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Best Time to Visit Kenya

Best time to visit kenya for safari, migration, beaches + worst time (month by month).

Best Time to Visit Kenya for Safari, Migration, Beaches + Worst Time month by month. Between July and September, you may experience the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra, making it one of the prime periods to visit Kenya. This is also the dry season of the country.

There are less tourists and more opportunities to see the breathtaking verdant foliage during the wet seasons, making them ideal for vacation. The short rains in December make it an ideal time to visit Kenya , as you may observe migratory bird species, newborn animals, and more. Wet weather is only experienced during the height of the “long rains” in March, April, and May.

In July, when the Great Migration is typically in full swing in the Mara, I love going there because I can see the animals up close and personal without having to fight my way through hordes of other tourists.

Speak to a certified Kenya specialist to start planning your tailor-made vacation…

Sharon, Africa Safari & Kenya Specialist

Month-by-month guide for traveling in Kenya

Visiting kenya in january.

When summer is in full swing, it’s easy to see animals on the move, whether they’re on the ground or in the sky. Although there may be occasional showers to alleviate the scorching weather, the terrain is verdant with long grass due to the “short rains” that occur in November and December. On the coast, you’ll experience the purest seas and hottest, sunniest days of the year.

Visiting Kenya in February

You may still see a lot of wildlife, both flying and on the ground, this month. Long grass should still be carpeting the landscape from the’short rains’ that fall in November and December, and temperatures will remain hot with the occasional storm.

Visiting Kenya in March

As the ‘long rains’ approach Kenya, the weather becomes wetter, but game viewing remains good.

Visiting Kenya in April

You shouldn’t go during the “long rains” in April and May because the park trails might become mudslides and the beaches along the coast of the Indian Ocean can get hot and very wet.

Visiting Kenya in May

It is not recommended to travel during the “long rains” of April and May since the park tracks can become muddy and the beaches along the coast of the Indian Ocean can be hot and very wet.

Visiting Kenya in June

The majority of the rain has passed, while a few light showers may still occur; at higher elevations, the nights can be chilly. The lengthy dry season is almost here, and although the tall grasses can make it difficult to see wildlife, it is still a stunning time to go. When the Great Migration finally makes it to the Masai Mara , everyone starts getting excited.

Visiting Kenya in July

Conditions are pleasant for a visit at this time of year, with mild temperatures, dry but not very dusty weather, and the possibility of periodic showers. Masai Mara game viewing and travel are at their highest in the months leading up to the arrival of the first herds from Tanzania .

Visiting Kenya in August

It is one of the busiest times of year because the weather is warm and typically dry. Spectacular wildlife watching is available right now in the Masai Mara , where the Great Migration is in full swing, with thousands upon thousands of wildebeest and zebra making their way across the Mara and Talek Rivers.

Visiting Kenya in September

In most cases, the weather remains dry. Game viewing in the Mara is ongoing, and wildlife viewing in Kenya is generally top-notch.

Visiting Kenya in October

Some precipitation may be possible as the mercury gradually rises. But if you want to escape the crowds without sacrificing great game viewing possibilities, it’s a beautiful time to travel. While the migratory herds have left the Mara, the resident numbers are still exceptional. This is the best time of year to visit any of Kenya’s other popular tourist spots.

Visiting Kenya in November

The Mara, like most other tourist spots, is open for business despite the warm weather and the beginning of the brief rains. But there are a lot of closed camps in the Laikipia Plateau . Even with the darker sky, game viewing is still good, and activities carry on as usual. There are less people around, and you can usually get better prices.

Visiting Kenya in December

Depending on where you are in the country, some camps may be closed (especially in the north) or open as we approach the end of the year, which means hot weather and the possibility of rain. You can still see a lot of birds and other wildlife while the camps are open.

Wildlife spectacles abound in Kenya’s dry season

The common belief holds true in Kenya as it does in most of Sub-Saharan Africa : the best time to visit is during the long dry season, which begins in June and lasts all the way until October.

At this time, animals start congregating around the few remaining water sources, making themselves more visible. At the end of July, the Masai Mara often welcomes the wildebeest migration , which originates in the Serengeti and the Loita Hills. Hundreds of thousands of wildebeests brave the Mara and Talek rivers, despite the presence of enormous crocodiles, creating an incredible spectacle.

Late July through October is the sweet spot for a dry safari in Kenya’s coastal regions. Seasonal rains begin in late April and continue through early July, with brief downpours in late October and early November. The hottest months are typically March and April.

Beat the crowds during Kenya’s green season

Between December and May, you shouldn’t miss the green season. The wildlife is still amazing, there aren’t many tourists, and the bush becomes a verdant, verdant mess, teeming with the noises of breeding birds and flamboyant plumage.

After it rains, some places, like the Chyulu Hills , really shine. Skilled vacationers know that the shoulder and low seasons are the best times to visit since they provide a mix of reasonable prices and less tourists.

A trip to the coast of Kenya for some relaxation and rejuvenation is also highly recommended at this time. The coast of Kenya is an excellent stop on any safari because of its beautiful white sand beaches and turquoise waters, which are second to none in all of Africa. Late November through March is when it really shines.

Kenya travel guides

Kenya is a popular safari destination for good reason: the country is home to some of Africa’s most famous reserves, where safari-goers can catch a glimpse of the Big Five, and the chance to explore less-traveled regions keeps them coming back.

Learn all about the best times to visit Kenya, from where to see the Big Five to what to do during the country’s verdant season and even how to take a hot air balloon safari for an unforgettable experience, with the help of our comprehensive travel guides. Kenya is a great place for families to visit because of its abundance of family-friendly lodges and the opportunity to learn about Maasai culture . On the other hand, individuals seeking a little more luxury can choose from a variety of beach retreats and safari camps.

Inspiring Kenya Itineraries

Our goal in creating these itineraries was to provide you with some ideas for what you may see and do in Kenya by highlighting some of the best routes we’ve discovered.

Kenya Travel Advice

Am I safe to go to Kenya? If we wouldn’t go there with our own families, we certainly wouldn’t recommend it to our clients. Safe and welcoming locals will make your safari experience in Kenya one you won’t soon forget.

Places to Visit in Kenya

Millions of zebras, antelope, and wildebeests make the journey to the Masai Mara National Reserve every year, hoping to find a better life in the swaying grasslands. Predators like lions, leopards, and hyenas follow after these. It doesn’t get much better than this as far as safari locations go, and our experts have been on safari all around Kenya, so they can tailor their recommendations to your specific interests.

Things to Do in Kenya

Kenya has a reputation for offering visitors a range of gratifying experiences, making it an appealing destination for first-time safari-goers. Experience the wonder of the Great Migration firsthand, visit wildlife reserves, and go snorkeling in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean off the coast of Kenya.

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safari in kenya july

  • Kenya in July

Africa's best authentic tailor-made safaris

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By Matthys van Aswegen

Safari Travel Planner

Nairobi and the central highlands are warm by day, cool at night, and receive practically no rain. Mombasa and the coast are hot by day, relatively cool at night, and receive a fair amount of rain.

Great Wildebeest Migration in Kenya with Safari Vehicle

The Rift Valley and western interior are hot by day, cool at night, and receive moderate to high rainfall.

Come prepared with lots of layers, especially for morning and night drives – this is even more important in higher altitude parks and conservancies such as the Mara and Laikipia.

  • July is an ideal time for beach holidays on the Kenyan coast, being the coolest month and relatively dry. Game viewing in most safari destinations is good in July.
  • The wildebeest migration sometimes arrives in the Masai Mara towards the end of the month, making it a spectacular opportunity to possibly view river crossings.

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With over 20 years of experience, our team will help you choose the perfect african safari for your adventure., 24/7 support, personalized, popular kenya safaris, these recommended tours for kenya can be tailor-made to match your budget..

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Kenya Safari | Luxury, Lodges and Tours

Kenya safaris consistently rank in the top 3 destinations for safari-goers in Africa and it’s easy to see why. Home to prime game viewing, the incredible Masai Mara savannah, luxury lodges, stunning beaches and the famous Mount Kenya, this east Africa wonder packs a powerful punch.

Nearly 1.5 times the size of California at 224,000 sq miles, this incredible land neighbours five countries including Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda and with Somalia and Ethiopia to Kenya’s east and north.

The best time to visit Kenya is from July to September, during the country’s dry season, which also coincides with the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra. The rainy seasons are also good times to travel, as there are fewer visitors and you can admire the striking emerald vegetation.

Table of Contents

Why Kenya for a safari

Kenya is renowned as a premium destination for big 5 wildlife viewing, luxury lodges, Masai Mara safari tours , Amboseli National Reserve and incredible Kenya beaches have international visitors flocking from the U.S, U.K, Europe and beyond.

Famous not just for its incredible wildlife at Tsavo National Park, Kenya is also surrounded by calderas and mountain ranges with the Great Rift Valley dividing the country.

To the east of this sweeping valley, you can climb the snow-cloaked equatorial peaks of Mount Kenya and fish for trout in crystal-clear streams.

Hell’s Gate National Park harbours obsidian caves and hisses with natural geysers and hot springs. To experience the romance of Kenya’s colourful colonial history captured in the film Out of Africa, head to Nairobi.

This bustling capital is the gateway to one of the world’s most evocative and exciting travel destinations. Discover more places to visit in this fascinating country with our list of the top tourist attractions in Kenya.

safari in kenya july

Top attractions visitors can expect from a Kenya safari include:

Kenya is a country of incredible bio-diversity, and one of the world’s most exciting wildlife destinations. Famous for its wildlife, visitors will find Wildebeest, Diceros, Impalas, Dik-diks, Impalas, giraffes, hyenas, African wild dogs and many more.

All Big 5 game animals can be found roaming including the African bush elephant, the lion, black rhino and white rhino, leopard and the African buffalo. Endlessly intelligent and iconic, African elephants continue to capture the hearts of travellers to Kenya.

In addition to watching the largest land mammals roam the savannah, you can opt to visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage where they care for young elephants and rhinos before releasing them back to the wild.

Kenya is also a birdwatcher`s paradise, teeming with birdlife, with diverse habitats in spectacular scenery. Over 1100 bird species have been recorded in the country, and it is possible to see well over a half of these without undue effort on a safari tour.

Best Parks & Reserves

Kenya has numerous parks, reserves and sanctuaries, all of which have their own charm, accommodation and wildlife attractions.

With 24 national parks, 15 national reserves, 6 marine parks, and private conservancies on top of that, the choice can be overwhelming when it comes to visiting Kenya’s national parks.

Of particular note amongst all of the incredible parks, Maasai Mara is widely regarded as being one of the best safaris in Kenya as well as Amboseli National Reserve and Tsavo National Park.

  • Masai Mara National Reserve — Kenya’s most famous park, known for having some of the highest concentrations of the big five in Africa, but it also witnesses the phenomenal Great Migration. Sharing a border with Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, Masai Mara safaris receive a massive seasonal wildebeest migration.
  • Amboseli National Park — Due to its proximity to Nairobi and the abundant wildlife, Amboseli is the second most famous national park in Kenya after Masaai Mara. The landscape ranging from semi-arid dry lake beds to wet swamps attracted a wide variety of animals. The highlight of the park are the elephant herds population, featured in many documentaries. The park connects tourists with the local Maasai people, whose villages you can visit via guided tours.
  • Tsavo East National Park — Occupying almost 8,700 square miles, Tsavo East is one of the largest national parks in Kenya in a semi-arid climate zone with big numbers of Tsavo Lions without any manes.
  • Tsavo West National Park – Covering an area of 3,500 square miles, Tsavo West National Park is more mountainous and wetter than its Tsavo East park counterpart with swamps, Lake Jipe and the Mzima Springs.
  • Aberdare National Park — Cool and cloudy Rift Valley park with lots of large game, and over 250 species of bird recorded.
  • Hell’s Gate National Park – A small National Park close to Nairobi, which allows you to get out of the car and offers some nice opportunities for rock climbing and some game
  • Lake Nakuru National Park — A stunning 400 species of bird have been recorded here including the largest flocks of Flamingos anywhere on earth
  • Lake Elementaita — One of the smaller lakes in the Great Rift Valley recently declared a UNESCO world heritage site. scenic and rich in bird life.
  • Nairobi National Park — Located in Nairobi and a great option to see large game for those on a tight schedule.
  • Meru National Park – a wide range of wild beasts like elephant, hippopotamus, lion, leopard, cheetah, black rhinoceros and some rare antelopes.
  • Sibiloi National Park – listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a part of Lake Turkana National Parks.
  • Mount Elgon National Park – Home to over 300 species of birds, including the endangered Lammergeyer. The higher slopes are protected by national parks in Uganda and Kenya, creating an extensive trans-boundary conservation area which has been declared a UNESCO Man & Biosphere Reserve.
  • Lake Naivasha National Park The crater rim here provides great scenic views across the beautiful Rift Valley all the way to Lake Naivasha with big cats and major wildlife at Mount Longonot including buffaloes, elands, lion, leopard, bushbucks, common zebra, giraffes and Grant’s gazelles.

Other parks popular with visitors include the unique Saiwa Swamp NP and mesmerising Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary .

Safari tours

A safari tour package in Kenya is typically organized by a tour operator, safari tour company or via a self drive Africa safari trip.

Spread across the country including safaris and beach holidays to neighbouring Zanzibar, or indeed the stunning Seychelles , Kenya’s parks and reserves can take several hours/flight to one another.

It is therefore important to take many elements into account when visitors plan their Kenya tour including:

  • Which animals you would like to see
  • Budget for the trip
  • Travel party (solo, with friends or a larger family group)
  • Activities revolving around the best things to do in Kenya including the national parks, Kenya hot air balloon safaris and walking safaris

safari in kenya july

Guided tour

A guided safari package brings the benefit of:

  • Transfer via plane/4×4 to the safari camps and lodges
  • Luxury lodge packages
  • Meals/drinks all catered for
  • Safari guides and transport
  • Facilities prepared including showers, wifi, cocktails and all requests
  • Combined trips to neighbouring Tanzania and beach trips
  • Tailored trips including chimp trekking tours

Self drive safari

For self-drive African safaris, visitors can hire their own 4×4, whilst accommodation can be secured in park campsites or in the vehicle itself if a campervan option is selected.

Part of the fun of a self drive safari is spotting the abundant wildlife on your own and taking the time to spend viewing your favourite animals.

A normal 2 wheel drive car may be sufficient, and of course cheaper, for some parks however other parks have deeper sand and a 4*4 will be required.

Best time to go to Kenya

Kenya is a beautiful country to visit, regardless of the season and popular with visitors from the U.S, Europe and South Africa.

Certain periods are more favorable for a safari in the best conditions. To know the best time to travel to Kenya , visitors should take into consideration the following key criteria:

  • Regions visited
  • Weather conditions

Overall, July to September is the best time to visit Kenya during the country’s dry season, which also coincides with the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra.

Kenya safari cost

Kenya is a premier safari destination in Africa, thus incurring the more expensive costs associated with this.

There are multiple factors that can impact the Kenya safari prices including accommodation selected, trip duration, safari costs, tours, flights, transfers, meal options and additional activities visitors may request.

Travellers on a budget can reduce costs by booking their own flights, accommodation and activities as well as hiring a 4*4 to travel between the parks and reserves.

Organizing your safari

There are a number of different options available for organizing your safari in Kenya including:

Organizing your own safari is possible but only recommended for more experienced travelers and visitors on a strict budget. This option requires time and know-how to plan for all flights, transport, meals, accommodation and safari tours.

Without the knowledge of specific safari destinations and logistics in navigating an African country, this may be a challenging option for many travelers.

Tour operators

The biggest tour operators will offer safaris in Kenya where visitors can book a package that will cover their flight, transport, accommodation, activities and food, an ideal option for those with no previous safari experience in preparing for such a trip.

Safari travel agencies

Visitors will often find dedicated safari travel agencies to be the best option in booking their dream safari. These agencies have many years experience in booking safaris as well as multiple partnerships with local tourism networks and lodges/game reserves.

Travel agencies typically offer:

  • Tailor-made tours
  • Local tour guides
  • Trips to must-see wildlife areas and parks
  • All transportation
  • High quality accommodation at reduced prices

The cost of the service of these specialized agencies can be a bit higher compared to other options, a cost worth bearing given the quality and ease of services provided.

Accommodation

Visitors typically will have the choice between lodges, chalets and campsites as well as African tent camps, suites and bedrooms.

Luxurious facilities are common including swimming pools, restaurants, bars, spas and terraces. Game viewings and plane transfers are organized by the accommodation providers.

safari in kenya july

Trip preparation

International flights arrive via Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) for visitors wondering how to get to Kenya . Most tourists will have to obtain a Kenya visa including citizens of the U.S, U.K, EU, India and Canada.

Kenyan entry visas are exclusively issued electronically, with passengers required to obtain their e-visas before departure. Visitors can apply for single entry and transit visas on the e-visas website .

Visitors can expect to wait approximately 1 to 3 days for the visa to be approved and processed, and receive their Kenya eVisa in their inbox. Once approved, travellers are permitted a 90-day stay in Kenya.

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Kenya. Make sure you have two blank pages in your passport on arrival.

The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Kenya: Covid-19, Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

Yellow fever may be required if traveling from a yellow fever endemic country.

Malaria is prevalent in Kenya, particularly outside Nairobi. One of the highest risk areas is Mombasa which is where many travellers will find themselves at some time.

