| Activity |
Long Dry Season Jun–Sep |
Short Wet Season Oct–Nov |
Short Dry Season Dec–Feb |
Long Wet Season Mar–May |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Waterfall Viewing | Good | Excellent | Good | High |
| Wildlife Viewing | Excellent | High | Good | Fair |
| Birdwatching | Excellent | High | Excellent | High |
| Hiking & Moorland Trekking | Excellent | Good | High | Fair |
| Photography | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Fair |
Aberdare National Park is famed for its dramatic waterfalls, some of the most striking in Kenya. The best time to see them at full power is during the short rains from October to November, when water levels surge but roads remain accessible. The forested landscape is lush, misty, and at its most cinematic.
The dry season from June to October offers the best conditions for spotting Aberdare wildlife, especially elephants, buffalo, hyenas, and the elusive mountain bongo. With reduced vegetation, visibility improves along forest edges and open moorlands. Cooler temperatures also make hiking and game viewing particularly pleasant.
High-altitude birding in the Aberdares peaks from November to April, when migratory species arrive and forest habitats burst with activity. Resident species like Hartlaub’s turaco, crowned eagle, and iridescent sunbirds are visible year-round, but the green season brings richer color and movement.
The moorlands are at their best during the long dry season (June–September), when trails are firm and the sweeping heather landscapes open up under crisp mountain skies. Clear mornings offer exceptional visibility, with Mount Kenya often appearing on the horizon.
Aberdare National Park’s high-altitude climate is cooler than much of Kenya, with misty mornings, crisp air, and dramatic seasonal shifts. Temperatures typically range from 8 °C to 22 °C (46 °F–72 °F), with the weather heavily influenced by moisture from the surrounding forest belt.
January
Ideal conditions for scenic walks and nighttime wildlife viewing at treetop lodges.
February
A prime month for birdwatching, with many species active and nesting.
March
Early March sees a transition into the wet season; waterfalls begin to surge.
April
The wettest month, dramatic forest scenes, swollen rivers, and enchanting mist.
May
Still wet but breathtakingly green; a rewarding time for solitude seekers.
Late July
Perfect conditions for moorland treks and panoramic views.
August
One of the best wildlife months, elephants and buffalo frequent waterholes near iconic treetop lodges.
September
Dry, cool, and scenic; a superb month for nature walks and photography.
October
Early October remains dry, with the short rains arriving toward month’s end.
November
Short bursts of rain create vibrant greens and excellent photography conditions.
December
Lush landscapes and strong wildlife viewing make this a popular month for holiday travelers.
In Aberdare National Park, daytime temperatures range between 8–22 °C (46–72 °F), while nights (especially at higher altitudes) can drop close to freezing. The long rains occur from mid-March to late May, and the short rains fall from late October to early December. Due to altitude, mornings are cool and often misty, and warm layers are essential year-round.
General weather summary in November
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General weather summary in December
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General weather summary in January
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General weather summary in February
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General weather summary in March
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General weather summary in April
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General weather summary in May
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General weather summary in June
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General weather summary in July
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General weather summary in August
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General weather summary in September
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General weather summary in October
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86
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32
Explore the Aberdares through thoughtfully curated itineraries that reveal the park’s rare beauty, from its mist-draped forests to its sweeping moorlands and iconic treetop lodges. Based in the highlands, safaris here are quieter and more intimate. Flash McTours makes sure that every journey is seamless, with expert guides, handpicked accommodations, and 24/7 support for a safari experience that feels effortless.
Taking in a range of safari experiences, including conservation efforts and understanding about local tribal culture, this tour offers a great range of activities to keep a whole family happy. Travell
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This extensive Kenyan safari is perfect for families and couples in search of an active trip and a holiday of a lifetime. The ever-changing scenery, as you move from high plateaux to lowland forest an
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This Kenyan safari will have your trace a route from Nairobi, up to the northern part of the country, before tracking back down Kenya and towards the iconic Masai Mara. As you traverse the landscape y
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Taking in a range of safari experiences, including conservation efforts and understanding about local tribal culture, this tour offers a great range of activities to keep a whole family happy. Travell
Price From
This extensive Kenyan safari is perfect for families and couples in search of an active trip and a holiday of a lifetime. The ever-changing scenery, as you move from high plateaux to lowland forest an
Price From
This Kenyan safari will have your trace a route from Nairobi, up to the northern part of the country, before tracking back down Kenya and towards the iconic Masai Mara. As you traverse the landscape y
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June to September is the best overall period, offering dry weather, excellent wildlife viewing, and ideal hiking conditions.
Yes. Though trails can be muddy, the rainy season transforms the park into a lush, magical world with powerful waterfalls and exceptional photography opportunities.
Cool year-round, with misty mornings, crisp afternoons, and cold nights due to high elevation.
March to May, during the long rains, when lodge rates drop and visitor numbers are low.
Yes. Short rains taper off, the park is green and vibrant, and wildlife sightings remain strong.
June to September offers the clearest trails, best visibility, and most stable weather.
Yes, forest zones are cool and wet, while high moorlands experience crisp, dry conditions.
Generally yes, but visibility improves during the dry months when animals gather at waterholes.
For dry-season travel (June–October), book 6–10 months ahead, especially for treetop lodges.
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