August is a fantastic time for day trips in Kenya. With the
dry season in full swing, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities, making
it an ideal month to explore the country's natural beauty and vibrant culture. August
is perfect for wildlife safaris, hiking adventures, and cultural experiences in
Kenya.
Top Tour Packages
Starting From $80.00 pp
Starting From $80.00 pp
Weather in Kenya During August
August is part of the dry season in Kenya, making it one of
the best times to enjoy outdoor activities. Here's what you can expect in terms
of weather conditions:
Typical Temperatures
- Early
morning and night: Temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F),
so it's often cool during these times.
- Daytime:
Temperatures can reach up to 25°C (77°F), providing warm and pleasant
conditions for most activities.
Weather Conditions in August
- Minimal
rainfall: August typically experiences very little rainfall, ensuring
that your day trips are unlikely to be disrupted by weather.
- Clear
skies: The skies are mostly clear, offering excellent visibility for
sightseeing and wildlife viewing.
Ideal Activities
- Outdoor
adventures: With the dry and pleasant weather, August is perfect for
hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventures.
- Wildlife
viewing: The clear skies and dry conditions make it easier to spot
wildlife, especially as animals gather around water sources.
Unique Aspects of August in Kenya
August in Kenya offers several unique features that make it
a special time for day trips. Here are some highlights:
Migration Season
- Great
Migration: One of the most spectacular natural events in the world,
the Great Migration occurs in the Maasai Mara. During this time, over a
million wildebeest and thousands of zebras and gazelles make their way
across the Mara River. This is an incredible sight and a must-see for
wildlife enthusiasts.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
- Easier
to Spot Animals: The dry season means animals gather around water
sources, making them easier to spot. The vegetation is also less dense,
providing clearer views.
- Diverse
Wildlife: You can expect to see a variety of animals including the Big
Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) in various national
parks and reserves.
Cultural Events
- Local
Festivals and Events: August is a vibrant month with numerous cultural
events and festivals. These events offer a chance to experience Kenyan
culture and traditions firsthand, including music, dance, and local
cuisine.
Scenic Beauty
- Lush
Landscapes: Although it’s the dry season, the landscapes are still
lush and green from the previous rainy season. This makes for stunning
scenery, perfect for photography and nature walks.
- Clear
Skies: The minimal rainfall and clear skies also mean you get to enjoy
uninterrupted views of Kenya’s beautiful landscapes.
Popular August Day Trip Destinations in Kenya
Destination
|
Activities
|
Highlights
|
Nairobi
National Park
|
Wildlife
safari, picnic spots
|
Large variety
of wildlife, close proximity to the city
|
Giraffe
Centre and David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
|
Feeding
giraffes, visiting elephant orphanage
|
Up-close
encounters with animals, educational tours
|
Hell's Gate
National Park
|
Hiking,
biking, rock climbing
|
Scenic
gorges, geothermal activity, variety of wildlife
|
Lake Naivasha
|
Boat rides,
bird watching, walking safaris
|
Hippos,
diverse bird species, peaceful lake environment
|
Kiambethu Tea
Farm
|
Tea
plantation tours, tea tasting, walking tours
|
Insight into
tea production, beautiful scenery
|
Mount
Longonot
|
Hiking
|
Crater views,
panoramic vistas of the Great Rift Valley
|
Ol Pejeta
Conservancy
|
Game drives,
chimpanzee sanctuary visits
|
Northern
white rhinos, diverse wildlife conservation efforts
|
Nairobi
Arboretum
|
Walking,
picnicking
|
Variety of
tree species, serene atmosphere
|
Ngong Hills
|
Hiking
|
Panoramic
views, proximity to Nairobi
|
Karen Blixen
Museum
|
Museum tour,
garden walk
|
Historical
insights, beautiful setting
|
Maasai Mara
National Reserve
|
Game drives
|
Witnessing
the Great Migration, abundant wildlife, including the Big Five
|
Packing List for August Day Trips in Kenya
Preparing for a day trip in Kenya during August involves
packing essentials to ensure comfort and safety. Here’s a comprehensive packing
list for our visitors:
Clothing
- Layered
Clothing: Start with a light base layer, add a warm mid-layer, and
finish with a light jacket or fleece. This will help you adapt to the cool
mornings and evenings, as well as the warm afternoons.
- Comfortable
Attire: Choose lightweight and breathable fabrics to stay comfortable
during the warmer parts of the day.
Sun Protection
- Sunscreen:
A high SPF sunscreen is crucial to protect your skin from the strong
equatorial sun.
- Sunglasses:
Protect your eyes from UV rays with a good pair of sunglasses.
- Hats:
A wide-brimmed hat can provide additional protection for your face and
neck.
Hydration
- Water
Bottles: Carry enough water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Insulated water bottles can help keep your water cool.
- Hydration
Packs: If you’re planning on hiking or engaging in strenuous
activities, a hydration pack might be more convenient.
Footwear
- Comfortable
Walking Shoes: Ideal for general sightseeing and light activities.
- Hiking
Boots: Essential for more strenuous activities like hiking, providing
good ankle support and traction.
Insect Protection
- Insect
Repellent: Necessary to protect against mosquitoes, especially in
areas with water bodies.
Equipment
- Binoculars:
Great for wildlife viewing, allowing you to observe animals from a
distance without disturbing them.
- Camera:
A good camera is essential for capturing the beautiful landscapes and
unforgettable moments of your trip.
Additional Items
- Backpack:
A small, comfortable backpack to carry your essentials.
- Snacks:
Energy bars or other snacks to keep you fueled during your activities.
- First
Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit for minor injuries or illnesses.
- Maps/Guidebooks:
Useful for navigation and learning more about the places you’re visiting.
- Portable
Charger: To keep your phone and other devices charged throughout the
day.
Safety and Comfort Tips for Day Trips in Kenya
Ensuring safety and comfort during your day trips in Kenya
is crucial for a pleasant experience. Here are some essential tips to keep in
mind:
General Safety Tips
- Stay
Informed: Keep up-to-date with local news and weather forecasts to
avoid any unexpected disruptions.
- Follow
Park Rules: Adhere to the guidelines and rules provided by park
authorities, especially in wildlife reserves.
- Guide
Services: Consider hiring a local guide for certain destinations, as
they can provide valuable insights and enhance your experience.
- Emergency
Contacts: Have a list of emergency contacts, including local
authorities and your country's embassy or consulate.
Wildlife Safety
- Keep
Distance: Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife to avoid any
potential dangers.
- No
Feeding: Do not feed animals, as this can alter their natural behavior
and make them dependent on human food.
- Stay
in Vehicle: In wildlife parks and reserves, stay inside your vehicle
unless in designated areas.
Health and Hygiene
- Hand
Sanitizer: Carry hand sanitizer to maintain hygiene, especially when
soap and water are not readily available.
- Stay
Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially in the
warm afternoon temperatures.
- First
Aid Kit: Bring a basic first aid kit for minor injuries or illnesses.
Comfort Tips
- Plan
Ahead: Plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your day
trips and avoid any last-minute rushes.
- Rest
Breaks: Take regular breaks to rest and enjoy the surroundings,
especially if you’re engaging in strenuous activities.
- Comfortable
Gear: Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for the
activities you plan to undertake.
Navigation and Communication
- Maps
and Guidebooks: Carry maps and guidebooks to help with navigation and
provide additional information about the sites you’re visiting.
- Mobile
Phone: Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged and consider carrying
a portable charger.
- Local
SIM Card: If you’re traveling from abroad, consider getting a local
SIM card for better connectivity.