The Best Time of Year to Visit Kenya

March, April, and May make up Kenya’s autumn months.

March is the last dry month before the wet season begins in April and May and is a great time to visit as crowds begin winding down ahead of the rainy months. While mostly dry, Kenya’s weather in March is hot and humid, making this our favourite time to visit Nairobi, the bustling capital. Here, you can browse vibrant markets, escape the heat in the historic suburb of Karen or visit the Giraffe Centre to learn more about conservation efforts in Kenya.

If you don’t mind getting caught in the rain, late May can also be, visually, one of the best times to visit Kenya, as dry savannahs are transformed into lush, verdant landscapes and remaining rain clouds create unbeatably atmospheric skies. Accommodation will also be cheaper before peak safari season starts.

June to August is Kenya’s winter months, bringing warm and dry conditions ideal for sightseeing, sunbathing and of course, safaris.

This period is the best time of year to visit Kenya for safaris, particularly in the Maasai Mara. Maasai Mara National Reserve is one of the most renowned safari locations in Africa, home to many of the Big Five as well as more unusual animals like kudu and oryx. You can explore the park’s vast plains from the skies on an exhilarating hot air balloon safari or take a walking tour and listen out for the sounds of Kenya’s wildlife as they call out across the savannah.

Another great destination for safari and experiencing a vast variety of wildlife is Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. Stretching nearly 6,500 kilometres across the country, dividing the east from the west, the Great Rift Valley is home to a diverse selection of landscapes and natural features, including forested mountains, semi-active volcanos and arid deserts. One of the best ways to see the Great Rift Valley is by soaring through the air on an unforgettable helicopter safari, letting you experience Kenya from an entirely new perspective.

While June to August is undoubtedly a popular time to travel to Kenya, we consider September, October, and November to be among the best times to visit Kenya for safari.

While the spectacular Great Migration starts in June, visiting in September or October allows you to watch millions of wildebeests crossing the plains without distracting crowds. Kenya in November is also a good time of year to observe over 290 bird species as they migrate through Aberdare National Park.

Temperatures remain mild in September and October and begin to creep up in November ahead of Kenya’s summer, making these spring months ideal for being out in the sunshine animal watching.

December to February is Kenya’s summer, with temperatures climbing to the mid-30s.

These months are the best times to visit Kenya’s stunning beaches. With several beautiful locations dotted across the coast, you can spend your days as you choose. Soak up some sun and then cool down with a dip in the inviting Indian Ocean or plan a more adventurous beach break with snorkelling in Watamu or watersports at Diani Beach.

This is a good time to visit Kenya to combine its picturesque beaches and rich safari offerings. If you’re travelling with your family, have a look at our Kenya with Kids tour, which combines relaxation and adventure and makes the most of these warmer months.