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Kenya is a year-round safari destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience. Whether you’re chasing the Great Migration in Maasai Mara, looking for Big Five encounters, or hoping for budget-friendly travel, this guide will help you plan your perfect trip.
| Season | Best For | Weather | Safari Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| June – October (Dry Season) | Great Migration, Big Five sightings | Dry, sunny | Best wildlife viewing, peak season |
| November – December (Short Rains) | Birdwatching, lush landscapes | Light rains | Fewer crowds, lower prices |
| January – March (Dry Season) | Exclusive safaris, predator sightings | Warm, dry | Best for photography, fewer tourists |
| April – May (Long Rains) | Budget safaris, green landscapes | Heavy rains | Discounted rates, lush scenery |
Best for: Great Migration, Big Five, top wildlife viewing
Weather: Sunny, minimal rain, cool mornings & evenings
Safari Highlights:
July – September: The Great Migration river crossings in Maasai Mara
Big Five sightings are at their best due to dry conditions
Most popular time to visit—book safaris 6-12 months in advance
Pro Tip: Book early! Lodges in Masai Mara fill up quickly during the Great Migration season.
Best for: Photography, birdwatching, budget-friendly travel
Weather: Occasional short rains, lush landscapes
Safari Highlights:
Fewer tourists mean more exclusive safari experiences
Migratory birds arrive—perfect for birdwatchers
Lower prices at luxury lodges & fewer crowds
Pro Tip: Short rains don’t affect game drives much, making this a great time for a crowd-free safari.
✔Best for: Exclusive safaris, predator action, photography
✔ Weather: Hot, dry, clear skies
✔ Safari Highlights:
Ideal for photography—clear skies, golden light, and dramatic landscapes
Best time for predator sightings as prey congregates around water sources
Fewer tourists—luxury safaris feel more exclusive
Combine a safari with a beach holiday in Diani, Lamu, or Zanzibar for a perfect trip.
✔Best for: Budget travelers, green landscapes, fewer tourists
✔ Weather: Heavy rains, lush greenery, occasional road closures
✔ Safari Highlights:
Big discounts on luxury lodges.
Lush, green landscapes perfect for photography
Fewer crowds—a great time for a private, intimate safari
Pro Tip: Fly-in safaris are the best option as some roads may be muddy.
Best Time to See the Migration in Maasai Mara:
✔ July – October: River crossings at the Mara River
✔ August – September: Peak migration activity in Kenya
✔ October: Herds start moving back to Tanzania
Book at lodges near the Mara River to witness dramatic crossings up close.
✔ December – March: Best for combining a safari with a beach holiday in Diani, Lamu, or Zanzibar
✔ July – October: Best for Great Migration + coastal relaxation
Now that you know the best time to visit Kenya, let’s plan your dream safari!
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FAQs – Everything You Need to Know About Kenya’s Safari Seasons
June – October (Dry season) for the best wildlife sightings.
January – March for fewer crowds & excellent predator viewing.
April – May (Green season) when luxury lodges offer big discounts.
Yes! Short rains don’t affect safaris much, and it’s great for birdwatching & photography.
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