Visiting Kenya In January : Everything To Know Before You Go : Because of the dry weather, January is considered high season in Kenya, making it an excellent time to see amazing wildlife in the Maasai Mara National Reserve or take in breathtaking vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli National Park. Temperatures in Nairobi normally range from the middle 70s to the mid-80s, whereas coastal cities around Mombasa average approximately 90°F. The only disadvantage is that it is a popular period for trekking, exploring, and going on safari.
WEATHER
January is unquestionably a hot and dry month; nonetheless, temperatures are tolerable in comparison to later in the spring. Daytime highs in the capital range from 75°F to 80°F, while nightly lows range from 57°F to 62°F. Evenings can be cool, so bring a jacket to wear at night.
Temperatures at the coast are much warmer, averaging around 90°F to 93°F. Because the evenings don’t cool off as much here, you won’t need as many warm clothes. Even in the dead of night, temperatures linger around 75°F to 78°F, with little to no rain.
It is important to remember that the mountains may get extremely cold, so if you plan to trek or go on a safari in places like Mount Kenya National Park or Hell’s Gate National Park, make sure you prepare adequately. The savannah can get cold, and locations like Maasai Mara are no exception.
CROWDS AND COSTS
The weather in Kenya in January is nearly beautiful, but the cost is that it brings large crowds. If you book a shared safari, you’ll most likely be joined by a number of other individuals, maybe filling the vehicle to capacity. The city’s tourist attractions (museums, markets, etc.) will also be busy, and the beaches will be jammed with swimmers and sunbathers jostling for lounge chair space. However, because so many of Kenya’s tourist activities take place deep in the jungle, it’s a destination where crowd sizes don’t matter as much as they do in other areas. Costs are higher during this time of year as well, and most hotels offer high-season prices. These increasing prices are reflected in airfare.
WHERE TO GO
In Kenya in January, it’s difficult to go wrong. It’s one of the best months to visit Mount Kenya National Park, especially if you want to summit the 17,057-foot top. The milder January temperatures, along with the dry weather, make for ideal conditions. The rest of the park, as well as surrounding attractions like Hell’s Gate National Park, are also worth exploring.
In January, the beaches are also magnificent. With temps in the early 90s, it’s warm enough to tan on the beach or sip cocktails by the pool. Walking around town, the ocean breezes keep you cool, and the water temperature is ideal for activities like snorkeling and scuba diving. If you visit Kenya in January, make sure to visit the seaside cities of Mombasa and Malindi.
It’s also a perfect time to visit the famous Maasai Mara. Although the wildebeest migration is less active this time of year, the resident animals are still present, and because there are fewer tourists, they are often less shy. In January, several bird migrations occur, so you’ll see a variety of migratory species and, best of all, you’ll receive cheap season rates (even though it’s high season in other parts of the country).
Migratory birds can also be seen in Amboseli National Park. Furthermore, it is one of the best times to watch the larger creatures that visit waterholes during the dry season. The only disadvantage is that the dusty air can sometimes obscure views of Mt. Kilimanjaro. The bright lining is that if you’re an adrenaline junkie who wants to climb it, January is a fantastic time to do so.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Hike any of the stunning snow-capped summits in Mount Kenya National Park, such as Batian, Nelion, or Lenana, or enjoy a guided walk through the glacier-topped mountains. Visit nearby sights such as the Karunguru Coffee Estate or Shipton’s Caves.
Travel east to the picturesque coastline, where the towns of Mombasa and Malindi provide a plethora of beach activities and water sports. Go snorkeling, scuba diving, sea kayaking, or surfing in the Indian Ocean’s stunning blue waters. Take a dolphin-watching tour in Mombasa, or visit Wasini Island or Mombasa Marine National Park. Watamu Beach, located north of Malindi, has ivory-white sands and a stunning shoreline.
Spend a day or two exploring the city as well. Nairobi provides amazing cultural activities, such as the Nairobi National Museum, as well as fantastic food and nightlife in areas such as Waiyaki Way and the Westlands neighborhood. Travel southwest from Nairobi to see the Maasai Mara, one of Kenya’s most famous parks. Wildebeest numbers are lower this time of year, but the ground is dry, and you’re likely to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, hippos, lions, cheetahs, and other creatures.
EVENTS IN JANUARY
Nairobi Restaurant Week: Nairobi Restaurant Week, which takes place for about ten days in January or February, is one to keep an eye out for. Restaurants and bistros provide special menus and wine and drink samplings during this foodie’s paradise, typically for free or at reduced pricing. It’s a terrific opportunity to sample a wide range of international and local foods.