Malaria is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito and so the first line of defence is to protect yourself against mosquito bites. Malaria Prophylaxis may be prescribed to you during your consultation depending on your itinerary.

Check with a travel medicine specialist to see if antimalarials should be considered to help prevent malaria contraction. Visitors can find further information on Kenya vaccine details here .

At all ports of entry, visitors to Kenya who are above the age of 12 will be required to present documentation of either a COVID-19 vaccine or a negative COVID-19 PCR test performed no more than 72 hours prior to departure.

For further info on Kenya vaccine requirements , read our detailed and entry requirements.

What to pack

The essential items to pack for your Kenya safari include:

  • Neutral coloured clothes
  • Long-sleeved shirts protecting against the sun and mosquitoes
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and insect repellent
  • Jackets and sweaters for early morning game drives
  • Comfortable walking shoes

The currency of Kenya is the Kenya Shilling (KES). USD $1/GBP £0.75 =  Approximately 114 KES.

Carrying a small amount of Kenyan currency , the Kenya Shilling (KES) is recommended to pay for groceries and smaller items where credit cards aren’t accepted. 

Driving in Kenya

Driving is conducted on the left hand side of the road in Kenya and driving is generally considered to be safe.

Visitors driving through parks may require a 4×4, whilst carrying a map & GPS is recommended.

Visitors should consider travel insurance when planning their trip to help protect and cover the costs of hospitalization or repatriation if required.

Some credit cards may already include travel insurance. Online travel insurance comparators are also useful in finding suitable offers.

How much does a safari in Kenya cost?

Visitors can expect to pay between $800 to $1,100 per person per day.

When to go on a safari in Kenya?

Between July and September is the best time to go on a safari in Kenya, during the dry season.

The Best Time to Go on Safari in Kenya

Kenya is a classic African safari destination. Known for destinations like Mount Kenya and the Maasai Mara National Reserve, a safari in Kenya promises a truly unforgettable experience and the chance to see many of the continent’s most famous wildlife.

There are two dry and two wet seasons throughout the year in Kenya, with the former often being the busiest times for tourism because the weather conditions make it easier to spot wildlife when the landscape isn’t as green or thick. But the rainy times of year in Kenya are still a stunning time to visit the national parks and also offer a quieter experience with better deals on travel and accommodation.

There are plenty of things to consider when it comes to deciding when is the best time to go to Kenya for a safari. In this article, we break it down by month to help you decide.

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What is the Best Time to Go on Safari in Kenya?

The best months to visit Kenya really depend on which part of the country you’re planning to visit, as the weather conditions and things to do vary quite a bit depending on whether you’re in the north, the south or by the coast. But if you’re planning a safari holiday, the best time to go to Kenya is between July and October when the weather is warm and dry and then wildlife in the country is easiest to spot.

It’s worth noting that these months of the year are the peak season for tourism in Kenya, which means that a lot of the popular national parks and safari camps are going to be very busy. School holidays in particular are a very popular time for families to visit Kenya on safari, so if you’d prefer a less crowded experience of the country’s landscape, you might prefer to visit at a different time of year.

If you’re trying to visit Kenya on more of a budget, or would rather see the scenery when it’s thick and green, then planning a trip between November and June will give you a better experience. Months like January and February offer good weather conditions without an excessive number of other tourists, whilst November, April and May are some of the wettest months of the year and therefore the quietest time to experience a safari.

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Kenya in January

January kicks off the year with quite a busy month for safaris in Kenya , with perfect weather for spending time outdoors meaning that plenty of people plan a safari. You’ll enjoy brilliant conditions for exploring the plains or even hiking through the landscape, but you may be sharing your tour and the parks with many other visitors.

Don’t let the potential busyness put you off however, as the weather in Kenya in January is one of the things that makes this month such a popular time of year for safaris. It’s hot and dry with average high temperatures inland of around 28°C, but unlike in the summer, the temperatures stay relatively mild overnight.

Kenya in February

February is one of the driest months in Kenya, so it’s considered to be the best time of year to go on a safari if you want to spend as much of your time as possible exploring the parks. With minimal chances of rain and very dry vegetation, this is an ideal time to spot wildlife in Kenya.

It’s another very busy month for tourism, but if you don’t mind the crowds and peak season prices, it’s a brilliant time to visit. Average high temperatures are 28°C during the day, dropping to around 11°C in the evenings. If you’re visiting the mountains in Kenya as part of your trip then these locations get very chilly at night, so be prepared if you’re staying at a safari camp.

Kenya in March

The weather in Kenya in March is the same as the previous months for the first few weeks. But as the month progresses, conditions grow wetter and more humid and rains start to arrive in the national parks, which can impact roads and make game drives more difficult. 

If you’re looking to visit Kenya in March for a safari then plan your trip at the start of the month for the best possible conditions to see wildlife and admire the scenery.

Average temperatures can increase to around 28°C at their peak, which will feel warmer because of the humidity, so it’s a good time to visit if you like the heat!

Kenya in April

April is a relatively wet month in Kenya, which means it’s not one of the best times to go on safari in Africa if you’re aiming to spot as much wildlife as possible. The wet weather means that the vegetation is thicker, so animals are harder to spot, but this also means that game drives and safari camps are much less busy and enjoying a tour by yourself is much more likely.

The temperature in Kenya in April drops as the month progresses, with an average of around 25°C inland. It’s also quite humid at this time of year, so mosquitos are out in full force.

Kenya in May

May is solidly in the rainy season in Kenya, so you can expect showers most afternoons during the month. This wet weather means that there’s a riot of vegetation across the plains in the national parks, providing incredible photo opportunities but making it harder to spot wildlife.

The average temperature in Kenya in May reaches around 24°C, with the rainy weather providing a slightly cooler climate. The rain also stops the majority of tourists visiting the national parks, so whilst it’s not the best time of year to go on safari, it’s a great time to visit if you’re looking for an off-season experience.

Kenya in June

The end of June is one of the best times of year to visit Kenya for all kinds of holidays, and safaris are a great activity if you’re in the country. It’s a shoulder season for tourism, so if you plan your visit at the end of the month then you’ll enjoy brilliant weather conditions without too many other visitors in the national parks.

The rainy season comes to an end by the middle of June in Kenya with chances of wet weather decreasing, particularly in the north of the country. Temperatures stay cool with an average high of 24°C and it’s still quite cloudy, but your safari expeditions are less likely to get interrupted by rain as the month progresses.

Kenya in July

Many people consider July to be the best time for a safari in Kenya if you’re looking for an unforgettable summer holiday. The weather is warm and dry without getting overly hot, and the proximity to the rainy season means the landscape will still be quite lush, providing a very picturesque setting for game drives.

It’s the peak season for safaris in Kenya in July, so bear that in mind when you’re booking your trip. With average highs of 23°C, it’s a great time of year to enjoy spending as much time outdoors as possible, particularly in places like Maasai Mara where the Great Migration is just beginning.

Kenya in August

If you’re hoping to catch The Great Migration then August is the best time to go on safari in Kenya. Plenty of species travel across the country to Maasai Mara, providing some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities that you’ll get all year.

The weather in Kenya in August is also optimal for safari trips and game drives, with fairly limited rain and high temperatures of around 24°C. At night the temperature can drop to 10°C, so make sure you’ve packed enough layers to be comfortable at all times of the day.

Kenya in September

If you’re looking for peak-season weather without the peak-season crowds then September is the best time for a safari in Kenya, especially towards the end of the month. Aside from in the mountains, there’s only a handful of rain showers in September and the weather is increasingly warm as the skies grow clearer and humidity decreases.

The average high temperature in Kenya in September is 25°C, with cold conditions in the evening that can reach 9°C overnight. Some parks and safari camps will still be quite busy, but it’s a little quieter than previous months and there are still plenty of chances of spotting Kenya’s most impressive wildlife.

Kenya in October

If you’re looking for the best time to visit Kenya in the shoulder season for tourism then October is an excellent choice. You’ll want to make sure you visit at the start of the month however, as the chance of rain quickly increases from about halfway through the month.

Rain showers in Kenya in October are more common as November approaches, but are usually pretty light and won’t impact the temperature, which hovers between 17°C and 25°C. It’ll get harder to see the animals in the national parks once the rain has started and the plants and trees start to grow faster, which is another reason to plan your visit early.

Kenya in November

November is known as one of the rainiest months of the year in Kenya, especially in the more mountainous areas of the country. It’s not as popular for safari holidays because of the high chance of wet weather, but if you’re hoping for off-season prices then you can get some great deals at this time of year.

The weather isn’t consistently wet in November in Kenya, so you’ll likely still get some days of good safari weather if you’re visiting. It’s very quiet in the national parks in November as well, which is ideal if you like to visit places in the off-season.

Kenya in December

The wet weather from November continues into the first half of December, but as the year comes to an end the frequency of these showers tails off and conditions become much more favourable for safaris. This is mirrored in the increase in visitors that Kenya’s national parks get as the month progresses, as travellers arrive to make the most of the good conditions for spotting wildlife.

Christmas is usually the busiest time of the month for tourism as people visit Kenya over the holiday season, and New Year is quite a popular time as well. The average high temperature in December in Kenya is 25°C, hovering around 19ºC most of the time during the day and dropping down to a chilly 10°C at night.

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There are plenty of choices when it comes to going on a safari in Kenya, from Samburu and Lake Nakuru National Park to Laikipia and the classic Masai Mara. Whether you choose to visit in the peak season and make the most of the perfect conditions or enjoy a quieter atmosphere and grab a great deal at a different time of year, it’s one of the most popular places for a safari for good reason.

If you’re looking for more advice on safari holidays or African travel destinations like Kenya, check out our Africa Travel Guide and read more recommendations for what to do and when to visit.

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means we can earn a small commission when our visitors click on them. This helps us to keep our content free and accessible for everyone, but you’ll never be charged for engaging with them.

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Charlotte Armitage

I’ve been writing content about travel since I graduated; a job that is continually adding new destinations to my future holiday list! As a reformed anxious traveller, research is an essential part of planning a trip, which is why I love writing guides that help other people discover everything they need to know about a place they’re going to visit. I consider myself a bit of a staycation expert, so I love writing about UK destinations. I’m also a big train travel enthusiast, so if you can get there by rail, I’m going to want to write about it! I’m a photographer as well as a writer, so one of my favourite things to do whilst travelling is to visit art galleries or seek out the best architecture or landscapes in a new destination and document them with my camera. The best place I’ve visited on my travels so far is Barcelona, but I also really enjoyed Amsterdam, Lucerne, and Edinburgh.

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Kenya in July: Safari Underneath Clear Weather

lion lying on the Savannah, Kenya in July

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July is part of the dry season in Kenya and one of the best times to visit the country for game-viewing. The rains have gone and the skies are cloud-free, making wildlife-watching against the backdrop of the African savannah and Mount Kilimanjaro unrivaled.

Kenya’s beautiful coastline enjoys warm weather with hot temperatures during July, while Nairobi is slightly cooler, which is great for doing some shopping and exploring galleries and museums. The only downside to traveling around Kenya in July is that since it falls in the high season you should expect large crowds of tourists.

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Kenya Weather in July

zebras in Nairobi National Park

Weather-wise, July is a fantastic month in the country, with warm temperatures and clear skies all around. The rainy season is over and it is pleasant and sunny across the country without being too hot. Mountainous regions like Hell's Gate National Park and Mount Kenya do get some rain during this time of year, but the rest of the country is dry. This is the perfect time for strolling through the bustling markets of Nairobi or going on safari trips.

Temperatures in Nairobi range between 22°C and 25°C, with nights cooling down to around 12°C during this month, while coastal regions are warmer with temperatures averaging between 27°C and 31°C. Despite higher temperatures, a cool breeze blows off the sea, making the weather along with the coast ideal for lazing on a beach and swimming in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

For a seasonal overview of the weather in Kenya, browse through our travel guide on the best time to visit Kenya .

Weather in Kenya in July - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit kenya in july.

Wideneest migration, Kenya in July

Kenya in July has perfect weather for all kinds of activities, from safaris to urban exploration and beach-bumming. However, since this month falls in the peak season for tourists, you should expect large crowds and significantly higher costs.

  • The great wildebeest migration: Do not miss out on one of the world’s greatest natural spectacles when millions of wildebeests arrive at the Mara River and gather on the riverbank in a jostling mass, waiting to cross its swirling waters. This is a spectacle unto itself and tens of thousands of travelers descend on Masai Mara each year just to see the creatures push each other towards the water in nervous anticipation.
  • Climb Mount Kenya: Towering over the plains of Meru and the East African Rift Valley, the rugged, glacier-clad peaks of Mount Kenya boasts one of the most impressive landscapes in East Africa. Standing over 17,000 feet tall and once an active volcano, Mount Kenya is the second-highest peak in Africa and is home to a diverse array of wildlife, birds, and vegetation.
  • Birding in Lake Nakuru: On the floor of the Great Rift Valley, a Lake Nakuru National Park trip cab turn into a birdwatcher’s paradise. At the heart of the park is Lake Nakuru, one of the Rift Valley’s many soda lakes, which is shallow and alkaline and attracts a myriad species of birds, in particular, lesser and greater flamingos, which flock to the lake in such vast numbers that the water sometimes literally turns pink!
  • Celebrate Eid al-Adha: Muslims in Kenya celebrate the ‘festival of sacrifice,’ known as Eid al-Adha or Eid Qurban, towards the end of July. This event commemorates the sacrifice Ibrahim made for god with chanting, praying, and feasting.

Where To Go and What to Do

flamingos in Lake Nayvasha, Kenya in July

Kenya is home to a range of spectacular landscapes, from the magnificent Masai Mara and its Masai tribesmen to the Great Rift Valley and its network of glassy lakes that teem with hippos, crocodiles, and plenty of birdlife. Amid the pleasant July weather, you can take to the air on a hot air balloon safari over the golden plains of Masai Mara National Park and watch one of the world’s greatest spectacles —the wildebeest migration. If you enjoy hiking and walking, you could head into the rugged wilderness of Tsavo National Park with expert guides on walking safaris. This wildlife reserve is home to the famous red elephants of Tsavo along with Cape buffaloes, leopards, and Masai giraffes.

Another great Kenyan adventure to experience in August is to explore the barren, open wildernesses of Samburu along with the rugged ridges and otherworldly rock formations of the spellbinding Amboseli region, which is home to hundreds of giant, big-tusked elephants. You could also put on your climbing boots and head up to the peak of the mighty Mount Kenya.

Boasting some of the world’s most breath-taking scenery of glassy lakes, towering volcanic outcrops, and grassy, wind-swept plains, Kenya’s lake system on the floor of the Great Rift Valley provides an exceptional experience of nature. Remote and vast, this is a must if you like venturing into the unknown. Or, make your way towards the hypnotic, alluring, and spellbindingly beautiful northern coast of the country for a different kind of experience. A shimmering ribbon of sand borders this rugged safari country, swaying coconut palms line the sandy, ivory-colored coastline, and luxury lodges are nestled amongst mangrove trees, creating a tropical slice of heaven.

Kenya is a country of epic landforms that stir deep longings for Africa. The vast regions of this country each offer a unique and diverse experience that promises to leave lasting memories. Wondering how many days you will need to see the best of Kenya ? Design your tailor-made itinerary to Kenya with the guidance of our local travel experts so that you do not miss a beat. Else, check out our top tours around Kenya in July for some inspiration.

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When to visit Kenya

The best time to visit Kenya is between June and October. Due to Kenya’s equatorial setting, the country enjoys year-round warm weather and relatively low annual rainfall. However, with a range of altitudes and the country’s two rainy seasons, it is possible you will experience some variation depending on when and where you visit. The temperatures vary greatly from Nairobi to Laikipia, and from Nakuru to the coastal regions.

Kenya's best time to see wildlife coincides with the dry months of June through October. During this time, there are fantastic possibilities to see the Great Migration, when millions of wildebeests and zebras travel over the savannah, in national parks like the Maasai Mara and Amboseli. The combination of this show with the open skies and lush surroundings creates an outstanding safari experience. Additionally, viewing the Big Five and a variety of other African species in their natural habitats is perfect during the dry season.

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The best time to visit kenya.

January is generally a warm and dry month in Kenya, with hot temperatures and low humidity. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing, making it a popular time to visit the country. The average temperature in Kenya during January is around 25°C (77°F), with average highs of 29°C (84°F) and lows of 21°C (70°F). In terms of rainfall, most parts of Kenya experience little to no rain in January, making it a great time to visit for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without being hampered by wet weather. However, some areas along the coast may experience occasional brief showers. January is a great time to go on safari in Kenya, as wildlife is abundant and easily visible in the dry, open plains. It's also a great time to visit Kenya's beaches and coastal areas, as the weather is sunny and warm, and the sea is calm. It's important to note that January is peak tourist season in Kenya, so prices for accommodations and tours may be higher, and popular destinations can be crowded. It's advisable to book in advance to secure preferred accommodations and activities.

June to October in Kenya

This long dry season coincides with the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra, a great time to visit Kenya.

November to May in Kenya

Known as the low season, this period of rain brings about beautiful green scenery, ideal for wildlife photography. This can be one of our favourite times due to the quieter parks, the green back drop and plentiful game.

Experience Kenyan Culture

There are many cultural events throughout the year that ignite the whole country. Visitors are welcome to join in with festivities but should always observe religious and private gatherings from a respectful distance, unless otherwise invited of course! Of particular note, are the Mombasa Carnival in November and the Ramadan celebrations of May/June.

