When is the best time of year to visit Kenya?
Kenya is a great destination year round. The main tourist season is December to March, since the hot, dry weather at this time of year is generally considered to be the most pleasant. It's also when Kenya's bird life flocks to the Rift Valley lakes in the greatest numbers. June to September could be called the 'shoulder season' as the weather is still dry. The rains hit from March to May (and to a lesser extent from October to December). During these months things are much quieter - places tend to have rooms available and prices may decrease. The rains generally don't affect travelers' ability to get around because it usually rains in the evening while the days are dry.
When does the famous animal migration take place?
The annual migration of wildlife between Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Maasai Mara National Park in Kenya takes place between July and October. The migration of almost two million wildebeest, zebras and other species is nature's greatest spectacle on earth.
What type of animals will I see in Kenya?
Kenya's wilderness areas are famous worldwide. Kenya represents far more than you would ever expect, protecting and showcasing a broad range of habitats and species. Some of the animals that you may see may include the fabled “Big Five”: Elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard and rhino. Other examples include: zebra, wildebeest, cheetah, giraffe, hippo, crocodile, monkey, gazelle, impala, and bird life. Take a beach safari on the coral-reef protect coast and you can also view tropical fish, dolphins, sea turtles and more.
If you have a particular wildlife or birding interest, look for a Safari operator who can offer you specialized guiding and services to suit your needs.
What kind of clothes should I pack for my trip to Kenya?
Both temperatures and climate vary drastically from region to region and even throughout a single day. You should be prepared for hot, cold, wet and dusty conditions. Ultimately your packing should be dictated by the activities you are planning to undertake.
If you are traveling extensively throughout the country make sure that you bring suitable luggage. Suitcases and bags should be able to withstand plenty of handling.
If you are traveling by domestic/chartered flights within Kenya, remember that there are luggage weight restrictions, particularly on smaller aircraft. Check in advance with your Charter airline or Safari/Tour operator.
• A small daypack is ideal for carrying cameras, travel documents and basic everyday items.
• Casual, lightweight, and comfortable clothing is usually the best. For walking safaris or game viewing on foot clothing should be of neutral color, and white, bright or vividly patterned clothing avoided.
• Strong footwear is advisable if you are planning to do any walking. For serious climbers and trekkers a good pair of hiking boots should be brought with you.
• Remember that the tropical/Equatorial sun is strong and burns quickly. Wide brimmed hats are preferable to baseball caps for sun protection.
• Both sunglasses and a good quality sunscreen (rated SPF15 or higher) should be used.
• In some areas, mostly coastal, it is considered inappropriate for women (and in some cases men) to wear shorts or short-sleeved shirts. It is always best to seek local advice.
• For some up-market lodges and nights out in Nairobi you may wish to bring some more formal evening wear.
• Other recommended items for packing: bug spray, sunscreen, binoculars for game viewing, A small daypack is ideal for carrying cameras, travel documents and basic everyday items; camera & extra batteries, plenty of film, flashlight (for tented camps when the generator goes out at night).
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