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Best Time to Visit Kenya from India

The best time to visit Kenya is between July and September when the country experiences the dry season. Kenya lies on the coastline of the Indian Ocean in East Africa. The country is famous for its scenic beauty and wildlife reserves. It is regarded as the best safari destination in the world, with about fifty national parks located here. This place is home to the Big Five, i.e., lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard.

Furthermore, the monsoon seasons are also an ideal time to visit this country owing to lesser crowds and green vegetation and wildlife.

Best Months/Seasons to Visit Kenya

Knowing the details regarding seasonal variations and peak seasons makes trip planning easier. Go through the list below before planning a trip to Kenya:

Month Average Temperature Description
July-October (Winter Season) 20 to 30 degrees Celsius During this time, temperatures in Nairobi and other central regions can drop significantly, ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. Mt. Kenya has snow at its summit.

Popular events during this time: Lamu Yoga Festival, Humudu Day, and Mashujaa Day.

April-June and November (Rainy Season)
24 to 27 degrees Celsius The landscape turns lush and green, making it great for photography and seeing newborn wildlife.

Popular events during this time: Mawimbi Festival, Firi Festival, Safari Rally, and Mombasa Festival (November).

December-March (Summer Season)
35 to 40 degrees Celsius Summer in Kenya is generally hot and humid. February is usually the hottest month of the year, with long, hot, sunny days and little or no rain.

Popular events during this time: Koroga Festival, Summit Falls Festival, and Diani Ngalawa Regatta.

July-October (Winter Season)

Winter in Kenya offers a unique experience where visitors can enjoy cooler temperatures, clear skies, and vibrant wildlife encounters across the country's diverse landscapes.

Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Kenya:

Weather Cool 
Temperature 20°C to  30°C 
Season Peak
Season for Localities Lamu Yoga Festival, Humudu Day, Mashujaa Day
Key Highlights
  • Experience the beauty of Kenya's landscapes from above on a hot air balloon safari
  • Head to Mount Kenya or the Aberdare Range for trekking and hiking adventures
  • Visit national parks like Maasai Mara, Amboseli, or Tsavo to witness incredible wildlife

April-June and November (Rainy Season)

When travelling during the rainy season, be prepared for occasional disruptions in transportation due to muddy roads or localised flooding.

Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Kenya:

Weather Cool and rainy
Temperature 24°C to  27°C 
Season (April-May)Off 
  June-November (Moderate to Off)
Season for Localities Mawimbi Festival, Firi Festival, Safari Rally, Mombasa Festival (November)
Key Highlights
  • Visit places like the Nairobi Botanic Garden or Karura Forest, where the rainy season enhances the beauty of plants and flowers
  • Enjoy the lush green landscapes and waterfalls in Aberdare National Park or the Great Rift Valley
  • Many bird species are more active during the rainy season, making it a great time for birdwatching 

December-March (Summer Season)

Remember to pack lightweight clothing, sun protection, and plenty of water when travelling during Kenya's warmer and drier months.

Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Kenya:

Weather Hot and humid
Temperature 35°C to  40°C 
Season Moderate 
Season for Localities Koroga Festival, Sumot Falls Festival, Diani Ngalawa Regatta
Key Highlights
  • The dry months are ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources in Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo
  • Explore local markets, cultural festivals, and historical sites with ease, as travel conditions are generally more stable
  • Enjoy beach activities in coastal areas like Mombasa, Diani Beach, and Malindi

When to Avoid Visiting Kenya?

Visiting Kenya can be a rewarding experience throughout much of the year, but there are times when certain factors might make it less ideal for tourists.

Months to Avoid Reason
April and May April and May are considered the ‘long rains’ phase in Kenya. As a result, this is the time when you must avoid making your Kenya tour. Also, due to heavy rain, you can neither go to your desired tourist spots nor enjoy sightseeing. However, if you decide to visit Kenya during April and May, do not forget to take the necessary monsoon accessories like umbrellas, raincoats, gumboots, etc.

