Introduction

Plan your perfect safari with our insider guide to spotting lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo all year round.

Kenya is one of the most rewarding countries on Earth for wildlife viewing, especially if you’re dreaming of encountering the Big Five. However, your time of travel can make all the difference.

Maybe you’re after the Great Migration, quiet conservancy safaris, or lush green seasons full of baby animals. This guide offers a detailed month-by-month guide to help you choose the best time to visit.

Quick Safari Season Overview

January – Hot & Dry, Big Cat Central

Weather: Warm, dry (avg. 28°C)
Where to Go: Masai Mara, Amboseli

• • Easy sightings of lions and leopards

• • Clear skies for photography

• • Elephants with Mt. Kilimanjaro backdrop in Amboseli

Tip: Look for big cats basking on rocks and short grass plains in early mornings.

February – Calving Season & Predator Action

Wildebeest Births = hungry predators nearby.

• • Young herbivores = high predator activity

• • Excellent time for dramatic action scenes

• • Great in both private conservancies and national parks

Don’t miss: Lionesses hunting in teams near the Mara River.

March – Fewer Crowds, Great Rates

Good for: Returning travellers, romantic getaways

• • Warm, green, peaceful

• • Bush starts to grow, but wildlife is still visible

• • Excellent value for lodges

Pair game drives with cultural village visits for a deeper experience.

April – The Long Rains Begin

Landscapes: Lush and vibrant
Wildlife: Slightly harder to spot

• • Some camps close, and roads can be muddy

• • Great for photographers and nature lovers

• • Calmer pace, fewer vehicles

Perfect for slow safaris: Birding, nature walks, private conservancies.

May – Green Beauty, Great Prices

• • Incredible photographic backdrops

• • Lodges offer low-season rates

• • Big Five visible in less dense areas like Laikipia or Ol Pejeta

Try a Lake Naivasha boat safari to spot hippos and rare birds.

June – Dry Season Begins, Game Viewing Heats Up

• • Parks dry up = wildlife gathers at water sources

• • Clear skies, ideal for game drives

• • Masai Mara starts preparing for the migration

Great for first-timers and families—mild weather and predictable sightings.

July – The Migration Arrives

Location: Masai Mara, Mara Triangle
Focus: Wildebeest crossings, lion hunts

• • Wildebeest arrive from Tanzania

• • River crossings filled with drama

• • Book early—this is a popular month

August – Peak Season Safari

• • Best weather, big crowds

• • Excellent for Big Five spotting

• • Bookings must be made months in advance

Private conservancies are the best way to avoid traffic and enjoy luxury lodges.

September – Same Wildlife, Fewer Tourists

• • Migration still in full swing

• • Parks are slightly less crowded

• • Golden light, green landscapes returning

Ideal month for photographers and honeymooners.

October – End of Migration, Excellent Rhino Viewing

• • Wildebeest start to move south

• • Great for combining Masai Mara with Ol Pejeta, Lewa, or Samburu

Spotlight: Black rhinos and the last two northern white rhinos in Ol Pejeta.

November – Short Rains, Fresh Growth

• • Parks are greener, and animals start to spread

• • Less crowded, great for value safaris

• • Short afternoon rains, clear mornings

Explore Laikipia or Nairobi National Park for unique wildlife in uncrowded settings.

December – Green & Festive

• • Short rains continue early in the month

• • Christmas safaris are magical (and popular)

• • Great family time with lots of baby animals

Special Experience: Celebrate Christmas or New Year under the African sky with luxury bush dinners.

Ready to See the Big Five in Kenya?

Let Triptick Travels plan your custom safari, whether you’re after the Great Migration or a quiet green season escape.

Request Your Free Custom Safari Itinerary »

Or message us directly on WhatsApp for a quick chat with a safari expert:

Chat with Triptick on WhatsApp: +254702065608
Email us: info@tripticktravels.com  
Based in Nairobi, operating across East Africa.