The best time to visit Kenya is during the dry seasons from June to October and from late December to February. These months offer the most pleasant weather, excellent game viewing in national parks, and ideal conditions for beach holidays along the Kenyan coast. June to October is especially popular for the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Maasai Mara, while December to February brings warm, sunny days perfect for safaris and seaside relaxation.
Monthly Weather and Travel Guide for Kenya
| Month | Weather Condition | Avg. Temp (°C) | Best Destinations |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Warm, dry | 22–30 | Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Diani Beach |
| February | Warm, dry | 22–30 | Tsavo, Samburu, Malindi |
| March | Start of long rains | 21–28 | Nairobi (city tours), cultural trips |
| April | Heavy rains | 20–26 | Avoid safaris, indoor activities |
| May | End of long rains | 20–26 | Budget travel, photography |
| June | Dry season begins | 19–27 | Amboseli, Tsavo, Maasai Mara |
| July | Cool, dry | 18–26 | Maasai Mara (migration) |
| August | Cool, dry | 18–27 | Maasai Mara, Mount Kenya |
| September | Warm, dry | 20–28 | Maasai Mara, Lake Naivasha |
| October | End of dry season | 21–28 | Safari and beach combo |
| November | Short rains | 21–28 | Good for budget travel |
| December | Warm, dry | 22–30 | Nairobi, Maasai Mara, coastal beaches |
Why June to October is the Best Season for Safaris
June to October is Kenya’s extended dry season. This is the ideal time to embark on wildlife safaris as animals gather around waterholes and rivers and thus are more spotted. The crown is the Great Migration of Maasai Mara (July–September) when millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River. The weather is usually clear, roads are open, and temperatures are warm, with day temperatures between 20–28°C (68–82°F).
Why December to February is Great for Travelers
The short dry season, late December to February, is also an excellent time to travel. The climate is sunny and warm, and ideal for combining marriage safaris with beach holidays in Malindi, Diani, or Mombasa. Even bird enthusiasts will find it worth their while as European and Asian migratory birds arrive in numbers. The mean temperature is 22–30°C (72–86°F), perfect for coastal relaxation as well as inland excursions.
When Not to Visit: The Rainy Seasons
Kenya experiences two rainy seasons:
- Long rains (March–May): It can be difficult for safaris as roads become slippery, and some lodges close down.
- Short rains (November): Rain is less strong but may still disrupt travel plans.
Although these months are not the best for safaris, budget tourists can get good value for money, and the countryside looks green and lovely.
