Amboseli National Park is a year-round safari destination — but understanding its weather patterns can help you maximize your wildlife sightings, capture better photographs, and avoid travel disruptions.
At Woodsly Adventures, we’ve guided hundreds of travelers through Amboseli’s shifting seasons. Here’s your complete breakdown of Amboseli’s weather by month — including what to expect, when to visit, and when to book.
Quick Overview: Amboseli’s Climate
Amboseli lies in a semi-arid region near the Tanzanian border. Its climate is defined by:
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Dry seasons (June–October & January–February)
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Rainy seasons (March–May & November–December)
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Pleasant daytime temperatures year-round (~26–30°C / 78–86°F)
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Cool mornings and nights (especially June–August)
The presence of Mount Kilimanjaro’s snowmelt also creates unique wetlands, making Amboseli rich in wildlife even during dry months.
Season-by-Season Breakdown
January – February: Short Dry Season
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Weather: Warm, sunny, and dry
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Visibility: Excellent for mountain views and wildlife
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Crowds: Moderate, with fewer tourists than July–August
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Why Go: Great for photography, families, and birding
➡️ This is an ideal time to book your Amboseli Elephant Safari or combine with a Mombasa Beach Retreat.
March – May: Long Rainy Season
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Weather: Afternoon showers, cloudy skies, occasional flooding
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Wildlife: Still active, but sometimes harder to spot
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Photography: Cloudy Kilimanjaro views
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Pros: Lowest prices, lush landscapes, fewer tourists
➡️ Recommended for photographers seeking dramatic landscapes or travelers on a budget.
June – October: Long Dry Season (Peak Season)
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Weather: Cool mornings, warm days, virtually no rain
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Wildlife: Extremely visible near water sources
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Views: Clear, consistent Kilimanjaro backdrops
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Crowds: High, especially July–September
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Best For: First-time safaris, family trips, combo safaris
➡️ Pair Amboseli with the Masai Mara Safari to catch the Great Migration in the Mara.
November – December: Short Rains
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Weather: Light rain, short afternoon showers
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Wildlife: Still visible; new births begin (great for baby animals!)
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Scenery: Fresh greenery and dramatic skies
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Pros: Fewer tourists, lower rates than high season
➡️ Excellent for return travelers or photographers looking for contrast-rich skies and active wildlife.
Month-by-Month Weather Snapshot
| Month | Avg Temp (°C) | Rainfall (mm) | Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 28 | 30 | Short Dry | Great views, ideal for families |
| February | 29 | 20 | Short Dry | Fewer crowds |
| March | 27 | 60 | Start of Rains | Lush scenery |
| April | 25 | 120 | Long Rains | Wettest month |
| May | 26 | 80 | Long Rains | Slower travel |
| June | 24 | 10 | Dry Season | Cool & clear |
| July | 23 | 5 | Dry Season | Peak safari season |
| August | 24 | 5 | Dry Season | Best wildlife sightings |
| September | 26 | 10 | Dry Season | Great Kilimanjaro views |
| October | 27 | 30 | Transition | Warm & dry |
| November | 28 | 60 | Short Rains | Beautiful green landscapes |
| December | 28 | 40 | Short Rains | Holiday season safari deals |
Best Times for Specific Safari Goals
| Goal | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|
| Elephant Sightings | June–October, January |
| Mount Kilimanjaro Views | Jan–March, June–Oct |
| Budget-Friendly Travel | April–May, November |
| Avoiding Crowds | February, November |
| Bird Watching | Nov–April (migratory birds) |
| Photography | Jan–March, Sept–Oct |
When Should You Book?
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High Season (Jun–Oct): Book at least 4–6 months in advance
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Holiday Season (Dec): Plan early — limited lodge space
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Rainy Season (Apr–May): Last-minute deals often available
➡️ Woodsly Adventures offers flexible options and can customize your itinerary based on weather, group size, and safari goals.
Final Thoughts
Amboseli is magical no matter when you visit. The right time depends on your priorities:
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Love elephants and open skies? Go June–October
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Want deals and greenery? Try April–May
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Looking for Kilimanjaro photos? January–March delivers
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Craving baby animals? November–December is a hidden gem
Let Woodsly Adventures help you choose the best safari window — and match it with the perfect lodge, vehicle, and guide.
