Best time to visit Kenya

The beginning of January right the way through to the end of February signals the warmest period to visit Kenya with higher concentrations of animals congregating in popular tourist destinations, such as the Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Amboseli. This is a great time of year for divers to go to Kenya as visibility in the Indian Ocean is much clearer thanks to the lack of surface run off.

Early March still has some blue skies although animals will already be in shorter supply due to the start of the rainy season which runs right through April and into May. Flooded roads, an abundance of vegetation and generally wet weather at this time makes for poor wildlife watching and slippery summits to Mount Kenya however, if you're looking to bag a bargain then this is certainly a time of year worth bearing in mind.

June sees the start of Kenya's dry season with waterholes and river banks teeming with animals and although prices will go up during July and August, being able to observe the wildebeest migration crossing the Masai Mara is well-worth a few extra Shillings.

With the school vacations out of the way in September you'll find fewer visiting families and October through to November is a great time to go to Kenya if you're not tied to the kids.

As Andrew Appleyard, from our supplier Exodus, mentions in his recommendations below, December can be an excellent time to visit Kenya with lush green scenery making an ideal habitat for migratory birds and new born animals.

In general, mosquitoes are much more prevalent during Kenya's rainy season and heading to higher ground Laikipia or the Aberdares, for example, is best advice if you want to avoid irritating bites.