Weather in Kenya in February

 The weather in Kenya in February is warm, dry, and ideal for safaris. Wildlife is easy to spot around waterholes, and the skies are clear across most of the country. Birdwatching is excellent this time of year too, with many migratory species still around. It’s a popular month for travel, so you’ll want to book your national park stays in advance.

Kenya in February at a glance

• The average temperature in Kenya in February is similar to January, with temperatures in Nairobi typically ranging from 54°F to 82°F (12°C to 28°C). Coastal areas are warmer, with temperatures averaging between 77°F and 93°F (25°C and 34°C).
• February continues to be dry, with very little rainfall throughout the country.
• The tourist season remains active in February, especially in popular wildlife parks and coastal resorts.
• As the landscapes are still dry, visibility for wildlife watching is excellent.
   

What is the weather like in Kenya in February?

February in Kenya is generally warm and dry, with plenty of clear skies and sunshine across most of the country. It's one of the more reliable times for weather, especially if you're planning outdoor activities or a safari.

This is part of the dry season, so rainfall is minimal, around 0.8 inches (20 mm) on average throughout the month. That means you’re likely to have mostly dry days, which makes it easier to get around and spend long hours outdoors.

Because the weather is so dependable this time of year, it's also one of the busiest months for tourism. National parks like the Maasai Mara or Amboseli can feel crowded, and accommodation prices tend to be higher. If you're planning to travel in February, it's a good idea to book early. This is a great time to plan your Kenya itinerary. 

Average daily temperatures in February

February is the hottest time of year across much of Kenya. On the coast, daytime temperatures usually reach between 77 and 93°F (25 to 34°C), with warm sea temperatures around 84°F (29°C) that are great for swimming. Nairobi sits at a comfortable average of about 80°F (27°C), while the highlands stay a little cooler. Northern regions can get much hotter, often climbing above 90°F (32°C).

Evenings tend to cool down nicely, with lows between 59 and 68°F (15 to 20°C), so you’ll probably only need a light layer at night. The sun rises around 6:40 AM and sets close to 6:50 PM, giving you just over 12 hours of daylight. Skies are typically dry and clear this time of year, which makes it a solid choice for safaris and wildlife viewing.

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Is February a good time to visit Kenya?

February is generally a good time to visit Kenya. The weather stays warm and dry across most of the country, which means reliable conditions for safari drives and other outdoor travel.

If you're heading to the Maasai Mara, this is one of the better times to go for wildlife viewing. Calving season is underway, so there’s often a lot of animal activity, and visibility is good thanks to the dry landscape. Some people choose to see the Mara from above on a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, which can be a memorable way to take in the scenery.

The dry conditions also make it easier to access more remote areas. The Chalbi Desert in the north is especially striking this time of year, with its open salt plains and nomadic communities like the Gabbra and Rendille. Lake Turkana, sometimes called the Jade Sea, sits nearby and is worth the journey if you’re interested in dramatic landscapes, volcanic islands, and archaeology.  For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Kenya. 

Why February is a good time to visit Kenya:

• Excellent weather with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, perfect for safari activities
• Ideal conditions for wildlife viewing in national parks and reserves
• Great visibility for hot air balloon safaris over the Maasai Mara
• Perfect weather for exploring remote areas like the Chalbi Desert and Lake Turkana
• Requires sun protection and lightweight clothing due to strong sunshine
   

What about crowds and costs?

February falls in the middle of Kenya’s high season, so popular places like the Maasai Mara and Amboseli can get busy. It’s one of the more expensive times to visit, with accommodation and tour prices usually at their highest. If you're planning to travel in February, it’s a good idea to book ahead, especially for safaris or lodges inside the parks.

The upside is that the dry weather makes for reliable wildlife viewing. With clear skies and warm days, conditions are solid for game drives and photography. February is also calving season in the Maasai Mara, so you might see newborn wildebeest and zebras out on the plains, and more predator activity as a result.

The trade-off is really about cost and crowds. You’ll get great conditions for safari but should expect to pay more and share the experience with others doing the same thing.  If you're still deciding, see our guide to the best time to visit Kenya. 
 

Where to go to Kenya in February

February is part of the dry season, which means warm, sunny days and very little rain across most of the country. Here are some of the best places to visit in Kenya. 

Masai Mara National Reserve

The Mara stays dry in February, which helps keep the grass low and makes it easier to spot wildlife. Big cats tend to be more active, especially with prey animals more exposed and drawn to fewer water sources. Resident herds of elephants, buffalo, and antelope are usually easy to find, and sightings of lions, cheetahs, and leopards are common in these conditions.

Since this isn’t peak migration season, it’s generally easier to get prime positioning during wildlife sightings, and you may find a bit more flexibility at some camps and lodges. See our guide to the best time to visit Masai Mara. 

Amboseli National Park

In February, Amboseli usually has clear views of Mount Kilimanjaro, especially in the early mornings. If you're hoping to get that classic photo of elephants crossing the plains with the snow-covered peak in the background, this is one of the best times to try. The dry conditions also mean wildlife tends to gather around the park’s swamps and waterholes, so game viewing can be fairly consistent.

You’ll see a lot of elephants here, often in large family groups, along with hippos, wildebeest, and birds. It’s a compact park, which makes it easy to cover in a couple of days, and the open landscapes are easy to navigate.

Diani Beach

If you’re looking to spend time on the coast, February is a good month for it. Diani Beach stays warm and dry, with daytime temperatures often around 86°F (30°C), and the ocean holds steady at about 84°F (29°C). Winds are light, the water is calm, and visibility for snorkeling and diving is usually good.

It’s a nice break after a dusty safari, and the mix of white sand and coastal forest gives Diani a laid-back feel. There are also options for day trips to nearby marine parks or dolphin-watching cruises. Even though it’s a popular destination, February isn’t as hectic as the Christmas or New Year period, so it still feels relaxed without being too quiet.  These are some of the best beaches in Kenya.
 

What to do in Kenya in February

February’s dry, sunny weather means most activities across Kenya are in full swing. It’s a good month for being outdoors. Here's some of the best things to do in Kenya. 

Ngong Hills Challenge

The Ngong Hills Challenge is an annual hiking event that attracts outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers to tackle the scenic trails of the Ngong Hills. Participants can choose from various route options, ranging from moderate to challenging, while enjoying panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley and Nairobi skyline.

Snorkeling at Kisite Marine Park

February is a great time for snorkeling at Kisite Marine Park, off the south coast near Wasini Island. The sea is usually calm, and visibility can reach over 65 feet (20 meters), so it’s easy to see the reef clearly. You’re likely to come across schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, rays, and sometimes even dolphins. The water is warm, around 84°F (29°C), so you won’t need a wetsuit. Humpback whales occasionally pass through the area during their migration, though sightings aren’t guaranteed. 

Hot air balloon safari

February’s weather is about as good as it gets for a hot air balloon safari. Early mornings are calm and clear, which is exactly what you want when floating over the plains. From above, you can see the layout of the land and how the animals move through it, things that aren’t always obvious at ground level. See what made our pick for the best safaris in Kenya.
 

Planning your itinerary

Our Kenya itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point — perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

Planning a family vacation in Kenya? Check out our helpful tips on traveling in Kenya with kids to make your trip more enjoyable and carefree.