Dry seasons (June-October and January-February) offer optimal wildlife viewing with animals congregating around water sources, clear skies for photography, and the Great Migration spectacle, though with premium pricing.
November and March-May bring fewer tourists and lower rates, with short rains creating lush landscapes great for birdwatching and photography, though some remote roads may become challenging.
Long rains (April-May) bring significant precipitation and occasional flooding, but reward intrepid travelers with dramatically lower prices, newborn animals, and luxuriant green landscapes without crowds.
English and Swahili are Kenya's official languages, with English widely understood in tourism sectors; learning simple Swahili phrases enhances cultural connections and typically brings warm appreciation from locals.
Kenya experiences diverse climates across its varied landscapes. The country generally follows two rainy seasons: the long rains (March-May) and short rains (October-November). Coastal regions maintain tropical warmth year-round with higher humidity, while Nairobi and central highlands enjoy moderate temperatures averaging 15-25°C (59-77°F). Northern regions are significantly hotter and drier. Mountain areas including Mount Kenya feature cooler conditions with freezing temperatures at higher elevations. Seasonal variations affect wildlife viewing, with dry seasons concentrating animals around water sources and wet seasons bringing lush landscapes and newborn animals.