weather guide
Kenya weather guide
An Immersive Journey Through Kenya’s Wild Seasons
The Warm and Dry Season
January - March
The first few months of the year are warm and dry, offering some of the best conditions for game viewing in Kenya. As water sources become scarce, wildlife gathers around the waterholes. This period is also the calving season for many herbivores, particularly in January and February, providing incredible opportunities to witness new life on the plains and the predators that follow. Birdwatching is at its peak, with migratory species adding splashes of colour and movement to the landscape. Destinations such as the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Samburu are particularly vibrant during this time, offering beautiful landscapes and dynamic wildlife activity.
THE PEAK SAFARI SEASON
JUNE - OCTOBER
As the rains fade, Kenya transitions into its most popular safari season. From June to October, the weather is cool and dry, making it the perfect time for wildlife viewing. These months coincide with the Great Wildebeest Migration, one of nature's greatest spectacles, as millions of animals move across the plains of the Maasai Mara in search of fresh grazing.
Predator activity is at its peak, and clear skies create crisp, golden mornings and dramatic sunsets. Amboseli also shines at this time, offering unparalleled views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Every game drive feels cinematic, full of action, drama, and the magic of Africa's untamed beauty.
The Long Rains
April - May
April and May mark the season of the long rains, transforming Kenya’s savannahs into lush, green expanses. Afternoon showers are common and the rains breathe new life into the land, creating a dramatic and beautiful setting ideal for photography. Safari during the long rains offers a more intimate experience, with fewer visitors and a sense of privacy in the wild. This is a wonderful time to explore less crowded destinations like the Laikipia Plateau and private conservancies, where the vibrant renewal of flora and fauna paints a spectacular backdrop to your adventures.
SHORT RAINS AND FESTIVE SEASON
NOVEMBER - DECEMBER
The short rains of November and early December bring a refreshing change to the Kenyan landscape, with afternoon showers clearing to reveal brilliant skies and rejuvenated greenery. The land comes alive with colour, and wildlife remains active and visible, often without the heavy crowds of peak season. This time of year carries a sense of romance and renewal, making it ideal for a more relaxed and intimate safari experience. Destinations such as Lewa, Samburu, and Tsavo offer stunning scenery and vibrant wildlife encounters, while the festive season infuses the wilderness with a special kind of magic, perfect for families and the spirit of adventure.