Experience the Great Migration

The exact timing of this renowned natural event can never be guaranteed, as it is ultimately up to the whims of the wildebeest, but it goes without saying that this is one of the best times to visit Kenya if you are wanting impactful wildlife events! The animals' movements can be estimated to a fair degree of accuracy, however: they can arrive in the Masai Mara as early as July, but as a general rule they can be found in abundance between August and September, beginning their journey back to the Serengeti around October. This is a spectacular event where you can witness river crossings and predator-prey interactions.

Safaris & Planning

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Short Big Cats & Game Safari

Enjoy a tailor-made safari to Kenya taking in the big cats and game of the Masai Mara and the private Olare Motorgori Conservancy. After catching a flight to the Masai Mara Reserve, you will be able to spot game en route during your transfer to Naibor Camp. Due to the stunning location of the camp there may even be a number of resident game wandering through the grounds as you arrive.

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Luxury Kenya Safari

Take in the best of Kenya in ultimate luxury. Starting in Nairobi where you can stay in one of the most exclusive properties in town, before heading out to the Chyulu hills located between Kenyas Tsavo and Amboseli parks, take part in some unique safari experiences such as on horseback or by mountain bike and spot elephants and big cats.

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Masai Mara Kenya Safari

A memorable safari, exploring the Masai Mara and Ol Pejeta Conservancy before relaxing on the Kenyan coast, surrounded by the beautiful Indian Ocean. Spend some quality time with your family within idyllic private camps.

Kenya climate guide

Additional kenya information, visit a national park.

Kenya boasts a remarkable array of national parks and reserves, each with its own unique ecosystem and wildlife population. These protected national parks are at the heart of Kenya's incredible commitment to wildlife conservation and offer some of the most spectacular and well-known safari experiences in Africa.

National parks include:

  • The Maasai Mara National Reserve
  • Amboseli National Park
  • Tsavo National Park
  • Samburu National Reserve
  • Lake Nakuru National Park
  • Aberdare National Park
  • Meru National Park
  • Mount Kenya National Park
  • Nairobi National Park
  • Hell's Gate National Park

Discover more on where to go in Kenya in our detailed guide.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Safari

A hot air balloon safari in Kenya offers a truly unique way to experience Kenya's wildlife and landscapes. It can provide an opportunity to see African wilderness from a new perspective, high above the savannah, and offers a serene and magical experience. Trips are typically offered in several Kenyan wildlife reserves and parks, with the Maasai Mara National Reserve being one of the most popular due to its abundant wildlife and stunning vistas. Flights typically occur as the sun because to rise over the African plains where the stillness of the early morning make for a breathtaking and peaceful experience. Witness animals in their natural habitat without disturbing them with opportunities to spot elephants, giraffe, antelopes and even big cats like lions and cheetahs.

Explore the Great Rift Valley

The Great Rift Valley is a journey through one of the most geologically significant and visually stunning regions on Earth. The massive geological trench, often referred to as the "Cradle of Mankind", stretches from the Middle East down through East Africa. Your visit to the Great Rift Valley could include wildlife viewing, hiking and trekking, exploring the many lakes and cultural encounters with the various ethnic communities.

What to expect from a trip to Kenya

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Kenya In July

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Kenya In July Weather

If you’re planning a safari trip to Kenya in July, you can expect some pretty great weather. Temperatures will be warm during the day, with highs in the low to mid-30s Celsius (mid- to upper-80s Fahrenheit). At night, things will cool off a bit, but you’ll still be comfortable sleeping.

Is July A Good Time To Visit Kenya?

Overall, July is an excellent time to visit Kenya. The weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for safari activities like game drives and bush walks. And, if you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of some of Kenya’s iconic wildlife, this is definitely the time to go – especially if you want to see the big five.

The annual wildebeest migration also starts around July, so if you’re lucky enough to be in Kenya at that time, you may be able to see this incredible natural phenomenon.

What To Wear In Kenya In July

On safari in Kenya, you’ll want to dress for the weather. That means light, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Long sleeves

What To Wear In July On A Kenya Safari

As far as what to wear, you’ll want to dress in light, airy clothing that will protect you from the sun during the day. Long pants and sleeves are a good idea, as are hats and sunglasses. And, if you’re planning on doing any bush walking, make sure to wear sturdy shoes. Check out what to wear on an African safari for more.

Kenya Beach Holidays In July

If you’re looking for a beach holiday in Kenya, July is definitely the time to go. Temperatures will be warm and the water will be perfect for swimming, snorkeling and diving. July is also a good time to enjoy some of the cultural activities that Kenya has to offer, like visiting local markets or taking a historical tours of places such as Mombasa with its rich history or Lamu and Malindi on the Kenyan coast.

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Crowds and Costs in July

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Best Places to Visit in Kenya in July

Migration

  • Nairobi: The capital city enjoys pleasant temperatures, making it an excellent time for city excursions. Stroll through vibrant markets, admire colonial architecture, and explore the Nairobi National Museum.
  • Kenyan Coast: Head to beach towns like Mombasa and Malindi, where white sandy beaches and warm waters provide an idyllic setting for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
  • Maasai Mara National Reserve: July marks the beginning of the Great Wildebeest Migration, a spectacle that unfolds with herds of wildebeests and zebras crossing the Mara River. You can also spot various wildlife like zebras, lions, giraffes, and elephants.
  • Lake Nakuru National Park: Known for its iconic pink flamingos, Lake Nakuru offers ideal conditions in July, with short grass and a dry landscape, enhancing birdwatching.
  • Other National Parks: Hell's Gate National Park, Amboseli National Park, and Mount Kenya National Park all present incredible landscapes and wildlife experiences. While there may be occasional rain in mountainous parks, it's a small trade-off for the beauty they offer.

Best Experiences in Kenya in July

hot air balloon safari

  • Nairobi: Explore Maasai Markets for cultural souvenirs, visit art galleries like the Banana Hill Art Gallery, and learn about Kenya's history at the Nairobi National Museum.
  • Coastal Adventures: Mombasa and Malindi offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking. Take a dolphin-watching tour, visit the Mombasa Marine National Park, or explore Watamu Beach.
  • Wildlife Safaris: Embark on a Maasai Mara safari to witness the Great Migration. Take a hot air balloon ride for a unique perspective and enjoy a champagne breakfast. Lake Nakuru's flamingos and the diverse wildlife of Samburu National Reserve are also must-sees.
  • Mountain Biking: Discover the geothermal wonders of Hell's Gate National Park. With no predatory animals, you can hike or bike freely amidst stunning volcanic gorges.

Events & Festivals in Kenya in July

Kilfi New Year

  • Eid al-Adha: Celebrated by Muslim communities, Eid al-Adha varies each year as it follows the Islamic lunar calendar. The festival includes communal prayers and feasting.
  • Nairobi International Trade Fair: This late July event takes place at Jamhuri Park in Nairobi and showcases agricultural innovations and modern farming practices.
  • Kilifi New Year Festival: Celebrated around June 30th to early July in Kilifi, this festival spans four days and features music, arts, and culture.
  • Sarit Centre Expo and Food Festival: In July, the Sarit Centre in Nairobi hosts a culinary extravaganza, offering a wide range of local and international cuisines.
  • Masai Mara Marathon: Held in Masai Mara National Reserve, this marathon in July promotes wildlife conservation and provides a unique running experience.

This post was published by Varsha Alva

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Lindsay Silberman

Everything You Need to Know About Planning a Safari

kenya safari giraffe manor

When Matt & I decided we wanted to do a safari this year, I literally didn’t know where to start.  We had no idea where in Africa we even wanted to go, how long we should go for, which airport to fly into, which camp to book, what time of year was best, etc etc. I spent hours and hours on research that ultimately left me even more confused. We ended up choosing a safari in Kenya, and it was one of the most memorable experiences we’ve ever had.

Below is a guide that will help you make sense of everything beforehand. It’s something I wish I had when we were planning ours!

HOW TO APPLY FOR A KENYA VISA

US citizens will need to get a Kenyan visa prior to visiting, and  you can apply online without having to visit a consulate. Be sure to have a copy of your hotel confirmation and flight info ready, as you’ll need to attach the documents to the online e-visa form. The cost (including a processing fee) is $51 per person.

We checked in on our applications about two weeks later and saw that our visas were approved. You don’t receive anything physical in the mail, so be sure to print out the receipt and confirmation of your approval and have it with you at the airport. We didn’t realize we’d need a print-out, so when immigration asked for it, we were scrambling to pull it up on our phones.

It’s also possible to apply for a visa at the airport when you arrive in Nairobi (and the cost is only $21) but most people prefer to avoid the headache by doing it in advance. 

masai mara kenya safari

QUICK TIP:  Apply for your visa online—it’ll save you the hassle of having to do it at the airport.

Vaccinations for kenya.

One of the most confusing aspects of preparing for the trip was vaccinations. We needed the yellow fever vaccine—but only because we were heading to the Seychelles after Kenya, and the Seychelles requires it for visitors coming from Kenya. We also got malaria pills, antibiotics (to have on hand in case we got sick during Safari), and shots for Hepatitis A&B.  Passport Health  is a fantastic resource for travel immunization information—the site breaks down every vaccination that’s needed for each country, and can even assist with booking appointments in your area. Best of all, they’ll create an itemized print-out for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.

Quick Tip: Confused about vaccinations?  Passport Health makes the process seamless.

What to pack for your safari.

Check out my EXHAUSTIVE safari packing guide here .

Safari

Photo: @lindsaysilb

OVERNIGHT IN NAIROBI + GIRAFFE MANOR

Depending on when you arrive, you’ll typically fly into Nairobi and spend the night before heading to your destination first thing the next morning.

Close to the city center and not far from Nairobi airport is  Fairmont Norfolk , a historic British colonial hotel that feels like a journey to a bygone era. The accommodations are perfect—rooms are centered around a quaint courtyard, there are Le Labo amenities, and a phenomenal morning breakfast spread. At the bar, musicians play live music, while locals and businesspeople have wine, cocktails, and (surprisingly delicious) tapas. We stayed here and we loved it—plus, they stored our bags for us so we didn’t have to worry about baggage weight requirements for the safari (more on that below.)

giraffe manor nairbobi kenya

If you choose to spend extra time in Nairobi, I would also recommend checking out  Hemingways— or you might consider extending your stay at  Instagram favorite Giraffe Manor . It’s definitely pricey… rooms at Giraffe Manor typically start at $620 per person, per day (all inclusive) and they’re usually booked out more than six months in advance, but if you have the budget and want a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, I would absolutely recommend it. Personally I don’t think you need more than one night; two at the most. You can check out their rate sheet here for more details.

Full disclosure: We didn’t plan far enough in advance to book a night, so I emailed them to ask if we could just come by for a meal—I offered to post on my IG feed, pay full price, etc.—and they still said no. Apparently it’s against their policy to allow non-guests onto the property. However, after a lot of begging, they agreed to let us come for tea, but only because I was able to cover their other properties in a magazine. All of this is to say…if you *really* want to go, you’ll have to book a room. It’s an annoying policy, but I get it—it’s their way of preserving the intimacy of the experience for guests that are paying a lot of money to stay there.

TRANSFERRING TO YOUR FLIGHT

After your overnight, you’ll be transferred to Wilson Airport, a smaller, regional airport where most of the safari flights depart from. Bear in mind that the planes are small, so you’ll likely be told to bring only one duffel bag per person that weighs no more than 15 pounds. (Most camps and luxury lodges provide daily laundry service, which helps when you’re forced to pack minimally.) Flight times vary depending on where you’re headed and how many drop-offs the plane makes, but they can be anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour.  In my experience, the 15lb rule wasn’t strictly enforced, but it’s probably not worth taking your chances. (More on this under “FAQ’s”.)

Safari

CHOOSING A CAMP + COST

One of the most difficult aspects of planning a safari is choosing which camp to stay at. They truly run the gamut—from posh five-star lodges to rugged tented retreats.  In general, properties fall into two categories: lodge-style and tent-style. There are some pretty incredible and luxurious tented camps (& Beyond and Angama are two of the best) but I knew I was more of a lodge person. 

I’d heard incredible things about  Sanctuary Retreats Olonana , which is where we chose to stay, and it truly exceeded expectations. Rates include everything—food, wine, tours, private guide, spa treatments, daily laundry and even gratuity. They start at $350/night per person and can go as high as $1,000/night per person depending on the time of year. It’s definitely pricey, but I really believe you get what you pay for. (They have full price list on their website here .)

The resort was completely redone in July so everything is brand new. Daily meals take place during specific times and there are set menus, but the property was totally willing to make adjustments according to your personal preferences.

Quick Tip: Decide whether you want a traditional “tented camp” experience, or if you’d be more comfortable in a lodge.

masai mara safari lodge kenya

Rooms are stunning (see above – do you die?!) and have every amenity imaginable: Wifi, filtered water bottles, french press coffee, bathrobes, toiletries, and a minibar. The 14 suites are situated on the Mara River, so you’re able to see some pretty crazy things right outside of your window—we watched hippos splash around in the water from the comfort of our bed.

TYPICAL GAME DRIVE SCHEDULE

Upon arrival at the airstrip, we met our guide who would be with us throughout the trip, and did our first game drive for a few hours before sundown that day. The next morning, we went out from 7am – 10am, and then again from 4pm – 7pm. Since it tends to get extremely hot during the day, drives often take place in the morning and before sunset, but full-day drives are also an option for those who prefer it.

kenya safari in the masai mara

During our downtime, we rested, had leisurely lunches and cocktails, and visited a local school and Masai village nearby, which, to be honest, was possibly my favorite part of the entire trip. (You can learn more about the charity efforts that help  support local Masai communities here .) Of course, each camp is different, but the staff at Sanctuary Olonana worked with us to set up activities according to what we were interested in. They also took special requests, like having coffee carafes in the van for the morning drives, beer and wine in a cooler for sunset cocktails, and even a picnic lunch for our last day.

THE WILDLIFE

If you visit during The Great Migration (which descends upon the Mara in July and lasts until October), you can expect to see thousands upon thousands of zebra and wildebeest en route to the Serengeti. Lions, giraffes, hippopotamus, and impalas are also fairly common, while rhinoceros and cheetahs are decidedly more rare to spot. Our guide told us that although certain seasons are rainier others, there truly isn’t a  bad  time of year for a Kenyan safari.

cheetah spotting safari masai marai

Quick Tip: Ask your camp/hotel staff what other activities or special arrangements they can arrange beyond safari—like seeing a local school or visiting a nearby village.

What to bring with you for your game drive.

I had a tote packed for each ride with the following items:

  • Scarf (it can get cold and dusty)
  • Hairbrush (the wind really did a number on my hair & I obviously want to look FRESH for my pics)
  • Lipbalm/Chapstick
  • External battery & charging cord
  • Deet wipes (these came highly recommended – in a resealable pack. Only got bit once)
  • Bottle of water
  • Powder sunscreen (to reapply to my face; I hate putting liquid sunscreen on top of makeup)
  • Jacket (for early in the morning and after the sun went down)

Safari Preparation

SAFARI FAQ’s:

Q: do you recommend using a travel agent or tour operator.

A: 100%. There are so many moving parts and logistics (with flights, baggage rules, locations, etc) that it’s almost impossible to figure everything out on your own—throughout our safari, Matt & I kept saying “thank GOD we didn’t try to do this ourselves.” We used  Abercrombie & Kent,  a company that I’d worked with before through Town & Country . (They have a team that specializes in Africa, and Kenya more specifically.) They were incredible and answered all of our questions + came up with a loose itinerary within 24 hours of our call.

Q: Is the baggage weight requirement for real?

A: They  didn’t weigh our bags when we checked in, but that’s probably because we only had duffels with us—we left our other luggage at the hotel. Even if your hotel doesn’t offer it, t he airports have luggage storage facilities for your extra stuff. I know it seems impossible to keep it to 15 pounds, but it honestly wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be!

Q: How many days do you recommend?

A: My advice is to think long and hard about how many days you’ll actually need for your safari. I had initially assumed we’d want at least 5 days, but our travel agent insisted that 3-4 days would be plenty. She was right. What I didn’t realize is that while the game drives are incredible, they can also be extremely long, hot, and exhausting—we spent around 6-8 hours a day driving through the desert. Our experience was AMAZING, but by the last day of our trip, I felt like it had been the perfect amount of time.

Q: Would you recommend going on safari for a honeymoon?

A:  My answer is unequivocally yes. I have a lot of thoughts about honeymoons (you can check out my guide to honeymoon planning here ) but I do think a safari is one of the most surreal, once-in-a-lifetime experiences that is wildly cool to have as a newly married couple. My ONLY caveat is that you should pair the safari with a second, more relaxing destination. Going on safari isn’t what I would call leisurely—it requires waking up at 6am and long afternoons in the heat. In an ideal scenario, I’d suggest starting your honeymoon with a safari and ending with a relaxing beach destination. Popular combinations include Krueger National Park in South Africa + Cape Town + Winelands; Kenya + Seychelles; Tanzania + Mozambique; Sri Lanka + Maldives.

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Kathy Vayda

Thank you for all the information! We are in the middle of planning our Kenya trip next December over the busy holiday season! Looking forward to rereading this and rereading this until it stays in my head. And making sure my girls do as well. All your pictures are stunning…I better start planning although won’t come close to what you have posted! Thanks for all the help!! Kathy

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Lindsay Silberman

So glad you found it helpful! It’s going to be such an amazingly memorable trip for you and your family!

