Best Time to Visit Kenya for a Safari: Month-by-Month Guide
Introduction
Planning a safari in Kenya? Timing can make all the difference between a good safari and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From the thundering hooves of the Great Migration to dramatic sunsets over Amboseli, each season in Kenya offers something unique.
Here’s everything you need to know about the best time to visit Kenya for a safari — whether you’re seeking adventure, exclusivity, or luxury comfort.
Quick Guide: Best Time to Visit Kenya
| Goal | Best Time |
|---|---|
| Best overall wildlife viewing | July to October |
| Great Wildebeest Migration (Mara) | July to early October |
| Green scenery & birdwatching | November to May |
| Luxury travel with fewer crowds | June & November |
| Beach + Safari Combo | December to March |
Dry Season vs Rainy Season in Kenya
Dry Season (June to October)
- Best for wildlife viewing
- Fewer mosquitos
- Comfortable weather
- Higher lodge prices due to demand
🌧️ Wet Season (November to May)
- Green, scenic landscapes
- Baby animals and fewer tourists
- Ideal for photographers and bird lovers
- Some lodges may close April–May
Month-by-Month Safari Guide in Kenya
January – February
Hot and dry. Great wildlife visibility and predator activity. Fantastic for luxury and midrange travelers.
March – May
The long rains begin. Fewer tourists. Great deals at high-end lodges. Some remote parks may become inaccessible.
June
Start of the dry season. Mild weather, fewer crowds. Excellent time for photographers and early-bird luxury travelers.
July – October
Peak safari season and Great Migration in full swing. Book luxury lodges 6–9 months early.
November – December
Short rains bring color and fewer crowds. Great time for a quieter, exclusive safari experience.
When to See the Great Migration in Kenya
- Arrives in Mara: Mid-July to August
- River Crossings: August to early October
- Heads South: Late October
This is the most popular period — ideal for booking luxury tented camps near the Mara River.
Best Times for Luxury vs Midrange Safaris
Luxury Travelers:
- Peak: July–October (top lodges, top prices)
- Smart value: June & November (fewer crowds, excellent comfort)
Midrange Travelers:
- Great options in January–March and November. Excellent wildlife, better prices, fewer crowds.
Final Thoughts
So, when’s the best time to visit Kenya for a safari?
It depends on your goals — but with the right planning and local guidance, any time of year can be magical.
At Plan My Kenyan Tour, we help you find the perfect balance of wildlife, comfort, and timing — with tailor-made itineraries just for you.
📩 Click here to request your custom itinerary
📱 Or Chat with us on WhatsApp to start planning your Kenyan adventure today!
