We Give The Best for Kenya Safaris and Tours

At Go Kenya Safaris, we design unforgettable tours and safaris that match the very best of Kenya’s seasons. Whether you’re visiting in the high season for the Great Migration, exploring the lush landscapes of the green season, enjoying the peaceful low season, or seeking classic wildlife encounters in the dry season, we have a Kenya safari holiday package that’s perfect for you..

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Best Time to go on Safari to Kenya

When planning your Kenya safari holiday, understanding the best months to travel ensures you experience the most rewarding wildlife encounters in the country’s top destinations. Kenya offers year-round safari opportunities, but the timing of your visit can shape the quality and type of game viewing you’ll enjoy. From January to March, the dry season is in full swing, making this one of the best times to go on safari in Kenya. The short grass and scarce water sources in parks like the Masai Mara, Amboseli National Park, Tsavo East, Tsavo West, and Samburu National Reserve make it easier to spot wildlife, especially the Big Five. Amboseli offers particularly stunning elephant sightings against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, while Samburu is a hotspot for rare species like the Grevy’s zebra and Somali ostrich. April to June marks the long rains, transforming the landscapes of Meru National Park, Aberdare National Park, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, and Lake Nakuru National Park into lush green havens. While some lodges may close due to heavy rains, this is still one of the best times for photographers and birdwatchers to enjoy a more intimate wildlife safari in Kenya without the crowds. Migratory birds are abundant in places like Lake Naivasha, and predator sightings remain strong in the Mara despite the rains.

July to October is peak season for a reason — it’s when the Great Wildebeest Migration takes over the Masai Mara. Millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle cross from the Serengeti into Kenya, drawing predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. This is also an excellent time for safaris in Laikipia Plateau and Nairobi National Park, where the dry weather makes game viewing exceptional. Finally, November to mid-December brings the short rains, offering a mix of green landscapes and fewer tourists. Parks like Shaba National Reserve and Hell’s Gate National Park shine during this time, giving travelers the chance to explore Kenya’s hidden gems. Whether you want dramatic predator action, vibrant birdlife, or serene game drives, there’s always a best destination to go on safari in Kenya every month of the year.

When to See the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Masai Mara

For many travelers planning a Kenya safari from Nairobi, the Great Wildebeest Migration is the ultimate wildlife spectacle and one of the main reasons to go Kenya safari. Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, move in a circular route between Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve in search of fresh grazing. This breathtaking natural event is considered one of the best destinations to go on safari experiences in the world. The migration typically enters Kenya in late July and stays until October, with the most dramatic moments occurring during the famous Mara River crossings. Here, wildebeest plunge into crocodile-infested waters while predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs wait along the banks. Prime viewing spots include the Mara Triangle, Mus mara Conservancy, and the Talek and Sand Rivers, where crossings can happen daily during peak months. If you want to maximize your chances of witnessing the migration, plan your Kenya safari tours between August and September. Lodges and camps in areas like Mara North Conservancy, Olare Motorogi Conservancy, and Naboisho Conservancy offer front-row seats to the action while providing a more exclusive safari experience compared to the main reserve. Outside the Mara, the migration’s presence influences predator activity in other parts of Kenya. Laikipia Plateau becomes a predator hotspot as cheetahs and wild dogs take advantage of prey movement, while Amboseli National Park offers dramatic elephant encounters during the same season. Even after the herds leave in late October, the Mara remains one of the best places for game viewing, with resident wildlife such as giraffes, buffalos, and big cats ensuring unforgettable game drives year-round. Witnessing the Great Migration is more than just a safari — it’s an iconic wildlife safari in Kenya moment that stays with you forever.

