Kenya in August: Cool Weather Travel Tips
Vast, open savannah teeming with wildlife, regal Maasai warriors, powder-soft footprint-free beaches, and once-in-a-lifetime activities. Kenya is unrivaled when it comes to an unforgettable African adventure. The month of August is the perfect time to travel to Kenya for enjoying exhilarating driving and walking safaris, lazing on the beaches along its coast, or summiting Mount Kenya during a thrilling mountain-climbing adventure. With perfect weather conditions, this is the month for exploring!
- Mark Bromley
- From USA
Kenya Weather in August
While Africa tends to conjure images of a scorching sun over iridescent plains, August is one of the coolest months of the year in Kenya. Days are long and sunny during this time of year with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 26°C in Nairobi, while nights are cooler in the city at around 12°C.
Coastal regions tend to be slightly warmer with daytime highs of between 27°C and 31°C and evenings a cool 21°C. Plus, a cool ocean breeze makes this a great time for exploring the coast and islands like Zanzibar.
August is also one of the driest months of the year in Kenya with virtually no rain anywhere in the country during this period, except in mountainous areas like the Rift Valley’s Hell's Gate National Park and Mount Kenya National Park.
For a seasonal overview of the weather in Kenya, visit our guide on the best time to visit Kenya.
Weather in Kenya in August - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 26 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 23 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 24 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 16 | 14 | 13 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 14 | 13 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 79 | 81 | 81 | 77 | 74 | 72 | 74 | 74 | 77 | 77 | 76 | 76 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 61 | 58 | 56 | 59 | 58 | 54 | 56 | 58 | 58 | 59 | 58 | 56 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 28 | 33 | 56 | 125 | 83 | 69 | 32 | 33 | 31 | 61 | 67 | 58 |
| Jul | Aug | Sep | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 23 | 23 | 25 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 13 | 14 | 14 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 74 | 74 | 77 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 56 | 58 | 58 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 32 | 33 | 31 |
Why Visit Kenya in August
There are myriad reasons to Visit Kenya in August. From breathtaking landscapes like Kakamega’s rainforests and footprint-free Indian Ocean beaches to the undulating, rolling grasslands of Masai Mara and the arid deserts located along the shores of the Jade Sea, this country is chockablock with attractions.
- The great wildebeest migration: Hailed as one of the seven natural wonders of Africa, the wildebeest migration in Kenya is in full swing in August when millions of wildebeest cross the crocodile-infested waters of the Mara River and continue moving northwards through Grumeti Reserve and Ikorongo, where they feast on the lush grasses.
- Whale-watching: August sees pods of humpback whales breaching and playing off the coast of Kenya. This is an experience that should not be missed if you are heading for the country during this time of year.
- Maralal Camel Derby: Every year in August, the Maralal Camel Derby is hosted in Kenya, drawing the world’s top camel racers to compete in this prestigious event. This vibrant event features plenty of food, music, dancing, and of course, camel racing!
Where To Go and What to Do
Kenya packs a punch when it comes to things to see and do in August. The weather is cool, clear, and perfect for everything from wildlife-watching to market-hopping. Head to Maasai Mara Reserve tours and trips to see the great migration and follow tens of thousands of wildebeests along with giraffes, zebras, elephants, and antelopes as they cross the Mara and Talek Rivers to make their way to greener pastures. Watering holes along the way are packed with animals coming for a drink due to the lack of rain and this draws predators in search of a meal, which makes for exhilarating watching.
For some relaxing time by the ocean, travel to Mombasa or Malindi on the coast and soak up some sun on a beautiful beach. You can spend long, lazy days sunbathing, snorkeling or scuba-diving in the warm Indian Ocean waters or even sail dhows if you wish to.
Standing over the plains of Meru and the East African Rift Valley, the rugged, glacier-clad peaks of Mount Kenya boast one of the most impressive landscapes in East Africa. The second-highest peak in Africa is home to a diverse array of wildlife, birds, and vegetation and offers a challenge for intrepid climbers and mountaineers.
For a hiking adventure of a lifetime, make sure that you add Hell’s Gate National Park to your itinerary. In addition to trekking, you can enjoy sights of spectacular natural geysers in this nature reserve. Visit Lake Nakuru to see giant pink flamingos and experience a guided walking safari in Buffalo Springs National Reserve.
If you want some city action, visit Nairobi. The city bustles with activity and this month is a great time for exploring markets, visiting galleries and museums, and people-watching. Pick up handcrafted souvenirs at the colorful Maasai Market in the city or take in some history at the Nairobi National Museum. Nairobi National Park, which is just outside of town, is home to the rare black rhino.
Kenya has something for everyone and August is a fantastic time to take in the wonders of this African paradise. Wondering how many days you will need to see the best of Kenya? Design your tailor-made itinerary to Kenya with the guidance of our local travel experts so that you do not miss a beat. Else, check out our top tours around Kenya in August for some inspiration.
