Kenya fascinates travellers with its incredible variety of landscapes – from the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya to the endless savannahs of the Masai Mara and the beautiful beaches of the Indian Ocean.
However, this geographical diversity also brings with it different climate zones, which play a role in travel planning. As operators of Sandai Farm in the Kenyan highlands between Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Mountains, we know how important it is to choose the right time to travel to Kenya.
Travel time for Kenya:
Understanding Kenya's climate zones
Kenya lies directly on the equator, which might initially suggest a uniformly tropical climate. In fact, however, the varying altitudes and geographical conditions create a fascinating mosaic of different climate zones. This diversity makes Kenya a year-round destination, with certain times of year being particularly suitable for different activities and regions.
The Highlands - Where Sandai Farm is located
The Kenyan highlands, where our Sandai Farm is located, extend over areas above 1,900 metres above sea level. This region is characterised by a temperate, subtropical climate, which is significantly more pleasant than the often oppressive heat of the lowlands.
Characteristics of the highland climate:
- Average temperatures between 10°C and 26°C
- Two distinct rainy seasons: April to June and October to November
- Cool nights, especially in July and August
- Rainfall mainly occurs in the afternoon and evening.
- Humidity around 65 percent
The high altitude ensures that temperatures remain bearable even during the hottest months. In the region around Nairobi, which is also part of the highlands, temperatures range between 11°C and 21°C in July and between 13°C and 26°C in February.
The coastal region – a tropical paradise on the Indian Ocean
Kenya’s 480-kilometre coastline on the Indian Ocean offers a classic tropical climate with warm temperatures and high humidity all year round. This region includes popular destinations such as Mombasa, Diani Beach, Malindi and Watamu.
Characteristics of the coastal climate:
- Temperatures between 22°C and 32°C all year round
- High humidity of around 75 percent
- Main rainy season from April to June
- Driest months: January and February
- Warmest period: October to May
- Refreshing trade winds, especially from June to September
The water temperatures of the Indian Ocean remain constant between 26°C and 29°C, providing ideal conditions for water sports and relaxation all year round. The coral reefs off the coast also create a unique microclimate and offer protection from strong waves.
The savannah regions – home to the great animal migrations
The vast savannah landscapes of Kenya, including the world-famous Masai Mara, are located at medium altitudes between 1,000 and 2,000 metres. These regions are characterised by a semi-arid climate with distinct dry and rainy seasons.
Characteristics of the savannah climate:
- Large temperature fluctuations between day and night
- Two rainy seasons: March to May (long rainy season) and October to December (short rainy season)
- Dry seasons: June to September and January to March
- Average temperatures between 20°C and 30°C
- Low humidity during dry seasons
The best times to travel for different activities
Safari experiences: June to October and December to March
For safari enthusiasts, there are two main seasons, each with its own advantages:
Safari experiences: June to October and December to March
The long dry season (June to October):
This period is considered the classic safari season. The vegetation is sparser, which makes wildlife viewing much easier. Waterholes become magnets for wild animals, and the famous Great Migration reaches its peak in the Masai Mara between July and September. The cooler temperatures make long game drives more pleasant, and the lower humidity ensures clear visibility.
The short dry season (December to March):
This period is particularly interesting for birdwatchers, as many migratory birds from Europe spend the winter in Kenya. Temperatures are warmer, but the dry conditions mean that wildlife viewing remains excellent. Many animals give birth during this period, offering additional opportunities for observation.
Beach holidays and water sports: December to March and June to October
The Kenyan coast offers warm temperatures all year round, but certain times are particularly suitable for different activities:
December to March:
These months offer the best conditions for relaxing on the beach, snorkelling and diving. Underwater visibility is optimal and the likelihood of rain showers is minimal. This is also the best time to observe whale sharks, which appear off the coast between November and March.
June to October:
During these months, stronger trade winds blow, creating ideal conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing. The slightly cooler temperatures make beach activities more pleasant, and many visitors find the lower humidity more comfortable.
Special recommendation for surfers:
May and June offer the best surfing conditions with waves up to two metres high and 150 metres long. Spots such as Manda Island, Malindi and Watamu Bay are particularly attractive at this time of year.
