Best Time to Visit Kenya
- JAN Avg Daily: 26 °C Avg Nightly: 13 °C
- FEB Avg Daily: 28 °C Avg Nightly: 13 °C
- MAR Avg Daily: 27 °C Avg Nightly: 14 °C
- APR Avg Daily: 25 °C Avg Nightly: 15 °C
- MAY Avg Daily: 24 °C Avg Nightly: 14 °C
- JUN Avg Daily: 23 °C Avg Nightly: 12 °C
- JUL Avg Daily: 22 °C Avg Nightly: 11 °C
- AUG Avg Daily: 23 °C Avg Nightly: 11 °C
- SEP Avg Daily: 26 °C Avg Nightly: 11 °C
- OCT Avg Daily: 27 °C Avg Nightly: 13 °C
- NOV Avg Daily: 25 °C Avg Nightly: 14 °C
- DEC Avg Daily: 24 °C Avg Nightly: 13 °C
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Kenya has the privilege of being one of the most biologically diverse countries on the planet. The natural beauty of the Maasai Mara and those endless savannahs draw countless tourists each year. But, before you start planning your safaris, you need to know when to visit Kenya. The country is quite warm the year round, but you might not enjoy the views during the monsoons. So, what is the best time to visit Kenya? Let’s find out!
Quick Facts
- High Season: July - October, January - February
- Low Season: March - May
- All Seasons: June - October, November - February, March - May
- The Great Migration takes place at the Mara between the months of August to October and is considered to be one of the most spectacular natural events in the world, with thousands of animals trampling down the vast Savannah.
Kenya is the country of adventure, with a million different things on offer for the adventure lovers. The best time to visit Kenya depends on what you wish to do, but no matter when you end up in the country, you will definitely have the adventure of a lifetime.
The weather in Kenya is at its best between the months of July to October. The rains would have just stopped, so there is lush greenery everywhere, and the wildlife becomes easier to spot. The Great Migration happens during this period and watching thousands and thousands of these animals migrate to greener pastures is definitely a sight to behold!
When to visit Kenya? You can never go wrong visiting Kenya between January and February. This is the perfect time for a safari. The climate is not that warm, and it’s pretty dry, so the animals tend to congregate close to watering holes.
Seasonal Overview
June to October — Dry Season
These months are some of the least humid months in the Kenyan calendar, so if you’re drawn to the concept of a safari and a journey into untouched expanses of vast open jungles, these are the best months.
- Avg. Temperature: 73 – 82° F / 23 – 28° C (in Nairobi)
- Rainfall: 70 – 105 mm
- Season: Spring / Summer
- Highlights: If the Maasai Mara is what drew you to the country, this is the best time to visit Kenya. The Great Migration happens during this period, and there is no other sight that comes close to this mesmerizing natural phenomenon! You will get spectacular views of the zebras and the wildebeests, and since there is very little rainfall, the watering holes attract lots of animals. Eid-Al-Fitr is celebrated in September, and if you are in a big city, you will definitely not want to miss the celebrations, or the feast.
November to February — Wet Season
This is the best season for water adventures. Kenya has some beautiful beaches that offer great water sport opportunities. The water visibility is at the highest between November to February, as there is still plenty of sun.
- Avg. Temperature: 48 – 82° F / 9 – 28° C (in Nairobi)
- Rainfall: 29 – 70 mm
- Season: Summer
- Highlights: You will get to sunbathe, and enjoy the warmth and beauty of Kenyan beaches in Mombasa, Watamu and Malindi. If you are a beach fan, you should definitely visit Diani and Lamu Beaches during this period. You will also get to participate in the Lamu Cultural Festival, which will be a unique opportunity! January and February offer excellent safari adventures as well, especially if you want to spot great game. Head over to the Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru or Amboseli for a uniquely Kenyan experience. You can even get to see a lot of migratory birds, like yellow- billed stork, south polar skua, arctic skua, etc in almost all the national parks!
March to May — Wet Season
These are the months of ‘long rain’, where you can expect heavy rainfall on a daily basis. This will definitely have a great impact on any safaris you might have planned, as the visibility will be very low. A lot of lodges and accommodations close down during this period, so you might have some difficulty finding a good place to stay. The weather in Kenya will get rather humid around this period, especially in the coastal areas. It is highly advised that you do not undertake water sports or related activities during this period due to the low visibility and harsh waves. There are some people who still trek up to Mount Kenya during this period, but the slope will be rather slippery, so caution is advised.
- Avg. Temperature: 52 – 79° F / 11 – 26° C (in Nairobi)
- Rainfall: 130 – 141 mm
- Season: Monsoon
- Highlights: Some wildlife areas towards the north, like Meru, Laikipia, or Samburu do not experience heavy rainfalls. These two months are also the best time to visit Kenya for photographers. The greenery is exceptionally lush, and the natural surroundings can be quite inspirational.