Best Places to Go Safaris In Kenya

Best Time for Big Five Sightings in Kenya’s National Parks

Seeing the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino — is at the top of most travelers’ wish lists when they go Kenya safari. The good news is that Kenya offers excellent opportunities to see these iconic animals year-round, but the best destination to go on safari for Big Five sightings often depends on the time of year and the park you choose. The dry season (January–March and July–October) is considered the prime time for Big Five game drives. In Masai Mara National Reserve, lions and leopards thrive during the migration months of August and September, while buffalo herds roam in large numbers across the savannah. In Amboseli National Park, herds of elephants — some of the largest tuskers in Africa — move across the open plains with Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop. For rhino sightings, Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia is unmatched, home to the last two northern white rhinos on the planet as well as thriving populations of black and southern white rhinos.

Lake Nakuru National Park is also a rhino stronghold, offering both black and white rhino sightings along with abundant birdlife. Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks provide thrilling encounters with elephants, lions, and buffalo, often in less crowded settings compared to the Mara. The green season (April–June and November) is equally rewarding for Big Five enthusiasts, especially in Samburu National Reserve, where leopards are frequently spotted along the Ewaso Nyiro River. Meru National Park is another hidden gem during this time, offering excellent rhino sightings and fewer safari vehicles. Whether you’re tracking lions in the Mara, photographing elephants in Amboseli, or spotting elusive leopards in Samburu, Kenya remains one of the best countries in the world for Big Five wildlife safari experiences. By choosing the right season and park, your Kenya safari holiday can guarantee unforgettable encounters with Africa’s most celebrated animals.

Best Time to Visit Amboseli, Tsavo, Samburu & Other Parks

Kenya is home to a diverse range of safari destinations, each with its own seasonal highlights. Knowing the best time to go on safari in Kenya for specific parks like Amboseli National Park, Tsavo East National Park, Tsavo West National Park, and Samburu National Reserve ensures your Kenya safari holiday matches your wildlife and photography goals. Amboseli National Park is famous for its enormous elephant herds and unbeatable views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The dry season (January–March and July–October) offers the clearest skies, making it the perfect time for iconic wildlife photography. This is when elephants, lions, cheetahs, and plains game gather around the swamps, providing excellent game-viewing opportunities.

Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks, collectively Kenya’s largest protected area, are best visited in the dry season for easier wildlife spotting. Tsavo East’s vast red-earth plains are ideal for photographing large herds of red-dusted elephants, while Tsavo West’s rugged landscapes and Mzima Springs attract hippos, crocodiles, and an array of birdlife. In the green season (April–June, November), the parks are lush and less crowded, making them perfect for travelers who value scenery and solitude. Samburu National Reserve, located in northern Kenya, offers a completely different safari experience. The dry season is the best time to see the “Samburu Special Five” — Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx. Wildlife congregates along the Ewaso Nyiro River, providing excellent viewing and photography opportunities. The green season brings vibrant landscapes and is great for birdwatching, although some roads may be more challenging to navigate. Other parks worth including in your go Kenya safari itinerary are Meru National Park (known for its rhinos and beautiful scenery), Aberdare National Park (ideal for forest species and unique lodges like The Ark), and Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia (home to the last two northern white rhinos).

Best Time to Avoid Crowds in Kenya’s National Parks

If you want your Kenya safari holiday to be as peaceful and intimate as possible, timing your trip to avoid peak tourist numbers can greatly enhance your experience. While Kenya is one of the best destinations to go on safari year-round, certain months offer more privacy at wildlife sightings, quieter lodges, and a slower, more immersive pace. The green season — April to June and November to mid-December — is the ideal time to enjoy Kenya’s national parks with fewer visitors. During these months, the landscapes are lush from seasonal rains, and wildlife is still abundant in destinations like Masai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park, and Samburu National Reserve. Resident lions, elephants, giraffes, and buffalo remain active, and birdlife flourishes as migratory species arrive. In the Masai Mara, you can spend longer at sightings without the pressure of multiple safari vehicles, making it a dream for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts who prefer a less crowded environment.

