When is the Best Time to Visit Kenya? The best time to visit Kenya depends on what you are interested in seeing and experience on your safari in Kenya.
If you are in search of the Great Wildebeest Migration, July to October is the best time to go. If you are looking to spot some rare migratory birds, go between October and April. December to March is the warmest time to visit, and it is a great time to go in search of the Big Five.
Summary
- The Great Migration – July – October
- Rare migratory birds – October – April
- The Big Five – December – March
When is the best time to see the Great Migration?
The Great Migration across the Maasai Mara is one of the most famous draws of a safari to Kenya. Considered to be one of the Africa’s most incredible wildlife experience (and one of the natural wonders of the world), 1.5 million wildebeest as well as hundreds of thousands of zebra and gazelle follow the rains across the Maasai Mara tracked by predators. Though it is difficult to predict exactly when the migration will happen, the highest chance of spotting it in Kenya happen from July to September.
In general, June to October is a great time to visit Kenya. June sees the start of Kenya’s dry season – waterholes and riverbanks are teeming with animals and the bush is less dense, so wildlife is easier to spot. During these months, you will have your greatest shot at seeing the Big Five. Weather-wise, its cooler from June to August and it starts to warm up in September.
Best time to go for in Kenya
Bird watching – October – April
Also, Kenya is home to over 1,000 species of bird – 11% of the world’s bird species and its great to go year-round to catch a glimpse of something rare. Migratory birds can be spotted from September to April in one go. Each park offers something different, so depending on what you want to see, you can travel around the country to maximize the number of species you spot. Actually Kenya holds the record for the greatest number of species seen in 24 hours, a whopping 342.
Safari – December – March
The beginning of January right the way through to the end of March is the warmest time to visit Kenya, with higher concentration of animals congregating in popular tourist destinations, such as the Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Amboseli. This is a great time of year for divers to go to Kenya as visibility in the Indian Ocean is much clearer thanks to the lack of surface run off. Many migrant birds are also passing though – wintering in the sun. December is a particularly fascinating time to visit Kenya, as it is when the majority of animals give birth (often surrounded by predators). Because Kenya as it is the lushest during this time, its stunning colors make for great photos. There are also fewer tourists. Try to visit visiting during the second half of the month, though, to avoid the rains.
When is rainy season in Kenya?
Kenya’s rainy season runs through April and May, so we recommend avoiding a visit to Kenya during these months. Flooded roads, an abundance of vegetation and generally wet weather at this time makes for poor wildlife watching and slippery roads.
What is Kenya like?
One of the most magical things about Kenya is the people you meet there. The guides are really happy to share their culture with you, and it’s such a meaning exchange that is hard to get at that authentic level. Anybody who comes to Kenya will never stop coming. They say there is a magic. There is something that attracts them that they never want to leave.
Often, people from different parts of the world say that it is hard to wipe the dust of Africa from off your boot.
In conclusion: Depending on when you visit, you may witness the drama of the Great Wildebeest Migration or be equally awed by glimpses of lions, leopards and cheetahs. The views over the border to Kilimanjaro from Amboseli and adventures in the dramatic Great Rift Valley are just as memorable.
Kenya offers memorable safaris rich in wildlife, culture and history. From the Maasai Mara with its iconic Great Migration river crossings, to the traditional culture and dramatic landscapes of the Samburu. The warmth and hospitality of Kenyan people makes it a place to return, time and time again.