When should i go safari in Kenya? – The best time to visit Kenya for Safaris

When it comes to safaris, there is nothing like Kenya. From the land, to the wildlife, to the people Kenya is unbeatable. Everything is seamlessly woven into every level of the ecosystem and the ripple effects are seen everywhere on safari. Kenya is a superb safari destination in Africa, especially for wildlife safaris/ Kenya wildlife safaris. You will surely be left with nothing to admire after your Safari to Kenya. Explore from the towering mountain of Kenya to the 50 National Parks and conservancies teeming with incredible numbers of wildlife and birdlife. If you are planning to visit Kenya, then surely ‘‘When should i go safari in Kenya?’’ should be one of the questions that linger in your mind. Here is a complete guide to When should i go safari in Kenya? Or The best time to visit Kenya for Safaris.

When should i go safari in Kenya? Kenya is one of the safari destinations that can be visited all year round however some months of the year are considered more favorable compared to others. Knowing When should i go safari in Kenya? will surely make your Kenya safari tour more memorable with the best encounter. Starting June to October is the best time to visit Kenya for Safaris. These months mark the long dry season in Kenya and are also the high( peak) season for safaris in Kenya. most National Parks and Game reserves receive large numbers of visitors during this season. When travelling during these months, expect meeting crowds of safari vehicles and travelers in Kenya’s major safari parks, especially in the Masai Mara, from August to October, during the Great Migration.

The Rainy Season in Kenya – Why avoid traveling during the rainy Season?

During the rainy seasons, the higher rainfall makes the vegetation thicker and greener. Most wildlife areas are less crowded, and animals give birth to their young during this period, especially wildebeest. Although the rainy seasons attract lower rates for both activities and accommodation in Kenya, it is important to know that most National Parks and Game Reserves may be difficult to navigate through. Game viewing during these seasons is also not at its best since it is associated with lush greenery that makes wildlife sighting much more difficult.

Note: However, the best time to visit Kenya depends on your personal preferences and what you want to see. If you only want to see the Great Migration, the obvious choice is during peak season. First-timers seeking the Big Five would also do well between June and November. However, for safari experts looking for unique encounters such as the calving season or bird watchers may prefer traveling during the rainy season.

The wildlife, culture, and landscapes are always there, and experiencing them in a way that appeals to you is what makes a true Kenyan safari memorable.

What is the best time to visit Masai Mara? – When to go for Wildebeest Migration in Kenya?

The Masai Mara is known for its year-round wildlife, but the Great Migration is a major draw card for visitors. The peak season for Migration sightings is be between June and October, and you are more likely to see river crossings during this period. However, the Migration is a year-round phenomenon, and you are likely to see large herds of wildebeest at any time of year.

It’s important to note that the movements of the Migration are affected by the weather and may vary each year. The movement of the herds is dependent on the rains and pasture. The herds sometimes may cross back and forth between the Serengeti and the Masai Mara several times in a cycle. Since it can be difficult to pinpoint specific times and accommodation tends to book up quickly during peak season, planning your safari in advance will save you last-minute drama. The wildlife experience in the Masai Mara is guaranteed regardless of the time of the year you choose.

Kenya safaris by month – What Kenya safaris be like in different months?

Traveling to Kenya in January and February

Kenya Safaris during January is great since it is the height of the summer season and game viewing is guaranteed. January falls between the two notable ‘long’ and ‘short’ rain periods and is a good time for beach holidays on the Kenyan coast, and game viewing in top safari parks as well. It is important to know that this period is also associated with high-temperature temperatures during the day.

If you are planning to visit Kenya during February, expect to enjoy incredible adventure. During this month the central highlands are warm in the day and cool in the evening, while the coast is extremely hot in the daytime and cool during evening. This month allow for game viewing since it experiences the lowest levels of precipitation in major wildlife areas like Masai Mara. The chances of encountering wildlife species at watering holes is higher.

Traveling to Kenya in March

This moth marks the beginning of the rainy season and the weather transitions quite quickly from ‘hot and dry’ to ‘wet and rainy’. Rain is commonplace throughout large parts of the country, and the savannah often becomes a muddy landscape making it hard to navigate through them during safaris. Although this may not be a favorable month for safaris in Kenya, it is the only time when crowds are absent and costs are lower.

Kenya Safaris in April

From March, the rains continue to April. This month is one of the wettest and rainiest months in Kenya. Expect downpours during this month, cold during the day, and comfortable nights, all through Nairobi and the central highland areas. The weather in Mombasa is hot both during the day and at night during this month. Not a good month for Game drives.

The silver lining of safaris during this month is the absence of dust, the landscape is lush and beautifully green, and the skies provide moody backdrops for incredible wildlife images. Just be sure to protect your equipment from the elements!

Kenya Safaris in May

As May starts, the rains reduce and settle in to quench the African plains, and along the coastline, the beaches are no longer a sunshine paradise. It’s not an ideal time for a powder-soft sand, ocean escape.

