When to Go to Mount Kenya National Park

When to Go to Mount Kenya National Park

By Susan Veldman

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Mount Kenya National Park offers a diverse climate that varies with altitude, making it essential to plan your visit based on the weather and the wildlife you wish to see.

Dry Seasons (January to March and July to October)

• Climate: Clear skies, sunny days, and cooler nights.
• Activities: Ideal for climbing, trekking, and wildlife viewing.
• Wildlife: Best time to see elephants, buffaloes, and various bird species in lower altitudes.

Wet Seasons (April to June and November to December)

• Climate: Higher rainfall, lush vegetation, and misty mornings.
• Activities: Scenic photography, birdwatching, and enjoying the verdant landscapes.
• Wildlife: Abundant birdlife, including migratory species. Large mammals are harder to spot but the scenery is spectacular.

Temperature and Rainfall

• Dry Season Temperature: Ranges from 12°C to 20°C in lower altitudes, cooler in higher elevations, providing comfortable trekking conditions.
• Dry Season Rainfall: Minimal rainfall, ensuring dry and manageable trails, perfect for outdoor activities.
• Wet Season Temperature: Similar temperature range of 12°C to 20°C, but with cooler, misty mornings due to increased humidity.
• Wet Season Rainfall: Significant rainfall with annual averages ranging from 900mm in lower slopes to over 2,000mm in higher elevations, resulting in lush, green landscapes and thriving flora.

Month-by-Month Guide

January 

In January you can expect clear skies and warm weather. This makes this period ideal for trekking and climbing. The dry conditions make it easier to spot wildlife such as elephants and buffaloes, which gather around the remaining water sources. The cooler nights offer a refreshing end to adventurous days.

February 

Similar to January, February is characterized by dry and warm weather. This month is perfect for challenging hikes, with trails in excellent condition. Photographers can capture stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife, while cultural tours provide insights into local traditions.

March

The dry season continues in March with clear skies and moderate temperatures. Wildlife viewing is excellent, as animals are still congregating around water sources. The park’s diverse ecosystems, from forests to alpine zones, offer a variety of trekking experiences.

April

April marks the beginning of the wet season, bringing higher rainfall and lush vegetation. This is a great time for scenic photography and birdwatching, with many migratory species arriving. The increased rainfall rejuvenates the park’s flora, creating a vibrant and green landscape.

May 

Rainfall continues into May, creating misty mornings and abundant birdlife. While large mammals may be harder to spot, the park’s scenery is at its most lush and beautiful. Nature walks and guided birdwatching tours offer intimate encounters with Mount Kenya’s diverse ecosystems.

June 

June sees the tail end of the wet season, with continued rainfall and verdant landscapes. This month is ideal for those who enjoy the tranquility of nature walks and the opportunity to capture the park’s serene beauty through photography.

July 

July marks the start of the dry season, characterized by cooler temperatures and clear skies. This is an excellent time for climbing and trekking, as the trails are dry and the weather is favorable for outdoor activities. Wildlife viewing is at its peak, with elephants, buffaloes, and hyenas frequently sighted.

August 

August continues the dry season with optimal conditions for trekking and wildlife viewing. The park’s higher altitudes offer spectacular views, and the cooler temperatures make for comfortable trekking. Unique flora such as the giant lobelia and groundsels thrive during this time.

September 

September offers dry and cool weather, perfect for high-altitude trekking. The trails are in excellent shape, providing opportunities to reach the summit of Point Lenana. This month also allows for stunning photography of the park’s diverse landscapes.

October 

The short rainy season returns in October, bringing misty mornings and lush landscapes. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding, with migratory birds arriving. The rainfall rejuvenates the vegetation, creating picturesque settings for photography and nature walks.

November 

November continues the short rainy season, with vibrant and green landscapes. This is a great time to explore the park’s lower slopes and forests, where dense bamboo and rainforests come alive with wildlife. Guided walks provide intimate encounters with the park’s stunning, verdant plantlife. 

December 

December offers lush, green scenery and abundant birdlife as the short rainy season concludes. The park’s lakes and rivers are particularly beautiful, making it an ideal time for serene and reflective moments in nature. While large mammals might be less visible, the vibrant landscapes provide stunning views.

Best Months to Visit

For the ultimate Mount Kenya experience, consider visiting during the dry seasons of January, July, or September.

The clear skies and warm weather of January are perfect for trekking and wildlife viewing, with elephants and buffaloes easily spotted near water sources. Cooler nights provide a refreshing end to your adventures.

July marks the start of the dry season, offering cooler temperatures and favorable conditions for climbing and trekking. Wildlife viewing peaks during this month, with frequent sightings of elephants, buffaloes, and hyenas.

In September, enjoy excellent weather for high-altitude trekking, with dry and cool conditions perfect for reaching the summit of Point Lenana. The trails are in great shape, and the diverse landscapes offer stunning photography opportunities.

Plan your visit during these months for optimal trekking conditions, incredible wildlife sightings, and breathtaking scenic beauty.