Written by the Paramount Gorilla Expeditions team, based in Uganda, explaining safari weather in East Africa and what to actually expect.
East Africa's safari parks are warm by day and cool at dawn, with two rainy seasons: the long rains from roughly mid-March to May, and shorter rains from around November into early December. Most parks sit at altitude, so days are pleasantly warm rather than tropically hot, and early game drives can be properly cold.
Altitude shapes the weather
Many safari areas, including the Serengeti, the Masai Mara, the Ngorongoro rim and parts of Uganda, lie at roughly 1,000 to 2,300 metres above sea level. Daytime temperatures are typically warm, and early mornings can start at around 10 to 15°C, so a fleece is not optional. Coastal areas such as Zanzibar and low-lying parks such as Murchison Falls are hotter and more humid.
East Africa safari weather: the two rainy seasons
- Long rains (about mid-March to May): heavier and more sustained, with muddy roads and fewer visitors.
- Short rains (about November to early December): usually shorter, afternoon showers.
Rain rarely cancels a game drive. Safari vehicles have roofs, and animals are still visible. But it can affect roads and, in some low-lying parks, make certain tracks temporarily impassable. Our guide to green season safaris covers the trade-offs.
Safari weather in East Africa by country
For the best months in each country, see Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar and the Seychelles.
A typical safari day
- Early morning game drive: cool, around 10 to 15°C at altitude. Wear a fleece or light jacket.
- Midday: warm and sunny. Layers come off, and many guests rest at camp.
- Afternoon drive and sundowner: warm, cooling quickly after sunset.
- Night: cool at altitude, so expect to want a warm layer at dinner and a blanket in bed.
What to pack
Pack for a big swing between dawn and midday: a warm layer, breathable clothes for the day and a light rain shell in every season. Our safari packing list has the details.
Planning more than one country?
The best months are different in each country. This guide shows how to line them up on one trip.
- when each country is at its best: when each country is at its best.
- how long a multi-country trip needs: how long a multi-country trip needs.
- every route, visa rule and package in one place: every route, visa rule and package in one place.
Plan around safari weather in East Africa
Official park fees are set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the Kenya Wildlife Service, TANAPA and the Rwanda Development Board. We confirm the current fees for your dates in every quote.