Kenya Safari Tours in September–October: Highlights

Planning your safari for September or October? You’re in for one of the best safari seasons in Kenya. These months fall within the peak of the dry season, offering incredible wildlife encounters, spectacular scenery, and fewer travel disruptions. It’s also the tail end of the Great Migration in the Masai Mara with plenty of action still unfolding on the plains.

At Chacal Safaris, we know how to craft unforgettable journeys based on the season. Here’s a guide to what makes September–October safari tours in Kenya so special, and why this window is ideal for both first-time and returning travelers.

The Great Migration: Still Going Strong

Although the mass river crossings typically peak in July and August, the wildebeest herds are still in the Masai Mara during September and early October. By this time:

• The herds are spread out across the Mara plains
• Predator activity is high  lions, cheetahs, and leopards are all on the hunt
• Occasional crossings still happen at the Mara and Talek Rivers
• Calmer conditions mean fewer crowds compared to peak months

This is a great time for those who want to witness the migration without the chaos of high-season tourism.

Prime Wildlife Viewing Everywhere

With dry weather continuing across the country, animals gather around waterholes and riverbanks, making them easier to find. Top destinations shine during these months:

• Amboseli: Spot elephants in front of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear mornings
• Samburu: Excellent for rare species like the Grevy’s zebra and gerenuk
• Laikipia & Lewa: Great rhino sightings and fewer visitors
• Tsavo East & West: Drier landscapes make wildlife easier to spot

The vegetation is sparse, so game viewing is exceptional especially for big cats and elephants.

Ideal Conditions for Photography

For wildlife photographers, September and October offer some of the best conditions:

• Golden light in the mornings and evenings
• Minimal dust compared to later in the dry season
• Fantastic opportunities to capture predator-prey interactions
• Scenic backdrops, especially in the Mara and Amboseli

Bring your zoom lenses and plenty of memory  these months are full of action.

Weather: Warm Days, Cool Nights

You’ll enjoy warm, sunny days with little to no rain ideal for long game drives. Nights and early mornings are cooler, especially in the highlands, so pack layers.

Average daytime highs range from 24–28°C (75–82°F) with comfortable humidity.

Travel Tips for September–October

• Book early ,while not as busy as July/August, top camps still fill quickly
• Consider private conservancies for exclusive sightings and added activities (like night drives and walking safaris)
• Pair your safari with a trip to the coast  Diani, Lamu, or Watamu offer sunny beach escapes in October before the short rains arrive

Plan Your Perfect Safari Season with Chacal Safaris

September and October offer a beautiful balance: the drama of the migration, the clarity of the dry season, and the magic of quieter camps and peaceful landscapes. At Chacal Safaris, we design seamless itineraries that put you in the right place at the right time with the wildlife front and center.