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Ana Katrina Lopez

Hi Lindsay! Just wanted to say I enjoyed reading your blog post. And definitely learned a lot of useful advice for a Kenya safari as well as styling ideas for when I do go there. I’m definitely going to be referring to your post for when I plan and prepare for my own safari adventure. I can only hope to have the same memorable exciting experience as you! I heard there’s a lot of wildlife action and scenic views to see in Kenya as well as a cultural side as well. Did you get to explore the tribes in the area?

so glad to hear that!!

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Robyn Henry

Hi Linsday,

Thank you for creating such a well designed article.

I would love to know how you would describe the Secluded Africa lodge experience in Kenya or South Africa. With a diverse focus on conservation, cultures and communities while simultaneously offering every accommodation type, it offers something for every traveler.

I do hope we have the chance to discuss.

Safe travels, Robyn

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Hi- this is so helpful! Would love to go on safari, with of course the relaxing trip afterwards! Curious, and I’m sure things have changed some, but what is the ballpark price for this sort of vacation? I know we can’t do super luxurious, but definitely want nice. Truly clueless!

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thanks for the great info – do you recommend simply using a newer I-phone for photos while on safari- or purchasing a DLR camera with an extended lens?

I think it totally depends how serious you are about photography! I personally would just do iPhone because I don’t have the patience to go through hundreds of photos shot on a camera, but i totally understand that other people might not mind!

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Safari in Kenya

Kenya's best safari reserves and camps.

Stuart Butler

Stuart Butler

  • In this guide
  • Samburu, Buffalo Springs & Shaba

Meru National Park

Lake nakuru national park, amboseli national park.

  • Nairobi National Park
  • Off the beaten track

Kenya besides safari

  • Where to go
  • Need to know
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  • How to plan & book

Kenya is the original home of the safari and it’s still one of the finest safari destinations in Africa . I've been going on safari in Kenya for decades, as a travel journalist and guidebook author writing about safari, conservation and life among the Maasai tribes.

The main thing I've learned: there's so much more to Kenya than the mainstream safari industry of luxury camps and the famed “big five” (so named because they were the prize targets of colonial–era hunters).

The country proudly boasts of an impressive network of protected spaces made up of 65 national parks and reserves as well as dozens of private and community conservancies. Together these cover a huge proportion of Kenya’s diverse landscapes and provide a home for animals as large as an elephant and as tiny as an elephant shrew.

Some parks, such as the Masai Mara and Amboseli , are rightly world famous. Other parks, such as Meru National Park or Kakamega Forest Reserve, barely make a blip on the mainstream safari circuit but are every bit as rewarding (and much quieter!) then the big name parks and reserves.

Kenya has a world class safari tourism industry with excellent safari operators catering to all budgets and a diverse portfolio of safari lodges and camps. All you need to decide is when and where to go – and that's where my guide comes in. Dig in and Safari njema! – (Have a nice trip!)

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safari in kenya july

Enchanted Kenyan Safari

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Samburu, Rhinos and Mara Safari

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Affordable Masai Mara Safari

Kenya masai mara safari elephants

Close encounters with a herd of elephants in Kenya's Masai Mara

The best safaris in Kenya

Kenya’s most popular – and some underrated – safari highlights.

Don't be swayed by the Masai Mara's magnetic pull. There are many hidden gems to be discovered in Kenya: here are a few of my top recommendations.

Masai Mara National Reserve

Mara north conservancy, ol pejeta conservancy, samburu game reserve, tsavo east & west national parks, loita hills, kakamega forest reserve, aberdare national park, lamu island.

Elsa’s Kopje

Elsa’s Kopje

This is the best lodge in what is, for me, one of the best safari parks in Kenya. Named after Elsa the lion, of Born Free Fame, the lodge sits on an outcrop with simply incredible views over Meru. Owned by Kenya-based Elewana Collection, it’s undeniably pricey – rooms start at around USD $950 per night and climb steeply from there – but worth a night or two if your budget can stretch that far. If that’s beyond your means I can also recommend Meru Camp and there are cheaper options in the nearby town of Maua.

Witness the migration river crossings – but expect crowds!

Witness the migration river crossings – but expect crowds!

The wildebeest migration is one of the world’s greatest natural phenomena, and watching the herds dodge hungry crocodiles as they surge across the Mara River is a staple of Kenya safari. The migration moves into the Masai Mara from Tanzania’s Serengeti between June and October. This is by far the busiest time and place of the year, so expect crowds. If you’d rather see the migration untroubled by crowds, I recommend you look at Tanzania instead.

Maili Saba

Denise Carnihan

I can highly recommend Maili Saba. It has a picturesque location overlooking the Great Rift Valley and volcano region, with lovely permanent tents each with en-suites and balcony, and all very nicely decorated. There is a communal pool and outside gazebos for relaxing. The main dining room and lounging area is stunning with striking cathedral ceiling and beautiful decor. The food is absolutely outstanding and the staff are warm, friendly and go out of their way to assist their guests. The first time I visited was a complete surprise organised by my Kenyan partner, and I've included it in our tour itineraries ever since.

Nashulai Maasai Conservancy

Nashulai Maasai Conservancy

One of the great success stories of Kenya safari has been the emergence of networks of conservancies, usually adjacent to the better known national parks. These are community-run or privately-operated protected areas, run for the benefit of wildlife and local communities. In the Masai Mara, the Nashulai Maasai Conservancy is particularly interesting, as it’s the only one that was 100% established by local Maasai and the only one where the Maasai remain in their homes within the conservancy. I can also highly recommend Mara North, Naboisho, and Ol Dereski; you’ll likely have an amazing time in any of them.

Offbeat Mara

Offbeat Mara

Mara North is perhaps the best known conservancy in the Masai Mara, and Offbeat Mara is one of my favourite camps in the entire place. It's a small, un-showy camp of just seven tents including two family tents. In addition to the standard game drives you can do night drives, guided bush walks, horse riding, hot air balloon flights and even do some Maasai running coaching!

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

If you’ve ever wondered what the hide of a rhino feels like, wanted to experience a safari at night or dreamed of running (or riding) in the wild, open air of a safari reserve, head to Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The conservancy is in the Laikipia region, at the foothills of Mount Kenya. The sanctuary is the largest in East Africa to host black rhino, as well as the world’s last two remaining white northern rhino. Ol Pejeta is also the only place in Kenya where you can see chimpanzees. Conservation is at its core, with several experiences available for intrepid safari-goers who want to do more than just watch the animals.

Those looking to get their hands dirty can join one of the one or two-week volunteer programmes and learn wildlife research and tracking, veterinary care and more of what goes on behind the scenes. The conservancy has several accommodation options from simple cottages to basic campsites and luxury tented eco-camps.

Campi ya Kanzi

Campi ya Kanzi

If elephants are your thing, you can’t do much better than Amboseli where herds of these magnificent beasts graze in the shadow of the equally magnificent Mt. Kilimanjaro. By far the best place to stay is not in the park itself but 30km away at Campi ya Kanzi in the Kimana Community Wildlife Sanctuary, situated between Amboseli and Chyulu Hills. It’s a very high-end Maasai-run camp that was set up to aid the local community and conservation projects. Its excellent location means you can see wildlife in the conservancy, Amboseli and Chyulu all from one base.

Saruni Rhino Camp

Saruni Rhino Camp

This camp in the Sera Conservancy, just north of the Samburu Reserve in northern Kenya occupies a stunning location in the semi-desert. Their specialism is a thrilling rhino tracking walking safari, probably my favourite place to see rhinos in all Kenya. I spent five days here and by the end still couldn’t decide if coming within ten metres of the steamroller-like rhinos was thrilling or simply terrifying!

Kilaguni Serena Lodge

Kilaguni Serena Lodge

In Tsavo West most of the accommodation is fairly expensive (unless you have your own camping gear in which case there are three spartan public campgrounds). A reasonably-priced option is the Kilaguni Serena Lodge – it’s far from a budget offering but the Serena collection is generally pretty good value. If you have the budget to blow, Finch Hattons is the most exclusive camp in the park, with an eye watering price tag to match.

Best walking safari

Best walking safari

In my opinion the best way to experience a safari is to ditch the 4X4 and explore on foot. With a good tracker-guide you’ll see all the little things you’d otherwise miss if you’re stuck in a vehicle all day. Walking is often forbidden within state-run national parks but is usually allowed, even encouraged, in conservancies. If I had to pick a favourite place for a walking safari in Kenya it’d be Loita Hills without question. Although not far from the Masai Mara, Loita Hills is barely visited by tourists despite boasting superb and varied scenery, a lovely climate, very different wildlife to the lower savannah plains, and fascinating interactions with very traditional Maasai culture.

Also, while Kenya doesn’t really compete with the multi-day Tanzania trekking scene, some organised trekking may be found here, as well as in the Aberdares and around Mt. Kenya.

Saruni Samburu

Saruni Samburu

There’s only one lodge within the Kalama conservancy, immediately to the north of Samburu Reserve, and it’s likely going to be one of the most spectacular places you’ll ever stay. Built into, around and onto a huge granite outcrop, Saruni Samburu is almost invisible from a distance but the stunningly turned out rooms offer a cliff side view over what feels like half of northern Kenya.

Lewa Conservancy

Lewa Conservancy

Lewa, in the Laikipia plateau area, is perhaps the most famous of all Kenya’s conservancies. And for good reason: this is safari to order. Want to see a black rhino? No problem. One of the superb guides will manage to find one. Lions, cheetah, elephant. They are all found here in abundance.

And it’s not just the wildlife that’s outstanding. The landscape is cinematic in its scope. Rolling sun bleached grasslands, table flat acacia trees, meandering rivers and a backdrop of the glinting glaciers of Mt Kenya.

The other great thing about Lewa (and this is common to all the Laikipia area conservancies) is exclusivity. If you’re not a guest of one of the handful of lodges then you can’t go on a safari here.

Kenya’s safari hidden gem

Kenya’s safari hidden gem

Just north of the equator in far western Kenya, is Kakamega Forest — Kenya’s only tropical rainforest. The land here is wet, green and intensely cultivated with a mix of subsistence farming and large tea estates. In amongst all this though are a few pockets of the dense rainforests that once covered large parts of western Kenya.

The Kakamega Forest Reserve is a fine example of this kind of forest and interesting walking safaris here reveal bird and primate life that has more in common with the forests of Uganda and the Congo than anything you’ll see on safari in Kenya. Wander the forest’s network of trails and take in the huge variety of flora and fauna it supports, including hundreds of bird species, some of which are not found anywhere else.

In my opinion, Kakamega is one of the most delightful places in Kenya, but yet hardly any tourists know of its existence. It should be a must visit for any ornithologist or herpetologist. As well as birds, reptiles and primates, I found the visit to the old mine shaft to look for bats especially memorable.

Up close and personal with baboons

Up close and personal with baboons

Laikipia is known for its rhino conservation, but my own personal highlight in this area wasn’t the rhinos. Rather it was the day I spent with a biologist in very close proximity to around 200 habituated baboons. Having a huge male baboon shove its way past you as it bares its teeth was an experience easily on a par with gorilla and chimpanzee encounters in East Africa. The other nice thing about this particular experience is that it doesn’t involve staying inside an expensive conservancy but rather you are hosted by a grassroots Maasai womens’ project. And hardly anyone – even other Kenyans – know about it!

Hiking in Aberdare National Park

Hiking in Aberdare National Park

A world away from the African safari image of savannah grasses and drooling sunsets, the Aberdares consists of two different ecosystems. A high, cold and often bleak moorland and, below that, dense tangled montane jungle.

The wildlife here is a little different and a little harder to spot. But elephants are very common as are big grumpy buffalo. There are also montane species you won’t see anywhere else including bongo antelope, bush pigs and melanistic leopard and serval.

Unusually among Kenyan national parks, you can also get out of the vehicle here and enjoy long, lonely hikes over the moorlands: I have really enjoyed the sensation of trudging across the bleak moorlands in cold afternoon drizzle while always keeping a beady eye out for roaming buffalo.

The park also has some history. In 1952, a young English lady named Elizabeth was staying at the famed Treetops Lodge here (today’s version is actually a reconstruction of the original) when it was announced that her father had died. And so it was, that on a remote Kenyan mountain slope, that young lady became Queen Elizabeth II. Many years later her eldest grandson, and future king, proposed to Kate Middleton in a small wooden fishing cabin in a spot not so far away from where his grandmother became Queen.

Post-safari beach time

Post-safari beach time

If time allows I highly recommend you find a couple of days to wash away the safari dust on Kenya’s palm-fringed coastline. The country has many beautiful beach destinations but the standard itineraries tend to focus on Diani, south of Mombasa. My vote goes for the underrated Lamu archipelago, and in particular the old Swahili trading town of Lamu, which always leaves me enchanted.

Featured kenya safaris

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Tanzania and Kenya Safari

The greatest safari on earth, kenya's best safari parks, kenya’s most popular safari parks and lesser-known hidden gems.

In a standard two week safari it’s perfectly possible — in fact I'd highly recommend — to explore three or four different protected areas. Ideally with each one offering a totally different habitat and set of wildlife inhabitants. If I had to pick a favourite, I'd probably vote for Meru National Park, but any of the following could feature on a Kenya safari.

Best for tranquil, crowd-free safaris

Best for tranquil, crowd-free safaris

Meru, the country’s forgotten national park, is easily one of my favourite of all Kenya’s safari parks. This was once one of the most popular parks in the country but during the 1980s, when Kenya was going through a rough political patch and instability overwhelmed some parts of the country, Meru turned into a hotbed of poaching.

Security and stability have long since returned, yet somehow this park never returned to its former fame. But for those in the know – and that now includes you – Meru National Park is safari gold.

For the classic – if busy – Kenya safari

For the classic – if busy – Kenya safari

The very essence of an African safari landscape, the Masai Mara stretches along the Kenya-Tanzania border and forms the northern fringe of the greater Serengeti ecosystem (most of which is in Tanzania ).

This is the part of Kenya in which I have spent the most time (months and months if I added it all up), and was the scene of one of my best ever travel experiences. Some years ago a Maasai friend and I set out on a five week hike that took us across the entire Mara ecosystem. By day we walked alongside the wildlife and Maasai herders. By night we camped out under the stars and slept in traditional Maasai villages. An unforgettable adventure!

This is the place to see large prides of black-manned lions, bellowing elephants, grumpy buffalo and a pick ‘n’ mix box of antelope and gazelles. And that’s before we even touch on the smaller creatures and huge array of birds. But, above and beyond all else, the Mara is renowned for the spectacular wildebeest migration .

For elephants & Kilimanjaro views

For elephants & Kilimanjaro views

Amboseli National Park is the postcard park of Kenya. This is where those photographs are taken of elephants with a backdrop of the (fast melting!) glaciers of Mt Kilimanjaro. I have spent many dreamy mornings parked under an acacia tree, a thermos of coffee in hand watching the rising sun tinge the snows of Kilimanjaro a pinky-red.

The elephants and the scenery are the real highlights of this park. In dry periods they flock here from miles around to quench their thirst in the swamps and pools that splash the dusty landscape in greens.

Another big reason to visit Amboseli is the chance to see conservation in action in the conservancies and other environmental and community projects surrounding the park.

For wetland safari & birdwatching

For wetland safari & birdwatching

Just 5 kilometres from the big city of Nakaru, Lake Nakuru National Park’s accessibility makes it one of the most popular Kenya safari hotspots. It’s centred on the large Rift Valley soda lake of the same name, but also encompasses fringing grasslands, acacia woodlands and rocky escarpments.

The park is best known for its sometimes huge flocks of flamingos and a large rhino population. Back in the 1990’s, Lake Nakuru was the first place where I saw a really huge flock of flamingos. I’d seen the odd handful before, but the thousands upon thousands I saw here on that day sticks in my memory. The smell (ah yes the smell!), the noise, and of course the searing pink colours; It was one of the moments that made me fall in love with Kenya.

Best for wide open spaces

Best for wide open spaces

Combined, Tsavo East and West National Parks cover an enormous swathe of acacia scrub Kenyan wilderness. Tsavo West alone (the bigger of the two parks) covers an area greater in size than Wales, or two and half times the size of Yellowstone National Park.

The two parks are separated from each other by the Nairobi-Mombasa highway and are easy to reach from either city.

Despite being directly adjacent, the two parks are radically different from one another with the green hills of Tsavo East a marked contrast to the red soil and volcanic landscapes of Tsavo West. Because of their diversity and sheer size, I strongly recommend you devote enough time to the parks if you’re going to visit them. The rushed two-day safaris from Mombasa (or Nairobi) simply don’t allow enough time to get much out of a visit.

For world-leading conservation

For world-leading conservation

The Laikipia plateau area in central Kenya is one of the most exciting places in African conservation. This isn’t a single national park or reserve, but rather a network of interlocking private and community-run conservancies where people, livestock and wildlife live together to the benefit of all.

Laikipia hosts all the classic East African safari mammals but is best known for its rhinos, including the critically endangered northern white rhino, only two of which are left alive. Both are female and so, tragically, this is a species awaiting extinction. They can be seen at the Ol Pejeta conservancy.

Kenya’s remote far north

Kenya’s remote far north

Samburu, Buffalo Springs and Shaba National Reserves are three interconnected reserves on the edge of northern Kenya’s vast semi-desert wilderness.