Lesser-visited parks like Meru National Park, Shaba National Reserve, Aberdare National Park, and Tsavo East National Park are particularly rewarding during low season. These destinations provide incredible wildlife encounters with minimal tourist presence, giving you a more exclusive wildlife safari in Kenya. At Ol Pejeta Conservancy, you can track rhinos and visit the last two northern white rhinos in a calm, unhurried atmosphere. Even in high season (July–October and January–March), you can avoid crowds by visiting private conservancies such as Mara North, Olare Motorogi, Naboisho, and Laikipia Plateau. These areas have strict limits on vehicle numbers, ensuring an intimate game-viewing experience while still offering prime wildlife action. By choosing the right season and location, you can go Kenya safari without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist times — enjoying uninterrupted views, peaceful sundowners, and the true tranquility of Kenya’s wild landscapes

Top Wildlife Photography Seasons in Kenya

For travelers passionate about capturing Africa’s beauty through a lens, knowing the best time to go on safari in Kenya for photography is essential. Kenya offers year-round opportunities for wildlife photography, but certain seasons and destinations deliver optimal lighting, dramatic scenery, and concentrated wildlife action for photographers of all levels. The dry season (January–March and July–October) is perfect for crisp, clear shots. Parks like the Masai Mara National Reserve and Amboseli National Park offer breathtaking backdrops — think lions in golden morning light, elephants silhouetted against Mount Kilimanjaro, and cheetahs scanning the savannah for prey. The open landscapes of Tsavo East and Laikipia Plateau also allow for unobstructed shots of herds and predators, especially during early morning and late afternoon game drives.

The Great Wildebeest Migration (July–October) in the Mara is a photographer’s dream, providing opportunities to capture dramatic river crossings, predator-prey chases, and the sheer spectacle of thousands of animals in motion. Staying in conservancies like Olare Motorogi or Mara North gives photographers more exclusive access and fewer vehicles in the frame. The green season (April–June and November) transforms parks like Samburu National Reserve, Meru National Park, and Lake Nakuru National Park into vibrant, colorful landscapes. This is the best time to photograph migratory birds, lush vegetation, and newborn animals. Cloud cover during the green season often creates soft, even light — ideal for wildlife portraits and landscape photography. For aquatic and bird photography, Lake Naivasha, Lake Bogoria, and Lake Baringo are spectacular, especially when flamingos, pelicans, and African fish eagles gather in large numbers. Photographers can also capture cultural elements, such as Maasai warriors in traditional attire, to add a human storytelling angle to their Kenya safari holiday. Whether you’re aiming for award-winning shots of the Big Five or intimate portraits of rare species, Kenya’s diverse parks, changing seasons, and iconic backdrops make it one of the best destinations to go on safari for photographers.

Best Time for Luxury Lodge and Camp Availability in Kenya

For travelers planning a Kenya safari holiday with an emphasis on luxury, timing your trip is crucial — not just for wildlife sightings but also for securing the finest accommodations. Kenya is home to some of Africa’s most exclusive safari lodges and camps, many of which are located in prime wildlife areas. Knowing the best time to go on safari in Kenya for luxury lodge availability can make the difference between getting your dream booking and settling for second best. The high season (July–October and January–March) coincides with the dry season, when demand for Kenya safari packages peaks. During these months, world-famous destinations like Masai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park, and Ol Pejeta Conservancy host travelers from around the globe. Luxury camps such as those in Mara North Conservancy, Olare Motorogi Conservancy, and Naboisho Conservancy often book out a year in advance during the Great Wildebeest Migration (August–September).

If your dream is to watch the migration from a private deck or sip sundowners while elephants roam nearby, early booking is essential. In Amboseli, lodges offering views of Mount Kilimanjaro — such as Tortilis Camp — are in high demand, especially in January and February when skies are clear. Similarly, Samburu National Reserve’s high-end tented camps fill quickly during the dry months due to excellent predator sightings and rare wildlife species. The green season (April–June and November) is a hidden gem for luxury travelers. With fewer visitors, premium lodges in Meru National Park, Laikipia Plateau, Lake Nakuru National Park, and Tsavo West offer attractive packages, often including private vehicles, exclusive bush dinners, and complimentary spa treatments. The lush landscapes and dramatic skies during this season make for spectacular photography, and the intimacy of low guest numbers enhances the exclusivity of the experience. Whether you want a migration-front tent in the Mara, a Kilimanjaro-view suite in Amboseli, or a secluded riverside villa in Samburu, planning your go Kenya Safaris from Nairobi around luxury lodge availability ensures you experience the best destination to go on safari in complete comfort and style.

