Best time to visit Kenya for safari? It mostly depends on wildlife movement, weather patterns, and the kind of experience you’re seeking.
From dramatic Great Migration river crossings to quiet, crowd-free game drives, this guide walks you through everything you need to know to plan your Kenya safari with confidence.
Pair this up with Uganda’s Mountain Gorillas and Chimps, and or Tanzania for an epic wildlife encounter!.
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When Is the Best Time to Visit Kenya for Safari?
The ideal time to visit Kenya, especially for wildlife viewing, is during the dry season from June to October.
The Great Migration typically arrives in the Maasai Mara around July or August, staying through September before moving back to Tanzania’s Serengeti in October. While wildlife viewing is excellent throughout the year, conditions vary across parks depending on rainfall.Â
Season Months Highlights
Dry Season; June – October; Best wildlife viewing
Short Dry;  January – February; Fewer crowds
Long Rains; March – May; Green landscapes, Off season rates
Short Rains; November – December; Birding season
For general destination information, travelers may also refer to Kenya’s official tourism website for additional planning resources.
Visa & Entry Requirements for Kenya
Kenya has simplified travel with an e-visa system available online. Here’s what you need:
Tourist e-visa: Apply via the official Kenyan e-visa portal and costs $101 that covers Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda.
Visa-free for some countries: Check if your nationality is exempt. Most international travelers require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before entering Kenya.
Requirements: Passport valid for at least six months, return ticket, and proof of accommodation.
Currency & Payments in Kenya
Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES)
Payment Methods: Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in cities, but cash is necessary in remote areas.
Mobile Money: M-Pesa is widely used for transactions.
Getting to Kenya; International Flights & Connections
Main International Airport: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi, NBO)
Alternative Airports: Moi International Airport (Mombasa), Wilson Airport (domestic and safari flights)
Major Airlines: Kenya Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, British Airways
Top Safari Destinations in Kenya
The Maasai Mara
World-famous for its wildlife and the Great Migration. Â
Amboseli National Park
Home to large elephant herds with Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.
Lake Nakuru National Park
Famous for its vast flamingo populations, diverse bird species, and rhino sanctuary, offering spectacular scenery and wildlife photography opportunities.
Tsavo National Parks
The largest parks in Kenya, known for untamed wilderness. Tsavo East and Tsavo west.
Samburu National Reserve
Rare species like the Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe.
Lake Naivasha & Hell's Gate National Park
A freshwater lake teeming with hippos and diverse birdlife, ideal for boat safaris and nature walks at Crescent Island.Â
Located near Lake Naivasha, Hell’s Gate offers cycling, hiking, and dramatic geothermal landscapes.
Practical Travel Tips for International Visitors to Kenya
Book early for peak season (July–October)
Travel insurance is essential
Consult a travel clinic before departure
Pack layers for early morning game drives
The best time to visit Kenya for safari is about more than weather; It’s about matching seasons with the experience you want.
At Pomelo-ibis Adventures, we design tailor-made Kenya safaris that align the right season, wildlife movements, and comfort level with your travel goals.