The best time to visit Kenya depends on what you want to do. Kenya is divided by the equator and is characterized by a tropical climate.
The weather in Kenya is often ideal, although the coast can be very humid and there are hot, desert-like conditions around Lake Magadi and in the northern areas of the country around Lake Turkana. Most regions in Kenya have temperatures between 71-91°F a day, and they rarely drop below 55°F at night. Even during the short rains, the humidity during the day is mostly low and the sky is clear enough to see the Milky Way at night.
During the coolest months of June, July and August, temperatures in Nairobi are around 60°F, which can drop to about 50°F in the Aberdare region and the Mount Kenya massif.
Best Time To Visit Kenya By Month
This chart shows travel ratings for each month. Use Tab to explore individual month ratings, then navigate to month selection below.
Most Ideal
Low Season
overview
Expect generally hot, clear days with short bursts of rain, and enjoy some of the best conditions for wildlife viewing, as well as high water clarity in the coastal regions.
we recommend
Head to the northern coast of Kenya and discover a colorful underwater world where you can go snorkeling or soak up the sun on one of the palm-lined beaches
With a little luck you can see the Big Five among the endless bush landscapes of Tsavo East National Park
overview
February is one of the driest times of the year – expect average highs in the early 80s and lows around 50 °F. With minimal rainfall, the length of the grasses in the Savannah are short, so keep your fingers crossed for easy wildlife sightings!
we recommend
Witness giant elephant herds following ancient hiking trails in the rocky landscape of Samburu and spot the rare Grévy’s zebra on the banks of the Uaso Nyiro River
Travel to Laikipia in central Kenya for exclusive nature and wildlife experiences
overview
Expect warm temperatures in the day and high levels of humidity as the rains will begin to make their presence felt towards the end of the month. This is possibly the last month to head to the coast before the heavy rains make conditions uncomfortable there.
we recommend
Explore Chale island just off Kenya’s southeastern coast and discover an idyllic retreat dotted with inland tidal lakes, pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs.
overview
In April, Kenya usually experiences around five hours of sunshine as rains take hold of the country. The landscape starts turning green as vegetation begins to flourish.
we recommend
Head to Kisumu on Lake Victoria – the principal city of western Kenya has a relaxed ambiance and is a haven for fresh fish enthusiasts, given its many fish markets!
overview
May is typically off-season in Kenya with heavy rain and not much sunshine, which makes wildlife sightings difficult.
we recommend
Plan a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum in the bustling capital city, Nairobi, to learn about the changing history of Kenya
overview
As the rains begin to abate, cool, dry conditions begin to dominate. Expect average lows of 50°F, so make sure you dress in layers!
we recommend
Head to the Amboseli National Park, at the foot of the imposing Mount Kilimanjaro, and spend time in one of the best places to see African elephants
Visit the most arid region in Kenya – Chalbi Desert – and marvel at its stunning natural landscape replete with volcanoes and ancient lava flows and towering sand dunes
overview
The cool, dry conditions mean it’s excellent for safaris in Kenya. And it’s also time for the Great Migration – it is peak season in Kenya so you will need to book fast!
we recommend
Witness the Great Migration in the Masai Mara National Reserve, where millions of antelopes, zebras and wildebeest cross the savanna landscape from July to October
If you want a break from the wildlife, the pristine paradise at Kiwayu Island with its virgin beaches, crystal clear waters, dolphins and whales and a host of water sports awaits!
Head to Meru National Park, made famous by the movie ‘Born Free’, home to stunning natural beauty as well as a diverse range of animals
overview
Expect low humidity, sunny days and cold nights, especially in the higher altitudes. River migrations will have reduced as the herds will now be on the Mara.
we recommend
Head to Lake Elementaita, a small soda ash lake as the dry season is the ideal time to catch a glimpse of its diverse wildlife
Make the painstaking journey to remote Lake Turkana and be rewarded with views of the world’s largest desert lake and its fearsome Nile crocodiles!
For something different, travel to Kericho, Kenya’s tea territory!
overview
Things begin to heat up this month with daytime temperatures in the mid 80s. Rainfall is minimal and the skies are clear, affording great photographic opportunities.
we recommend
Witness the flamingos at Lake Nakuru – over one million of these graceful birds can be found fishing in the lake for their feast of delicious algae!
If you are yearning the great outdoors then we recommend a hike in the foothills of Mount Kenya
Enjoy the diverse birdlife at Lake Naivasha and game viewing at Hells Gate National Park, to the south of the lake
overview
Dry, warm conditions persist but expect the rains to set in by the end of the month.
we recommend
Before the rains arrive, discover Kakamega Forest National Reserve, the only tropical rainforest in Kenya, home to some of Africa’s best-known tree species and exquisite orchids
Make the most of the dry conditions by enjoying the abundant wildlife at The Aberdares
If you are keen on birdwatching, this is right time to make a trip to the saline Lake Bogoria with its two million migratory birds!
overview
November is characterized by short bursts of rain, cooler early mornings and nights.
we recommend
While the Great Migration is over, the increasing greenery heralds the arrival of newborns in the Mara, giving you unique wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities
Spend time in the city of Mombasa, with its beautiful beaches and touches of Arabic and Portuguese architecture. Witness the vibrant Mombasa Carnival held during this month!
overview
As the rain abates, warm dry conditions set in again. Though December isn’t high season, expect a fair amount of rush around Christmas and New Year’s, so book well in advance to enjoy an unforgettable holiday!
we recommend
Visit the dramatic collection of ancient volcanic cinder cones of Chyulu Hills and spot large herds of elands, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, lions, buffaloes and elephants
Enjoy a rich cultural experience by visiting the old town of Lamu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, an almost car-free town with diverse architectural influences
Best time to visit Kenya by season
Hot months: January to March
Long rains: April to June
Cold months: June to August
Short rains: November to December. It is rarely raining all day. Short, heavy rainfalls are usually replaced by sunny periods, which makes this time in Kenya very pleasant.
