January and February lie outside the country’s short and long rain spells, making these dry summer months fantastic for outdoor adventures. During this time, wildlife is easier to spot by water resources, while lush greenery from preceding months is at its peak.
With the holiday crowds gone, January makes the ‘perfect’ month to begin your safari adventure in Kenya. While the temperatures are a bit higher, there’s minimal rain and an abundance of wildlife waiting to be discovered. You might see big cats, crocodiles, giraffes, or other species still around after the Great Migration.
Similarly, the coastal spots like Mombasa and Diani Beach are sunny, letting you relax on the sand all you want. As one of Kenya’s driest months, it’s no surprise that February is an exceptional time for safari. You may head on to explore the country’s central highlands or enjoy some fun beach activities to make the most out of February’s dry weather.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Kenya For Safari & Beach?
If you’re into safari adventures and beach escapades, there’s no better country than Kenya to experience the best of both worlds. With its pleasant climate year-round, it’s no surprise that millions of travelers flock to the country for spectacular sights and one-of-a-kind life experiences. But– what exactly is the best time to visit Kenya to check things off your bucket list?
In this guide, we’ll explore Kenya’s different seasons, activities, and peak times to determine the best time for you to visit this stunning East African country. Let’s begin!
What is the Best Time to Visit Kenya?
Although it largely depends on your personal preferences, generally, the best time to visit Kenya is during the dry season, i.e., between June and October. During this time, the temperature is pleasant, with minimal rainfall. But for enthusiasts who don’t mind varying weather conditions, Kenya is a fantastic safari and beach point year-round!
Last year, Kenya welcomed around 1.9 million international tourists, which highlights its charm as a top spot for safari and coastline experiences. With the Great Migration in full swing from June to October, this period is especially popular. But if you’d rather avoid large crowds, quieter seasons —from January to March— work best for you.
Visiting Kenya in Different Seasons
With a combination of dry and wet seasons, there’s no bad time to explore Kenya’s stunning landscapes. Whether you’re there for your wildlife expedition, beach relaxation, or both, Kenya never disappoints. But who knows, the best time to visit Kenya might be very different for you.
Here’s a season-wise guide to help you understand Kenya’s varying climatic conditions and figure out the season that best suits you:
1. January & February - Short Dry Season
2. March to May - Green, Rainy Season (Long Rains)
In March, Kenya experiences a major shift from a dry to a long, rainy season. With the onset of showers, you can expect sunshine and rain, along with exceptional wildlife viewing at the beginning of the month. The landscapes transition to their greener versions, appealing to those who don’t mind a bit of rain when seeking thrills.
April marks the wettest month in Kenya, with muddy roads often getting in the way of your escapades. But let’s be honest, the flora around this time is exceptionally dense and rich, scattering herbivores throughout the land. Yet, the muddy roads make game drives trickier. Plus, the unpredictable rainfall makes coastlines less desirable among tourists.
By May, the long rains have fully settled in, making it fun for safari-goers in search of a challenging adventure. But since rains are still expected, beaches may not be as sunny as you’d hope.
April marks the wettest month in Kenya, with muddy roads often getting in the way of your escapades. But let’s be honest, the flora around this time is exceptionally dense and rich, scattering herbivores throughout the land. Yet, the muddy roads make game drives trickier. Plus, the unpredictable rainfall makes coastlines less desirable among tourists.
By May, the long rains have fully settled in, making it fun for safari-goers in search of a challenging adventure. But since rains are still expected, beaches may not be as sunny as you’d hope.
