Kenya is a paradise for safari fans, with amazing scenery and abundant wildlife. Perhaps one of the unique characteristics of a Kenyan safari is how the safari experience varies during the different seasons. Whether you are visiting during the dry season or the wet season, there is always something special to look at and engage in.

The Seasons In Kenya

Kenya has two basic seasons:

• Wet Season (April to June and November to December) – More chances of rain and lush landscapes, with fewer crowds and lower prices.
• Dry Season (July to October and January to March) – This is the peak safari season, with clear skies, lots of wildlife around waterholes, and prime opportunities for spotting the Great Migration.

Wet Season (April to June and November to December)

While the wet season brings rain, it also provides visitors a quieter, more peaceful safari experience. The country turns green and vibrant, and this is the time when many animals give birth, so there are plenty of adorable baby animals to spot.

What to See and Do

Baby Animals: Many animals, such as antelopes and elephants, give birth during the months of April to June. It is a wonderful time for the animal enthusiast to see young wildlife.

Birdwatching: This is also the best time for birdwatching, as most migratory birds flock to Kenya's parks, especially around lakes such as Nakuru and Naivasha.

Fewer Tourists: There will be fewer tourists in the rain, and therefore, you get a more peaceful time on the safari as fewer crowds visit during the rains.

Lower prices: Many lodges offer discounts for people visiting during this period.

What to Expect

• There may be sudden rain showers, so ensure that you carry waterproof gear.
• Some roads might be muddy, which could slow down the game drives, but it also means fewer vehicles in the parks, adding to the serenity.

Dry Season (July to October and January to March)

The dry season is the peak time for safaris, particularly in the Maasai Mara and Amboseli. It is the sunniest and driest weather. Animals come together at water points, making spotting them easier. This is also the time when the Great Wildebeest Migration occurs.

What to See and Do

The Great Migration: From July to October, millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles travel through the Maasai Mara. It is one of nature's greatest spectacles, with dramatic river crossings and predator activity.

Big Cats in Action: The dry season is perhaps the best time to spot the lions, leopards, and cheetahs. During the dry season, the lack of water will result in animals gathering around that wet spot, thus making them easier to find. 

Elephants of Amboseli: You can expect the elephants gathering eagerly around the few waterholes in Amboseli National Park, against the stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. That is the perfect photographic opportunity.

Clear Skies for Easier Viewing: The dry season, with fewer trees and clearer skies, allows for easy viewing of the animals in the open savanna. 

What to Expect

• Since it's peak season, places like Maasai Mara may get crowded, so it's best to pre-book.
• Places like Tsavo and Amboseli tend to be hot, so make sure to bring along all the sun-blocking gear and rehydrate often.

Shoulder Seasons: March, Early April, and Late November

If you want a bit of both worlds, the shoulder seasons, like early April or late November, are the best time to visit. You will experience some benefits of the wet season, such as fewer tourists and lush scenery, combined with some dry season benefits like wildlife viewing. Many lodges also offer discounts during these months.

Kenya's safari experience varies with the seasons, so you will always find something special to view at whatever time you visit. Whether you are seeing the great migration during the dry season or admiring the lush landscapes and baby animals when the rains have come in the wet season, an adventure in Kenya is always unforgettable.

Kerala Travels Interserve offers an exciting Kenya safari package from India, providing an unforgettable wildlife experience in one of Africa’s top safari destinations. Whether you’re witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration during the dry season or spotting baby animals in the lush landscapes of the wet season, their customized safaris ensure a thrilling adventure year-round. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and curated itineraries, our Kenyan adventure is the perfect way to explore this incredible wildlife and beauty in perfect comfort.