High Season Safari Package – The Great Migration Experience (July–October)

Destinations: Masai Mara National Reserve, Mara North Conservancy, Amboseli National Park, Lake Naivasha
Highlights: Witness the dramatic Mara River crossings during the Great Wildebeest Migration, photograph elephants against Mount Kilimanjaro, enjoy boat rides on Lake Naivasha, and explore exclusive conservancies with fewer crowds.
Special Features: Luxury tented camps, private game drives, bush dinners, hot air balloon safari over the Mara.

Low Season Safari Package – Serenity & Exclusivity (April–June, November)

Destinations: Meru National Park, Samburu National Reserve, Aberdare National Park, Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Highlights: Calving season for herbivores, vibrant birdlife, lush green landscapes, and intimate wildlife encounters without tourist crowds. Perfect for photographers and nature lovers.
Special Features: Discounted luxury lodge rates, guided birdwatching tours, rhino tracking at Ol Pejeta, cultural visits to Samburu villages.

Green Season Photography Safari (April–June, November)

Destinations: Lake Nakuru National Park, Tsavo West National Park, Laikipia Plateau, Shaba National Reserve
Highlights: Spectacular floral blooms, flamingos at Lake Nakuru, dramatic cloudscapes, and predator sightings in scenic landscapes. Excellent for capturing Kenya’s colors and contrasts.
Special Features: Professional photography guides, private safari vehicles for uninterrupted shooting, scenic sundowners.

Frequently Asked Question

What is the best time of year to go on a safari in Kenya or Tanzania for wildlife viewing?

The ideal time for a safari in Kenya and Tanzania is during the dry seasons: from late June to October and from December to early March. These months offer prime wildlife viewing conditions as animals gather around water sources and vegetation is sparse. The Great Migration in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara typically occurs from July to October, making it a bucket-list event for many travelers.

Do I need a visa to travel to multiple countries in East Africa (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania)?

Yes, you need a visa for each country. However, you can apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa, which allows multiple entries between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for up to 90 days. Tanzania requires a separate visa, which can be obtained online or on arrival for most nationalities.

Are vaccinations or health certificates required before traveling to East African countries?

Yes. A Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory for travelers entering from countries with risk of Yellow Fever transmission. Additionally, vaccinations for Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and routine immunizations are recommended. Malaria prophylaxis is also strongly advised due to the high-risk zones.

How do I book a multi-country itinerary combining Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda?

Work with a reputable tour operator that specializes in East African safaris. They will customize your itinerary, arrange all ground and air transfers, manage border crossings, and ensure seamless logistics between game drives, gorilla treks, and cultural excursions across all destinations.

Is it safe to travel in national parks and game reserves in East Africa?

Yes, national parks and reserves are generally safe for tourists. They are patrolled by rangers and guides who are trained for wildlife encounters. However, it’s essential to follow your guide’s instructions, stay inside the vehicle during game drives, and never wander off alone in the wild.

What’s the difference between a road safari and a fly-in safari, and which is better for honeymooners?

A road safari involves driving between parks and lodges, offering more scenic interaction with local culture but taking longer travel time. A fly-in safari uses small aircrafts to shorten travel time and provide stunning aerial views. Fly-in safaris are ideal for honeymooners looking for privacy, luxury, and time efficiency.

Can I do gorilla trekking and the Great Migration safari in the same trip?

Absolutely. Many tourists combine gorilla trekking in Rwanda or Uganda with the Great Migration in Kenya or Tanzania. The East Africa Tourist Visa simplifies border crossings. This combination offers a perfect balance of adventure, wildlife immersion, and unforgettable memories.

What types of accommodation are available on safari — camps, lodges, or hotels — and what are the differences?

