When to Visit Kenya - Best Time to Visit Kenya

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT KENYA

Kenya is arguably one of the best known and most iconic safari destinations in Africa. A fascinating mix of national parks that vary in their unique terrain. As well as animal and bird species and the communities that call each region home.

The Masai Mara is the most famous of these parks. As well as having a huge variety of resident wildlife, it is most famous for the Wildebeest Migration. This occurs annually at any time from around July. When huge herds cross uneven terrain and cross rivers to reach the Masai Mara from the Serengeti in Tanzania. They then head back over the border again into Tanzania later in the season .

There also is a beautiful stretch of coastline on the Indian Ocean. With powder white beaches and protected by a reef so ideal for watersports and swimming.

There are quite clear seasons in Kenya and although sometimes with modern climate changes the lines can sometimes be blurred. As a rule it is still widely considered that April through May is the main rainy season. Whilst November is considered the time of the “short” rains.

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE

Kenya is an equatorial country. Bordered by Tanzania to the South, Uganda to the West and Somalia, South Sudan and Ethiopia to the North. To the East is the beautiful Indian Ocean coastline.

There is a hugely varied topography. From mountains to savannah, plains, lakes and lush green forests to semi arid almost desert regions. Each region has variations in weather although the main principles of wet and dry seasons remain the same.

Kenya has a mostly tropical climate. The coast it is generally hot and humid with a higher rainfall. Most of the other regions enjoy pleasantly warm weather except the north of Kenya that is semi arid so is much hotter and dry.

DRY SEASONS: JULY-OCTOBER AND DECEMBER – MARCH

Although not set, generally the driest times are between July and August when the temperatures are mostly warm and pleasant. This fortunately coincides with the migration in the Masai Mara. Also December – March is dry and this is when you are likely to get the hottest and most humid weather. Of course it does vary depending on your location. How close you are to the equator and also how high above sea level you are.

Dry season is certainly the most popular time to travel for most safari goers as the wildife is most concentrated. They are usually close to the limited sources of water in the area. The undergrowth is less so it is also easier to spot animals

What to pack: Mornings and nights can be chilly so be sure to pack warm clothing as well as summer clothing.

WET SEASON: APRIL, MAY AND NOVEMBER

Whilst the dry season is popular for game viewing. Certain time’s of what are considered rainy season are certainly worth consideration

Although April/May you should be very wary before considering a Kenya Safari. As this is the wettest time and many camps do close for an annual freshen up. November is well worth travelling.

The rainfall in November, can be sporadic with sharp showers and although hot there are definite advantages. As the rain falls and the vegetation comes to life it is an ideal time for the wildlife to have their young. So look out for babies galore!

What to pack: Pack for a tropical climate – a good mix of cool neutral coloured clothing. With a fleece for early morning and evenings. Sunscreen, a hat that is secure, as well as a good quality mosquito repellent

The Best Time to Visit Kenya

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT KENYA

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE

DRY SEASONS: JULY-OCTOBER AND DECEMBER – MARCH

WET SEASON: APRIL, MAY AND NOVEMBER

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