What Is the Best Time to Visit Kenya for a Safari?

Choosing when to travel on safari and understanding the different seasons is important to set the right expectations and have the most exciting and satisfying experience. If you are left wondering about the best time to visit Kenya for safari, it's good to know that there are wonderful safaris in Kenya almost all year round. There are pros and cons with every season whether it's seeing the Great Migration, having fewer people around, or enjoying green landscapes and lush nature reserves and national parks. In this blog, we will discuss the advantages of going to Kenya in its various seasons and how the weather in Kenya affects your safari experience.

Benefits of Visiting Kenya During the Green Season

The green season, usually occurring between December and May, features rich landscapes full of life. Even though this time might be seen as off-peak due to the chance of rainfall, it is a very special time to go on a safari in Kenya. We usually expec t the heaviest rains in April, so that’s really the only month to avoid.

The green season attracts many kinds of birds, making it perfect for those who love bird watching. The enormous, dramatic skies and sometimes rainy weather offer great photography opportunities during this period. You can capture the fantastic contrasts of animals against a backdrop full of life as they blend into their environment full of rich greenery.

Additionally, the green season is a favorable time for those who wish to avoid large groups of tourists. With fewer people around, you can relish in an exclusive and personal safari journey, increasing your chances of spotting wildlife without being bothered by the busy atmosphere typical during peak seasons. Furthermore, numerous lodges and camps offer lower prices during this period, which makes it beneficial in terms of cost for travelers searching for a budget-friendly way to enjoy their safari experience.

Benefits of Visiting Kenya During the Shoulder Season

The shoulder season in Kenya  is the time between the green and peak seasons, usually from May to June and late October to early December. This time offers an ideal mix of good climate and fewer visitors, making it a favorite for many safari adventures.

In Kenya, the shoulder season is a time of moderate dry weather. By May and June, there should have been some rains, so everything stays fresh and green from earlier months. Animals are active, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when it's cooler outside. By late-October, the rains begin, and lots of herbivores give birth at this time, and you can watch new babies learning how to walk around their natural habitat!

Compared to peak demand season, July-September, there are fewer tourists visiting this area, making it possible to enjoy this natural marvel with few crowds.

Peak demand season in Kenya

Peak demand season, July-September, coincides with the driest months in East Africa, when water supplies are dwindling, and wildlife congregate around remaining water sources. It’s also when we expect the migratory herds to make their arrival in the Masai Mara with the possibility of seeing dramatic river crossings.

This is the most popular time of travel when the rates are at their highest and the parks are at their fullest.

What Makes the Low Season the Ideal Time to Visit Kenya

The rainy season, from March to May and November in Kenya, is known as the low season for safaris. Fewer tourists come during this time because it's the wettest part of the year. While this period may not be as dry and comfortable as the high seasons, it has some unique advantages that can make it quite suitable for your safari trip.

Visiting during the low season offers affordability. Many lodges and camps provide special discounts and long stay promotions, allowing you to enjoy luxury accommodation for much less. This period provides an exceptional chance to make your budget go further and have a longer stay or enjoy upgraded accommodations.

Different Weather in Kenya and Its Benefits for Travelers

Kenya's weather changes greatly depending on where and when you visit, so it's good to know these variations when planning your safari. As Kenya has an equatorial climate, there are two main rainy periods: the long rains from March through May and the short ones occurring between November and December—all separated by dry spells.

When there is little rain (from June to October and then January to February), it's generally sunny and warm, which is good for watching game. Because there isn't much water around, animals gather near these sources of water, making them easier to see. 

In contrast, the rainy seasons add a different beauty to Kenyan scenery. The "green" season, with its abundant plants and fewer visitors, offers better photo opportunities during safaris because it is more peaceful. The rains also give life to the land, making it a perfect time for migratory birds and ensuring enough food for wildlife.

When we think about the best time to go on a safari in Kenya, it is mainly based on what you want from the experience. Whenever you can travel, we can find a wonderful safari experience.

Next Adventure specializes in Kenya bespoke safaris. Contact Next Adventure to help you organize your personalized safari experience today.