Best Time to Visit Kenya for Safari : Month-by-Month Guide
Planning a Kenya safari? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re chasing the Great Migration, want to avoid the crowds, or just want to know the best month to visit, this Kenya safari travel guide breaks it down for you — by season, month, and safari goal.
Learn when to go for wildlife, weather & photography
Compare dry vs wet season safaris
Get custom safari package suggestions by season
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Quick Overview – Best Time to Visit Kenya for Safari
| Season | Months | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | June – October | Best for wildlife viewing, Great Migration, minimal rain |
| Green Season | November, March–May | Lush scenery, fewer tourists, low prices |
| Short Dry Season | December – February | Excellent game viewing, baby animals, birding |
Best Time for Wildlife Safaris in Kenya
- Big Five safari Kenya: Year-round, but easier in dry season (Jul–Oct)
- Great Migration (Masai Mara): July to October
- Birdwatching: Best from November to April (migratory species)
- Photographers’ Dream: Green season (March–May) — dramatic skies, vibrant backdrops
Pro tip: Fewer crowds = better shots and rates. Ask us for photography-focused safaris!
Month-by-Month Safari Calendar
January – February
- Warm, dry weather
- Excellent game viewing
- Fewer tourists than peak season
- Good for Amboseli, Samburu & Lake Nakuru
Great time for families & first-timers.
March – May (Green Season)
- Start of rainy season
- Dramatic skies, green plains, fewer crowds
- Best for budget safaris
- Birding is phenomenal
Some camps/lodges close temporarily; 4×4 vehicle required
June
- Rains fade, parks dry out
- Wildlife concentrates around water
- Excellent time to visit before migration crowds arrive
July – October (Peak Season)
- Best time to visit Masai Mara
- Great Wildebeest Migration in full swing (Jul–Oct)
- High chance of Big Five sightings
- Ideal for photography & luxury safaris
Book 6–12 months in advance for this window
November
- Short rains begin
- Fewer tourists, lush landscapes
- Good time for second-time safari-goers
- Short, light rains — safaris continue as normal
December
- Short dry period resumes
- Great for Amboseli & festive family travel
- Chance to see baby animals
Plan early for Christmas/New Year holiday safaris
Best Parks to Visit by Season
| Park | Best Time to Visit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Masai Mara | July – October | Great Migration & predator activity |
| Amboseli | January – March, June – October | Elephants + Mt. Kilimanjaro visibility |
| Lake Nakuru | All year (best Jan–Mar, Jun–Sep) | Rhino sightings & birdwatching |
| Samburu | December – March | Driest time, unique species like Grevy’s zebra |
| Tsavo East/West | June – October | Drier landscapes, red elephants, lower crowds |
What to Pack by Season
| Season | Must-Pack Items |
|---|---|
| Dry Season | Sunglasses, light layers, fleece for mornings |
| Green Season | Waterproof jacket, quick-dry clothes, extra shoes |
| All Seasons | Binoculars, insect repellent, camera, sunscreen |
Ready to Plan Your Safari?
This guide tells you when to go — now let’s help you go there.
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📞 Call: +254-112458884
✅ Tailored itineraries | ✅ Local expert guides | ✅ Daily departures
FAQs – Best Time to Visit Kenya for Safari
July to October — particularly in Masai Mara, when wildebeest cross the Mara River.
September offers the best combination of great weather, migration herds, and manageable crowds.
Yes. April–June is wet but still rewarding — fewer tourists, lower prices, and green landscapes.
At least 6–12 months in advance for July–October. Lodges and balloon safaris fill fast.
Yes. Kenya offers wildlife sightings in every month. You can tailor your trip based on budget, weather, and wildlife goals.
