Kenya is a territory of stunning landscapes with vibrant cultures and, especially, incredible wildlife. For many people in Kenya, embarking on safari is an adventure of a lifetime. However, visiting at the right time is vital to make it memorable and enjoyable. Roho Voyage is there to help you know the best times to visit Kenya for an amazing safari experience; we will make you understand the best season with what wildlife you can view and important events to look out for.
The Dry Season: (January-February, June-October)
Kenya’s dry season usually lasts from June to October. This season is similar to winter in the Southern Hemisphere and summer school holidays in the UK. Many tourists tour Kenya within this time, as the weather is excellent.
With minor to no rain, the greenery is less, and the park is usually dry, turning the African plains into a wildlife haven. Thirsty animals gather around enduring watering holes, offering a close-up view of nature’s drama.
The long, dry season is comfortable as the temperature is also easy; this is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and game drives.
Millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other herbivores travel from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara National Reserve from the beginning of June.
Plan a Kenyan safari around this time if you want to see and enjoy the dramatic river crossings.
Rainy Season (March-May, Nov-Dec)
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Kenya’s rainy season is often overlooked, though it has an exceptional charm. This season has stormy skies, and the landscapes have become vibrant green.
If you are passionate about lush landscapes and do not care about some rain, this could give you a chance to have a perfect adventure.
The rainy season from March to May is a long season that turns the landscapes into lush greenery, making charming backdrops for safaris. Throughout this time, several animals, such as topis, impalas, and giraffes, have their babies, so one can enjoy watching lots of newborn animals.
This time of prolonged rain brings silent safari experiences with few visitors, fewer safari vehicles, and lower rates. It is an excellent choice for those seeking more individuality and budget-conscious travel.
A short rainy season occurs around late October and November. During this time, tourists can expect thunderstorms, brief afternoon showers, and clear skies.
Despite the occasional showers, November is a beautiful time to see and enjoy the last wildebeest river crossings as the herds migrate back to the Serengeti.
Throughout the rainy seasons, the parks’ water sources are refilled, so the animals can travel far or gather at certain spots for water. However, this can make watching wildlife more complex, and muddy conditions might make some parts of the parks hard to reach.
Some camps also get close during the long rains, so the best idea is to check with your tour operator to see which accommodations are open then.
Wildebeest Migration Season
Recognised as the Great Wildebeest Migration in Kenya, this is one of nature’s most extraordinary events and the high season. Thousands of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles travel from Tanzania’s Serengeti to Kenya’s Masai Mara in search of food and water.
The best time to travel and watch this is from late July to September, exceptionally within the Mara River crossing, an exciting part of the migration. Tourists can enjoy watching wildebeests crossing the river and facing dangers like crocodiles. It combines experiencing confusion, drama, bravery, and sometimes tragedy.
After the crossing, the herds spread through the Masai Mara, feasting on grass. By November, they start moving back to the Serengeti for calving season.
Tourists can continue the adventurous experience in Tanzania by watching the herds give birth and alluring hunters like lions and cheetahs. It is exciting and adds another experience of watching newborn animals and their struggle for survival.
Bird Watching Season
Kenya is a heavenly place for birdwatchers, with more than 1,000 bird varieties. Birdwatching is great throughout the year, but the long and short rains are pleasant from November to May. During this time, migratory birds from Europe and Asia came to breed and raise their young.
Parks are filled with butterflies and wildflowers; you can enjoy watching migratory species like Eurasian Rollers, European Bee Eaters, European Swallows, Hobby Falcons, Carmine Bee-eaters, and Eurasian Marsh Harriers.
Wetlands such as Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru, and the Masai Mara are beautiful spots for birdwatching this season.
National Parks and Game Reserves
Kenya’s wildlife isn’t just about the Masai Mara. From the foot of Mount Kenya to the Great Rift Valley, the country’s national parks and reserves offer various wasteland experiences. Some prominent destinations encompass Amboseli, Lake Nakuru National Park, and Samburu National Reserve.
Samburu and Laikipia: These parks are fantastic during the dry and wet seasons and are renowned for their unique wildlife.
Unique Ideas for Your Safari
Weather Impacts
The weather has a significant impact on your safari experience. Although it’s possible to view animals during the dry season, accommodation may be pricey and fully occupied. Rainy weather is uncertain, and there are fewer people and more stunning views during the rainy season.
Safari Activities
Think about what activities you wish to pursue:
For excellent sightings, game drives usually work best during the dry season.
Bird Watching: Wonderful in the rainy season with numerous travelling birds.
Photography: The dry season offers clean photos, whereas the rainy season offers vibrant backdrops. Both seasons provide fantastic photography opportunities.
Travel Logistics
The season may influence how you travel to Kenya and its national parks. Although there are more flights and superior roadways during the dry season and, the weather during the rainy season might require flexibility in travel plans.
Conclusion
Identifying the ideal time to travel on safari in Kenya could significantly enhance your experience. Kenya is dynamic all year round, whether the fantastic events of the Great Migration or the verdant beauty and abundant birds of the rainy season attract you.
So, the next time you plan your trip, your dream wildlife experiences and sights will make your Kenyan safari an incredible once-in-a-lifetime event. Get ready to discover Kenya’s wonders of nature by bringing your adventure spirit and camera.