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Amboseli National Park

Weather & Climate

651 Amboseli Safaris

Expert

By Anthony Ham

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

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

* Averages based on 50 years of monthly climate data, taken from 1km² (0.39mi²) interpolated climate surfaces.
© chart & park data: SafariBookings. © climate grid data: WorldClim project. All rights reserved.

Conditions in Amboseli NP are hot and dry. Rain typically falls as short, heavy showers. During the day expect average temperatures of around 28°C/82°F and 15°C/59°F at night. Early morning activities, such as game drives, require warm clothing. The ‘long rains’ usually fall from mid-March to mid-May while the ‘short rains’ are from late October to mid-December.

Dry season –June to September

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 25°C/77°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 26°C/79°F.

Wet season –October to May

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

October, November & December – The rains generally begin at some point in October and peak in November. Normally it doesn’t rain for the whole day; however, 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 Wet seasons 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 – The long rains generally start 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 28°C/82°F.