Things to Do in Kenya in April

April Weather in Kenya

25°C (77°F) High Temp

20°C (68°F) Low Temp

51 mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Long dry season begins - April marks the transition from the long rains, making wildlife viewing excellent as animals concentrate around water sources
Fewer crowds at national parks compared to peak season (July-October), meaning lower accommodation rates and better photographic opportunities without crowds
Perfect temperatures for camping and outdoor activities - daytime highs of 25°C (77°F) are comfortable for game drives, with cool evenings ideal for campfires
Lush green landscapes from recent rains create stunning photography conditions, especially in the Maasai Mara and Amboseli with dramatic cloud formations

Considerations

Some remote roads and conservancies may still be muddy from late rains, potentially limiting access to certain areas without 4WD vehicles
Afternoon showers on 10 days of the month can interrupt outdoor activities, typically lasting 30-45 minutes between 2-4pm
Great Migration herds are scattered across the Serengeti (Tanzania), so classic river crossing scenes won't occur until June-July

Best Activities in April

Maasai Mara Wildlife Viewing Safaris

April offers exceptional predator viewing as animals concentrate around permanent water sources. The grass is still short from dry season, making spotting easier, while recent rains ensure water holes are full. Big cats are particularly active in the moderate temperatures, and you'll encounter far fewer vehicles than during peak migration season.

Booking Tip: Book conservancy stays 6-8 weeks ahead for better rates (typically $300-600 per person per day including meals). Choose conservancies like Ol Kinyei or Naboisho for exclusive wildlife experiences. Reference booking widget below for current safari options with reputable operators.

Mount Kenya Trekking and Hiking

April's clear mornings and stable weather patterns create ideal trekking conditions before the mountain's wet season. The moderate temperatures at 3,000-4,000m (9,840-13,120 ft) altitude are perfect for multi-day treks, with afternoon clouds providing natural shade. Wildlife is active on lower slopes as vegetation remains lush.

Booking Tip: Book mountain guides and huts 4-6 weeks ahead (typically $180-350 per day including guide and porter). Sirimon route offers best April conditions. See current guided trek options in booking section below.

Amboseli Elephant Photography Tours

April's dramatic sky conditions with building afternoon clouds create spectacular backdrops against Mount Kilimanjaro. Elephant herds are concentrated around Ol Tukai swamps, and the soft light from frequent cloud cover is ideal for photography. Dust levels are minimal from recent rains.

Booking Tip: Book photography-focused tours 3-4 weeks ahead (typically $250-450 per day). Choose operators with dedicated photography vehicles and professional guide training. Current specialized photo tours available through booking widget below.

Lake Nakuru Flamingo and Rhino Viewing

Post-rains April brings optimal water levels to Lake Nakuru, concentrating flamingo populations in spectacular numbers. The cooler temperatures make full-day park exploration comfortable, and both black and white rhinos are easily spotted in the acacia woodlands. Clear air provides excellent visibility across the lake.

Booking Tip: Day trips from Nairobi typically cost $120-200 including park fees and lunch. Book 2-3 weeks ahead for guaranteed vehicle availability. See current day trip options in booking section below.

Diani Beach Coastal Relaxation

April's moderate humidity (70%) and cooling sea breezes make Kenya's coast perfect for beach activities. Kite-surfing conditions are ideal with consistent northeast winds, while diving visibility reaches 20-25m (65-82 ft). The brief afternoon showers provide welcome cooling without disrupting full days.

Booking Tip: Beach accommodations offer shoulder-season rates in April, typically 30-40% lower than peak season. Book water sports activities same-week for flexibility around afternoon showers. Current coastal activity options available through booking widget below.

Samburu Cultural and Wildlife Experiences

April's comfortable temperatures make extended cultural visits pleasant, while the Ewaso Nyiro River attracts unique northern species like Grevy's zebras and reticulated giraffes. Recent rains ensure the semi-arid landscape shows rare green colors, creating unique photographic opportunities of desert-adapted wildlife.

Booking Tip: Combine wildlife and cultural experiences for best value, typically $280-480 per day including conservancy fees and cultural visits. Book through community-based conservancies for authentic experiences. See current Samburu options in booking section below.

April Events & Festivals

Mid April

Kenya Music Festival Finals

The culmination of the national schools' music competition featuring traditional and contemporary performances across Nairobi venues. Experience authentic Kenyan musical culture through student performances representing all 47 counties.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or poncho - afternoon showers last 30-45 minutes and occur on 10 days, but can be heavy

Layered clothing for 20-25°C (68-77°F) temperature range - mornings can be cool, especially at altitude above 1,500m (4,920 ft)

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 even with cloud cover, particularly dangerous at elevation

Waterproof camera protection or dry bag - sudden downpours can damage electronics during game drives

Closed hiking boots for muddy conditions - some conservancy roads remain soft from recent rains

Quick-dry clothing fabrics - 70% humidity means cotton takes longer to dry after rain or washing

Warm sleeping gear for camping - temperatures can drop to 15°C (59°F) at night in highland areas

Binoculars with lens covers - essential for wildlife viewing and protection from rain during afternoon showers

Insect repellent containing DEET - post-rain conditions increase mosquito activity especially at dusk

Power bank and waterproof charging solutions - remote locations have limited electricity and equipment needs protection from moisture

Insider Knowledge

Book conservancy accommodations directly through community websites for 15-20% savings compared to international booking platforms, plus your money directly supports local communities

Plan game drives for 6-10am and 4-6pm to avoid afternoon showers and catch wildlife at most active times - many tourists miss the excellent early morning activity by sleeping in

April is mango season in Kenya - roadside stalls sell incredibly sweet mangoes for KES 50-100 ($0.35-0.70), and locals know the best varieties like Apple Mango and Tommy

Use the Safaricom M-Pesa mobile money system for small purchases and tips - it's universally accepted and safer than carrying cash, plus you get better exchange rates than bureaus

Avoid These Mistakes

Assuming all roads are accessible - some remote conservancies like Laikipia plateau areas may still have muddy access roads requiring 4WD vehicles

Packing only for hot weather - April evenings at elevation can be surprisingly cool, especially in Nairobi at 1,795m (5,889 ft) altitude

Not bringing rain protection for cameras and electronics - afternoon showers come quickly and can damage expensive equipment during game drives