In March, the weather transitions quickly from “hot and dry” to “wet and rainy.” The precipitation renders many of Kenya’s national parks inaccessible and it becomes harder to book safaris or view wildlife. That said, prices are fantastic this time of year and there are hardly any tourists. Plus, if the rains arrive later in the month as they occasionally do, you can enjoy all the benefits of a March trip without the lousy weather.
## Weather in Kenya During March
There is absolutely no escaping the fact that March brings significant rainfall to numerous regions throughout the beautiful country of Kenya. The expansive savannah, normally a landscape of dry grasses and sun-baked earth, frequently transforms into a muddy expanse, creating substantial challenges for travel and rendering some areas difficult, and sometimes even impossible, to visit due to impassable roads and difficult terrain. The increased moisture also brings with it an unwelcome surge in the mosquito population, making it absolutely crucial to pack and consistently use a high-quality insect repellent alongside your essential sunscreen. Protecting yourself from both the sun and the increased mosquito activity will ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable trip.
However, the arrival of the rainy season is not the only weather event occurring in March. Simultaneously, temperatures begin their upward climb, resulting in warmer days across the country. **Nairobi**, the vibrant capital city, for instance, experiences average daytime highs that range from 91 to 93°F. As you move towards the coast, temperatures tend to be even higher, with numbers reaching a sweltering 96°F during the hottest hours of the midday sun. These warmer temperatures require careful planning and adequate hydration if you plan on doing anything active during the day. Fortunately, the evenings offer a welcome respite from the heat. In **Nairobi**, evenings are typically cooler, with temperatures dropping to a more comfortable range of 55 to 57°F. Along the beaches, the evenings are warmer, generally ranging from 73 to 75°F, providing a pleasant atmosphere for evening strolls or outdoor dining.
## The Upside: Fewer Crowds and Lower Costs in March
The undeniable silver lining to the potentially less-than-ideal weather conditions in March is the significant decrease in both tourist crowds and associated travel costs. This is particularly true in comparison to the peak seasons that the country experiences. There are substantially fewer tourists visiting Kenya during this time, especially in the national parks and on wildlife safaris. If you choose to participate in these incredible activities, you are very likely to find that you have the parks largely to yourself, or at least share them with a much smaller group of visitors. The feeling of solitude and the enhanced opportunity for undisturbed wildlife viewing can create a truly special and memorable experience.
The reduced demand translates directly into considerably lower prices for accommodations, tours, and other travel-related expenses. Hotels are keen to attract visitors during this low season and will often offer special deals, promotions, and discounts to incentivize travel. Airfare is also generally cheaper this time of year, particularly towards the end of the month, making it a more budget-friendly option for experiencing the wonders of Kenya.
## Destination Recommendations: Where to Go in Kenya in March
If you do decide to embark on a journey to **Kenya** in March, the bustling city of **Nairobi** presents itself as an excellent destination. While the city certainly receives its share of rain during this month, it also enjoys plenty of clear days with bright skies and abundant sunshine, offering a pleasant balance of weather conditions. Furthermore, when the rain does arrive, the downpours are generally not prolonged, rarely lasting for the entire day. Being a major urban center, **Nairobi** also boasts a diverse array of indoor attractions, including museums, art galleries, exceptional restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, ensuring that you’ll always have something to do, regardless of the weather.
The beautiful beaches of Kenya also provide excellent vacation options in March. Similar to the capital city, you should anticipate a few rainy days, but the precipitation is unlikely to be constant, and even those days with rain will usually offer periods of clear skies and sunshine. When the skies are clear, the temperatures are perfectly suited for sunbathing on the pristine sands, and the warm waters of the Indian Ocean are incredibly inviting for swimming and water sports. The most significant advantage of visiting the beaches in March is the absence of large tourist crowds. You can enjoy the popular beach resorts without having to compete for lounge chairs or navigate crowded swimming areas, allowing for a more relaxed and peaceful vacation.
For those whose hearts are set on witnessing the incredible wildlife and experiencing the breathtaking natural beauty that Kenya has to offer, there are still numerous destinations to choose from, even during the rainy season. While some parks might be too muddy and difficult to navigate, others remain accessible and offer rewarding experiences. The world-renowned **Maasai Mara**, for example, tends to be accessible throughout the year. In March, the grass is still relatively short, which significantly enhances the visibility of cheetahs and other game animals, making them easier to spot during your safari drives. While you will likely encounter periods of rain, it is unlikely to be relentless or ruin your overall experience.
