Kenya is one of the best East African safari holiday destinations and happens to be an all-year-round holiday destination that said Where to visit will depend on your Personal interests on what you would like to experience. For Kenya wildlife and beech vacations are the major attractions.
It is possible to visit Kenya all year round however the best time happens to be during the dry seasons there are two dry seasons; January to March and again from July to October these are the best times to spot wildlife due to low vegetation and animals gather around the remaining water holes. The great wildebeest migration is expected to be happening at Masai Mara from August till October.
Below is a monthly guideline on what to expect in terms of weather conditions and where you need to be for the best experience on your holiday.
January to March:
The weather is characterized by warm days with clear clouds and starry nights. Most lakes and seasonal rivers are low and wildlife will be found gathering in large numbers around water spots. For bird lovers, this is one of the best seasons to view large flocks of flamingoes at Soda lake Nakuru attracted by the abundance of Algae at the lake. While at Amboseli national park you get to experience the best views of Snow capped Mt Kilimanjaro it is warm and sunny at the coastal beaches and definitely perfect weather to spend time at the lovely Mombasa beaches.
April to May:
End march signals the beginning of long rains that continues until the end of May it becomes challenging to access most parks the long vegetation makes it difficult to view wildlife and wild animals are not gathering at most water holes as there is plenty of water now. Most lodges and camps will cross down for the low season. This is definitely NOT a good time o go for a Kenyan safari
June:
The long rains stop, and the temperatures are pleasant, with low humidity it is warm during the days and cool nights with occasional rainfalls in most parts of the country. Amet adventures recommend family safaris during June due to the pleasant temperatures and low humidity.
July to October:
July experiences clear and dry conditions in most parks, the humidity is at its lowest, temperatures ranging from warm to very hot during the days and cold evenings. Come August the great wildebeest herds are concentrated in large numbers at Masai mara this is a peak season and most parks are crowded with tourists remember to make a reservation early enough. The dry conditions continue through September and huge flocks of pink flamingoes can be seen at Lake Nakuru, October is the peak and the best time for water sporting activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling in coastal Mombasa beeches.
November
November marks the shoulder season when the number of visitors is lower, The great wildebeest herds have already left Mara, Short rains return in the second half and the grassland in most parks and reserves grow taller, it becomes difficult for wildlife-viewing. It is low season and parks are now less frequented by visitors. If you are looking to take a Kenyan safari during this time you may enjoy great discounts although tracing the wildlife may be difficult due to the long vegetation in most parks.
December
The short rains clear by Mid December, the weather is characterized by warm to very hot temperatures during the day and nights humidity is high in the coastal Mombasa region while Animals gather the water holes as the rivers start getting low the parks and coastal Mombasa beach become busy and sometimes crowded again as Christmas festive seasons approaches. For the bird lovers, this is still a great month to experience the birdlife as the migratory birds that already came in November can still be spotted in rift valley Lakes; Nakuru, and Naivasha.
No matter what time of the year you choose to visit there is always something memorable to enjoy in most Kenyan safari parks and holiday destinations. Below is a summary of the BEST Month to visit different parks and reserves as well as coastal beaches in Kenya.
| DESTINATION | Best Month to Visit |
| Masai Mara National reserve | June to November |
| Amboseli National park | January to March and June to December |
| Samburu National Reserve | January to March and June to December |
| Lake Nakuru and Naivasha | January to March and June to December |
| Tsavo East and west | January to March and June to December |
| North and south coast Mombasa beeches | January to March and June to August |
From an expert’s point of view, it is always a good idea to combine beach and a wildlife safari for an overall African holiday experience. Check out our top-selling combined holiday package that can be fully customized to suit your travel interests.