Travelling to Kenya from June to October

From June to October, the long dry season starts in Kenya, making it the perfect time to experience an authentic ‘Out of Africa’ safari. The dry weather in these months is ideal for wildlife sightings as animals gather around water sources. For those interested in the natural spectaculars, the Great Migration’s mega-herds arrive in the Masai Mara during this time.

Towards the end of July, the herds of Mother Nature’s greatest spectacle begin to arrive in the Masai Mara. During this time, visitors can witness dramatic river crossings and enjoy the temperate and dry weather, with occasional showers still possible.

August marks the peak of the Great Migration, which is a sight to behold. The weather is pleasant, and visitors can witness thousands of zebras and wildebeest perform their death-defying river crossings, with hungry crocodiles in wait.

The game-viewing action continues in September, with generally dry weather.

In October, the migratory herds usually depart from the Masai Mara. However, Kenya has an abundance of resident wildlife that will keep safari enthusiasts delighted.

Visiting Kenya between November & December

As November kicks in, the short rainy season starts although safaris are still very possible in major safari parks. Most safari parks and camps remain open, although some camps close on the Laikipia Plateau. Despite the rain, this is a good time to take the opportunity to enjoy the vast savannahs to yourself.

December can be very hot with potential rain, but viewing the local wildlife is – as it always is – spectacular. This month is also great for birdwatchers as bird numbers increase greatly at this time of the year, with opportunities to spot some migratory species.

What will I see on a Kenya Safari? – Wildlife and Attractions in Kenya

There is less that Kenya doesn’t offer to her visitors from the famous African Big Five to the spectacular natural wonders of Wildebeest and mammal migrations. Some of the top safari animals to see in Kenya include the African Big Five (elephants, buffaloes, leopards, lions, and rhinos).

Here is what you will see during your Kenya Safari

In Kenya, you have the opportunity to see two of the most charismatic species in the world – lions and leopards. Lions are easier to spot than jaguars, which are often nocturnal. Lions are almost two meters long and can be seen in most of Kenya’s parks and reserves. However, there are currently less than 2000 lions left in Kenya due to illegal hunting.

In the highland areas such as Mount Kenya and the Aberdare range, you may be able to spot a melanistic leopard although sightings of this rare animal are infrequent. Other cats that you can see in Kenya include cheetahs, which can run up to 70mph, as well as servals and caracals.

African hunting dogs have been spotted in the Masai Mara National Reserve, and the spotted hyena is one of the carnivores that you have the best chance of seeing after the lion.

You will find hippos in the rivers of Kenya, and both black and white rhinos can also be seen. Both species are endangered, with only around 600 black rhinos remaining in Kenya. The last population of white rhinos in Kenya live in Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

Elephants are spread throughout Kenya and are often the most fascinating animals to watch because of their size. Elephants are a keystone species, which means that they dig up watering holes, create deadwood for insects, give new life to the soil, and redistribute acacia seeds in their dung.

Zebras and giraffes can be found throughout the country and are regularly seen on safari. You also have a good chance of seeing wildebeest, gazelles, various types of antelope, and primates such as vervet monkeys, baboons, and bushbabies.

Of course, this is just a brief overview of the wildlife that you might encounter while on safari in Kenya. There are hundreds more species and subspecies that you could potentially see.

Kenya National Parks

Kenya is known as the “home of safaris” with 54 national parks and reserves where most safaris take place. The Masai Mara National Reserve is the most famous and covers an area of 1,510 square kilometers, set 2000m above sea level. It’s renowned for its lion, leopard, and cheetah populations, and is also home to the great migration of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle.

Lake Nakuru National Park is another popular Park, home to over a million flamingos. Aberdare National Park is home to a large black rhino population across its high moorland, peaks, and lower Salient area of rainforest. Tsavo National Parks is Kenya’s largest protected wildlife sanctuary, and Amboseli National Park offers a stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro for animal sightings.

What should I wear on a Kenya Safari – What to pack for Kenya Safaris

If you’re planning to go on a safari, it’s recommended to pack a small selection of clothes that can accommodate various weather conditions. It’s best to wear light, breathable, and comfortable clothing. Neutral colors are preferred to avoid scaring the animals away, but you don’t have to dress in khaki or camouflage. Don’t forget to bring a hat, sun cream, and a light rain jacket. Bring layers too if you’ll be in the forest since evenings can get chilly. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially if you’ll be going on an active safari.

Aside from clothing and sun cream, it’s advisable to bring a water bottle, a camera, and binoculars to get a better view of the wildlife. Insect repellent and lip balm are also worth packing. Local sarongs like kikoi and kanga are available, and it’s easy to purchase a light rain jacket if needed. Plan your Kenya safari adventure with Acacia Safaris Limited and experience life-changing adventure.