Safari accommodations range from luxury tented camps and eco-lodges to boutique hotels and mobile camps. Tented camps offer an immersive bush experience with all the comforts of a hotel, while lodges provide solid structure and may include additional amenities like pools or spas. Mobile camps follow the migration, offering front-row seats to wildlife action

Are dietary restrictions or preferences catered for in safari lodges and camps?

Yes, most lodges and camps cater to dietary restrictions including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, and kosher options. It is important to communicate your dietary needs in advance when booking to ensure personalized meal preparation.

Can I travel with children on safari, and are there any age restrictions for game drives or activities?

Yes, family safaris are popular, but age restrictions may apply. Some lodges require a minimum age (often 6-12 years) for game drives or walking safaris. Child-friendly lodges offer kids’ programs, family rooms, and guides trained in hosting young guests.

What kind of travel insurance is recommended for safari and gorilla trekking vacations?

Comprehensive travel insurance is essential. Look for a plan that covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, evacuation, lost luggage, and adventure activities such as hiking and wildlife safaris. Gorilla trekking often requires additional coverage due to high-altitude hiking.

Are private safaris better than group safaris for couples or families?

Private safaris offer tailored experiences, flexible schedules, and privacy, making them ideal for couples or families. Group safaris are more budget-friendly and social but operate on fixed itineraries. For honeymoons or milestone vacations, private safaris provide added exclusivity.

How do I handle tipping etiquette for guides, drivers, porters, and hotel staff in East Africa?

Tipping is customary and appreciated. For safari guides, tip $10-$20 per person per day. For porters, $1-$2 per bag is standard. In lodges, consider $5-$10 per day for housekeeping and dining staff. A communal tip box is often provided for staff distribution.

What level of physical fitness is required for activities like gorilla trekking or hiking Mount Kilimanjaro

Gorilla trekking requires moderate to high fitness due to steep, muddy terrain and variable altitudes. Mount Kilimanjaro trekking demands excellent fitness and acclimatization. Preparing with cardio and strength training months in advance is strongly recommended.

Are the beach extensions in Zanzibar or Diani Beach suitable for honeymooners or luxury travelers?

Yes. Zanzibar and Diani Beach offer idyllic beachfront resorts, romantic sunset cruises, and private villas. They are perfect for honeymooners, luxury seekers, and those wishing to unwind after a safari. Many packages include spa treatments, candlelit dinners, and ocean excursions.

Can I use credit cards at camps and lodges, or is cash preferred — and which currency is best?

Many upscale lodges accept credit cards (Visa/Mastercard), but rural camps may not. US Dollars are widely accepted, followed by local currency (Kenyan Shilling, Tanzanian Shilling, Rwandan Franc). Always carry some small bills for tips and local purchases.

What kind of photography equipment or gear is recommended for safari and gorilla experiences?

Bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens (200-400mm) for wildlife shots. A bean bag for stability, extra batteries, and memory cards are essential. For gorilla treks, pack waterproof bags, lens protection, and avoid flash photography.

Are there cultural norms or dress codes I should be aware of when visiting rural communities or religious sites?

Yes. Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees when visiting villages, churches, or mosques. Always ask permission before photographing people. Respect local customs, avoid public displays of affection, and greet elders respectfully.

How far in advance should I book safari packages, especially during peak migration or holiday seasons?

Book at least 1-6 months in advance, especially for peak travel seasons (June-October, December). Lodges near migration routes fill quickly. Early booking ensures availability, better rates, and seamless itinerary planning for flights and permits (e.g., gorilla trekking).

Can I see the Big Five on a single trip to Kenya or Tanzania?

Yes, both Kenya and Tanzania are ideal destinations for spotting the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—on a single safari. Popular national parks such as the Masai Mara (Kenya) and Serengeti (Tanzania) are home to all five species, often seen in a few days of well-planned game drives. For rhino sightings, conservancies like Ol Pejeta or Ngorongoro Crater offer high success rates. Booking a multi-day itinerary increases your chances significantly.