Amboseli National Park

Weather & Climate

1,021 Amboseli Safaris

Expert

By Anthony Ham

Anthony is the author of the Lonely Planet guide to Kenya.

Climate Chart Amboseli National Park – 1,124-1,169m / 3,688-3,835ft

Conditions in Amboseli National Park are hot and dry. Rain typically falls as short, heavy showers. Expect average temperatures of around 28°C/82°F during the day and 15°C/59°F at night. Early morning activities, such as game drives, may require warm clothing. When they arrive, the long rains usually fall from mid-March to mid-May while the short rains are from late October or November to mid-December.

Dry Season –June to October

These are the coolest months and typically have bright, sunny days. It is very dry with practically no rain.

June & July – It is normally sunny. Expect average temperatures of around 26°C/79°F in the afternoon.
August & September – Daytime temperatures are on the rise until the rain breaks. Although temperature peaks are far higher, the average in September is about 27°C/81°F.
October – It is very hot and humid. The first rain comes as a relief.

Wet Season –November to May

The Wet season is marked by the short rains followed by the long rains. January and February is a drier period in between. Driving can be a challenge in April and May when rains cause road conditions to deteriorate.

November & December – ‘Short rains’ – The rains generally peak in November. Normally it doesn’t rain for the whole day, and afternoon storms are common. The average temperature is 28°C/82°F during the day, but it increases before it rains.
January & February – The exact start and finish of this dry period separating the rains is never predictable. February, though, is the hottest month, and the average afternoon temperature is 30°C/86°F (expect higher peaks).
March, April & May – ‘Long rains’ – The long rains generally start in mid- to late March. It seldom rains for the entire day, but afternoon showers can be expected. The wettest month is April. Expect temperatures in the afternoon to reach 30°C/86°F.