Far removed from mainstream Kenyan life, these northern regions have a wild reputation. The landscape is harsh with endless sunburnt plains of acacia thornbush out of which rise the occasional fertile and densely forested mountain peaks, ranges, table lands and volcanic plugs.

Elephants, in particular, are the main event here. There are large herds who can migrate huge distances in search of water.

Safari in the big city

Safari in the big city

While most capital cities have their collection of ornate parks filled with neatly cut lawns, manicured flower beds and perhaps a boating lake, Nairobi has gone one step further.

Its biggest ‘park’ is in fact a 117 square kilometre swathe of undulating savannah grassland and acacia woodland. And while it doesn’t have a boating lake, it does have lions. And buffalo. And rhinos. All of which means that it’s probably not such a sensible place for an after work stroll.

It’s a fabulous safari destination but is woefully overlooked by international visitors to Kenya. This is a shame, because Nairobi National Park is an excellent safari location in its own right. I have been many times, often just for a quick half-day drive from the city. This was the place I first witnessed the thrill of a hunt: a cheetah racing, but failing, to grab dinner for her cubs.

Ostrich meru national park kenya

A pair of ostrich in Meru National Park

Kenya safaris: Need to know

Everything you wish you'd known before you booked.

My first Kenya safari was in 1994 and I’ve been coming back pretty much every year since. Here’s what I’ve learned over the years about the best way to plan and book a safari in Kenya.

Mix up your itinerary

My single most important tip for Kenya safari first-timers is to avoid the mistake of non-stop game drives. Standard tour operator itineraries shuttle you from park to park with a gruelling schedule of game drives. Yes, this is the best way of seeing large mammals up close, but the bumpy tracks, early starts and long hours quickly exhaust even the most ardent wildlife-watcher. And there is so much more to safari in Kenya that you’ll miss from racing around in a jeep. Break it up. Look for operators who offer bush walks, village visits, and conservation projects. Or simply take an afternoon or two to sit back under a tree enjoying the sights, sounds and smells.

Kenya besides safari

Many visitors to Kenya devote their entire trip to going on safari…

Don’t miss Kenya’s many hidden gems

Most standardised Kenya safari itineraries reduce the entire country to the blockbuster highlights: the Mara, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru… maybe Tsavo and Samburu if they’re feeling adventurous. This does a great disservice to the country’s true diversity. There’s so much more to a Kenya safari than racing around the savannah chasing the big five and I’d strongly advise you find time to visit some of Kenya’s numerous hidden gems.

For instance, out in the far west is Kakamega Forest Reserve which has more in common with the rainforests of Uganda and the Congo than the classic Kenya landscape. In my opinion this is one of the most delightful places in Kenya, yet hardly any tourists know of its existence.

Another personal favourite that’s a world away from the classic Kenya savannah is Aberdare National Park where dense tangled montane jungle gives way to a high, cold and often bleak moorland. Unusually among Kenyan national parks, you can also get out of the vehicle here and enjoy long, lonely hikes over the moorlands.

But that’s not it: Saiwa Swamp, the Chyulu Hills, Hells Gate, Ruma National Park, and many more that rarely feature on the mainstream Kenya safari circuit but are usually accessible on a self-drive safari, or with more specialist safari operators.

Get out of the safari bubble

Many safari goers, especially those on a high end tour just bounce from one heavenly safari camp to another. Sure, you live the Hollywood Africa dream but you’ve not really experienced real Kenya. Instead, hop on a bus and head out to one of the numerous small market towns where most Kenyans live. You’ll experience a totally different side of the country and it’s one that will stay with you long after the sundowner safari drinks fade from memory.

Kenya off the beaten track

Kenya off the beaten track

The parks and reserves covered in my Kenya safari guide are only the best-known and most visited of the country's numerous protected and other natural areas…

Stay in at least one conservancy

National parks, reserves and conservancies are mentioned a lot in this guide, but just what is the difference and why does it matter?

A national park or reserve is a government or local council run protected area. Most of the best-known protected areas in Kenya fall into this category.

These areas are run solely for the benefit of wildlife and tourism, sometimes at the expense of local people. Tourism in these areas creates jobs, but locals are often forbidden from entering these protected areas other than for work reasons and communities were often (but not always) removed from their land when the parks and reserves were created. Corruption can be a problem with the money generated by these parks not always going where it should.

A conservancy is a different affair. A conservancy is normally located on either communal land owned by the community as a whole or on private ranch land and has no official government status. On a community conservancy the tourism stakeholders (i.e. the safari camps) lease the land from the local communities on the condition that the land is managed in a manner that is of benefit to both people and animals. The (normally very high) fees you pay to stay in a conservancy go toward paying the land leasing fees as well as various community and environmental projects.

Other conservancies may be located on private ranchland, in which case they have to make enough money for the landowner to financially justify turning his land over to wildlife conservation over cattle ranching.

In other words, a conservancy is run for the benefit of both wildlife conservation, tourism and the needs of local communities (in many cases local people are allowed to continue to graze their cattle on a conservancy but in a controlled and sustainable manner).

All of this means that staying in a conservancy is not just a great safari experience but it’s also very good news for conservation!

Do a homestay

For a cultural experience you’ll never forget, try spending a night at a Maasai homestay near the Masai Mara. Finding authentic, community-run homestays can be a bit of a minefield. I can recommend Sekenani Maasai Development Project (Semadep) but there are others – make sure you book with a community owned and operated outfit, and check reviews carefully.

Caution needed: "Human safaris"

In my opinion, one of the big problems with the safari industry is the way it prioritises seeing wildlife over having meaningful connections with local people. In fact, other than being served by their guides, drivers and camp employees, a typical safari-goer might not have any interaction with a local at all. To me, this is the exact opposite of how it should be done! In my experience, a good trip to Kenya isn't just about seeing wildlife: it should put intimate, authentic interactions with local people at the heart of the whole experience. You can make genuine connections and real friendships as you sit around, sharing stories, laughing and learning from each other.

On the other hand, mainstream Kenya safaris are often sold with "village tour" or even "slum tour" add-ons. These "goldfish bowl safaris" as I call them are unethical and nothing short of exploitation. They violate the privacy, integrity and dignity of local communities and undermine sustainable development by perpetuating a myth of backward, poverty-stricken people. The traveller thinks they're doing the right thing by getting some cultural interaction, but in reality it's deeply damaging. I strongly encourage visitors to avoid anything that feels contrived, and look for trips that put real people at the heart of the experience, rather than an afterthought.

How to plan & book a Kenya safari

There are three broad categories of safaris in Kenya.

The first and easiest option is to book a week(s)-long, multi-stop itinerary through a tour operator, either locally-based or international. This provides the most hand-holding and support for cautious visitors, plus more protection should things go wrong. The potential downside is getting shunted onto one of the more formulaic itineraries and simply following the crowds around the most popular parks. If you book a full tour with an operator, try to find a genuine specialist and ask about visiting some of the lesser-known locations mentioned in this guide.

Secondly you can simply show up and book a safari tour once in-country from the hundreds of operators in Nairobi. There’s nothing inherently wrong with doing it this way but I strongly advise you don’t just book something in the street. Do your homework first and find a reputable, responsible operator. Things to double check include whether park entry fees are included in the price, vehicle type (avoid cramped minibuses), and accommodation type.

Thirdly, and probably my recommendation for all but the most cautious of visitors, is to book the accommodation yourself, rent a car (or a car plus driver), and head out solo. You can take your own camping gear or book into lodges or camps (booking ahead is essential!), or mix camping with more comfortable nights in lodges. I strongly advise renting a vehicle plus driver. It’s often cheaper plus you get an unofficial local guide who knows the ropes. A good driver will become a cultural and language translator, wildlife guide, fixer, and general guardian angel.

Aim for shoulder season if possible

High season in Kenya is the peak summer months of July to September, before the rains begin. In my experience the best time to visit – especially in the busier parks – is either June before the crowds arrive or September-October as the crowds are thinning out, wildlife viewing is excellent and temperatures are ideal.

The best time to visit Kenya for safari

The best time to visit Kenya for safari

January & FebruaryThis is a hot and dry period…

Be prepared to splash out!

There are almost as many different ways of doing a safari as there are stripes on a zebra and how, when and where you safari makes a huge difference to what you pay. Expect to pay anything from $150 to $1,000+ per person per day.

You can find very low budget two or three day safaris to the Mara from around $250 all in, but these are generally rushed, crowded and uncomfortable. If you’re looking to shave off some costs without compromising on the experience, consider doing a DIY camping safari with your own vehicle and driver.

My other big Keny safari tip is to spend as much as your budget allows on fewer nights in better conservancies and camps. Packing more into fewer days gives you much greater bang for your buck.

Kenya safari costs

Kenya safari costs

For a multi-day, mid-range safari visiting some of the big name parks and reserves then you’re looking at around USD $300-600 per person, per day…

Kenya safari FAQs

Your questions, our expert answers, is it safe / a good idea to rent a car in kenya and drive yourself around, or is it better to join a tour.

Yes, it's perfectly easy to do a self-drive Kenya safari . When you ask if it's "safe" that depends a little on what you mean. If you mean are there bandits, car jackings, dangers from wildlife, etc, then no you are quite safe. Instead the danger is from other drivers, as the driving conditions can be a little 'hectic' in places and accidents are common.

I'd recommend hiring a car with a driver, which can be a cheaper and, in my opinion, a much better option. A good driver will know the lay of the land, the driving conditions, best places to stop for lunch, etc. And they are often knowledgeable of the wildlife. A good driver will be both your driver and guide, and probably become your friend!

Almost any tour company in Nairobi or Mombasa can organise a private vehicle with a driver. Standards and prices vary hugely, so explain to the tour company exactly where you want to go and get in writing exactly what is and isn't included. Pay particular attention as to whether fuel, and the drivers food and accommodation is included in the rates. Also make sure you're booking the right vehicle: a 4WD may be needed for more remote areas.

Where’s the best place to see the big five in Kenya?

Seeing all the big five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo & rhino) in one park is hard. Only Lewa and some of the conservancies in Laikipia can honestly claim to offer easy sightings of all five. But, who cares! This fixation on racing around to tick off just five species is an anachronism from colonial-era big game hunting days. There’s so much more to Kenya’s wildlife and the modern safari experience.

We're visiting the Masai Mara but would like to visit another area on safari in Kenya. Can you recommend anywhere very different to the Masai Mara to see different wildlife and landscapes?

The most common combinations for a short add-on to the Masai Mara are Amboseli , Laikipia or the Samburu area.

For your requirements of a different habitat and wildlife then without doubt I would suggest Samburu National Reserve. This is a much drier and hotter area than the Mara with different vegetation and animals. And, even the animals you might have seen in the Mara are different up here with different species of giraffe, zebra and ostrich all present (and in my opinion all more beautiful than the kinds in the Mara). The park is also superb for elephants.

Samburu, though still popular, is notably quieter than the Mara and, once away from the river, it's easy to feel you have the place all to yourself (and especially if you go into the co-joined Buffalo Springs and Shaba reserves). Depending on when you are there you will find direct flights from the Mara, but otherwise will have to go via Nairobi. If you're driving it's a long way – a 10 hour non-stop drive, so flying is the better option.

Would you recommend staying at Elephant Bedroom Camp in Samburu Reserve, or at Sarara Camp in Namyunak Conservancy?

The quantity and ease of seeing the wildlife is better in Samburu Reserve than in the neighbouring Namyunak Conservancy (because the wildlife is drawn to the river running through the reserve). But there's not a huge difference in habitats or species between the two.

Elephant Bedroom Camp, in Samburu, is a fabulous, small camp. You'll see a lot of elephants and the owners are some of the worlds foremost elephant experts.

In Namyunak Conservancy, Sarara Camp is one of the most exclusive – yet low-key – camps in Kenya. There's slightly less wildlife than in the reserve but it's very close to the reserve and safaris from Sarara often enter the reserve.

The bonus with Sarara is exclusivity. You and the other camp guests will have the entire place to yourself meaning no crowding around animals (though that's rarely a problem in Samburu).

Unlike in the reserve itself you can do walking safaris in the conservancy and there will be more interaction with local people. The final plus is that by staying on a conservancy you will be actively helping to fund private/community conservation initiatives, which isn't always the case when staying only in a reserve or national park.

Overall then, I would opt for Sarara Camp, but I suspect it does cost more, so it might come down to budget!

We are travelling with a large group of 5 families with 3-4 kids per family. What are the best budget friendly safaris in Kenya in July?

If most of the children in your group are very young, your options are fairly limited as the reality is that a longer, multi-day safari can be a bit much with very young kids. I first did a safari with my kids when they were five and two years old and although it was good I probably wouldn't do it again! Past the age of about eight or nine the safari experience gets much easier, as they'll will tolerate sitting in a jeep on a bumpy road for longer.

Do be aware that some safari camps don't accept children below the age of 12. These are normally the unfenced camps and it's done for safety reasons.

You will also need to keep in mind that you will either need several safari jeeps and to travel in convoy or a bus (and these aren't always allowed in some parks). Because you will be travelling with so many children I would suggest small safari camps which you can book out for your group alone. Some of these are more child friendly than others. Some possibiltles that I believe might work well for your group are: Maji Moto Eco Camp, Loita Hills Basecamp, and if you are interested in a Maasai homestay style experience then I'd suggest Semadep Camp, who can arrange homestays around the Masai Mara.

As for specific parks and reserves the Masai Mara area is good because there's a lot of animals to see everywhere you look which keeps children interested. Also good are Nairobi and Narok national parks because of easy access and good roads. Lake Naivasha is good for families too.

It would be easy to combine all these places into a 10 day safari and then you could maybe finish up on the beach (Lamu and Watamu are both superb for families).

Can you recommend any family-friendly camps/lodges in the Masai Mara?

I would suggest rather than staying within Masai Mara proper, stay in one of the conservancies that now fringe the Mara.

In the most basic of terms these are like private, community-run wildlife reserves. Conservancy operators lease the land from local people and each local family receives a guaranteed monthly payment. The conservancy also provides employment and sets up development projects. People continue to graze their cattle but in a more controlled manner. And in return, fences are removed and the wildlife encouraged to return to the lands they were once driven out of. The conservancies have been a great success both for wildlife and local people. And, for tourists, they offer a very exclusive experience and the world's finest safaris.

Each conservancy has only a handful of very discreet high end camps and only guests of those camps can go on a safari in the conservancy, which means crowds of vehicles around a lion are non-existent.

The conservancies also allow activities not permitted within the reserve such as walking (highly recommended), bush camping, night safaris, etc. This makes them ideal for kids because it breaks up the routine and allows a little more freedom.

The safari vehicles and guides used in the conservancies are absolutely the best in the game and the wildlife populations are the equal of the actual reserve. However, there's a catch (of course...), conservation like this doesn't come cheap. All of the conservancies are superb but some names are Naboisho, Mara North and Nashulai Maasai Conservancy (this last one being slightly cheaper than the others and lots of focus on meeting local people). As for actual camps you cannot go wrong with any of them. All the conservancy camps are superb. I'm a big fan of the Basecamp offerings, Off-Beat and Kicheche. All are a little less extravagant than some of the other camps.

If you want to only visit the reserve and not a conservancy then I suggest either Basecamp Mara, Oldarpoi or you could go for a Maasai homestay in Sekenani village. Expect basic but perfectly comfortable rooms but an amazing experience. Your kids would really enjoy this.

Is February a good time to visit the Masai Mara, or would June-July be better? What would be the differences?

February is a very good time for safari in the Masai Mara , but also very different to the experience in June and July.

It's hotter and drier in February and generally there are fewer other tourists. There will still be plenty of zebra and wildebeest around but these are the non-migrating resident herds, so they don't form the massive iconic herds that you might see on TV.

July is good because the migrant wildebeest are all normally in the Mara by then, but its also absolute peak high season so can be busy and expensive. June is perhaps my overall favourite month. Everything is green after the rains and it's nice and cool with far fewer tourists than July, but the first migrant wildebeest might start to arrive (it all depends on rains and the state of the grass).

In short, all three months are excellent but each is different so it might be best to go with whatever just suits your timings better.

I will be in Kenya in early March and am looking for a five day safari for wildlife photography and birdwatching. Where would you recommend for me noting it is the start of the rainy season?

Early March is still a bit early for the rainy season so you might just get the odd thunderstorm. If birds are your real interest and you only have five days then probably the easiest is to go down to the Masai Mara via the Rift Valley lakes of Naivasha and Elementia or Nakuru. This would give you a good range of avian habitats and species in a short space of time. Don't forget as well that Nairobi itself has some excellent birding in the various forests and parklands in and around the city. Plus of course, there's the superb Nairobi National Park where you will see a lot of wildlife and birds.

We can't travel during the migration river crossings, are there other impressive spectacles at other times of year?

Yes! I think calving season during the wildebeest migration is just as spectacular as the more famous river crossing period.

This period runs from December to March around the Ndutu Plains to the south of Serengeti. During this time the wildebeest and zebra stampede over the plains preparing to give birth to thousands of calves. At the same time the big cats are on the lookout for an easy snack. With vast numbers of animals, their sounds and smells, all of the little calves, and the big cats on the lookout... it's theatre on an epic scale and you cannot be disappointed. And the extra benefit is that it's a much shorter drive here than to see the river crossings.

Robbin Meulemans

Robbin Meulemans

In this guide:, typical prices for a safari in kenya, when to go on safari in kenya, things to do in kenya other than safari, best safari camps and lodges in the masai mara, about the author.