What to Pack
Safari wear should be comfortable and casual. Evenings and early mornings can be chilly so warm sweaters are recommended. Low heeled comfortable sports or trekking shoes are the most suitable walking shoes, should you intend joining any walking safaris.
We recommend you bring warm clothes, including a fleece or light wool sweater and socks, apart from the normal safari gear. During the day it can get quite hot so don’t forget sunglasses and a high factor sunscreen, as well as a sun hat with a small brim.
Some specialist trips, i.e. mountain climbing, require extra items of clothing and footwear. Many hotels, lodges and camps have swimming pools so you are advised to bring swimsuits.
Due to limited space in the vehicle and light aircraft, we advise you to keep your luggage to the minimum. We suggest you pack your luggage into a small bag of no more than 15 kgs – the luggage limit for local flights issued by the airlines. Almost all safari lodges and camps provide same day laundry service.
Live your safari dream on your Kenya tour with us – Masai Mara, the Great Migration, endless savannas and pristine beaches beckon. Follow this link and discover our list of top ten highlights, attractions and activities in Kenya.
Kenya is generally considered a safe country to travel in. As a rule of thumb, it is safer to travel in a group or with a local tour guide in Kenya, rather than on your own. Our experts have compiled some general safety instructions to ensure that your trip is stress-free.
Have you been dreaming of an Africa safari tour but can’t decide between Kenya or Tanzania? Let’s help you choose the perfect wilderness safari destination for your luxury African tours.
Bless the rains down in Africa! Pack your bags and get ready for the spectacular wildebeest migration across African parklands of the Serengeti and the Masai Mara with this month on month guide.
We made a family trip to Africa (Tanzania and Kenia) to celebrate my 50th Birthday. From day 1, Alison was great in understanding us and providing some great recommendations. She and Bovin (our local contact) made this trip a dream come true. They were always attentive, gave recommendations and heard all of our desires. When we had a question, they would have a quick answer. Thank you both for making this an amazing and unforgettable trip.
Humberto Tafolla Nuñez
February 2025
Rating 5/5
Rating 5 out of 5 stars
From the advice we got from Peter when we booked our trip to the excellent execution of the details that Cyprian did, there was not a hitch. We were met by professionals who ushered us through customs and checked us into our flights. The itinerary was packed with memorable experiences of seeing animals, getting to know the people at the tent camps who were more attentive than we could have imagined. The tents were exceptionally clean, beds comfortable, the food outstanding and our overall experience was beyond our expectations. We could not have imagined going on this trip without Enchanting Travels and consider ourselves fortunate that we chose you.
Joan McCumby
February 2025
Rating 5/5
Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The trip was planned perfectly from beginning to the end. We were notified of any changes to the schedule based on delayed flights etc. It is a real advantage to have Enchanting Travels make the arrangements that allowed us to speed through customs and visa checks. Our drivers were always there waiting for our arrival so no time wasted waiting. Just the ease of the logistics that comes with traveling with Enchanting Travels keeps up going back to them when we are planning a trip. The experiences were beyond words. Our game drive guides were exceptional in getting us to where the animals were so we could enjoy seeing cheetah cubs at play while mom watched, lion cubs playing while a group of lioness’s napped in the sun and two male lions did the same. The most incredible sight was watching a group of 6 lioness’s separate a female buffalo and her calf and going on to taking them both down. It was like watching a Nat Geo film but we were there within 30 yards to watch. Our accommodations were top notch, staff everywhere we were were exceptional, and the settings were all different but wonderful. Our trip coordinator was in constant contact just to check in and see if there was anything we needed her to do. The Trip Agent App, our first time using it, was a very nice feature and was so much easier to use rather than pulling out a hard copy of the trip to find the answer to our questions. I wasn’t sure if I would use it or not but became dependent on it. Traveling doesn’t get any better if you travel with Enchanting Travels. We will be back!
Carol Brzeczek
January 2025
Rating 5/5
Rating 5 out of 5 stars
Enchanting exceeded our expectations by a wide margin. They built the itinerary that was perfect for us and were with us throughout the entire trip checking in on us and handling any issues that could possibly arise (like a delayed flight that had a trickle effect). The staff were all over and above attentive and caring. The app they have you use is surprisingly excellent and helpful. Can’t say enough about this travel company. It’s the way to go.
George Kyriakis
August 2024
Rating 5/5
Rating 5 out of 5 stars
I have been fortunate enough to have traveled all over the world. I was able to live in two European countries and all over the United States of America. This is the first time that I have ever traveled with Enchanting Travels. From the very start their representatives were focused on understanding exactly what I wanted out of my trip. Once it was understood, I was given multiple options to look at and choose from to further narrow down, my exact needs. After all the choices were made, and the trip was paid for, everything, and I mean everything was taken care of. A knowledgeable representative met me at every plane, hotel, or vehicle, to make sure I was taken to the proper place and treated like a king. The flights, accommodations and ground travel vehicles were all clean, comfortable, and more than I could ask for. I had no worries throughout my trip. All I had to do was sit back and enjoy! It was a trip of a lifetime! They planned and executed everything perfectly. There was not a single hitch! I will, without a doubt use them again! If you would like to travel and leave the detailing to someone else, I highly recommend this group. A job well done.
Daniel Anderson
August 2024
Rating 5/5
Rating 5 out of 5 stars
Every single detail of this trip was perfect and taken care of by the outstanding staff of Enchanting Travels. They made us feel like royalty.
