Known for being home to some of the rarest species of wild animals, Kenya has emerged as a popular destination for adventure lovers. The country thrives on tourism and has made it easier than ever for visitors to undertake exciting game watching safaris.
With that said, wildlife safaris and experiences are not the only things that make Kenya special. The country is also home to some of the most picturesque beaches of Africa. Off the coast of Kenya, there is also great potential for some quality whale watching. Kenya in August will keep you all excited and surprised, as it has so much to offer its tourists.
In order to experience the best of both aspects of Kenya, the best month to visit the country is in August. Wondering why? Read on to find out:
Kenya Weather In August
August is the second coldest month in Kenya. This means, if you had mental images of the scorching sun over the savannas, you can stop worrying. In August, the temperatures in Kenya are relatively mild. In fact, nights in Kenya can be quite chilly and you’ll thank yourself for packing a few layers of warm clothing.
Apart from being generally cold, the month of August is also one of the driest months in Kenya. Apart from the Rift Valley area, the rest of the country experiences relatively low rainfall. With that said, the weather isn’t the only reason you must visit Kenya in August. Here are a few more:
Reasons To Visit Kenya In August
August lies bang in the middle of peak tourist season in Kenya, and for good reason. The amazing dry weather gives way to perfect conditions for safaris and some quality time at the beach. August is also the time when some interesting and ecologically important things are happening in Kenya:
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1. Peak Of Wildebeest Migration
The great Wildebeest Migration starts in the latter part of July and by August, it is in full swing. This makes August the best time to embark on game viewing safaris in the Masai Mara region. Watching countless Wildebeest and Zebras crossing the rivers Mara and Talek is a favorite activity of tourists in Kenya, and August is one of the best times to enjoy it.
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2. Whale Watching Season
August is also a superb time to spot some marine life off the coast of Kenya. In fact, it is the best time to watch some majestic humpback whales breach the surface of the water and display their might. The experience is often described as surreal and is a must have on your itinerary to Kenya.
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3. Maralal Camel Derby
Kenya’s International Camel Derby is open to amateur and professional camel riders, and is an exciting way to spend a couple of days in the country. The derby attracts large crowds and hosts an excellent display of cultural offerings that demonstrate the diversity of the resident communities of the region. Scheduled for 24th August, the derby is accompanied by a bicycle race at the same venue.
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Places To Visit In Kenya In August
Now that we’ve covered why you must visit Kenya in August, let’s look at the top destinations you must have on your itinerary:
1. Nairobi
The capital city of Kenya is the gateway to a range of unique experiences that one cannot find in any other part of the world. The city is a great contrast to the surrounding areas, as it is the hub of Metropolitan activity in Kenya.
With that said, Nairobi is also home to some fantastic National Parks that are extremely popular during August. Some of the most interesting attractions in and around Nairobi include the Giraffe Centre, and the Nairobi National Park.
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2. Masai Mara
As mentioned earlier, The Great Wildebeest Migration is at its peak during the month of August. The Wildebeest and Zebras cross over from Tanzania and settle in the great savannas of Masai Mara. Apart from observing the wild animals in their natural habitat, or perhaps crossing a river, if you’re lucky, you can be a witness to a live game of hunt!
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3. Watamu
Watamu has gained quite a reputation for itself in the recent past. The coastal town of Kenya has emerged as a hot destination for some amazing whale watching. In fact, the region is now frequented by a larger variety of species of whales than ever before.
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4. Mombasa
Home to some of the best wildlife sanctuaries in the country, Mombasa boasts a superb combination of wildlife safaris and picturesque beaches. THanks to these, the city is one of the most visited cities in the country, and has plenty on offer for the visitors. From game watching safaris to watersports along the shore of Kenya, Mombasa offers a collection of bucket list activities to its guests during the month of August.
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Activities To Try In Kenya In August
Finally, here’s a list of things you can do in Kenya in August:
1. Watch The Circle Of Life In Action
As wildebeest and zebras migrate to the great savannah planes of Masai Mara, it is time for the Kenyan lions to begin the hunt. Although an extremely rare sight, lucky visitors get to witness the hunt first hand. The experience is nothing short of thrilling, as you watch the circle of life unfold right in front of your eyes.
August presents your best chance to bare witness to this bucket list event as it is the time when most of the wildebeest have crossed over from Tanzania and settled in the plains of Masai Mara.
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2. Enjoy Watersports On The Kenyan Coast
The country of Kenya is home to some fantastic beaches. The most noteworthy of them being the whitesand Diani Beach located in Mombasa. The beach doesn’t just boast a surreal coastline, but also offers a range of thrilling water sports ranging from jet ski dolphin spotting tours to SCUBA diving, kite surfing, snorkelling, and the banana boat ride, among many others.
August is the best time for a beach holiday in Kenya. Moreover, since most of the crowds flock to the wildlife safari areas, there’s a good chance that you can find some solitude at one of the beaches in Mombasa.
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3. Spend Time With Rescue Giraffes
This one of a kind experience is partly what got Kenya on the world tourism map. The Giraffe Centre, located approximately 20 kilometers outside Nairobi, was established to protect the endangered indegenious species of Giraffe in Kenya. The conservation park now offer tourists a chance to interact and feed the giraffes that roam the premises of the centre freely.
The Giraffe Centre is also home to a number of warthogs that also move freely across the premises of the centre.
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Kenya may not be an offbeat destination, but the experiences it offers are worthwhile of your attention. Whether you’re a fan of the Lion King, a wildlife enthusiast, a thrill seeker, or simply prefer a laid back holiday in the lap of luxury, Kenya in August has something for you in store. Thanks to the lovely weather and other reasons we discussed in this article, August is one of the best times to visit Kenya.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Kenya In August
Have you started planning your August visit to Kenya? Read our FAQs to find the answers to your most pressing questions:
Is the wildlife safari safe in Kenya?
Yes. The wildlife safari in Kenya is absolutely safe. You will be accompanied by an experienced local safari leader, along with a number of other tourists.
Is taking a road trip safe in Kenya?
While cities in Kenya are relatively safe, other areas are prone to violent crimes. Despite knowing that, if you do take a road trip in Kenya, it is strongly recommended to keep your valuables hidden in the car, keep your car doors locked at all times, and to avoid driving at night.
Is camping safe in Kenya?
Yes, as long as you are setting up camp in designated campsites, camping is Kenya is safe.
How do I get around within Kenya?
Kenya is home to about 100,000 minibuses, or matatus, as they are locally known. These are the lifeline of the country, and perhaps the best way to get around between cities in the country.
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