if our visas permitted! We already cannot wait to return.
It was an adventure of a lifetime and we would love to hear how you get on so please feel free to leave us a message below or contact us through our socials.
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