BEST TIME FOR INDIANS TO TRAVEL TO KENYA! Kenya is located in East Africa. It extends to 582,646Km2. It harbours Africa’s second highest peak Mount Kenya (5,199m). Kenya holds 23 Registered Terrestrial National Parks, 4 Marine National Parks, 4 National Sanctuaries, 28 Terrestrial National Reserves and 6 marine Reserves. Kenya offers diverse tourism products including Wildlife Safaris (Most Popular product), Beach Tourism, Eco-Tourism and others like Cultural Tourism and Sports Tourism. Kenya is a land of Epic African Safaris from the greatest Wildebeest migration in the world to its breathtaking landscapes, Natural Lake Shores and the Serene Coastal Beaches that holds an undeniable attraction for the Indian travellers. However, timing your travel right can significantly enhance your safari adventure.

TIMING YOUR KENYAN ADVENTURE

When is the best time to visit Kenya?

Here is a question most Indian travellers seek to know before they start making their plans to travel. Well, it largely depends on these factors, what you want to see and how much you are willing to spend. We are also looking at the Indian families travelling with children, aligning school holidays and travel dates is key.

Kenya’s Travel Seasons

Kenya’s climate all year round is a warm weather condition without the extremes or winter and summer conditions.

·      Peak Season

This season occurs during (July to October and from late December to early January) period.

Climate: Mostly dry season

It offers exceptional wildlife viewing and spotting opportunities. The bushes in the parks are thin and due to the dry conditions, most animals gather near waterholes. This particularly is the best time to witness the annual Western White-bearded Wildebeest which also promises alot of cat action at the great Masai Mara. This makes it one of the best times for Indian travellers to Kenya.

School Holidays

Another best time for Indians to Travel to Kenya is Summer and Winter breaks, which are the most significant holidays in the Indian academic year. This allows the children get time to recharge and prepare themselves for the upcoming terms. Summer break in India starts from May to June. The peak season also aligns well with the Autumn break from October to November with Diwali in-between there.

Affordability

This is the most expensive period for travel. Demand is high because of the migration. Flight charges and Accommodation rates for camps Lodges and Hotels are also high. We advice on 6-12 months prior booking to avoid last minute rush because all the accommodations are likely to be booked.

·      Shoulder Season

This season occurs during (Jan to March, and November to mid December) period.

Climate: Jan to March-Short Dry season

: November to mid December-short rain

The landscapes in the parks are beautiful and green due to the short rains, perfect time for bird watching. Especially the migratory birds are present from November to March. There are chances of you noticing new born animals. The Masai Mara is less crowded gives you a perfect chance to watch the animals at natures pace.

School Holidays

The shoulder season also aligns well with the Autumn break in November with Diwali in-between and before the start of the Winter season and towards the end of winter in January

Affordability

During this season, the rates drop significantly as compared to peak season. The safaris are more affordable; the accommodations room availability is abundant. Flight charges are also moderate. Most importantly, you will get the benefit of privacy with the animals and the beauty of nature.

·      Low Season

This season occurs during (April to June)

Climate: Long rains

Usually short showers in the afternoon. There might be difficulty in movement dure to the muddy road but with the help of a customised 4x4 Land Cruiser you will enjoy it. Perfect time for bird watching also. Abundant wildlife. The Masai Mara is less crowded gives you a fantastic chance to watch the animals

School Holidays

Perfect time for the summer vacations

Affordability

Cheapest season to travel, less crowds in the park, low accommodation rates and a significant reduction of the flight rates making this the most affordable season for budget travellers to travel and explore Kenya.

Recommendations

For families wanting to travel with their young ones for wildlife viewing during the holidays make sure to put into mind May- June or October. For the budget travellers make sure to book for the low season.

Best Flight Options from India to Kenya

Jomo Kenyatta international airport is the gateway to all international tourists coming into Kenya. Direct flights and connecting flights from India’s major cities are available.

1.   Air India

2.   Indigo

3.   Kenya Airways

4.   Etihad Airways

5.   Air Arabia

6.   Qatar Airways

7.   Ethiopian Airlines

Cheap flight time

• During the weekdays- On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday’s flights are cheaper than during the holiday.
• Avoid major holidays
• Book earlier for peak season mostly 3-6 months before.

Requirements for Indian Tourist Travelling to Kenya

1.   Visa

Visa application is mandatory for Indian travellers. You must apply for the visa before time of travel. This is an online process which can done through the Electronic Travel Authorization of Kenya (eTA) Official Government website.

Details

·      Passport details

·      Passport-sized photograph

·      Confirmed travel itinerary with accommodation details

2. Vaccination (Yellow Fever)

This is mandatory for all Indian travellers arriving from countries with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission. India is also considered as a Yellow Fever risk country. You will be required to show your vaccination certificate make sure to carry it. Make sure to get vaccinated 10 days before your safari travel dates for it to be effective.

Other routine requirement is the Polio vaccine make sure it is up to date.

Indian food preference

Indian travellers are very specific about food specifications especially the vegetarian travellers. Don’t worry Kenya is quite accommodating for all travellers especially when it comes to food options. The Indian travellers and Diaspora have influenced Kenya’s cuisine. Many Safari Lodges, Camps, Resorts and Hotels feature Indian food. Food is served on buffet basis in most accommodations which includes both Indian and vegetarian food options in plenty.

We advise clients on informing us about their dietary preferences at the time of booking

Local Vegetarian Dishes

·      Ugali: A dish made from maize flour, often served with vegetable stew.

·       Collard greens or kale (Sukuma Wiki): A very common side dish.

·      Spinach (Mchicha)

·      Githeri: A traditional Kenyan meal with a mixture of maize and beans.

·      Mukimo: A mashed potato and vegetable greens meal. It also includes maize and beans

·      Ndengu: Pigeon peas often traditionally served with Kenyan Chapati.

·      Common Street food: Triangular (Samosa) pastries with spiced feelings

Planning your unforgettable Kenyan safari experience has never been this easy. We look forward to being your ultimate safari companion as you explore the marvels of the Savannah

“Africa changes you forever, like nowhere on earth. Once you have been there, you will never be the same”

–   Brian Jackman