Due to the dry weather, January is considered high season in Kenya—a great time to spot spectacular wildlife in Maasai Mara or soak up stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli National Park. The temperatures in Nairobi typically hover in the high 70s to mid-80s while coastal towns around Mombasa average about 90°F. It's a fantastic time for hiking, exploring, and safari-going, the only downside being that it tends to be crowded.
Choosing between a safari in Kenya or Tanzania can be challenging, as both countries offer unique experiences and incredible wildlife diversity. To help you make the best decision, we've gathered insights from kimkim's local specialists in Kenya and Tanzania, who share their knowledge on activities, wildlife diversity, accessibility, travel safety, and accommodations in both countries.
Kenya has a definite peak tourism season, but that is not the only good time to visit. If you want to go on safari and witness the Great Migration or climb Mount Kenya, you'll be restricted to specific months. Otherwise, there are benefits to coming at other times of the year, although the "big rain" season is best avoided. Read on to find out more about the best time of year to visit Kenya.
September is one of the best times of the year to visit Kenya. It's still hot and sunny but the crowds have tapered off ever-so-slightly. The last of the wildebeests are wandering through Maasai Mara so you can still catch their migration, and the rains of October haven't yet arrived. Prices remain high, as it's officially considered peak season; however, you won't contend with the huge masses of mid-summer.
If you have two weeks to spend in Kenya, you can visit several wildlife reserves and national parks, devote time to beaches and learn about the local people and their culture. Most travelers come to Kenya to go on safari, and this can be done comfortably, however, in as few as five days by sticking to the places closest to Nairobi. With longer in Kenya, you can visit a great range of parks or fit in other activities.