Mountaineering and trekking: December to March and July to October
For adventurers who want to explore Mount Kenya or other mountains in the region, the dry seasons are ideal:
December to March:
December to March:
Warmer temperatures and clear visibility make this the ideal time for mountain tours. The likelihood of precipitation is low, and the trails are in better condition.
July to October:
Cooler temperatures can make trekking more pleasant, especially at higher altitudes. The clear, dry air offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
Regional characteristics and microclimates
The area around Mount Kenya
The region around Mount Kenya, where our Sandai Farm is located, has some unique climatic characteristics. The mountain itself acts as Kenya’s ‘water tower’ and has a significant influence on the local weather. The eastern side of the mountain tends to be drier than the western side, and the high altitude ensures significantly cooler temperatures than in the surrounding lowlands.
Special features for our guests:
- Often foggy in the morning, mostly sunny at midday
- Temperatures can drop quickly in the evening.
- The rainy season can be more intense than in other highland regions.
- Ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as horse riding and hiking from June to October and December to March
The Aberdares
The Aberdare Mountains, located west of Mount Kenya, are known for their cooler and wetter climate. This region receives more rainfall than other parts of the highlands and is therefore lush and green.
Monthly overview: When is the best time for what?
January–March: The warm dry season
Ideal for: Safaris, beach holidays, mountain climbing, family trips
Temperatures: Highlands 13-26°C, coast 22-32°C
Special features: Best time for whale shark watching on the coast, many young animals in the national parks
April–June: The heavy rainy season
Ideal for: bird watching, affordable prices, lush landscapes
Please note: difficult road conditions, some camps closed
Advantages: fewer tourists, spectacular landscapes, lower prices
July–October: The cool dry season
Ideal for: Safaris (great animal migration), mountain climbing, all outdoor activities
Temperatures: Highlands 11-25°C, coast 22-30°C
Special features: Peak season for Masai Mara, best wildlife viewing
November: Short rainy season
Ideal for: Transition period with few tourists
Please note: Unpredictable weather, short but intense rain showers
December: Start of the high season
Ideal for: All activities, family trips during the holidays
Special features: High demand, early booking recommended
Recommendations for our guests at Sandai Farm
As operators of a farm in the Kenyan highlands, we can offer the following specific recommendations based on decades of experience:
The best time for your stay with us
June to October:
These months offer ideal conditions for all activities at Sandai Farm. The days are sunny and warm, the nights pleasantly cool. Perfect for horse riding, hiking, archery and relaxing in nature. The clear air offers spectacular views of Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Mountains.
Dezember bis März:
December to March:
Also an excellent time with warmer temperatures. Ideal for families with children, as the conditions are very pleasant. The longer days offer more time for outdoor activities.
What makes our location special
Sandai Farm is located in a privileged position between two of Kenya’s most important mountain ranges. This location creates a unique microclimate:
- In the morning: Often mystical wisps of fog that slowly dissipate
- At midday: Mostly bright sunshine with pleasant temperatures
- Evenings: Spectacular sunsets with views of the mountains
- At night: Clear starry sky and fresh, clean air
Activities depending on the season
Dry season (June-October, December-March):
- Extensive horse riding tours through the countryside
- Hikes to nearby waterfalls
- Outdoor archery
- Bird watching (over 200 species in the region)
- Picnics in nature
- Miniature golf courses
- Stargazing
Rainy season (April-May, November):Regenzeit (April-Mai, November):
- Cosy hours by the fireplace
- Indoor activities and games
- Table tennis (covered)
- Darts (covered)
- Short walks between rain showers
- Observing the changing landscape
- Relaxation and reading
Kenya is always worth a visit
Kenya offers unique experiences all year round thanks to its diverse climate zones. While the dry seasons from June to October and December to March are considered ideal, each season has its own special features and charms. The choice of the best time to travel ultimately depends on your personal preferences, planned activities and desired region.
For guests who want to experience authentic Kenya – far away from the tourist crowds, but with all the amenities of a lovingly run farm – we offer unforgettable experiences all year round. Our highland climate ensures pleasant temperatures even in the warmer months, and the variety of activities on offer makes every stay a special experience.
No matter when you decide to travel to Kenya, this fascinating country will enchant you with its natural beauty, rich wildlife and the warmth of its people.
We look forward to welcoming you to Sandai Farm and showing you why Kenya is a magical destination at any time of year.
