Best Time of Year to Visit Kenya

Seasonal Planning for Kenya Travel

Kenya sits right on the equator, with roughly half of the country on either side. That means there aren't four seasons defined by temperature changes, but instead wet and dry seasons. Kenya experiences two dry seasons and two wet seasons. Or, perhaps more accurately, the dry season is punctuated with a mini wet season, and the wet season is punctuated with a mini dry season. Complicating things further, proximity to the enormous Lake Victoria (in the west, on the border with Uganda and Tanzania) increases the chance of rain at any time of year. The popular Maasai Mara National Park is influenced by Lake Victoria's weather patterns.

The temperatures in Kenya are fairly consistent year-round and across the country. Most of the time and in most popular destinations, you can expect temperatures between about 70°F and 88°F (22°C-31°C). However, elevations inevitably affect temperatures and humidity levels. For example, Mt. Kenya⁠—the highest mountain in Kenya, and the second-highest in Africa, at 17,057 feet (5,199 m)⁠—is always capped in snow. Further, coastal areas are generally hotter than the central plateaus.

Many travelers come to Kenya to go on safari or climb Mt. Kenya. Both are best accomplished in the dry months. But, these are also Kenya's peak times for tourism, so prices are at their highest. If you wish to reduce costs and are mainly coming for a safari, traveling to Kenya outside of this peak season may be preferable. You may have to compromise slightly on the weather and wildlife viewing, but you will enjoy better-value lodging and activities. If you're coming to climb Mt. Kenya, however, you'll need to factor in safety considerations, so coming in the off-season will probably not be feasible.

Wet Season in Kenya (November & December, March to May)

Kenya experiences a short wet burst in November and December, but the primary wet season comes from March to May. While the shorter rains in November and December can still be an excellent time to visit, travel to Kenya is best avoided during the long wet season from March to May. The rains at that time can be relentless, obscuring visibility and making trails in the national parks challenging to navigate. Humidity is also very high. In addition, many safari camps close up shop at this time of year.

However, the short rainy period in November and December is preferable because the rains are less heavy. This is a great time to see birds, including flamingos and migratory species. The landscape gets an injection of green, and baby animals are born. November is also a great time to hit the coastal beaches as a respite from the heat. This is Kenya's low season, so accommodation and tour prices are generally lower, but you can still see and experience a lot (although some safari camps close).

Travelers who want to witness the Great Migration (read more below) can come at its tail end in November when animals who have survived the movement from Tanzania fill the Maasai Mara.

Events in the wet season

East Africa Arts Festival, Nairobi. If you're passing through the capital in March, check out this three-day annual arts festival held at the Kenya National Museum. A combination of traditional and contemporary art is on display.

Mombasa Carnival, Mombasa. In November, this multi-cultural street party held in Kenya's second city reflects the Persian, Chinese, Arabian, Portuguese, Indian, and European influence on the local culture.

Jamhuri Day, nationwide. On December 12, this Kenyan national holiday celebrates independence from Britain and means "independence" in Swahili. Expect fireworks displays and performances in the larger towns.

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Kenya in March
Kenya in April
Kenya in May
Kenya in November
Kenya in December

Dry Season in Kenya (January & February, June to October)

A major reason to visit Kenya in the dry season is to witness the Great Migration. Starting in the Serengeti in Tanzania (south of Kenya), millions of wildebeest and zebra move north to the Maasai Mara, on Kenya's southwestern border. The animals' first significant hurdle is the crocodile-infested Mara River (August). Those who survive the crossing fill the Maasai Mara between September and November. Of course, where there are wildebeest and zebras, there are also predators like big cats! These are prime safari months.

However, the Great Migration is not the only time of year when you can enjoy going on safari. Other drier times of year (late January and early February) and earlier in the primary dry season (June and July) are also comfortable times to visit, with good wildlife-sighting opportunities. The dry season, in general, is preferable to go on safari because grasses and vegetation are more sparse, meaning the visibility of animals is better. Plus, the scarcity of water causes animals to gather around existing water holes, meaning you can see a lot of wildlife in a smaller area and won't need to drive around as much in search of them.

Another prominent reason why travelers come to Kenya is to climb Mt. Kenya. This is also best and most safely done in the dry season. January, February, and July through September are the best times for climbing, as visibility is good and days are sunny. Expect cold temperatures at higher altitudes, whatever the weather at sea level. January and February are also excellent times to visit the beaches along the Indian Ocean, as sea temperatures are very warm, and the water is clear.

Events in the dry season

The Great Migration. The biggest natural event in Kenya's calendar shouldn't be missed for keen wildlife watchers. It starts in August, and the effects can be seen for a few months afterward, especially in the Maasai Mara.

Maralal International Camel Derby, Maralal. For something a bit different, head to this northern Kenyan town to watch camel races in August.

Kenya Music Festival, Nairobi. This August music festival started in the early 20th century and showcases Kenyan, African, and international music. 

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Kenya in January
Kenya in February
Kenya in June
Kenya in July
Kenya in August
Kenya in September
Kenya in October