Seasonal Travel Costs of Visiting Kenya from India

Travelling to Kenya from India can vary in affordability depending on the time of year. Here's a general overview of how costs for flights and hotels can differ across different months or seasons:

Season Average Flight Cost Average Hotel Cost per Night Description
July-October (Winter Season) ₹28,000 - ₹32,000 ₹3,500 - ₹5,000 Highest prices; the season experiences cool weather. Tourists can go to experience the cool weather and go sightseeing.
April-June and November (Rainy Season) ₹19,000 - ₹32,000 ₹3,000 - ₹4,000 Low prices; the season experiences rainy weather. Tourists can visit and enjoy indoor activities.
December-March (Summer Season) ₹17,000 - ₹37,000 ₹3,000 - ₹4,000 Moderate prices are available because the weather is dry, and tourists can enjoy sightseeing as there is little to no rain.

Things to Know Before Visiting Kenya

Being a tourist while visiting a foreign country, you must adhere to some norms and rules followed in that country. Mentioned below are a few basic things you must know before visiting Kenya:

  • Using plastic is strictly prohibited in Kenya
  • Wear face masks for dust
  • Buy a travel insurance policy before preparing for the trip
  • Take the compulsory vaccines
  • Wear full sleeve shirt and long pants to protect yourself against mosquitoes
  • Carry insect repellent
  • The barter system is still active in Kenya
  • Wear warm clothes in the evening

Tips for Travelling in Kenya

The following tips you should consider while travelling to Kenya are as follows:

  • Make sure that you are completely vaccinated
  • Wash your hands before eating
  • Maintain social distancing
  • Buy tickets and book hotels earlier
  • Keep your ID and passport in a safe place
  • Avoid taking money or food from strangers
  • Beware of pickpockets

What Phrases Should You Know Before Travelling to Kenya?

Learning a few words in Swahili will help you communicate better in Kenya. Following are the phrases you should know while making your trip to Kenya:

English Swahili
Hello Jambo!
Sorry Pole
Fine, Good Mzuri
Thank you Asante
Welcome Karibu
Yes Ndio
No Hapana
How are you? Habari
Don’t worry Hakuna Matata
My Name is Jina langu ni
Water Maji
Go Enda
Stop Simama
Turn right Geuka kulia
Turn left Geuka kushoto
Wine Divai
How Much Is This? Hii ni bei gani?
0 Sifuri
1 Moja
2 Mbili
3 Tatu
4 Nne
5 Tano
6 Sita
7 Saba
8 Nane
9 Tisa
10 Kumi

 

After knowing some of the best places to visit in Kenya and the ideal time to visit there, you can easily plan your trip. Book tickets as soon as possible to save more and carry the necessary things by the place you desire to go. In addition, buy a travel insurance policy as it will aid you financially in case of accidents, loss of documents, medical emergencies, etc., during your trip.

FAQs about Best Time to Visit Kenya

What is the peak season in Kenya?

In Kenya, the peak tourist season typically coincides with the dry, cool season, which occurs from July to October.

What is the moderate season in Kenya?

The moderate season in Kenya generally spans from December to March. During these months, the weather is relatively mild, with fewer tourists.

What is the off-season in Kenya?

The off-season in Kenya falls during the long rains, typically from April to early June and November. Heavy rainfall can disrupt travel during this time, and wildlife sightings may be more challenging due to the dense vegetation.

When is the best time to visit Kenya for a safari?

The best time for safaris in Kenya is during the cool season, from late July to October. This period offers excellent wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.

What is the Great Wildebeest Migration, and when is the best time to witness it?

The Great Wildebeest Migration is an annual spectacle where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores move between Tanzania's Serengeti National Park and Kenya's Maasai Mara Reserve. The best time to witness this migration in Kenya is generally from July to September.

When is the weather most pleasant in Kenya?

The weather is most pleasant during the moderate season, from January to March and from November to mid-December. Days are warm, and the nights are cooler, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

What are the pros and cons of visiting Kenya during the wet season?

The pros are lower prices, fewer tourists, lush landscapes, and migratory bird watching. The cons are that heavy rains may disrupt travel plans and make wildlife viewing more challenging due to dense vegetation.

Are there any specific events or festivals that are worth visiting Kenya for?

