BEST TIME TO GO TO KENYA

During the dry season, the wildlife is easier to spot as the landscape is dry and the bushes and grass are not too high. The wildlife go to water and rivers, making the sightings more regular. The wildebeest migration arrives at the Masa Mara in July and returns to Tanzania in October. During the wet season, it is beautiful and green and there is still plenty of wildlife but it is harder to spot. Some migrant birds return and new born animals including thousands of baby antelopes arrive around November and December. It is also a good time to see lions. Except for March, April and May the rains are short and only in the afternoon and night, but rarely spoil a safari. November and December are a great time because you will often have the parks and the sightings all to yourself at a lower price. July is the beginning of the dry, high season which goes until October. The great migration happens during this time.

The best wildlife viewing months in Kenya are during the Dry season from late June to October. The wildebeest migration usually reaches the Masai Mara in July and remains until October when they move back to the Serengeti in Tanzania. Wildlife viewing is good year-round, but this can differ for some parks. See below to learn when to visit which park.

 

Best Time June to October, January to February (All parks)

High Season July to November, January and February (Some of the parks get very crowded especially the Masai Mara, Amboseli and Lake Nakuru)

Low Season March to May (Some lodges and camps in high rainfall areas close down)

Best Weather June to October (Little to no rainfall)

Worst Weather March, April and May (Peak of Wet season)

 

June to October –Dry Season

  • Wildlife is easier to spot because the bush is less dense and animals gather around waterholes and rivers
  • It’s unlikely to rain, the days are sunny with clear skies, and there are fewer mosquitoes
  • July to October are the best months to see the wildebeest migration
  • It gets very busy and crowded in the most popular parks

November to May –Wet Season

  • The scenery is beautiful and green
  • Rates drop because it’s the low season
  • Newborn animals can be seen, and in general, you will still see plenty of wildlife
  • Migratory birds are present from September to April
  • Except for March, April and May, rains are short showers in the afternoon or evening and will rarely compromise your safari
  • During March to May the rains can be continuous – some lodges and camps close down during part of the Wet season

KENYA'S COASTAL VIBES

Kenya isn’t just good for safaris, but the Kenyan coast also boasts white sand beaches and is the perfect place to come for some peace and quietness on the Indian Ocean. Malindi, Watamu, Diani Beach, and Lamu all have that Swahili vibe that can also be found on the Tanzanian Coast. Some of the best food in Kenya can be found on the coast, as well as some of the most interesting architecture and culture.

SWAHILI LANGUAGE

Like Tanzania, the main language in Kenya is Swahili and learning a few of the basic phrases will definitely enhance your experience with the locals. If you venture into the west of the country you will without a doubt come across the Masai people. The Maasai all speak Maa, but most understand Swahili as well. However, in Nairobi, at lodges, tourist attractions, and everyday people will likely speak English. It’s even common for many Kenyan’s to speak a mix of both Swahili and English when conversing.