Kenya boasts one of the best climates on the continent. It is comfortable and pleasant during the day, with variations in temperature due to altitude and terrain. Safaris are possible year round and travellers who leave conventional wisdom unheeded by making their trip during the rains of November, April or May will almost certainly be treated to unexpected and exciting wildlife experiences, uncrowded game reserves and probably a good deal of sunshine. It can rain during any month. In recent times, changing global weather patterns make transitions between rainy and dry seasons come and go unpredictably. The following are the typical seasonal highlights:

December– February

This is the hot dry season. Excellent for birds and animal viewing, though long grass may make some smaller species hard to see. Jan-Feb is the calving season for wildebeest, zebra, and some hoofed species. Average daily high temperature is 29° C/84° F.

March

Intermittent rains start at this time. Game viewing is excellent over short new grass of the plains. Spring-like conditions are moderated by cool nights. Average daily high temperature is 30° C/86° F.

April – May

These months are the heavier rainy season, and road conditions can become difficult. There’s great biological activity in the reserves, beautiful green landscapes and panoramas. Average daily high temperature is 23° C/73° F.

June – October

This is the cooler dry season. Peak tourist season is July-August. Excellent viewing conditions, though many roads are dusty. Wildebeest are normally encountered in the Masai Mara in large numbers in late July through October. Good time of year for climbing Mt. Kenya. Average daily high temperature is 26° C/78° F.

November

Here begin the short rains. There’s nice greening of plants, and birds begin arriving from Eurasia. Expect intermittent showers and some flash flooding. Wildebeest are migrating south out of the Masai Mara at this time. Average daily high temperature is 25° C/77° F.