Safari in Kenya

Stuart is an award-winning travel journalist covering safari, trekking and conservation in Africa for the Lonely Planet, Rough Guides, BBC, Bradt Travel Guides, amongst many others. He is the author of Walking With The Maasai , a journey through some of Kenya's lesser-visited Maasai lands.

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Kenya in July

Kenya in July : One of the greatest months to travel to Kenya to see wildlife is in July, which falls during the country’s dry season. With clear sky and no rain, this is an ideal time to observe wildlife against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro and the African grassland. Nairobi is a little bit colder, which is perfect for shopping and touring galleries and museums, but Kenya’s stunning coastline has sweltering weather in July. Since July is peak tourist season, the only drawback of visiting Kenya in July is that big throngs of people will be there.

Kenya Weather in July.

Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, is the only capital in the world with a national park, with the park being located on its outskirts. July is a great month in the nation for weather, with sunny skies and mild temperatures all around. Now that the rainy season is ended, the weather is sunny but not overly hot around the nation. While there is some rain in mountainous areas like Mount Kenya and Hell’s Gate National Park during this time of year, the remainder of the nation has dry spells. This is the ideal time of year for safari excursions or leisurely strolls through Nairobi’s vibrant markets.

Nairobi experiences 22° to 25°C daytime highs and 12°C nighttime lows this month. Coastal areas see milder temperatures, with averages of 27° to 31°C. Even as the temperature rises, a refreshing sea breeze sweeps off the coast, providing the perfect weather for relaxing on the beach and swimming in the warm Indian Ocean waters.

Why visit Kenya in July?

Millions of wildebeests traverse the perilous border between Tanzania and Kenya’s Masai Mara each year as part of their migration.

In July, Mount Kenya at sunrise as seen from Shipton Camp in Kenya.

The second-highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kenya, is a dormant volcano that shapes a stunning and constantly shifting landscape.

The weather in Kenya in July is ideal for a variety of activities, including beachcombing, urban exploration, and safaris. But keep in mind that since this month coincides with the busiest travel season, you should anticipate heavy traffic and considerably increased expenses.

The great wildebeest migration : When millions of wildebeest arrive at the Mara River and congregate on the banks in a jostling mass, eager to cross its swirling waters, you will witness one of nature’s most breathtaking displays. Tens of thousands of tourists visit Maasai Mara every year merely to witness this amazing display, as the animals nervously push one other towards the water.

Climb Mount Kenya : With its jagged, glacier-clad peaks towering over the plains of Meru and the East African Rift Valley, Mount Kenya offers one of the most striking landscapes in all of East Africa. Mount Kenya, the second-highest peak in Africa, is nearly 17,000 feet tall and was formerly an active volcano. It is home to a wide variety of animals, birds, and vegetation.

Birding in Lake Nakuru : On the floor of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Nakuru National Park trip cab turn into a birdwatcher’s paradise. The centrepiece of the park is Lake Nakuru, one of the numerous soda lakes found in the Rift Valley. It is shallow and alkaline, drawing a wide variety of bird species, most notably lesser and greater flamingos, who visit the lake in such huge numbers that the water occasionally turns pink!

Celebrate Eid al-Adha : At the end of July, Muslims in Kenya observe Eid al-Adha, also known as Eid Qurban, as the “festival of sacrifice.” This celebration includes food, prayer, and chanting to honor the sacrifice Ibrahim made on behalf of God.

Kenya in July

Where to go and what to do.

The flocks of lesser and greater flamingos travel to Lake Nakuru in such vast numbers causing the water to turn pink.

Kenya is home to several breathtaking landscapes, such as the Great Rift Valley and its network of crystalline lakes brimming with hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of birds, as well as the gorgeous Maasai Mara National Reserve and its Maasai tribesmen. Take a hot air balloon safari over the golden grasslands of Maasai Mara National Park during the pleasant July weather to witness one of the greatest sights in the world: the wildebeest migration. If you’re into hiking and walking, you may take a walking safari with knowledgeable guides into the untamed wilderness of Tsavo National Park. This wildlife area is home to Masai giraffes, Cape buffaloes, leopards, and the renowned Tsavo red elephants.

Discovering the bleak, wide wilderness of Samburu and the craggy hills and bizarre rock formations of the enthralling Amboseli region home to hundreds of enormous, big-tusked elephants are two other fantastic Kenyan adventures to undertake in August. Alternatively, you may don your climbing boots and make your way to the summit of the formidable Mount Kenya.

Kenya’s lake system on the Great Rift Valley bottom offers an amazing natural experience, with crystalline lakes, towering volcanic outcrops, and wind-swept, grassy plains that make for some of the most breathtaking scenery on Earth. Large and far-flung, this is a must if you enjoy exploring new places. For a distinct experience, head towards the country’s hypnotic, seductive, and breathtakingly gorgeous northern shore. This untamed safari region is surrounded by a sparkling ribbon of sand, the ivory-colored shoreline is fringed with swaying coconut palms, and luxurious resorts are tucked away among mangrove trees, making this a tropical paradise.

Kenya is home to magnificent landforms that arouse strong desires for Africa. Each of this country’s vast regions offers a distinctive and varied experience that is sure to make a lasting impression. Are you unsure of how long it will take to visit the best of Kenya? With the help of our knowledgeable local travel advisors, create a customized tour plan to Kenya that ensures you don’t miss a thing. Otherwise, for some inspiration, have a look at our best excursions throughout Kenya in July.

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Where to Go on an African Safari in July

You can’t go wrong with a safari in July, it’s an excellent time for wildlife viewing in East and southern Africa. Although wet throughout the year, Uganda and Rwanda see less rain in July and conditions are perfect for gorilla trekking. Note though that it is winter in South Africa; the warmer summer months are usually more pleasant for visiting the beaches, Cape Town and several other attractions.

Best Time per Country

Flag of zimbabwe zimbabwe in july.

  • Animals are easy to spot in the Dry season
  • Lots of sunshine and no rain
  • Although it’s high season, the parks won’t be crowded except for Victoria Falls
  • Victoria Falls looks great without spray blocking the views
  • Early morning and evening game drives are chilly, you’ll need warm clothing

Flag of Zambia Zambia in July

  • Wildlife viewing is best in the Dry season
  • Sunny days and no rain
  • Although it is high season, the parks never get crowded
  • It is cold on early morning and afternoon game drives
  • There is a lot of haze in the sky

Flag of South Africa South Africa in July

  • Wildlife viewing is excellent in the Dry season
  • It rarely rains (except for Cape Town and surrounds)
  • It is low season and visitor numbers are low except in school holidays
  • There are no mosquitoes
  • Evenings and early mornings are very cold, winter clothing is needed
  • Generally, the country is more enjoyable in the warm summer months (especially the Cape)

Flag of Uganda Uganda in July

  • Gorilla and chimp trekking conditions are optimal in the Dry season
  • Great wildlife viewing in the savannah reserves as animals stay close to water
  • It is mostly sunny and rainfall is minimal
  • It is high season, gorilla permits need to be booked long in advance
  • Although not really crowded, some parks can get a little busy

Flag of Tanzania Tanzania in July

  • Excellent wildlife viewing as the bush is thin and animals stay close to water
  • Chance to see the wildebeest migration
  • Lots of sunny days and little rainfall
  • It gets chilly at night, warm clothing is recommended
  • It is high season, the Northern circuit parks become busy

Flag of Rwanda Rwanda in July

  • Best conditions for gorilla trekking
  • Excellent wildlife viewing in Akagera National Park in the Dry season
  • Lots of sunny days and minimal rainfall
  • It is high season and gorilla permits need to be booked long in advance
  • There is a lot of haze

Flag of Namibia Namibia in July

  • Great wildlife viewing in all parks
  • Clear blue skies and no rain
  • Although it is peak season, most parks don’t get very crowded
  • It is cold at night, you’ll need winter clothes for open-vehicle game drives
  • It is peak season, it gets busy in Etosha NP and Sossusvlei

Flag of Kenya Kenya in July

  • Good wildlife viewing
  • Lovely weather with lots of sunny days and little rain
  • There are very few mosquitoes
  • It is high season and some parks get busy

Flag of Botswana Botswana in July

  • Outstanding wildlife viewing in the Dry season
  • Plenty of sunshine and no rain
  • Although it is peak season, most parks don’t get crowded
  • It’s cold on early morning and evening game drives
  • It is peak season and Chobe NP can get very busy

Visiting month

Best safari parks to visit in july.

See below for an overview of the best parks to visit in Africa by country. Please note that the listings focus on the most popular parks only and are not comprehensive.

Flag of Botswana Botswana

Best parks & reserves in july.

Chobe NP

Chobe NP Excellent

Moremi GR

Moremi GR Excellent

Okavango Delta

Okavango Delta Excellent

Central Kalahari GR

Central Kalahari GR Good

Flag of Kenya Kenya

Amboseli NP

Amboseli NP Excellent

Lake Nakuru NP

Lake Nakuru NP Excellent

Masai Mara NR

Masai Mara NR Excellent

Samburu NR

Samburu NR Excellent

Flag of Namibia Namibia

Etosha NP

Etosha NP Excellent

Namib-Naukluft NP

Namib-Naukluft NP Excellent

Skeleton Coast NP

Skeleton Coast NP Good

Flag of Rwanda Rwanda

Akagera NP

Akagera NP Excellent

Flag of South Africa South Africa

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi GR

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi GR Excellent

Kruger NP

Kruger NP Excellent

Phinda GR

Phinda GR Excellent

Sabi Sands

Sabi Sands Excellent

Flag of Tanzania Tanzania

Lake Manyara NP

Lake Manyara NP Excellent

Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater Excellent

Nyerere NP

Nyerere NP Excellent

Serengeti NP

Serengeti NP Excellent

Flag of Uganda Uganda

Bwindi NP

Bwindi NP Excellent

Kibale NP

Kibale NP Excellent

Murchison Falls NP

Murchison Falls NP Excellent

Queen Elizabeth NP

Queen Elizabeth NP Excellent

Flag of Zambia Zambia

Kafue NP

Kafue NP Excellent

Lower Zambezi NP

Lower Zambezi NP Excellent

South Luangwa NP

South Luangwa NP Excellent

Flag of Zimbabwe Zimbabwe

Hwange NP

Hwange NP Excellent

Mana Pools NP

Mana Pools NP Excellent

All Parks & Reserves

Safari highlights in july.

The best thing about a safari is its unpredictability. Nature doesn’t follow a script. However, there is a strong seasonality to wildlife viewing and proper planning will ensure a successful trip. Read on if you’d like some tips on where to go on an African safari in July.

South Luangwa’s Walking Safari Season Starts in Zambia

Zambia’s tourist season only really gets going properly around July. By then, the bush has thinned out sufficiently to make the most of the walking safaris for which South Luangwa NP is famous. Some of Africa’s best guides work here, and you’ll be in good hands when going out on foot in Big Five territory. Seeing Africa’s iconic animals, such as buffalo, elephant and even lion, on foot is a thrilling experience. But a walking safari is also an opportunity to look at small creatures, footprints and flora often overlooked on game drives.

Start of the Whale Season in South Africa

Every year southern right whales migrate from Antarctica to the warmer waters of the southern Cape to breed and calve. They stay in the area from July to October. You can see these gentle giants from Cape Town all the way to Durban, but Hermanus is known as South Africa’s whale-watching hub. Whales can be seen by boat or from the air by scenic flight. But in Hermanus, whales regularly come as close as 5m/16ft from the shore and a 12km/7.5mi cliff path offers the best land-based whale watching in the world.

Animals Gather Around the Waterholes in Etosha, Namibia

From July to October, the middle and end of the Dry season, the waterholes south of Etosha Pan become a magnet for wildlife. Sit at one of the waterholes to see a constant stream of thirsty animals approaching; some of them bold and others apprehensive. It’s not unusual to see eight to 10 different species in one scene with opportunistic predators lurking around on the sidelines. Check out one of the floodlit waterholes at night for a chance to see a black rhino, one of the frequent nocturnal visitors.

Northern Botswana Is at Its Best

The Okavango Delta, Moremi GR, Chobe NP and the Linyanti region are at their best in July. Big herds of elephants gather on the Chobe waterfront. Take a boat trip to see them drinking and splashing. They might even put on a show by crossing the river. Thousands of zebras and other grazers have migrated to the floodplains to spend the Dry season here. Meanwhile the Okavango Delta is fully flooded and the rivers have spilled over to form a vast wetland best explored by mokoro (dugout canoe). The wildlife viewing in the whole region is exceptional at this time.

Continuous Roamer

What to Wear in Kenya Safari Destinations? (12 + Essential Items)

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If you have never been on safari before, it can be difficult to know what clothes to wear on safari in Kenya. I experienced the same difficulties while packing for Kenya in October 2022.

I was apprehensive about packing the right items, packing too much, or not packing enough. Plus, I could not find examples of the best type of clothing for safari in Kenya.

This article will teach you exactly what to wear in Kenya safari destinations. In addition you will learn what to wear on safari in Masai Mara, how to dress in Nairobi, and the best shoes for safari in Kenya.

What to wear in Kenya Safari Destinations - Sasaab Lodge Samburu

While this packing article works as part of a travel guide for Kenya , you can also apply most of the contents of this article to other safari destinations, such as Tanzania and South Africa.

If you require further information, you can read this article on what to pack for a Kenyan Safari , which talks about luggage, toiletries, travel documents, first aid supplies, and more.

What is a Day Like on Safari?

Safari colours in Samburu - Sasaab Lodge vehicle

Before deciding what to take on safari in Kenya, ensure you know the details of your itinerary and understand how a day on safari works.

You will most likely spend several hours each day inside your safari vehicle unless you have planned any walking safaris or evening cultural activities.

Read the following article to learn about how you will spend your days on safari in Kenya and learn more about visits to Nairobi National Park here.

Weather for Kenya Safari

The weather forecast for your safari in Kenya can change drastically based on the location of your lodges and the time of year you are travelling.

The seasons in Kenya are either a rainy season or a dry season. June to October are generally warm and dry months. Whereas March to May and November to December are the wet periods of the year.

Wearing Poncho in Masai Mara Kenya - Safari Collection

Knowing what to pack for Masai Mara safaris can be challenging, but you should consider the weather for your specific travel period to assist you.

The climate is cooler in Masai Mara from June to August. Therefore, you will need warmer layers for the mornings and evenings.

Plus, the day temperature will be lower than at other times of the year. So, you should consider bringing more long-sleeved options than short-sleeved ones.

For those travelling in September and October, it will be warmer than the other dry months. Therefore, remember to bring your swimwear for an outdoor mid-day dip. Plus, pack some short-sleeved options or light materials, such as linen.

To give more detail, the early morning and night temperatures during the cooler months in Masai Mara could be around 10 degrees Celsius.

You can still wear short-sleeve pyjamas at night because the blankets and hot water bottle will keep you warm. If you are easily cold or you are used to sleeping in long-sleeve pyjamas, you could bring a longer layer for your legs.

You will want to wear a warm layer, such as a sweatshirt, on top of your regular safari day clothes in the first few hours of the game drive. Plus, a jacket would be handy. Or, if your safari lodge provides a fleece or blanket, I suggest you wear that.

The day can later reach over 20 degrees Celsius, so you need to be able to take a few layers off to be a comfortable temperature in the sun.

What to wear in Kenya Safari - shorts in Samburu

If you are travelling to Samburu National Park during your safari in Kenya, you will require some different clothing options.

While Samburu typically has a wet and dry season, Samburu is currently in a severe drought (2022), and it has not rained in two years. (Update 2023: it is no longer in a drought).

In the middle of the day, Samburu will become scorching hot.

When I visited in October, it would easily reach 33 degrees Celsius at the hottest part of the day.

However, it was slightly chilly in the morning. Therefore, layering is essential.

What to Wear on Safari in Kenya?

The dress code for safari is casual. Even if you have booked a luxury safari, you should aim to dress comfortably and in the correct colours (explained below).

Opt for the right kind of material; lightweight, and dress in layers, and then you will be suitably dressed. The day generally starts cooler and ends up warm by the middle of the day.

safari in kenya july

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Safari Colours

What colours to wear on Safari in Kenya - khaki, beige, grey clothing

Your safari wardrobe should consist of khaki, green, brown, beige, or grey. This colour pallet will help you blend into the savannah and observe the animals without being noticed.

Do not bring bright coloured shirts on safari, for example, no red, blue, or orange. These colours are distracting for the animals.

While on a Masai Mara safari you will most likely come across lions and feel a little timid; therefore, you will feel more comfortable wearing a subtle colour pallet.  

You are not allowed to wear camouflage in Africa because it is illegal in Kenya and other African countries.

It may be tempting to bring some white clothes to pair nicely with your green or beige outfits, but it is best to avoid white items. Not only will they show dust and dirt more easily. But also, animals find it easy to spot white because their eyes see in black and white.

Lastly, black and navy are some of the colours not to wear in Kenya on safari because these tones attract nasty biting tsetse flies. However, I did not experience the tsetse flies in Samburu or Masai Mara in October.

Some travellers are unaware of wearing safari colours, or they choose to ignore this advice. However, it is best to wear the suggested colours to watch the animals enjoyably from a distance without startling them.

Nonetheless, you do not need to go out and buy a whole new wardrobe until you have rummaged through your options at home. You may be surprised to see what neutral colours you already own.

