When you imagine your idyllic dream vacation in Africa, images of vast rolling savannah plains of Masai Mara dominated by the Great Rift Valley highlands of Oloololo Escarpment comes to mind! Here, the wildebeests and zebras cross the migratory paths of the unforgiving Mara River while territorial and resident wildlife battle out its day’s survival! Bachelor gazelles leap and prance delightfully in a game of chase while a female cheetah crouches in long grasses, her piercing eyes fixated on her prey.
In the northern wilderness of Laikipia – Lewa, ferocious feline hunters gaze across their domains searching for unwelcome carnivores who dare to cross into their space. Lion cubs playfully fight near an imposing male while females scan the bushy grounds for their next family meal. Hyenas yip near a morning carcass to fight off vultures and other feathered scavengers.
Kenya is a world-renowned destination for those who seek an authentic bush experience that includes cultural, geological, natural, archeological and historical treasures. Your journey takes you into native villages of the Masai, Samburu, Turkana, El Molo, Pokot and Rendille to learn about ancient tribes that have survived on the land for generations.
See spectacular wildlife behaviors that are typically documented by film crews and professional photographers! Watch heartwarming animal births, high-pace predator kills and glorious sunsets unlike any other on the planet! You simply cannot imagine a more awe-inspiring East African travel experience!
When is the best time to visit Kenya? Our destination experts share an overview.
The best time to visit Kenya depends on what you want to do. Kenya is divided by the equator and is characterized by a tropical climate.
The weather in Kenya is often ideal, although the coast can be very humid and there are hot, desert-like conditions around Lake Magadi and in the northern areas of the country around Lake Turkana. Most regions in Kenya have temperatures between 71-91°F a day, and they rarely drop below 55°F at night. Even during the short rains, the humidity during the day is mostly low and the sky is clear enough to see the Milky Way at night.
During the coolest months of June, July and August, temperatures in Nairobi are around 60°F, which can drop to about 50°F in the Aberdare region and the Mount Kenya massif.
Best time to visit Kenya by season
Hot months: January to March
Long rains: April to June
Cold months: June to August
Short rains: November to December. It is rarely raining all day. Short, heavy rainfalls are usually replaced by sunny periods, which makes this time in Kenya very pleasant.
What to Pack
Safari wear should be comfortable and casual. Evenings and early mornings can be chilly so warm sweaters are recommended. Low heeled comfortable sports or trekking shoes are the most suitable walking shoes, should you intend joining any walking safaris.
We recommend you bring warm clothes, including a fleece or light wool sweater and socks, apart from the normal safari gear. During the day it can get quite hot so don’t forget sunglasses and a high factor sunscreen, as well as a sun hat with a small brim.
Some specialist trips, i.e. mountain climbing, require extra items of clothing and footwear. Many hotels, lodges and camps have swimming pools so you are advised to bring swimsuits.
Due to limited space in the vehicle and light aircraft, we advise you to keep your luggage to the minimum. We suggest you pack your luggage into a small bag of no more than 15 kgs – the luggage limit for local flights issued by the airlines. Almost all safari lodges and camps provide same day laundry service.
For many travelers, a safari in Kenya is the highlight of their trip – after all, you cannot get a more exhilarating and enriching wildlife experience than witnessing the Great Migration of the Masai Mara. But the beauty of Kenya lies in the fact that it offers much more than wildlife viewing. Experience outdoor adventures, beach relaxation and lively culture and history – there are so many quintessential Kenyan experiences that make a trip to this country in East Africa a must-do!
The capital city of Nairobi is the largest city in East Africa and beckons with its wealth of options – immerse yourself in African life in Nairobi with colorful street markets, authentic African cuisine, and buzzing nightlife. There’s also the Nairobi National Park to visit in Nairobi as well as museums like the Nairobi National Museum and wildlife centers that provide an immersive experience in Kenyan traditions and, of course, African wildlife! If you want a break from a safari, head to Mombasa with its stunning beaches and architectural and cultural treasures.
1. WITNESS THE GREAT MIGRATION IN THE MASAI MARA
The ultimate adventure on Kenya safaris! Witness the Great Migration in the Masai Mara National Reserve, where thousands of antelopes, zebras, and wildebeest cross the savanna landscape from July to October. Witness dramatic crossings over the crocodile-infested Mara River, one of the best things to do in Kenya
2. SEE THE BIG FIVE IN TSAVO EAST NATIONAL PARK
With a little luck you can see the Big Five in Tsavo East National Park! This park is less developed than its western counterpart. Hippos and crocodiles are also found here and you can also spot giraffe, dik diks and zebras that venture to the watering holes in the dry summer months. The variety of species and the endless bush landscapes are a highlight during your trip to Africa Tsavo East National Park is home to one of the largest elephant populations in the world and it is largely easy to spot game from afar, here, thanks to the landscape. Also visit the scenic Livingstone Falls on the Galana River, with is scenic surrounds of palm trees and the Yatta escarpment in the background.
3. ENJOY A BEACH VACATION IN NORTH KENYA
The northern coast of Kenya, traversed by dream beaches, is the ultimate destination for outdoor adventures and relaxation. Discover a colorful underwater world when you go snorkeling, or soak up the sun on one of the palm-lined beaches. Tucked away from the tourist crowds, some of these beaches have been described as the most beautiful beaches in the world! They include Diani Beach, Gallu Beach, Tiwi Beach, Msambweni (with its long reefs), and Malindi. Apart from water-sports also enjoy sunset dhow trips, birdwatching and guided forest walks. The coastal town of Mombasa, with its diverse cultural influences, is also a popular beach destination
4. MARVEL AT THE FLAMINGOS AT LAKE NAKURU
Witnessing the flamingos at Lake Nakuru is a very special natural spectacle. Over one million of these graceful birds can be found fishing in the lake for their feast of delicious algae. Get up close with the wildlife and birdlife in this region as you head out on game drives.
5. GO BIRDWATCHING AT AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK
Bird watching in the Amboseli National Park is particularly varied due to the 400 plus native bird species. The park at the foot of the imposing Mount Kilimanjaro is also one of the best places to see African elephants. The Amboseli landscape is replete with swamps, plains, woodlands and bush country, all supporting diverse wildlife and birdlife. Apart from game drives, immerse yourself in the scenic surrounds as you embark on bushwalks.
