Planning a safari in Kenya? One of the most common and important questions travelers ask is: What’s the best time to visit Kenya for a safari? While Kenya offers excellent game viewing year-round, the timing of your trip can dramatically shape your experience, from the animals you’ll encounter to the weather and crowd levels.
In this month-by-month breakdown, we’ll guide you through the seasons, wildlife activity, weather conditions, and travel tips so you can plan the perfect Kenyan safari.
January – Best Time to Visit Kenya for a Safari in Dry Season
January marks the start of Kenya’s short dry season. The vegetation is sparse, and animals gather around water sources, making it easier to spot wildlife.
- Weather: Warm and sunny (avg. 28°C)
- Best Parks: Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu
- What to Expect: Excellent visibility for wildlife, fewer mosquitoes, great time for photography
Pro Tip: Book accommodations early for New Year travelers.
February – Best Month for Clear Safari Photography
February is ideal for travelers who want amazing wildlife viewing with minimal crowds.
- Weather: Hot and dry (avg. 29°C)
- Wildlife Activity: Lions and leopards are active; elephants and buffalos are easy to find
- Events: Baby animals are commonly born this time of year
Bonus: The dry weather makes this month perfect for first-time safari-goers.
March – Early Month Still Good for Safaris
March begins with good weather but gradually turns rainy by mid-month.
- Weather: Warm and increasingly humid
- Crowds: Fewer tourists = great deals
- Caution: Some roads become difficult to access by the end of the month
If visiting in early March, you’ll still enjoy solid wildlife sightings.
April – Safari on a Budget During Long Rains
April is the peak of Kenya’s long rainy season. While wildlife viewing is less predictable, lush green landscapes make for unique photography.
- Weather: Heavy rainfall, high humidity
- Perks: Lowest prices on accommodation and park entry
- Drawbacks: Muddy trails, lower visibility, fewer animal sightings
Ideal for budget travelers or photographers seeking dramatic skies.
May – Best for Quiet Safaris and Cultural Tours
May continues the long rains, but with even fewer visitors, you’ll have parks nearly to yourself.
- Weather: Wet and cool
- Wildlife: Animals are harder to find, but parks are beautifully green
- Recommendation: Travel only if you’re experienced or seeking a quiet safari
Best to combine with cultural experiences like Maasai village tours.
June – Best Time for Comfortable Game Drives
June marks the beginning of the long dry season and the gradual return of peak safari conditions.
- Weather: Dry and cool, especially in early mornings
- Highlights: Easier wildlife tracking, comfortable game drives
- Events: Animals start gathering along riverbanks
Perfect time to avoid July crowds while enjoying great weather.
July – Best Time to See the Great Migration
July is one of the best months for safari in Kenya due to ideal weather and the beginning of the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara.
- Weather: Dry, warm, and clear
- Top Spots: Maasai Mara (Migration), Laikipia, Tsavo
- Crowds: High — book early
Want to see the Great Migration? This is the time to go.
August – Best Safari Month for Wildlife Action
August continues the migration spectacle, drawing large herds of wildebeest and predators.
- Weather: Cool mornings, warm afternoons
- Must-See: River crossings in the Mara — dramatic and unforgettable
- Tip: Expect higher prices and full lodges
One of the best times to visit Kenya for a safari, especially photographers.
September – Best Month for Big Cat Sightings
September is ideal for travelers who want excellent wildlife without overwhelming crowds.
- Weather: Warm and dry
- Wildlife: Big cats are active; migration still ongoing
- Advantages: Lodges begin to offer post-peak deals
A sweet spot for serious wildlife lovers.
October – Best for Peaceful Wildlife Viewing
October offers warm temperatures and a more peaceful experience as the migration ends.
- Weather: Hot and dry
- Wildlife: Still plentiful, especially in Mara and conservancies
- Events: Elephants gather near waterholes
Still a great time to visit before the short rains begin.
November – Best Time for Green Landscapes and Deals
November ushers in short rains, transforming the landscape but making game viewing a bit more challenging.
- Weather: Intermittent rain, green scenery
- Wildlife: Mixed visibility, but many animals remain active
- Pros: Fewer tourists, lower rates
Ideal for travelers looking for good deals and rich greenery.
December – Best for Festive Safari Adventures
December wraps up the year with good wildlife opportunities and festive vibes across lodges.
- Weather: Warm with light rains
- Wildlife: Still excellent in places like Samburu and the Mara
- Caution: Holiday rates apply
Book early for Christmas and New Year packages.
So, What’s the Best Time to Visit Kenya for a Safari?
It depends on what you value most:
- Best Game Viewing: July to October
- Budget-Friendly Trips: April to May
- Avoid Crowds: June, September
- Photography: January–February, August, October
Whenever you choose to travel, Kenya offers diverse landscapes and wildlife experiences every month of the year. The best time to visit Kenya for a safari ultimately depends on your travel goals.
At Sola Safari Travels, we help you pick the best time based on your goals — whether it’s witnessing a river crossing or enjoying a peaceful luxury retreat.
📞 Let’s plan the perfect safari together. 👉🏽 Explore our safari packagesLooking to avoid common safari mistakes? Check out our guide to the top 10 safari mistakes first-time travelers make
Learn more about Kenya’s wildlife seasons on Magical Kenya’s official site