The easy answer is: It depends on what you want to do and see. And what you can do and see is linked to the climate, although the weather in Kenya is pleasant year-round. If you want to take a break from the world, and reconnect, refresh, and reboot your mind, Kenya might be exactly what you need. So why not start planning your trip to East Africa already. But when is the best time to travel to Kenya?
In Kenya, the dry season is normally best for wildlife viewing, while during wet season, the country is beautifully green, and you might be able to spot new-born animals and migratory birds. If you need help to decide when the best time to travel to Kenya is for you, have a look at our month by month guide on when to travel to Kenya.
High season: June to October and December
High season coincides with the long dry season from June to October, which is considered the best time for wildlife viewing. Since it’s a popular time to go, rates are higher and some parks can be quite busy.
Low season: April to May and November
The long as well as the short rainy season are low season in Kenya. Visitor numbers and rates are lower, and the flora of the country is looking especially beautiful. This is the best time for birding and to see new-born animals.
Shoulder season: January to March
Kenya has another short dry season from January to March. This might be the best time to travel to Kenya as you still see animals in the parks but without having to share them with other travellers. Also, prices are lower.
The best time to travel to Kenya? It depends!
Because Kenya is located on the equator, the year is divided into rainy and dry seasons instead of summer and winter. There is a long dry season from June to October, which is followed by short rainfalls in November and December. January and February comprise the ‘short dry season’, after which come the ‘long rains’ from March to May. In the past years, these patterns have started to change, but remain a guideline for travellers planning their visit.
Dry season: June to October and December
June to October is the longest dry season in Kenya, which is considered the best time to travel to Kenya for game viewing. As water sources evaporate, animals gather at remaining water holes and wildlife is easier to spot because the lack of rain makes the vegetation sparse.
The spectacular annual ‘Great Migration’, during which millions of wildebeest, zebras and gazelle follow a migratory route from Tanzania to Kenya in search of fresh grass, can normally be witnessed in Kenya from August until November. During this time, however, the popular parks such as the Masai Mara will be busy. Visiting lesser known game reserves such as the Samburu National Reserve on one of our guided tours, is a great way to experience an exclusive safari, even during the high season. Generally, game viewing is good in Kenya all year round, even though this can vary from park to park.
During the dry season, the days in Kenya are sunny with clear skies. The number of visitors as well as accommodation rates will be higher.
Wet Season: November and March to May
After Kenya’s long dry season comes a short rainy season in November and December. This is not the best time to travel to Kenya for wildlife viewing. With all the water available, animals scatter all over the parks and are therefore harder to spot. However, during the short rainy season, you will find Kenya beautifully lush and green, and you will be able to see migratory birds or even new-born animals.
Except for the ‘long rains’ from March to May, the rains in Kenya are normally short afternoon showers. During the long rainy season, however, rivers are high and some roads might become impassable. The past year has seen heavy rains all across East Africa, challenging even the most experienced driver-guide. One reason you will want to go on a guided safari and have your local guide always close by.
Yet, this is also the best time to travel to Kenya if you want fewer tourists, lower prices, and the perfect light for your photographs. The rains transform Kenya into a beautiful, colourful landscape. The long rainy season also corresponds with the calving season of some mammals, which is why you might be able to see new-born animals.
Let’s plan your trip to Kenya together! With weather patterns changing, you will want someone experienced on your side to make sure your next trip goes right. Get in touch with us and let our experienced travel agents help you find the best time to travel to Kenya for you.
