In April, most of the safari destinations in Kenya experience long rains, unlike the December short rains. In the past, the rain has made it difficult for visitors to enjoy game drives. However, the rains are usually followed by sunny days and warm temperatures so travelers can still have a great time despite the wet weather.
This guide is part of our series on the best times to come to Kenya for a Safari including specific monthly guides from January to December.
In this post, I’ll dwell on April providing you with details on the weather, temperature, and what an April safari in Kenya looks like.
Let’s get started with the rain conditions.
How much rain does Kenya receive in April?
The average monthly rainfall varies by region but generally, the country receives an average of 16mm in April. This amount is significantly lower than the December short rains which can reach up to 50mm. Despite the decrease in rainfall, April is still a great time to visit Kenya as temperatures remain warm and there are plenty of activities to enjoy.
What are the temperatures in Kenya in April?
April is the hottest month of the year in Kenya with temperatures reaching up to 30.1°C (86.2°F) during the day, and dropping to 19.8°C (67.6°F) at night. Despite the warmth, visitors should still pack warm clothing for early mornings and evenings when temperatures can dip.
Why April makes a great month to go on a safari:
Green vegetation:
April is a great time to visit Kenya because of the lush green vegetation that fills the landscape. This makes it easier for travelers to spot wildlife as they are drawn to areas with plenty of vegetation and food sources.
Weather:
April is the perfect time to visit Kenya as it provides warm weather but not too much rain. It is also less crowded than other months, so visitors can enjoy a more tranquil safari experience without worrying about crowds.
Wildlife:
April is a great month to spot wildlife in Kenya as many of them are out and about searching for food. It is also the start of the calving season for wildebeests, so visitors may even get to witness the birth of a wildebeest calf!
What wildlife can travelers expect to see on a Kenyan safari in April?
Visitors can still spot the Big 5 during their stay, with lions and leopards being especially active. Other animals commonly seen during this time of year include impalas, zebras, giraffes, hippos, wildebeests, and warthogs. In addition, there are over 500 species of birds that can be seen during a Kenyan safari in April, making it a great time for bird watchers.
Which animals won’t be able to see in April?
April is not a great time to see wildebeests, as the calving season starts later in the year. Also, some of the migratory animals such as blue wildebeests and gazelles may not be around since they tend to move according to weather patterns and food sources. Other animals that are rarely seen during this time of year include cheetahs and white rhinos.
What makes April a good month to go for a safari:
More privacy:
April is usually a less crowded month compared to other months, so visitors can enjoy more personal and intimate experiences during their safari.
Ideal weather conditions:
The warm temperatures make it easier for travelers to go out early in the morning or late at night in search of wildlife. Plus, the lower amount of rainfall makes game drives more enjoyable as there’s less risk of getting stuck in the mud.
Great opportunity to spot wildlife:
Due to the abundance of vegetation, April is a great time to see many animals in their natural habitats. Plus, travelers can witness some incredible events such as wildebeest calving and bird migration during this month!
What safety measures should travelers take while on a Kenyan safari in April?
Travelers should always be aware of their surroundings and stay alert for any potential dangers. It’s also important to stick to the designated trails, as some areas may have dangerous wildlife that can attack if startled. Additionally, it’s best to avoid nighttime game drives and stick to game drives during the day, as there may be more risks at night. Finally, visitors should bring along insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat to protect from the sun’s harsh rays.
Top Kenya Safari Packages in April:
1. Serengeti & Masai Mara Safari – This 8 day safari takes visitors to some of the most iconic sites in Kenya such as Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara National Reserve, and Amboseli National Park. Travelers will have plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife including lions, elephants, buffalo, and cheetah.
2. Masai Mara & Amboseli Safari – This 6 day safari takes travelers to the popular destinations of Maasai Mara and Amboseli National Park. Travelers will have plenty of time to explore both parks and see wildlife such as elephants, cheetah, lions, and buffalo.
3. Samburu & Amboseli Safari – This 7 day safari takes visitors to some of the most unique spots in Kenya such as Samburu National Reserve and Amboseli National Park. Travelers will be able to spot leopards, elephants, cheetah, and many more animals in their natural habitats.
How to make the best out of a Safari in Apr:
1. Invest in a good guide: A knowledgeable and experienced guide will not only help you with spotting wildlife, but also keep you safe during the safari.
2. Pack for all seasons: The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to pack for all seasons to ensure that you are prepared for anything.
3. Visit national parks: Visiting one of the many national parks in Kenya will give you the chance to spot some of the most amazing wildlife that call these protected areas home.
4. Get up early: Getting up early is key when spotting wildlife as they are more active during this time of day.
Plus, the early morning light is perfect for taking stunning photographs!
5. Follow the rules: It’s important to follow all of the rules in each national park as these are there for your safety and to protect the wildlife that call these parks home.
Which safaris are good for April?
Cultural heritage safari:
Kenya is home to many different cultures and traditions, so a cultural heritage safari is the perfect way to explore these. This type of safari will take travelers on an exploration of many traditional markets, villlages, and monuments in different parts of the country.
Wilderness safari:
A wilderness safari takes visitors deep into the heart of the African bush, to explore some of Kenya’s most remote and untouched wilderness. This type of safari is perfect for those looking to get off-the-beaten track and really experience the wild side of Kenya.
Photography safari:
With some of the best opportunities for wildlife photography in Africa, a photography safari is the ideal choice for wildlife enthusiasts. Photographers will be able to take stunning photographs of some of the most exotic wildlife and stunning landscapes in Kenya. Read about all the 21 types of safari here.
Overall, a Kenyan safari in April is an amazing experience that can provide travelers with memories that will last a lifetime. Also read out the guide on the February safari here.