African Safari Clothes

Photographing Elephants in Samburu with linen shirt and cap

The best kind of safari outfit to pack in your suitcase is one that can be mixed and matched. You should bring several t-shirts and bottoms that are short-sleeved and long-sleeved that you can combine to make different outfits.

A bush hat is one of the most important things to take on safari in Kenya. Again, make sure it is a neutral colour. Wide-brimmed hats with a necktie are great options, such as this sun hat from Fjallraven .

Baseball caps are fine, but make sure it fits well because you do not want the hat to fly off when the vehicle picks up speed.

A neutral jacket will complete your safari outfit. It is good to wear first thing in the morning and for your evening sundowner drinks. You can leave it in your safari vehicle when you are not wearing it.

What Shoes to Wear on Safari in Kenya?

What shoes to wear in Kenya on Safari - wearing converse

People say that the best shoes for safari in Kenya are lace-up boots. While they are good options, especially if you are doing a walking safari, if you do not own this type of shoe, you will also be fine wearing a pair of trainers/sneakers .

Since you will be sitting in your safari vehicle most of the day, the main requirement is comfortable closed-toed footwear.

You will get out of the vehicle for your bush breakfast, where it may be dusty on the floor, so do not bring your favourite shoes. Ideally, the trainers should be easily washed or wiped.

If your trainers are mesh on top, the dust and dirt will seep through and discolour your socks. Also, avoid bringing shoes that are suede.

Make sure your shoes have a thick sole to prevent any thorns from piercing through your shoes into your foot. One of my group members experienced a thorn in the shoe and it was painful.

Other Shoes to Wear in Kenya Safari

  • Flip-flops or sandals – it is worth bringing a separate pair of shoes to wear around camp during the day. If it is warm your feet will want a breather from wearing socks.
  • Closed-toed shoes for dinner – you may want to wear a separate, fresher pair of trainers in the evening to dinner after you have showered from your afternoon game drive. It is best to keep your feet covered because there is more chance of getting bitten by insects at night.
  • Waterproof shoes – walking boots are unnecessary unless you are travelling in the rainy season or you will be doing extensive walking safari activities. Wellington boots may be available at your camp.  

Remember when packing your bags not to bring plastic bags to Kenya as they are illegal. Purchase some reusable shoe bags for footwear instead.

I brought a pair of strappy sandals but wore trainers the whole trip because I did not want to get mosquito bites on my feet.

Suggested Footwear for Safari

  • Converse All-Stars – these are the shoes that I brought on safari to Kenya, and they worked well.
  • Reebok C 85 Vintage – these are another option for comfortable and easily cleaned shoes (I also own these shoes)
  • Brown Leather Lace-up Boots
  • Brown Boots from Birkenstock
  • Havaianas Flip Flops – women’s flip-flops or men’s flip-flips
  • Birkenstock Arizona EVA Slides (waterproof) 

Safari Clothes for Women

Safari Collection vehicle - Sasaab Lodge

Ladies – do not be tempted to bring a dress or skirt on safari. You will need to clamber, rather indelicately, in and out of a safari vehicle. It will be more practical to wear trousers or shorts to cover your modesty.

Ideally, avoid one-piece items of clothing, such as jumpsuits, for game drives because if you need to use a bush toilet (a literal bush in the savannah), you want to be able to go as discretely and quickly as possible.

Most safari lodges offer laundry services. The housekeeping team will wash a couple of items per person per day. Some lodges wash these items by hand, whereas others machine-wash the clothes. Most lodges will line dry clothes.

Due to cultural reasons, the lodge will not wash women’s underwear, so bring enough for the whole trip. Alternatively, pack some powder detergent or ask your safari lodge if they have any to wash your delicate items in your bathroom sink.

Safari Clothes for Men

There are fewer specifics for men to be aware of compared to women.

However, something to consider is bringing cargo pants that zip off to become shorts. They are ideal for safari parks that start cool and reach high peak temperatures. Samburu National Park can be sweltering during the middle of the day. 

Also, if you are buying new safari t-shirts, make sure it is a breathable, sweat-resistant material. Lululemon has some suitable options for men. 

Safari Packing List Kenya

What to wear at Giraffe Manor - giraffes in distance

This men’s and women’s safari packing list is sufficient clothing for visiting two or three safari camps for three nights at each.

As a reminder, many safari lodges will offer a complimentary laundry service, enabling you to pack lighter and bring less clothing. Ladies should pack more underwear than men because the laundry service will not wash these items.

If you have booked a stay at Giraffe Manor, you may want to bring a fancier outfit due to the high number of photo opportunities.

Tops: What to Wear in Kenya Safari

During the day, I mostly wore a short-sleeve t-shirt with a long-sleeved, button-up layer on top. Otherwise, I wore a long-sleeved t-shirt. Linen materials are best where possible.

Beige jacket and Sasaab safari vehicle

Jumper/hoodie x 1

I brought a hoodie to wear during the cold mornings from around 6:00 to 9:00 AM. You do not need to bring more than one.

  • Soft French Terry Sweatshirt from ARKET
  • Essential Popover Hoodie from Abercrombie
  • French Terry Sweatshirt from ARKET
  • Zip Neck from Arc’teryx
  • Half-Zip Sweatshirt from Abercrombie

In places such as Masai Mara or Nairobi, it can be chilly in the morning. So, a jacket available to throw on top is beneficial.

It would be handy if your jacket had several pockets for quick access to items on game drives.

  • Double Pocket Shacket from New Look
  • Sézane Khaki Jacket
  • Khaki Oversized Jacket from Mango
  • Lightweight Highland Skye Jacket from J.Crew
  • Fatigues Jacket from Gap

Short-Sleeved Shirts x 2

You can layer up a short sleeve t-shirt with an over-shirt instead of a long-sleeve. It is beneficial to dress like this for the warmer climates so you can take a layer off.

  • Scoop-Neck Tee from Everlane
  • Love Crew T-shirt from Lululemon
  • Linen Blend French Sleeve from UNIQLO
  • Super-Soft Lyocell V-Neck from The White Company

Rack of beige clothes for safari in Kenya

Long-Sleeved Shirts x 2

Bring some lightweight long sleeved shirts to wear on game drives in the cooler months.

  • Waffle-Knit Henley T-Shirt from Gap
  • Pima Ribbed Long-Sleeve Crew from Everlane
  • Ribbed Henley T-Shirt from Gap
  • Lyocell Blend Long Sleeve from ARKET
  • Metal Vent Tech Long Sleeve from Lululemon
  • Midweight Half-Zip from Lululemon

Smart-Casual Blouses/Shirts x 2

Bring a couple of long-sleeve shirts to wear during dinner on safari.

  • Linen Shirt from ARKET
  • V-Neck T-Shirt from Mango
  • 100% Linen Shirt from UNIQLO
  • Waffle Henley Long Sleeved T-Shirt from UNIQLO
  • Crew Neck Long Sleeved T-Shirt from UNIQLO

Rain Jacket x 1

You may need to bring a raincoat to wear in Nairobi, if you will be visiting there during your safari. The jacket should fold up small so it can fit in your luggage. Some safari lodges will provide a raincoat, so it may not be necessary to bring.

  • Women’s Raincoat from The North Face
  • Men’s Packable Raincoat from Lululemon

Only bring a fleece if your safari lodge does not provide one and you are travelling during a colder month or to a colder destination. It is not needed in Samburu where it is hot.

  • Ladies’ Retro Fleece from Patagonia
  • Men’s Retro Fleece from Patagonia

Bottoms: What to Wear in Kenya Safari

What trousers to wear on Safari in Kenya - Sundowner in Masai Mara

Wearing trousers for game drives is best, particularly because you start early in the morning and finish when the sun sets.

In some locations, such as Samburu during the hottest time of year, you could wear shorts during the day on safari.

It was safe to wear shorts in this instance because I did not experience any biting insects during the day in Samburu in October.

There were flies during the day when we were by the pool at Sasaab Lodge. Plus, the restaurant had spinning fly traps on the table at lunch, but I was not bitten by any flies.

You will mostly wear shorts around the camp during downtime moments. But make sure they are in safari colours in case you want to wear the shorts on safari.

  • Viscose Linen Shorts from ARKET
  • Sweat Shorts from Adanola
  • Dry Stretch Shorts from UNIQLO
  • Cotton Shorts from ARKET

Day-Time Trousers x 2

You should bring several pairs of trousers to wear during the day on game drives.

  • Stretch High-Rise Pant from Lululemon
  • Relaxed Utility Pants from Abercrombie
  • Leggings from Adanola
  • Cargo Pant from J.Crew
  • Convertible Trousers from Peter Storm

Evening Trousers x 1

Keep one pair of trousers clean to wear in the evening after a shower.

  • Cargo Pocket High-Rise Pant from Lululemon
  • Modern Cargo Pant from Aritzia
  • Classic Fit Pant from Lululemon

Turndown service at Sala's Camp Masai Mara Kenya. Hot water bottle and laundry service

Accessories

  • Linen Bandana Square from Etsy
  • Linen Bandana from Gap (Canada)
  • Long socks for evenings
  • Ankle socks (an option for the daytime)
  • Swimwear x 2 (assuming your safari lodge has a swimming pool)
  • Sports bra for ladies on the bumpy safari roads
  • Ladies’ Super Soft Pyjamas from LAKE (my favourite brand)
  • Men’s Soft Pyjama Set from LAKE

What to Wear on Safari Evenings in Kenya

One of the more difficult things to know when picking clothes to bring to Kenya is what to wear in the evening on safari. It is unclear what clothing is appropriate for dinners at camp and what temperature it will be at night.

Unless explicitly stated, you are not required to dress up formally for dinner on safari. Therefore, you can keep it relatively casual, just like your daytime safari clothes, but it is more important for the clothing to be long-sleeved. Mosquitos are most prevalent between dusk and dawn on safari in Kenya. You should also wear insect repellent.

What to wear in evenings on safari in Kenya.jpeg

You should bring a few clean, long-sleeved shirts for dinner. Plus, you should pack some trousers or leggings for the evening. You may want a fresh pair of clothes to change into after your post-game drive shower.

Leave the skirts and dresses at home unless you are wearing tights underneath, but even so – I would not bring these types of outfits with you.

If you are visiting several camps on safari, you do not need to bring a new outfit for each night. Truthfully, it is usually dark in the camp at night, so it is hard to see what anyone is wearing.

Evening meals are often by candlelight or dimmed lanterns.

When picking evening clothes for safari, consider a range of temperatures. Some safari locations are warm, even at night – such as Samburu. Whereas Masai Mara feels chillier in the evening.

So, bring some lighter layers, such as a linen shirt or a blouse, and a heavier long-sleeved option, such as a thicker long-sleeve t-shirt with your safari jacket on top.

Safari colours are not essential for evening meals, but I kept all my evening clothes in the same colour scheme just in case I wanted to pair them with my other clothes.

Read about the schedule of a day on safari in Kenya here.

What Bag to Take on Safari?

What bag to bring on safari in Kenya? Beige clothes, longchamp bag and converse shoes

There are several items you will want to bring with you on safari while on game drives, and one of the easiest ways to do this is by packing a separate day bag.

There is plenty of space in the safari vehicle to place your bag at your feet or on a chair beside you. Therefore, you can bring various items in addition to a bag; such as jackets, blankets, and other extra layers.

I suggest bringing a packable bag for your daytime safari items that can be easily folded up in your luggage.

A suitable bag would be a canvas tote bag that folds up small, such as this Canvas bag from ARKET . Although this bag does not zip up, your belongings should not get too dusty.

Alternatively, bring another packable bag from your home. For example, I had an old Longchamp Le Pliage bag that worked perfectly for carrying my items on safari and packing it in my suitcase after use. 

Of course, you can always bring a backpack if preferred. The backpack does not need to be particularly technical. This Osprey Dry Stuff Backpack is waterproof and packable, which means it can easily be packed inside your safari luggage. 

You could also use the travel backpack you used to carry all your hand luggage items. However, you do not need to bring the entire contents of the bag with you, nor do you want to leave all those items loose in your tent. 

Things to Carry for Safari

FUJIFILM X-T30 II camera

While on game drives, you may need a couple of items. Some safari vehicles will provide these already, whereas others will not. Therefore, it is best to check with your lodge beforehand.

  • Camera – if you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, make sure you bring it for the game drives. The quality is much superior to using the camera on your phone. I recommend Fujifilm X-T30 II
  • Camera lens – I highly recommend renting a lens to be able to capture the animals no matter what distance you are from them
  • Extra camera equipment – you may want to pack spare camera batteries or memory cards to ensure you never get caught unprepared on game drives
  • Binoculars – if you are not taking photos on a camera with a good zoom, binoculars are the next best thing. Buy binoculars here
  • Sun cream – you will need to apply sunscreen a few hours into your game drive as the sun gets hotter. My favourite non-oily suncreams include Ultra Violette Extreme Screen or La Roche Posay Anthelios
  • Hand sanitiser – use this to clean up before eating a bush breakfast or after using the bush toilet
  • Bandana or scarf – it can be very dusty on a game drive (particularly in dry parks, such as Samburu); therefore, something to cover your nose and mouth is essential
  • Hat – it will keep your head warm in the chilly mornings and cover your face from the sun (wide-brim hats are best)
  • Insect repellent – from dusk to dawn, there is a higher likelihood of getting mosquito bites
  • Tissues – the chilly morning air can make your nose run
  • Sunglasses – it is useful to have sunglasses when it is bright, although it is harder to spot the wildlife and take photos while wearing them

Read this safari packing list article to learn more about what to bring on your safari trip, including what duffle bag to pack your clothes in.

What to Wear in Nairobi Kenya?

What to wear in Nairobi - Giraffe Manor - wearing green jumpsuit and beige jacket

It may be colder in Nairobi than in your other safari locations, particularly in the morning or at night. So, ensure you have clothes that you can layer up to start and end your day.

Most Nairobi hotels have a pool, so remember to pack some swimwear and clothes to wear to walk to the pool.

A pair of comfortable trainers work best in Nairobi. Stick to closed-toed shoes for the entire Kenya trip, except for sandals or flip-flops for the camp, by the pool, or at a beach.

In Nairobi, you are out of your safe cocoon of the safari lifestyle; therefore, you need to keep your wits about you. Try to blend in with the crowd and avoid heavy slogans or bright, eye-catching outfits.

Depending on what you are doing in Nairobi, your clothes that can get dusty or dirty. Some of the best things to do in Nairobi involve getting a little mucky, such as visiting the baby elephants at Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and a tour of Nairobi National Park .

You may have limited luggage space, so it is ideal to wear your “safari-style clothes” in Nairobi, with a couple of additions. For example, a pair of jeans for evening meals may be appreciated.

This article will help you choose whether to book meet and greet services at Nairobi airport .

FAQ – What to Wear in Kenya on Safari?

What to wear on a safari in kenya.

Your Kenya safari clothes should be casual and in neutral colours like khaki, green, brown, beige, or grey to blend into the savannah.

It is best to dress in layers, as the mornings and evenings can be cool, and the daytime can be warm. Closed-toed comfortable footwear is essential.

How to dress in Nairobi?

While in Nairobi, stick to neutral colours to blend in, and avoid flashy or eye-catching outfits. If you plan to visit any wildlife reserves, you may get dusty or dirty, so avoid wearing white in case it stains.

You may need an extra layer for the early mornings and evenings when it is cooler.

What colours not to wear in Kenya on safari?

Your safari wear should not include the following colours white, black, navy, and other bright colours (e.g. red and blue). These colours may distract the animals or attract biting tsetse flies.

It is also illegal to wear camouflage clothing in Kenya.

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Samantha is the founder of Continuous Roamer, a travel website focusing on adventure and the outdoors.

With a love for adventure and the great outdoors, Samantha shares tips on skiing, luxury safaris, camping, and finding hidden food gems in different destinations.

With over 20 years of skiing experience across Europe, North America, and beyond, she's also an expert in luxury accommodations and experiences.

Whether camping in Canada or dining in a Michelin-starred restaurant, Samantha always seeks out the best experiences and accommodations, and her blog highlights the best of them for her readers.

Samantha is currently living in London.

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serengeti national park

Kenya in July

Kenya in July : One of the greatest months to travel to Kenya to see wildlife is in July, which falls during the country’s dry season. With clear sky and no rain, this is an ideal time to observe wildlife against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro and the African grassland. Nairobi is a little bit colder, which is perfect for shopping and touring galleries and museums, but Kenya’s stunning coastline has sweltering weather in July. Since July is peak tourist season, the only drawback of visiting Kenya in July is that big throngs of people will be there.

Kenya Weather in July.

Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, is the only capital in the world with a national park, with the park being located on its outskirts. July is a great month in the nation for weather, with sunny skies and mild temperatures all around. Now that the rainy season is ended, the weather is sunny but not overly hot around the nation. While there is some rain in mountainous areas like Mount Kenya and Hell’s Gate National Park during this time of year, the remainder of the nation has dry spells. This is the ideal time of year for safari excursions or leisurely strolls through Nairobi’s vibrant markets.

Nairobi experiences 22° to 25°C daytime highs and 12°C nighttime lows this month. Coastal areas see milder temperatures, with averages of 27° to 31°C. Even as the temperature rises, a refreshing sea breeze sweeps off the coast, providing the perfect weather for relaxing on the beach and swimming in the warm Indian Ocean waters.

Why visit Kenya in July.

Millions of wildebeests traverse the perilous border between Tanzania and Kenya’s Masai Mara each year as part of their migration.

