Why to travel at this time
The Mara isn’t so busy during these months, in part due to the absence of the wildebeest herds. There’s still lots of wildlife to spot though, including big cats, giraffe, elephant and, if you’re lucky, black rhino. This is also when many animals give birth to their young. Migratory birds are in the region during these months, too. The clear skies and flowers that spring up after the short rains of November and December make for good photographic conditions.
Climate
January and February are mostly dry with the long rains beginning in March. It is the hottest time of year with an average high of 28°C/82°F in February. The average minimum is 13°C/55°F from January to March.
Why travel at this time
The quietest months of the year are April and May. If you don’t mind a bit of rain (usually, roads are only affected in May), this is your chance to avoid the crowds. It’s also when many camps offer low-season rates.
Climate
April and May are when the long rains fall. By June, conditions are fairly dry. The average high is 26°C/79°F in April and 25°C/77°F in May and June. The average minimum is 14°C/57°F to 12°C/54°F.
Why travel at this time
July and August are the busiest months of the year with dry conditions. It’s the best time to see the famous river crossings, as the Great Migration herds arrive in the Mara.
Climate
July is the driest month and relatively cool, with a maximum average temperature of 25°C/77°F and a low of 11°C/52°F. There are a few more showers in August and September, when the average high hits 26°C/79°F with lows of 12°C/54°F.
Why travel at this time
There are still some river crossings in October, as the final herds make their way back to the Serengeti. Migratory birds arrive in November and the short rains revive the dried-out grasslands. There are also fewer visitors in the Mara at this time.
Climate
The short rains fall in November and December. October and November have a maximum average temperature of 27°C/81°F. The weather cools off a little, with an average low of 12°C/54°F in October and 13°C/55°F in November and December.
