Located in East Africa, Kenya is the ideal destination for travellers craving adventure. Kenya is one of Africa’s most beautiful places, encompassing mountain highlands, lakes, valleys, and coastlines. About a million tourists visit this region every year to spot the animals that call Kenya their home, including elephants, zebras, rhinos, exotic birds, and lions. Read on to learn the best time to travel to Kenya.
Best Time To Visit Kenya
Kenya’s dry season, which runs from July to September, is the best time to visit this vibrant country. These late summer months have fantastic weather and coincide with the Great Migration, showcasing thousands of zebras and wildebeest. However, January through March is another great time to visit Kenya, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Kenya in January
January is generally warm and dry, making this an excellent time to visit Kenya, especially for those who want to enjoy a safari. Because this is one of Kenya’s dry seasons, animals flock to the waterholes, making them easier to spot.
While the daytime temperatures this month are warm, the evening temperatures can drop down quite a bit, so bring along a light jacket!
● Average Temperature in Nairobi: 20.4°C
● Average Rainfall in Nairobi: 40 mm
Kenya in February
February in Kenya is similar to January’s weather: hot and dry. Along with January, February is one of the sunniest months in Kenya.
The warm weather and lack of rain make February a fantastic time to visit Maasai Mara or Laikipia, where you can spot big game and incredible bird species.
● Average Temperature in Nairobi: 21.2°C
● Average Rainfall in Nairobi: 50 mm
Kenya in March
March marks the beginning of Kenya’s rainy season. However, there is still quite a bit of sunshine this time of year.
Many travellers who visit Kenya in March journey to Mount Kenya National Park, where you can see this country’s magnificent namesake mountain. You can even book a climbing tour if you are in Kenya during the first half of March.
● Average Temperature in Nairobi: 21.5°C
● Average Rainfall in Nairobi: 70 mm
Kenya in April
April’s rainfall increases without making a big difference to the balmy weather you will encounter this month. Near the Masai Mara Nature Reserve, a popular area for wildlife trekking and safaris, you will be able to observe wild elephants coming to drink from the Talek river that runs here.
● Average Temperature in Nairobi: 20.7°C
● Average Rainfall in Nairobi: 155 mm
Kenya in May
May’s rainfall decreases slightly, along with the average temperatures, but don’t be fooled — this is still a slightly rainy month! One of the best things to do in Kenya during this season is to explore the bustling city of Nairobi. This city has plenty of indoor attractions and offers cooler temperatures than the coastal areas.
● Average Temperature in Nairobi: 19.7°C
● Average Rainfall in Nairobi: 110 mm
Kenya in June
June is the beginning of Kenya’s second dry season. The first dry season, January through February, is generally hot, while the June through September dry season is cooler and milder. If you love cool temperatures and a mix of sun and clouds in the sky, this is the best season for your visit to Kenya.
If you’re visiting Kenya in June, don’t forget to visit Nairobi National Park, where you can see the incredible black rhino sanctuary. For those who want to spend some time at sea, check out Mombasa Marine National Park, located off Kenya’s shore.
● Average Temperature in Nairobi: 18.4°C
● Average Rainfall in Nairobi: 25 mm
Kenya in July
July’s rainfall drops significantly, as does the temperature. In fact, July is the coolest month in Kenya. Nighttime temperatures can get down to 5°C, so you will definitely want to bring a jacket just in case!
July is one of the best times for wildlife viewing in Kenya. Check out Lake Nakuru, a stunning waterfront area, home to pink flamingos. The Falconry of Kenya also has other incredible bird species. For beach lovers, don’t miss Watamu Beach in Malindi.
● Average Temperature in Nairobi: 17.5°C
● Average Rainfall in Nairobi: 12 mm
Kenya in August
The dry season continues in August, as do the cool temperatures. This time of year is the peak of the wildebeest migration, making this an ideal time to go on a safari in the Maasai Mara Nature Reserve. August is also a fantastic time for whale watching off the coast: a must-do while visiting Kenya!
● Average Temperature in Nairobi: 18°C
● Average Rainfall in Nairobi: 14 mm
Kenya in September
September’s rainfall and temperatures increase slightly as the dry season comes to a close. The weather is stunning no matter which region of Kenya you’re in, so you’ll want to indulge in outdoor activities like hiking or wildlife trekking.
Kenya’s beaches are also particularly lovely in September, offering swimming, scuba diving, kayaking, and surfing.
● Average Temperature in Nairobi: 19.3°C
● Average Rainfall in Nairobi: 25 mm
Kenya in October
October is the beginning of Kenya’s second rainy season, with about seven days of rain this month. However, October’s rainstorms are generally short, so you can still do plenty of outdoor exploring during your days here.
● Average Temperature in Nairobi: 20.6°C
● Average Rainfall in Nairobi: 45 mm
Kenya in November
November’s rainfall increases relatively, with about 14 days that have some rain over the month. You will still get plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures, though. Many tourists take this time to enjoy Nairobi’s incredible nightlife scene. As the capital of Kenya, this city offers plenty of pubs, clubs, bars, drinks, and dancing.
● Average Temperature in Nairobi: 20.1°C
● Average Rainfall in Nairobi: 120 mm
Kenya in December
Kenya’s rainfall decreases significantly during December, making this a fantastic time for outdoor excursions with fewer crowds. Besides the various national parks and game reserves, you can also visit the Maasai Market, an open-air shopping experience.
Here, you’ll find one-of-a-kind souvenirs, like antique African jewellery, local artwork, wood carvings, and more. This market has so many goods to choose from that you might need an entire afternoon to explore everything it offers!
● Average Temperature in Nairobi: 20.1°C
● Average Rainfall in Nairobi: 80 mm
Final thoughts
Kenya has plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures throughout the year. No matter what month you choose for your holiday visit, you will be able to go for wildlife safaris, open-air shopping, and adventures in Nairobi’s nightlife venues. You can even combine your Kenyan holiday with a visit to the Maldives!
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