**Mount Kenya National Park** presents another enticing destination for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly if you visit earlier in the month. As the heavier rains tend to arrive later in March, planning a trip to Mount Kenya during the first half of the month can often provide a relatively dry experience, free from the large crowds that are typical during peak season. If you are considering climbing to the summit of the majestic 17,057-foot peak, early March is an ideal time to do so. The temperatures are generally warmer than in January or February, which is a significant advantage considering how cold it can become towards the summit. Moreover, the conditions are usually still relatively dry during this period.
Depending on the specific time of the month and the prevailing rainfall patterns, **Hell’s Gate National Park**, located just to the south of Mount Kenya, can also provide excellent opportunities for nature and wildlife viewing. One of the unique and appealing aspects of this park is that it is free from predatory animals, allowing you to hike and bike freely without the need for a vehicle or armed escort.
## Activities and Attractions: What to Do in Kenya in March
A trip to the rapidly growing capital city provides the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Kenya. Visit sites such as the esteemed **Nairobi National Museum** to explore fascinating exhibits and learn about the country’s heritage. Alternatively, you can book a day trip to the **Nairobi National Park**, where you can visit a dedicated black rhino sanctuary and witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. **Nairobi** also offers an exceptional culinary scene, with excellent food and wine available throughout the city, particularly in areas like **Waiyaki Way** and the vibrant **Westlands** neighborhood. Indulge in delicious Kenyan seafood at **Tamarind**, or savor authentic Indian biryani at **AA Mithaiwalla**. For those who enjoy dancing and nightlife, **Nairobi** boasts a variety of lively clubs and vibrant discotheques, ensuring a memorable evening out.
Along the southern coast of Kenya, the towns of **Mombasa** and **Malindi** are popular destinations that offer a range of activities and attractions. While you should expect some rain, there will still be plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, scuba diving, and relaxing by the pool. On clear days in **Mombasa**, you can embark on dolphin-watching tours, and places like **Mombasa Marine National Park** showcase the stunning natural beauty of the coastal region. At night, experience the local nightlife at venues like **Anuba Lounge** or **Klub Zero 4**, where you can dance the night away.
While March may not be the best month for visiting nature parks in general, there are still some exceptional options that offer enjoyable and accessible experiences. The **Maasai Mara**, despite potentially experiencing some rain, remains open to vehicles, and you will undoubtedly encounter a wide array of wildlife, including elephants, zebras, giraffes, hippos, lions, cheetahs, and more. You may also spot some wildebeests, although the massive migration typically occurs at other times of the year.
Another fantastic option is a trip to **Mount Kenya National Park**, where you can witness the country’s iconic namesake mountain. If you visit earlier in March, consider booking a climbing tour to the 17,057-foot summit. Farther south, you can embark on a trekking adventure through **Hell’s Gate National Park** or schedule a thrilling mountain biking tour. There, you will be captivated by awe-inspiring volcanoes, dramatic gorges, geothermal geysers, and ancient lava flows, as well as a diverse range of zebras, giraffes, and other non-predatory animals.
## Notable Events in Kenya During March
**East African Community Arts Festival**: Typically taking place in late February or early March, this relatively recent arts festival is held at Nairobi’s **Kenyatta International Convention Centre**. Celebrating performances and artwork from East African countries such as **Ethiopia**, **Somalia**, **Tanzania**, **Uganda**, and, of course, Kenya itself, the festival showcases a diverse range of artistic expressions, including artwork exhibitions, poetry readings, music performances, dance showcases, storytelling sessions, acrobatic displays, and traditional games. This is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the East African region.
## Suggested Itinerary for Traveling to Kenya in March
Ultimate Kenya: Mt. Kenya Trek & Maasai Mara Safari – 12 Days: This itinerary is particularly well-suited for a March vacation in Kenya because it focuses on the areas of the country that remain enjoyable to visit even during the rainy season. The journey begins with a sightseeing tour of the vibrant capital city of **Nairobi**, followed by a three-day trek to the summit of Mount Kenya in **Mount Kenya National Park**. After this exhilarating wilderness experience, you will spend five more days exploring the scenic **Lake Naivasha**, immersing yourself in the culture at the **Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp**, and embarking on unforgettable wildlife safaris in the **Maasai Mara**.
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