Does Kenya have a rainy season?
Yes. Kenya has two rainy seasons - the heaviest rainfall season (called Masika) usually occurs from mid-March to May, and the shorter rainfall season (called vuli) occurs in November and December. January and February are mostly dry, but it can rain sometimes.
Rainfall patterns in Kenya´s varied terrain exhibit significant geographical disparities. The coastal area, encompassing Mombasa, experiences more consistent rainfall, averaging up to 1,200 mm annually. This is due to its close proximity to the ocean, often leading to the long rains continuing into June.
The central highlands, including Nairobi and the Rift Valley, experience an annual rainfall of 800–1,500 mm. Intense rainfall during the long rains frequently transforms dirt roads into muddy conditions and causes rivers to swell.
Western Kenya, near Lake Victoria, receives significantly more rainfall, averaging 1,500–2,000 mm annually. Rain is possible throughout the year, but is most prevalent in April. The arid northern and northeastern regions, such as around Marsabit, contrast sharply, receiving only 200–500 mm of precipitation annually. This precipitation is primarily concentrated during the short rains, and prolonged periods of drought are common outside of these periods.
The Masai Mara, in the southwestern region, exhibits the typical Kenyan rainfall pattern. The long rains, occurring from March to May, produce abundant vegetation. The short rains, falling from October to December, revitalize the plains after the migratory season, which takes place during the dry months of June to September.
In summary, Kenya´s rainy seasons are characterized by the long rains (March–May) and the short rains (October–December), with dry periods marked by June–September and January–February. These seasonal patterns vary geographically, with wetter conditions prevailing near the coast and in the west, and drier conditions in the north. These fluctuations in rainfall significantly affect travel plans. Wet months offer lush landscapes but can present challenging conditions for travel, whereas dry periods generally offer optimal wildlife viewing opportunities. Understanding these seasonal cycles is crucial for planning a Kenyan trip, whether one seeks wildlife safaris or coastal relaxation.
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