In July, Mount Kenya at sunrise as seen from Shipton Camp in Kenya.

The second-highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kenya, is a dormant volcano that shapes a stunning and constantly shifting landscape.

The weather in Kenya in July is ideal for a variety of activities, including beachcombing, urban exploration, and safaris. But keep in mind that since this month coincides with the busiest travel season, you should anticipate heavy traffic and considerably increased expenses.

The great wildebeest migration : When millions of wildebeest arrive at the Mara River and congregate on the banks in a jostling mass, eager to cross its swirling waters, you will witness one of nature’s most breathtaking displays. Tens of thousands of tourists visit Maasai Mara every year merely to witness this amazing display, as the animals nervously push one other towards the water.

Climb Mount Kenya : With its jagged, glacier-clad peaks towering over the plains of Meru and the East African Rift Valley, Mount Kenya offers one of the most striking landscapes in all of East Africa. Mount Kenya, the second-highest peak in Africa, is nearly 17,000 feet tall and was formerly an active volcano. It is home to a wide variety of animals, birds, and vegetation.

Birding in Lake Nakuru : On the floor of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Nakuru National Park trip cab turn into a birdwatcher’s paradise. The centrepiece of the park is Lake Nakuru, one of the numerous soda lakes found in the Rift Valley. It is shallow and alkaline, drawing a wide variety of bird species, most notably lesser and greater flamingos, who visit the lake in such huge numbers that the water occasionally turns pink!

5 Days Amboseli and Nakuru safari

Celebrate Eid al-Adha : At the end of July, Muslims in Kenya observe Eid al-Adha, also known as Eid Qurban, as the “festival of sacrifice.” This celebration includes food, prayer, and chanting to honor the sacrifice Ibrahim made on behalf of God.

Where to go and what to do.

The flocks of lesser and greater flamingos travel to Lake Nakuru in such vast numbers causing the water to turn pink.

Kenya is home to several breathtaking landscapes, such as the Great Rift Valley and its network of crystalline lakes brimming with hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of birds, as well as the gorgeous Maasai Mara National Reserve and its Maasai tribesmen. Take a hot air balloon safari over the golden grasslands of Maasai Mara National Park during the pleasant July weather to witness one of the greatest sights in the world: the wildebeest migration . If you’re into hiking and walking, you may take a walking safari with knowledgeable guides into the untamed wilderness of Tsavo National Park. This wildlife area is home to Masai giraffes, Cape buffaloes, leopards, and the renowned Tsavo red elephants.

Discovering the bleak, wide wilderness of Samburu and the craggy hills and bizarre rock formations of the enthralling Amboseli region home to hundreds of enormous, big-tusked elephants are two other fantastic Kenyan adventures to undertake in August. Alternatively, you may don your climbing boots and make your way to the summit of the formidable Mount Kenya .

Kenya’s lake system on the Great Rift Valley bottom offers an amazing natural experience, with crystalline lakes, towering volcanic outcrops, and wind-swept, grassy plains that make for some of the most breathtaking scenery on Earth. Large and far-flung, this is a must if you enjoy exploring new places. For a distinct experience, head towards the country’s hypnotic, seductive, and breathtakingly gorgeous northern shore. This untamed safari region is surrounded by a sparkling ribbon of sand, the ivory-colored shoreline is fringed with swaying coconut palms, and luxurious resorts are tucked away among mangrove trees, making this a tropical paradise.

Kenya is home to magnificent landforms that arouse strong desires for Africa. Each of this country’s vast regions offers a distinctive and varied experience that is sure to make a lasting impression. Are you unsure of how long it will take to visit the best of Kenya? With the help of our knowledgeable local travel advisors, create a customized trip plan to Kenya that ensures you don’t miss a thing. Otherwise, for some inspiration, have a look at our best excursions throughout Kenya in July.

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Best of kenya safari: discover wildlife, culture, and adventure 2024.

safari in kenya july

Introduction to Kenya

Welcome to the heart of wild Africa, where breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife encounters await you. Kenya, a land of untamed beauty and rich cultural heritage, is a top safari destination that promises the adventure of a lifetime. From majestic lions roaming the savannah to vibrant Maasai tribes preserving ancient traditions, Kenya offers an unforgettable blend of nature, culture, and excitement. Get ready to embark on the perfect safari trip as we explore the best of Kenya Safari , culture, and adventures in 2024!

The Top National Parks for Safari Adventures

Kenya is a dream destination for safari enthusiasts, boasting an array of national parks that offer unparalleled wildlife experiences. One of the most iconic parks is Maasai Mara, famous for its vast savannahs and annual wildebeest migration. Here, you can witness the Big Five in their natural habitat. Amboseli National Park is renowned for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop to herds of elephants roaming peacefully across the plains. Samburu National Reserve provides a unique safari experience with species not easily found elsewhere such as reticulated giraffes and Grevy’s zebras. For bird lovers, Lake Nakuru National Park offers spectacular flamingo-filled lakeshores and abundant birdlife. Tsavo East and West National Parks are perfect for those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures with diverse landscapes ranging from arid plains to volcanic hills. Exploring these national parks guarantees an unforgettable safari adventure filled with awe-inspiring encounters with Africa’s incredible wildlife.

Cultural Experiences in Kenya

Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Kenyan culture during your safari adventure. Experience the rich traditions and customs of diverse ethnic groups that call this beautiful country home. Visit Maasai villages and witness their traditional dances, intricate beadwork, and unique way of life. Engage with Samburu communities to learn about their nomadic lifestyle and close connection to nature. Explore bustling markets in cities like Nairobi or Mombasa, where you can sample local delicacies, buy handcrafted souvenirs, and interact with friendly locals. Delve into Kenya’s colonial history by visiting historical sites such as Fort Jesus in Mombasa or Karen Blixen’s former home in Nairobi. Participate in cultural ceremonies like the Kikuyu wedding rituals or Turkana bull jumping ceremonies for a truly authentic experience. Discover the beauty of Swahili architecture along the coast and learn about the blend of Arab, Indian, and African influences that shape it. From traditional music performances to art galleries showcasing contemporary African artwork, Kenya offers a myriad of cultural experiences waiting to be explored.

Adventure Activities in Kenya

Embark on thrilling adventures in Kenya beyond traditional safaris. Strap on your hiking boots and conquer Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak. Feel the rush as you whitewater raft down the Tana River, navigating exhilarating rapids amidst stunning landscapes. For those seeking a unique experience, soar above the Masai Mara in a hot air balloon at sunrise. Witness wildlife from a different perspective as the savannah awakens below you. Dive into the turquoise waters of Diani Beach for some world-class snorkeling and diving opportunities. Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, including colorful fish and majestic sea turtles. Experience adrenaline-pumping moments by ziplining through the treetops of Kereita Forest or quad biking across rugged terrains in Hell’s Gate National Park. The options for adventure seekers are endless in Kenya!

Best Time to Visit Kenya for Safari

Kenya’s best time for a safari adventure depends on what you want to experience. The dry seasons from June to October and January to February are ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. During these months, the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot the Big Five – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos. If witnessing the Great Migration in Masai Mara is your goal, plan your visit between July and September when millions of wildebeest and zebras cross from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices while still enjoying good wildlife sightings, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of November to December or March to May. Keep in mind that Kenya’s climate varies across regions due to its diverse landscapes. Coastal areas like Mombasa have different weather patterns compared to inland national parks like Amboseli or Tsavo East. Researching specific destinations before booking can help ensure an unforgettable safari experience.

Tips for Planning a Safari Trip to Kenya

safari in kenya july

Planning a safari trip to Kenya can be an exciting and unforgettable experience. It is essential to research the best time of year to visit, considering factors like weather and wildlife migrations. Make sure to book your accommodations and safaris in advance as they tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. When packing for your trip, remember essentials like lightweight clothing, sturdy walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars for wildlife spotting. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture those breathtaking moments on safari. Consider hiring a local guide who knows the area well and can enhance your safari experience with their knowledge of the wildlife and culture. It’s also important to respect nature and wildlife by following park rules and regulations at all times. Immerse yourself in the local culture by trying traditional foods, interacting with locals, and participating in cultural activities offered in various regions of Kenya. This will not only enrich your safari experience but also support local communities.

Conclusion: Why Kenya Should Be Your Next Safari Destination

Kenya truly offers the perfect safari trip, combining wildlife, culture, and adventure seamlessly. With its diverse landscapes and incredible biodiversity, Kenya’s national parks provide unforgettable safari experiences. From witnessing the Great Migration in Maasai Mara to encountering endangered species in Samburu National Reserve, every moment is filled with awe-inspiring encounters. Immersing yourself in Kenyan culture adds a unique dimension to your safari experience. Interacting with local communities like the Maasai people or learning about traditional crafts and dances enriches your understanding of this vibrant country. For thrill-seekers, Kenya offers a plethora of adrenaline-pumping activities such as hot air balloon safaris over vast plains, hiking majestic mountains like Mount Kenya or Mount Longonot, and diving into crystal-clear waters along the coast for some underwater exploration. The best time to visit Kenya for a safari largely depends on what you want to see and do. Understanding the seasons can help you plan your trip effectively – whether it’s witnessing the wildebeest migration from July to September or enjoying quieter parks during the shoulder seasons. When planning your dream safari trip to Kenya, consider factors like accommodation options ranging from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites, transportation within the country which may include domestic flights or road transfers between parks, and packing essentials such as lightweight clothing for warm days and layers for cool evenings on game drives. In conclusion: Why wait any longer? Embark on an unforgettable journey through one of Africa’s most iconic destinations – where wildlife roams freely against breathtaking backdrops, cultures blend harmoniously creating a colorful tapestry of traditions, and adventures beckon at every turn. Make Kenya your next safari destination; it’s an experience that will stay etched in your memory forever.

safari in kenya july

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  2. 9-Days Best Kenya Family Wildlife Safari from Nairobi by Gracepatt

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  3. Our Top 10 Kenya Safari Tours & Vacations

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  6. 8 Top Animals to See on a Kenya Safari

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  1. Safari Kenya #tsavo #traveltheworld #elephant

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  4. Safari- Masai Mara National Reserve

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COMMENTS

  1. Kenya in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

    Kenya Wildlife Safari - 10 Days: If you'd rather someone else planned all of the logistics, this spectacular 10-day nature safari is an excellent itinerary for a July vacation. It includes visits to some of the most stunning parks in Kenya and encounters with its most popular wildlife.

  2. Best Time To Visit Kenya (Month by Month)

    Fair. Poor. The best months for visiting Kenya (and the best time for wildlife viewing) are during the Dry season from June to October. The wildebeest migration usually reaches the Masai Mara in July or August and remains in Kenya throughout September. It starts moving back to Tanzania's Serengeti National Park around October.

  3. Best Time to Visit Kenya for Safari, Migration + Worst Time

    Late July through October is the sweet spot for a dry safari in Kenya's coastal regions. Seasonal rains begin in late April and continue through early July, with brief downpours in late October and early November. The hottest months are typically March and April.

  4. Kenya in July

    Kenya in July. Nairobi and the central highlands are warm by day, cool at night, and receive practically no rain. Mombasa and the coast are hot by day, relatively cool at night, and receive a fair amount of rain. The Rift Valley and western interior are hot by day, cool at night, and receive moderate to high rainfall.

  5. Kenya Safari

    Overall, July to September is the best time to visit Kenya during the country's dry season, which also coincides with the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra. Kenya safari cost. Kenya is a premier safari destination in Africa, thus incurring the more expensive costs associated with this.

  6. The Best Time to Go on Safari in Kenya

    Kenya in July. Many people consider July to be the best time for a safari in Kenya if you're looking for an unforgettable summer holiday. The weather is warm and dry without getting overly hot, and the proximity to the rainy season means the landscape will still be quite lush, providing a very picturesque setting for game drives.

  7. Kenya in July: Safari Underneath Clear Weather

    Kenya in July: Safari Underneath Clear Weather. July is part of the dry season in Kenya and one of the best times to visit the country for game-viewing. The rains have gone and the skies are cloud-free, making wildlife-watching against the backdrop of the African savannah and Mount Kilimanjaro unrivaled. Kenya's beautiful coastline enjoys ...

  8. When to visit Kenya

    SEP. OCT. NOV. DEC. January is generally a warm and dry month in Kenya, with hot temperatures and low humidity. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing, making it a popular time to visit the country. The average temperature in Kenya during January is around 25°C (77°F), with average highs of 29°C (84°F) and lows of ...

  9. Kenya Safari

    4-Day Masai Mara / Lake Nakuru Budget Shared Safari. $475 to $705 pp (USD) Kenya: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Tented Camp & Hotel. You Visit: Nairobi (Start), Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Nairobi (End) Bienvenido Kenya Tours and Safaris. 4.2 /5 - 74 Reviews. Best Seller.

  10. Kenya In July

    Kenya In July Weather. If you're planning a safari trip to Kenya in July, you can expect some pretty great weather. Temperatures will be warm during the day, with highs in the low to mid-30s Celsius (mid- to upper-80s Fahrenheit). At night, things will cool off a bit, but you'll still be comfortable sleeping.

  11. The best time to visit Kenya for safari

    Temperatures are idyllic. On the other hand, the worst month for safari in Kenya is probably April: the height of the wet season, with many camps closed and roads washed away. Overall best months: June & September-October. High season: July-September & Christmas-February. Low season: March-April & November.

  12. Kenya in July: Everything You Need to Know

    In July, Kenya experiences dry and favorable weather conditions. The country enjoys clear skies and warm temperatures, making it an ideal time for various activities. While some mountainous regions like Hell's Gate National Park and Mount Kenya may see occasional rain, most of the country remains dry. Nairobi, the capital city, experiences ...

  13. Kenya Safari

    July is the best time to visit Kenya, as it's Great Migration time! The first herds of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelles enter the Maasai Mara for the thrilling river crossings. It's dry season, so the weather in Kenya in July is cooler and drier overall, and it is a superb month for safari everywhere. Properties tend to book up at record speed ...

  14. Best Safari in Kenya

    The resort was completely redone in July so everything is brand new. Daily meals take place during specific times and there are set menus, but the property was totally willing to make adjustments according to your personal preferences. ... And definitely learned a lot of useful advice for a Kenya safari as well as styling ideas for when I do go ...

  15. Safari in Kenya

    By Stuart Butler. Meru, the country's forgotten national park, is easily one of my favourite of all Kenya's safari parks. This was once one of the most popular parks in the country but during the 1980s, when Kenya was going through a rough political patch and instability overwhelmed some parts of the country, Meru turned into a hotbed of ...

  16. 10 Best Kenya Safari Tours: Our Top Picks

    Experience a safari vacation in Kenya with our best Kenya safari tours & trips for couples, solo travellers, families and luxury vacations. Int Toll Free Numbers 1-866-438-8677. ... Mara Intrepids Camp is situated in the best position for the Migration's dramatic river crossings from about July to October, but the Mara is still a fantastic ...

  17. Kenya in July

    In July, Mount Kenya at sunrise as seen from Shipton Camp in Kenya. The second-highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kenya, is a dormant volcano that shapes a stunning and constantly shifting landscape. The weather in Kenya in July is ideal for a variety of activities, including beachcombing, urban exploration, and safaris.

  18. African Safari In July 2022 [Best Locations & Experiences]

    An African safari in July 2022 sees the peak season heat up as the weather cools, but we have some off-the-beaten-track gems for you to explore. Find out more... Enquire Now +27 21 100 3274. TRIP FINDER; ... Rocky and rugged, northern Kenya - one of Kenya's best safari regions - has a completely different feel to the lush, green plains of ...

  19. Where To Go on an African Safari in July

    The wildlife viewing in the whole region is exceptional at this time. Botswana Tours. You can't go wrong with a safari in July, it's an excellent time for wildlife viewing in East and southern Africa. Although wet throughout the year, Uganda and Rwanda see less rain in July and conditions are perfect for gorilla trekking.

  20. How to Stay Safe on Safari in Kenya: 6 Essential Tips

    1. The dangers of safari life. Here are some basic rules. Keep your voice down - animals scare easily and you wouldn't want to miss a pride of lion because you are chatting too loudly. Always stay in the van, truck or 4WD - Africa is not a zoo and its animals will eat you.

  21. Safari in July

    Kenya. July and August sees the Great Migration (hundreds of thousands of wildebeast and zebra) entering the Maasai Mara from Tanzania, creating one of the world's most incredible wildlife spectacles. ... A great-value Kenya safari for anyone with a sense of adventure, this 9-night safari revolves around Laikipia and the Maasai Mara - both ...

  22. What To Wear In Kenya Safari? 12 + Essential Items

    Rain Jacket x 1. You may need to bring a raincoat to wear in Nairobi, if you will be visiting there during your safari. The jacket should fold up small so it can fit in your luggage. Some safari lodges will provide a raincoat, so it may not be necessary to bring.

  23. Kenya in July

    In July, Mount Kenya at sunrise as seen from Shipton Camp in Kenya. The second-highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kenya, is a dormant volcano that shapes a stunning and constantly shifting landscape. The weather in Kenya in July is ideal for a variety of activities, including beachcombing, urban exploration, and safaris.

  24. Best of Kenya Safari: Discover Wildlife, Culture, and Adventure 2024

    Kenya's best time for a safari adventure depends on what you want to experience. The dry seasons from June to October and January to February are ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. During these months, the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot the Big Five - lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards ...