Kenya is one of the world’s premier safari destinations, offering astonishing wildlife encounters at any period during the year. However, the timing of your visit can impact your ability to view wildlife due to weather conditions and crowds.
We present a guide to the best times of the year to go on safari in Kenya, helping you choose the perfect season for your adventure.
Here’s an overview:
Peak Season (July to October): The Great Migration
The most popular time to visit Kenya is during the Great Migration, when millions of wildebeest, hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, and other herbivores cross from Tanzania’s Serengeti into Kenya’s Maasai Mara. Among them, you’ll find scavengers and predators, too.
This is one of the best reasons to visit Kenya.
This trek is fraught with danger for the migrating animals, having to cross rivers with crocodiles, stay safe from predators, and keep up the sheer stamina required to complete the crossing. All of these make the Great Migration one of the world’s most profound experiences to witness.
This natural phenomenon, typically peaking between July and October, attracts a considerable number of visitors eager to see river crossings and predators in action.
Remember, though, that the migration can be unpredictable, as nature plays by its own rules. Timing is everything.
Best Parks to Visit:
Related read: A Guide to Visiting Lake Nakuru National Park in Kenya
Pros
- Unparalleled wildlife viewing.
- Dry weather makes roads accessible and wildlife easier to spot due to sparser vegetation. This can also bring more animals to watering holes.
- High concentration of big cats and other predators.
Cons
- Higher prices for accommodations and tours.
- Popular parks, especially the Maasai Mara, can be crowded.
Green Season (November to May): Lush Landscapes and Smaller Crowds
This period brings Kenya’s two rainy seasons: the short rains (November to December) and the long rains (March to May).
While heavy rains in April and May can make some areas difficult to access, the green season brings rich landscapes, dramatic skies, and newborn animals—always a special sighting.
The air smells like rain almost all the time and you’re likely to have the place almost to yourself, as this time of the year is for the true adventurer.
Best Parks to Visit:
Related read: A Guide to Visiting Tsavo National Park in Kenya
Pros
- Lower prices and fewer tourists.
- Verdant scenery, perfect for photographers.
- Plenty of birdwatching opportunities as migratory species arrive.
Cons
- Some roads and areas may become impassable due to heavy rains.
- Wildlife can be harder to spot with thick vegetation.
Shoulder Seasons (January to March & June): A Balanced Safari Experience
For those looking to enjoy good wildlife sightings without the peak-season crowds, Kenya’s shoulder seasons offer a perfect balance. January to March sees warm, dry weather, making it an excellent time for game viewing, while June marks the start of the dry season when animals gather around water sources.
Best Parks to Visit:
- Laikipia Plateau—Ol Pejeta Conservancy: A great alternative to the Maasai Mara with diverse wildlife.
- Meru National Park: Less crowded and a blend of rivers, grasslands, and wildlife.
- Nairobi National Park: For a quick safari experience near the capital.
Pros
- Fewer tourists compared to the high season.
- Good wildlife viewing conditions.
- Ideal time for photographers, with clear skies and golden light.
Cons
- Some unpredictability in wildlife movements before the migration.
Why Consider a Shoulder Season Safari?
If you’re looking for a quieter, more budget-friendly safari while still experiencing incredible wildlife, the shoulder season could be your best bet. Read more about the benefits of going on a Kenyan safari during the shoulder season.
Conclusion
Kenya offers fantastic safari experiences year-round, and the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for. Whether you want the drama of the Great Migration, the lush beauty of the green season, or the balanced experience of the shoulder seasons, there’s an ideal time for every traveler.
By planning wisely, you can make the most of your Kenyan safari adventure.
