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East Africa is a year-round destination, offering special encounters with gorillas in Rwanda, witnessing the annual Great Migration across Tanzania or relaxing on the pristine beaches of Kenya.
This comprehensive guide will help you understand the region’s climate and seasonal pattern, giving you insight into the best times to visit East Africa, detailing high and low seasons, dry and wet seasons, and a month-by-month breakdown of what you can expect.
Here’s what you need to know to start planning your trip.
High vs. Low Season
East Africa’s high season, from June to October, offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities, thanks to clear skies and minimal rainfall.
During this period, animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. The Great Migration’s dramatic river crossings in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara occur during these months, drawing large numbers of tourists.
The high season is ideal for safaris, but be prepared for higher prices and more crowded parks.
Conversely, the low season, from March to May, is marked by the long rains. While travel can be more challenging due to muddy roads and thicker vegetation, this period offers lush, green landscapes and fewer tourists.
Birdwatching is exceptional, with migratory species arriving in droves. The low season also provides better value for money, with reduced rates on accommodations and tours.
Dry vs. Wet Season
The dry seasons, from January to February and June to October, are characterized by sunny days and cool nights, providing excellent conditions for wildlife viewing.
Animals gather around dwindling water sources, making game drives particularly rewarding. The dry season is also ideal for activities such as gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda, as trails are less slippery.
The wet seasons, from March to May (long rains) and November to December (short rains), transform the landscapes into vibrant green vistas. While wildlife may be more dispersed, the scenery is stunning, and birdwatching is at its peak.
The rains bring new life, with many animals giving birth, leading to plenty of predator-prey interactions. Despite the occasional downpours, the wet seasons offer a more tranquil and immersive experience.
Month-to-Month Guide
January falls within the short dry season, making it an excellent time for wildlife viewing across East Africa. With average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C and minimal rainfall, it’s perfect for game drives in the Serengeti, Maasai Mara, and Ngorongoro Crater. The Great Migration starts in the Southern Serengeti, where wildebeest calving attracts numerous predators. Birdwatching in Lake Nakuru is also superb. This month offers clear skies and vibrant landscapes, providing ideal conditions for photography.
February sees the start of the short dry season, offering comfortable weather and excellent game viewing. Average temperatures hover between 20°C and 30°C with clear skies. This is an ideal time for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Volcanoes National Park. In the Serengeti, the calving season persists, providing thrilling predator sightings. February is also a good month for visiting Zanzibar for a beach holiday, combining wildlife with relaxation.
March marks the beginning of the long rains towards the latter part of the month. Early March remains favourable for safaris with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The Great Migration moves towards the western Serengeti. Cultural tours and visiting local communities offer enriching experiences during this time. Despite the rains, wildlife is still abundant, and birdwatching is exceptional as migratory birds arrive.
April is characterised by long rains, leading to lush landscapes and challenging travel conditions. Temperatures average between 20°C and 28°C. This is a great time for photography and birdwatching as migratory birds arrive. Wildlife viewing can be more challenging due to dispersed animals, but the vibrant scenery is rewarding. The rains also rejuvenate the landscape, making it a beautiful time to visit parks like Tarangire and Selous.
May brings the long rains, creating vibrant landscapes with fewer tourists. Average temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C. Birdwatching and exploring less crowded parks are recommended. The Serengeti and Tarangire National Park offer beautiful scenery and excellent photographic opportunities despite the rains. May is also a good time for visiting Uganda’s parks for a more serene experience.
June ushers in the long dry season with cooler temperatures and clear skies, ranging from 15°C to 26°C. This is the beginning of the Great Migration’s journey towards the Grumeti River in the Serengeti. Game drives, gorilla trekking, and exploring the Great Rift Valley are highly recommended. The dry season also makes it easier to spot wildlife as they gather around water sources.
July is part of the long dry season, providing prime conditions for safaris. Temperatures average between 15°C and 26°C. The Great Migration’s river crossings at the Grumeti and Mara Rivers are highlights. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda remains excellent, with abundant wildlife sightings in major parks. July is also a good time for visiting Amboseli for stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
August weather hits the peak of the dry season, offering abundant wildlife sightings. Temperatures range from 15°C to 26°C. This is the best time for game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and cultural tours. The Maasai Mara showcases spectacular river crossings, while elephants, lions, and leopards are prevalent across parks. August also provides clear skies and perfect conditions for photographers.
September sees pleasant weather and exceptional wildlife viewing continue. Average temperatures range from 15°C to 28°C. The Great Migration remains in the Maasai Mara. This is also a great time for birdwatching and gorilla trekking, with fewer crowds in the parks. The clear skies and pleasant temperatures make it an ideal month for exploring East Africa’s national parks.
October sees the start of the short rains towards the end of the month, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. Early October is excellent for game viewing, birdwatching, and exploring cultural sites. The Great Migration begins its journey back to the Serengeti, offering exciting wildlife sightings. October’s rains rejuvenate the landscape, making it a picturesque time for photography.
November is characterised by short rains, bringing lush landscapes and fewer tourists. Temperatures average between 18°C and 28°C. This month is perfect for photography, birdwatching, and enjoying the tranquil parks. The Serengeti and Lake Manyara offer vibrant scenery and excellent bird watching opportunities. The rains create a dramatic contrast in the landscape, ideal for those seeking solitude and beauty.
December marks the end of the short rains and the start of the short dry season. Average temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. This is an ideal time for game drives, beach holidays in Zanzibar, and cultural tours. The wildebeest calving season begins in the Serengeti, attracting predators and offering thrilling wildlife encounters. The festive season also adds a special charm to East Africa’s destinations.
East Africa’s dry seasons from June to October and January to February are ideal for exceptional wildlife viewing, particularly the Great Migration and prime game drives,
During these months, animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot, and clear skies provide perfect conditions for photography.
For those who appreciate lush, green landscapes, vibrant birdlife, and fewer tourists, the wet seasons from March to May and November to December offer unique advantages, with stunning scenery and abundant bird-watching opportunities. The low season also means more tranquil parks and better value for money.
Whenever you decide to visit, East Africa promises unforgettable adventures and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Start planning your East Africa bucket-list adventure today.
