When to Go on a Kenyan Safari: A Visitor’s Guide to Kenya
Are you planning a trip to magical Kenya? While Kenya is a great year-round holiday destination, here are some tips on how to decide when to visit this incredible & beautiful country.
Kenya is one of the world’s most iconic safari destinations, but it is also well known for its lush, green landscapes, cosmopolitan cities, white, sandy beaches, and friendly people. It’s no wonder that every year, thousands of tourists from all corners of the world flock to East Africa to visit this beautiful and diverse country.
If you are planning a Kenyan safari, whether it’s a family trip or a romantic honeymoon, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to decide when to plan your vacation.
Kenya’s Seasons and Weather: What You Should Know
Before planning your trip to Kenya, you must keep in mind that it broadly follows four main seasons. These include:
- January – March: Hot, dry, and usually rainless.
- April – June: These are the long rains. The climate becomes hot and wet.
- July – October: This is the cooler, dry season. Cold within 100km radius of Nairobi, July – August.
- November – December: This is the period of short, unpredictable rains to usually mid December.
Why Visit in the Dry Season
Generally speaking, the best time to visit Kenya is during either of the two dry seasons (January – March or July – October). This is because:
- Wildlife spotting is often at its best. The animals don’t run away in the wet seasons!
- Vegetation is sparser, making distance viewing easier.
- Animals tend to gather around rivers and waterholes, making it easier to find them.
- The road conditions are safer and better.
However, keep in mind that the main tourist season ties in with the dry season, with the biggest influx from December – January and July – August. So if you don’t like big crowds, plan your trip accordingly.
Why Visit During the Wet Season
While the two rainy seasons aren’t considered the best for wildlife viewing, the rains transform the country’s scenery, and with the lush, green landscape, you’ll be able to capture some beautiful memories and photographs. Also,
- Migratory birds are present from September – April, so keen bird watchers may want to visit at this time.
- The wetter seasons coincide with low tourism seasons, so your rates will be cheaper and there will be smaller crowds in the reserves.
If you are looking for cheaper tickets and hotel rates, and you want a safari experience that is unspoiled by big crowds, then visiting during the wet season might be right for you.
The Great Wildebeest Migration
While Kenya’s wildlife parks can be visited throughout the year, the best viewing is often observed during the dry season, and especially from July – October. This season coincides with the phenomenal spectacle of the Great Wildebeest Migration.
Those looking to combine a safari to both Kenya and Tanzania, and who want to witness what has been dubbed as the greatest show on earth, should definitely visit at this time.
6 REASONS THE GREAT WILDEBEEST MIGRATION SHOULD BE ON YOUR BUCKET LIST
When to Visit Kenya’s Beaches
Kenya’s coastal regions, including Diani, Mombasa, Malindi, and the northern islands of Lamu, tend to experience humid and hot weather all year round. However, rainfall and temperatures are at their highest between mid-March and May, so plan your beach holiday outside of these months.
Keen on Snorkelling?
For visitors who want to experience the rich marine life of the Kenyan coast, snorkeling and diving is at its best during the months of October-November, and March, as these times offer the clearest seas.
We Can Help Plan Your Perfect Safari
At Let’s Go Travel, our knowledgeable and experienced travel agents can help you find the perfect time for your Kenyan safari and beach holiday. Our fully customized itineraries are designed specifically to meet all your unique needs and desires.
To get started on the adventure of a lifetime, contact us at +254 722 331 899.