Yes, events like the Lamu Cultural Festival (November), Rhino Charge (June), and Maralal Camel Derby (August) offer unique cultural experiences. They are worth attending if you're in Kenya during those times.

What is the climate in Kenya?

Kenya's climate is diverse due to its varying landscapes, but it is generally tropical. Coastal areas are hot and humid, while the highlands are cooler.

Is it possible to visit Kenya year-round?

Yes, Kenya can be visited year-round, depending on your interests. The dry season is ideal for wildlife safaris, while the wet season offers opportunities for birdwatching and cultural experiences.

What should I pack for a trip to Kenya?

Lightweight clothing in neutral colours, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, sturdy walking shoes, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and a camera. Pack a rain jacket and waterproof shoes if visiting during the rainy season.

Are there any health precautions I should take before visiting Kenya?

Yes, it's advisable to consult your doctor regarding vaccinations such as yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A, and malaria prophylaxis. Drink bottled or boiled water, avoid street food, and practise good hygiene to minimise the risk of traveller's diarrhoea.

What are the busiest and least crowded times to visit Kenya?

The busiest times are during the dry season from July to October, especially July to September, for the Great Migration. The least crowded times are during the long rains from April to early June.

Is Kenya expensive to visit?

Yes, Kenya can be moderately expensive, especially in tourist areas and during peak seasons. Accommodation, safaris, and specific activities can be costly, but budget options are available.

When to go to Nairobi?

The best time to visit Nairobi is during the dry seasons, from December to March and July to October. These periods offer pleasant temperatures and less rainfall, making them ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife safaris.

Do Indians need a visa for Kenya?

Yes, Indian citizens need a visa to visit Kenya. They can obtain an e-visa online or apply for a visa at the Kenyan embassy or consulate.

Which month is there snow in Kenya?

Snow in Kenya is permanently on Mount Kenya's peak and the Aberdare Range during the dry seasons, typically in January and February.

Which month is good for Kenya?

The best months to visit Kenya are during the dry seasons, from late June to October, and from late December to March, when wildlife viewing is excellent.

Why is Kenya worth visiting?

Kenya is worth visiting for its stunning wildlife safaris, beautiful landscapes, savannahs and mountains, rich culture, and warm hospitality.

Is Nairobi worth visiting?

Yes, Nairobi is worth visiting for its national parks, cultural attractions, vibrant markets, and diverse cuisine.

Is Nairobi hot or cold?

Nairobi has a mild climate, with temperatures typically ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). It can be cool in the evenings and early mornings.

Is it safe to go to Nairobi at night?

No, certain areas of Nairobi can be unsafe at night due to crime. It is advisable to stay in well-lit, populated areas and use reputable transport.

Is Kenya good for nightlife?

Yes, Kenya is good for nightlife. Cities like Nairobi have a lively nightlife scene with clubs, bars, and restaurants offering diverse entertainment options.

What is the speciality of Kenya?

Kenya is known for its wildlife safaris, particularly in the Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Park, where you can see the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhinoceros).

What is the most visited place in Kenya?

The Maasai Mara National Reserve is one of the most visited places in Kenya due to its abundance of wildlife and the Great Wildebeest Migration.

What is the prettiest place in Kenya?

Kenya has many stunning places, but places like the Maasai Mara, Amboseli National Park with views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and the coastal town of Lamu are often considered very picturesque.

What to buy from Kenya Nairobi?

Popular items to buy include traditional Maasai beadwork, wood carvings, coffee, tea, and local handicrafts.

What foods is Kenya famous for?

Kenya is known for dishes such as nyama choma (grilled meat), ugali (maize porridge), samosas, and pilau (spiced rice).

What are 5 facts about Kenya?

Five facts about Kenya:

  • Home to diverse wildlife, including the Big Five.
  • Mount Kenya, the second-highest mountain in Africa, is located here.
  • Nairobi is the capital and largest city.
  • Kenya's national language is Swahili, and English is also widely spoken.
  • It's known for its rich cultural heritage, including 42 different tribes.

Is Kenya good for shopping?

Yes, Kenya offers good shopping opportunities, especially in Nairobi and coastal towns, for traditional crafts, clothing, jewellery, and local products.