Kenya’s climate, wildlife behaviour and visitor experience change by the month — and picking the right window can transform your trip. Whether you’re chasing the Wildebeest Migration in the Maasai Mara, hunting perfect Kilimanjaro silhouettes in Amboseli, or seeking calm beach days in Diani, this month-by-month guide tells you what to expect and which trip types to book.
At a glance — month-by-month chart
| Month | Weather snapshot | Wildlife & highlights | Crowds & prices | Best trip types |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Warm, dry | Mara: calving season begins in some areas; great predator action | Low–moderate | Classic Safari, Family Safari, Beach Escape |
| February | Warm, dry | Excellent game viewing; fewer rains | Low–moderate | Safari, Beach & Relaxation |
| March | Short rains begin (central/west) | Lush landscapes; good birding | Low (shoulder) | Birding, Cultural Tours, Trekking |
| April | Long rains peak | Many lodges close; roads slippery | Low; budget options | Off-season deals, Private safari if prepared |
| May | Long rains taper | Green season—birds, newborns | Low (discounts) | Birding, Low-crowd Safaris |
| June | Dry season begins | Great viewing: Amboseli clarity, Laikipia walks | Moderate | Classic Safari, Trekking |
| July | Dry & cool | Migration: first Mara crossings; peak Mara season | High (peak) | Migration Safaris, Photography |
| August | Dry, cool | Migration river crossings peak | Very high | Migration Safaris, Balloon Safaris |
| September | Dry, warm | Migration continues; great predator sightings | High | Migration Safaris |
| October | Short rains start late month | Good wildlife; changing crowds | High → shoulder | Migration tail, Safari & Beach combo |
| November | Short rains | Lush scenery; fewer tourists | Low–moderate | Birding, Coastal stays |
| December | Dry (short-dry window) | Excellent beach weather; good safaris in many parks | Moderate–high (holidays) | Family Safari, Beach + Safari |
Month-by-month detail & where to go
January – February: Early dry, excellent viewing
These months are warm and mostly dry — an excellent start to the year. Game drives are productive; predators are active and waterholes are predictable. January–February are great for Maasai Mara (calving & predator action in some years), Amboseli (clear Kilimanjaro views) and coastal escapes like Diani Beach for winter sun. Prices are lower than July–August but lodges can start to fill for holiday weeks.
Recommended: Classic Safari, Family Safari, Beach Extension.
March – May: Green season & quieter parks
March–May includes the long rains (peaking in April). Many travelers avoid this period — which makes it ideal for birders, photographers, and travellers who want fewer crowds and lower prices. Park roads can be muddy and some camps close in April; but the countryside becomes lush and migratory birds arrive. Lake Nakuru and forested areas shine now.
Recommended: Birdwatching & Nature, Low-crowd Safaris, Cultural Tours. If you’re flexible, expect great value deals.
June – October: Peak dry season & the Great Migration
June to October is the most popular window. Dry conditions concentrate wildlife around rivers and waterholes, producing spectacular sightings. July–September are the high season for the Maasai Mara Great Migration (river crossings can be dramatic). June–September usually offer crisp Amboseli views of Kilimanjaro. Expect higher prices and early bookings required, especially for balloon safaris and prime Mara camps.
Recommended: Migration Safaris, Photographic Safaris, Hot-Air Balloon add-ons.
November – December: Short rains, mellow crowds, beach weather
November brings short rains but many parts of Kenya remain visitable and green. Birdlife is abundant; the coast enjoys pleasant weather and fewer crowds until the December holiday spike. Late December is busy with holiday travellers, so plan early if you want specific dates.
Recommended: Birding, Beach & Coastal Escapes, Short Safaris.
Special windows & park notes
- Maasai Mara Migration: Peak river-crossing action tends to fall between July and October, but timing varies yearly. Book early for balloon rides and top camps. See our Maasai Mara page for seasonal tips.
- Amboseli mountain clarity: Best visibility of Mount Kilimanjaro is typically in the dry months (June–February). Dawn drives give the clearest views. See Amboseli.
- Beach season (Diani & north coast): June–October and December–February are the sunniest seaside months — ideal for snorkeling and marine trips. See Diani Beach.
- Birding: The wet and shoulder seasons (March–May and November) bring migrants and colourful breeding displays — great for specialist birding trips.
What to consider when picking dates
- Wildlife focus vs. weather: If you want migration drama, target July–October. If you prefer fewer tourists and greener landscapes, choose April/May or November.
- Budget: Peak season (July–August, late December) has the highest rates. Green season often offers discounts and better lodge availability.
- Activities: Balloon flights and photographic hides fill up in peak months — book them well in advance. Beach extensions are best in the drier windows.
- Fitness & family needs: For families and short trips, the dry months provide easier game drives and more comfortable transfers.
Which trip type suits each month? (quick guide)
- Jan–Feb: Family Safari, Beach Escape, Classic Safari
- Mar–May: Birding & Nature, Cultural Tours, Budget Camping Safari
- Jun–Oct: Classic Safari, Photographic Safari, Hot-Air Balloon & Migration Safaris
- Nov–Dec: Beach & Coastal Escapes, Birding, Short Safaris
Practical tips for planning & booking
- Book early for peak windows. For July–September and Christmas/New Year, secure lodges, balloon seats and vehicles at least 6–9 months ahead.
- Flexible travel plans pay off. Accepting a day-or-two flexibility can dramatically improve sightings and lodge availability.
- Consider flights for time efficiency. Domestic flights cut long road transfers and maximise time in parks. We can arrange flight + transfer options.
- Pack for layers and sun protection. Dry mornings can be chilly; days warm up quickly. In the green season, waterproof outer layers and good walking shoes are essential.
- Health & safety: Check vaccinations and malaria advice with your doctor; many lowland areas recommend prophylaxis. Travel insurance is a must.
Quick packing pointers by season
- Dry season (Jun–Oct): Light layers, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, binoculars, long-lens camera.
- Green season (Mar–May, Nov): Waterproof shell, gaiters or waterproof shoes, insect repellent, good mud-ready boots.
- Coast (year-round): Reef-safe sunscreen, swimwear, light cover-ups for Stone Town and local villages.
Final thought & CTA
Kenya rewards travellers year-round — it’s just a matter of choosing what you want to see and how you’d like to experience it. Tell us your dates and interests and we’ll recommend the perfect window, the right park routing and a tailor-made itinerary that matches your pace and priorities.
Ready to plan? Get a fast quote: contact us for a custom itinerary.