Advice

When to visit Kenya

The birthplace of safari

Hot air balloon floating across savannah with the great Wildebeest migration below
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Kenya was the original birthplace of safari holidays, a diverse destination offering excellent game and great beaches. Home to the Maasai Mara and the stunning Laikipia Plateau, this is undoubtedly one of Africa's top safari destinations.

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Ben Nelson
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January & February

Temperatures are at their highest at this time of year, making it a wonderful time to be on the coast. On safari you might have the odd shower to cool things down, while the landscape is lush with long grass post the November rains. A great time to travel.

March to June

The wet season approaches in mid to late March and when it rains, it can pour. It can get hot also. If you are not a regular safari-goer, we suggest not visiting in April or May. By June the rains are over for the most part and the long dry season starts with tall post rain grass present.

July & August

The temperatures are enjoyable and mostly dry, making it one of the best times to visit. Incredible game viewing can be enjoyed now with the Great Migration reaching the Masai Mara. There's lots of action at the river crossings, as countless wildebeests make a risky dash across the crocodile-infested mara river.

See the Great Migration

From July to September, during the country's dry season, you will find the famous Great Migration in the Masai Mara.

Coast for Christmas

December is a particularly good time to be at Kenya's coast. It's hotter and the coast is seaweed free, and the Christmas spirit is noticeably in full flow.

September

The climate is dry and getting warmer, creating ideal conditions for continued game-viewing activities. The wildlife sightings remain exceptional, and with the conclusion of school holidays, the destinations are less crowded. This makes it a fantastic time for travel.

October

The early rains may or may not show their face, however it is a great time to travel if you want to avoid busy crowds yet still have excellent game viewing opportunities. The land is drier at this time of year with short grass and higher daytime temperatures.

November

In November, Kenya experiences wet weather, often characterized by tropical downpours, in this picturesque African nation. However, the temperature remains consistent with the rest of the year, offering warm and sunny days that punctuate the occasional cloud cover.

December

The start of the month has a higher chance of rain, which normally dies out by the end of the month. In the Masai Mara wildlife viewing remains very good. The weather at the coast is lovely and hot, making it a popular Christmas and New Year destination - though please book well in advance.

Safari & Beach

Either January & February or July to November. Generally speaking these times experience little rain. The safari conditions may be drier from July to November, but the coast is hotter in January and February.

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Hot air balloon floating across savannah with the great Wildebeest migration below