The Best Time to Visit Kenya

March is the last dry month before the rainy 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 favorite 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 Center 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. 

From June to August, Kenya experiences its dry season, making it the perfect time of year to visit Kenya for safari adventures. The weather is generally pleasant, and wildlife sightings are abundant. Explore the Maasai Mara, witness the wildebeest migration, and have the opportunity to see predators in action. It's also an ideal time for birdwatching, with migratory birds flocking to various parts of the country.

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 4,000 miles 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 Kenya, we consider September, October, and November to be among the best months to visit Kenya.

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.

As the short rains begin in November, Kenya's landscapes turn lush and vibrant. It's a great time to travel to Kenya if you appreciate the greenery and want to avoid the crowds. Additionally, Kenya in November offers fantastic opportunities for underwater activities along the Kenyan coast. Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters, explore colorful coral reefs, and encounter diverse marine life.

Kenya from December to February is the best time 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 snorkeling 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 traveling 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.