Kenya is a land of rich wildlife, diverse landscapes and beautiful culture. Throughout the year, it's a country that can offer an abundance of unique and memorable experiences and is a popular destination for those looking to enjoy a luxury holiday in Africa.
This month-by-month guide explores factors such as the weather, climate, safari conditions, and local events to help you determine the most suitable month to visit Kenya. As luxury travel specialists, help us plan your luxury holiday to Kenya and make it a trip you'll never forget.
Visiting Kenya in January
You may imagine snowfall and cold weather around the turn of the year; however, January marks summertime in Kenya. You can expect high average daily temperatures - an average of 25°C with even warmer temperatures in the northern regions. Although it's summer, January falls at the end of the short rain season, so if you're travelling to Kenya in January, it's wise to be prepared for showers.
The warm and mostly dry weather means it's a brilliant time of year to visit for a safari, as animals gather around water sources to find respite from the heat.
If you're a lover of a beach holiday, then January is likely the best time of year to visit Kenya. A
luxury holiday to the Kenyan Coast in January means days swimming in the Indian Ocean, basking in the warm Kenyan sunshine and enjoying a tropical paradise.
Visiting Kenya in February
February is a similar story to January, with warm weather around the country - temperatures at this time of year can go up to 30 °C on particularly balmy days. However, February doesn't fall within either of the rainy seasons, so you're much less likely to face showers and downpours.
This weather offers optimal wildlife viewing conditions and is another popular time for those who are visiting Kenya with the intention of seeing some of its wild residents. February falls right in the middle of the breeding season, so expect younger animals on the reserves, too.
Ornithologists should be particularly interested in February, as migratory birds paint the skies and avoid the colder weather of Eurasia. In fact, plenty of birds you'd often see in the UK will migrate to Kenya during this time - why not join them?
Visiting Kenya in March
The warm temperatures continue into March, with an expected average temperature of 26°C. March also sees the long rain season begin, so those visiting at the end of the month should be prepared for heavy rains. This combination of high temperatures and significant rain does cause high humidity.
Because of the change in weather and temperatures, although early March still offers great safari opportunities, later in the month can be more challenging as areas become inaccessible. For those determined to see incredible wildlife, waiting for later in the year is likely a better option.
![Maasai family dancing in the rain]()
Maasai family dancing in the rain
Visiting Kenya in April
The long rains are in full flow during April, with nearly two and a half metres falling on average over the month. The temperatures are still warm, with high averages expected across the country. Humidity during this period is high, and it's likely that you'll see increased mosquito activity too.
Those travelling to Kenya in April will enjoy a more secluded experience as many choose to avoid the rains. However, just as adventurers look to avoid the wet weather, so do the animals, and safari conditions aren't optimal.
Visiting Kenya in May
May continues the long rains, with an average of nearly two metres of rainfall over the month. This can cause flooding at this point, so it's common to see some parks and reserves closed completely or hard to navigate.
The long rains do mean that the scenery is at its best, with lush green flora prospering. However, the rains can also mean that safari conditions aren't optimal, although there are likely to be fewer tours, so it will be a quieter experience for those who do visit.
Visiting Kenya in June
June marks the end of the long rainy season in Kenya, with the rains relenting and the humidity returning to a more moderate level. Equally, temperatures are pleasant, with an average daily temperature of 22°C to be expected across the country as winter starts to approach.
As the weather improves, landscapes dry out, and safaris are once again thriving. You'll experience a great trade off in June, with quieter reserves in terms of both animals and tourists. For those who are keen to see wildlife but are also eager to avoid the crowds, June can be a solid month to consider.
![Large herd of wildebeest in the Masai Mara National Reserve during The Great Migration]()
Wildebeest in the Masai Mara National Reserve
Visiting Kenya in July
The start of the second half of the year welcomes the beginning of the dry season and comfortable temperatures. You may expect winter to bring the cold, but in Kenya, winter months still enjoy monthly average temperatures of around 21°C. July is also often the driest month in Kenya, with only a tiny amount of rainfall recorded.
Thanks to these conditions, wildlife viewing is ideal, and safaris are popular in July. July marks the start of the Great Migration and the influx of incredible animals arriving at the Masai Mara, so there is plenty to see for those exploring the reserves on a safari.
Visiting Kenya in August
August is often considered the best month to visit Kenya. The dry and sunny weather still brings warm temperatures - averaging 21°C - perfect for those who want to enjoy a summer holiday.
August sees the peak of the Great Migration in the
Masai Mara National Reserve. After calving in
Tanzania, over a million wildebeest, zebras, and antelope trek across the
Serengeti National Park, heading for the riverbanks of the Masai Mara. During this time, visitors can witness nature in massive proportions, making this the best time of the year to visit Kenya for a safari.
The favourable weather and brilliant wildlife spotting conditions make August a peak season, so be sure to book early and be prepared for tours and safaris to be busy.
Visiting Kenya in September
September is similar to August, with dry and sunny weather expected and great conditions for a getaway. However, the temperature does pick up slightly from August, with an average anticipated forecast of 24°C.
Wildlife viewing is also brilliant this month, with the Great Migration continuing to bring animals to the area. September does tend to be slightly quieter than August - although it is still a very popular month - so you might find fewer crowds this month.
Visiting Kenya in October
October sees the return of higher temperatures with an average of 25°C, so those looking for warm weather might want to consider visiting this month. It almost marks the end of the long dry season, but the short rains start towards the end of the month.
You can still see some brilliant wildlife on safaris during October, although the wildebeest migration has concluded by this point. Because of this, it's also significantly less busy than the previous months, so you might find tours and resorts quieter than during the height of the Migration.
![Herd of African elephants in Kenya]()
Herd of African elephants
Visiting Kenya in November
The short rains begin again in November, with showers rehydrating the land and an average of one and a half metres of rainfall expected over the month. This can mean increased humidity and mosquito activity, so if you're travelling in November, it's wise to come prepared for those factors.
The short rains, however, bring out the beauty of the landscapes, and lush plant life thrives once more during this time.
Visiting Kenya in December
The short rains wane during December. However, rain can still be expected. Despite this, temperatures are warm and enjoyable at an average of 24°C, meaning the weather is pleasant for those visiting in December.
This time of year marks holiday celebrations in Kenya, with local events aplenty. Those who want to experience Christmas in Kenya can enjoy festivities during this month and have a holiday to remember.
A
luxury holiday to Kenya can offer amazing opportunities yearround. With a wonderful and warm climate and mesmerising wildlife, whether you choose to visit in the early months of the year for a beach holiday or align your trip with The Great Migration, there is a wealth of experiences to have here.