Booking a safari holiday is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most people. So, making sure that you book at the right time of year for what you want to experience is one of the most important decisions you will make. We have been fortunate enough to go on safari several times, not just during the regular peak seasons. In this guide, we'll discuss the pros and cons of going on safari throughout the year.

June to October is widely regarded as the best time to go on safari in Kenya, as there is virtually no rain, and the daytime temperatures are not too hot. But in saying that, there really is no bad time to go. Kenya has such a moderate climate and is so geographically diverse that it’s hard not to have a great experience at any time of year.

Best Time To Visit Kenya (Month-By-Month)

January to the end of March is mild and primarily dry throughout most of Kenya. January and February are also the calving seasons, making it a great time to see baby animals such as zebra, elephants, hyenas and lions.

March and April are when the long rains start to come, and the weather quickly transitions from ‘hot and dry’ to ‘wet and rainy’. April is one of the wettest months in Kenya, and while the plains are lush and green, roads can become extremely muddy, making some areas difficult to access.

June marks the start of the long dry season and goes through to October. There is very little rainfall throughout this period, with cooler mornings and more manageable daytime temperatures. This is also the best time to find wildlife congregating around water holes making for fantastic opportunities to capture photos of many animals all in one place.

Towards the end of July, herds of zebra and wildebeest arrive in the Masai Mara, marking the beginning of the great migration, one of Kenya’s most spectacular marvels. August is the height of the great migration and is the best time to witness thousands of zebra and wildebeest attempting the death-defying crocodile-infested river crossing.

September and October continue to provide excellent wildlife viewing and dry conditions, with the herds leaving the Masai Mara and heading towards the Serengeti, Tanzania, in October.

November and December bring the short rainy season, a month-long period of unpredictable weather starting around mid-November. It is also regarded as the low season, bringing fewer crowds and offering an excellent opportunity to find cheaper tours up until the Christmas period.

How many days is enough for a Kenya safari?

The ideal length of a Kenya safari can differ based on your interests, budget, and the places you plan to visit. Generally, a safari will last 3-7 days and can be modified to meet your requirements. Single-day safaris are available if you are near a national park, such as Nairobi National Park. With this in mind, let's take a look at what you can expect:

3-4 days: This duration is suitable for a short safari focused on one or two national parks or reserves, such as Maasai Mara or Amboseli National Park. You'll have enough time to explore the area, go on multiple game drives, and potentially see a wide variety of wildlife. But keep in mind the travel time to and from the parks you want to visit as they can be quite far if you are coming from Nairobi.

5-7 days: With this timeframe, you can cover more ground and visit multiple national parks or reserves. You could combine destinations like Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, or Tsavo National Park. This allows for a more diverse wildlife experience and the chance to see different landscapes and ecosystems.

7 days or more: If you have more time available, you can opt for a longer safari itinerary that includes additional activities such as guided walks, cultural visits to local communities, or even a beach extension along the Kenyan coast. This allows for a more relaxed pace and deeper immersion into the wildlife and culture of Kenya.

Ultimately, the duration of your Kenya safari depends on your preferences, budget, and time constraints. Most safari tours can be adjusted to meet your needs, especially if you take a private tour. It's essential to plan carefully to ensure you make the most of your time and have a memorable safari experience.

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If you are planning a trip to Kenya, why not read our complete travel guide to Kenya that contains everything you need to know about Kenya before you go?