Visiting Kenya in March: Weather, Wildlife, and What to Expect
March is a transitional month in Kenya. Early March retains the dry season character — good conditions and reasonable temperatures. From mid-to-late March, the long rains begin to arrive across most of the country. The transition brings lower tourist volumes and prices alongside some road access challenges.
Weather in March
| Region | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainfall | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nairobi | 25°C | 14°C | 140mm | Rains arrive mid-month; afternoon showers |
| Masai Mara | 26°C | 15°C | 120mm | Landscape turns green; some muddy tracks |
| Amboseli | 29°C | 17°C | 120mm | Dusty early March; muddy later |
| Samburu | 32°C | 18°C | 60mm | Less rain than south; still good conditions |
| Kenya Coast | 32°C | 24°C | 60mm | Still good; rains arrive later than inland |
| Mount Kenya (base) | 18°C | 10°C | 150mm | Rains build; trekking conditions deteriorate |
Wildlife in March
Early March: Still in dry season conditions. Excellent game viewing with concentrated wildlife at water sources.
Late March: As rains begin, the landscape transforms to vivid green. Wildlife disperses from water sources as temporary pools form across the parks. Sightings become less concentrated but the green landscape is beautiful.
Calving season: Many species drop calves with the onset of rains (triggered by food abundance). Zebra and wildebeest calves are visible in the Mara and Amboseli late March–April.
Road Conditions
Early March: Roads are in dry season condition — generally excellent.
Late March: The Masai Mara’s black cotton soil roads become problematic in heavy rain — a 4WD is essential and some tracks may close. Amboseli and Samburu are less severely affected.
Crowds and Pricing
March is low-shoulder season — prices begin to drop from mid-month. Lodges often offer green season rates from mid-March. This is a good value window for budget-conscious travellers willing to accept some rain.
Best Activities in March
- Early March safaris — dry season quality at lower prices
- Whale shark season continues at Watamu and Diani (October–March — season ends roughly late March)
- Lamu — beautiful and uncrowded in March
- Birdwatching — migratory birds are present before returning north in April
Where to Go in March
Early March (days 1–14): Samburu — the northern drylands stay drier than the south. Wildlife concentrates at the Ewaso Ng’iro River and the Samburu Special Five are reliably visible. Conditions deteriorate less quickly here than in the Mara or Amboseli.
Early March coast: Diani or Watamu — March is still dry season on the coast through mid-month. Calm Indian Ocean, whale shark season still running. A good pairing with an early-March safari.
Late March if you must travel: Masai Mara — even in the rains the Masai Mara is extraordinary. Accept that some tracks will be muddy and wildlife more dispersed. The green landscape with calves is genuinely beautiful. Go with a reputable operator who knows the accessible routes.
March Budget Guide
Safari costs (per person/night, full board):
- Budget camp, Masai Mara: approximately KES 10,000–18,000 (green season discounts apply from mid-March)
- Mid-range lodge, Masai Mara: approximately KES 20,000–40,000
- Samburu budget lodge: approximately KES 8,000–15,000
Nairobi costs:
- Budget guesthouse: approximately KES 2,000–4,500/night
- Mid-range hotel: approximately KES 7,000–15,000/night
- Meals (mid-range restaurant): approximately KES 800–1,500 per person
Mid-March onwards is one of the cheapest windows of the year for Kenya safaris — dry season quality early in the month, green season prices from mid-month.
What to Pack for March
- Waterproof jacket (essential from mid-March)
- Gaiters and waterproof boots for any walking
- Lighter clothing for warm, humid days
- High-SPF sunscreen — early March UV remains intense
- Insect repellent — rain brings increased mosquito activity from mid-month
- Dust covers for cameras in early March; rain covers from mid-month
FAQs
Is March a good time to visit Kenya? Early March is excellent — dry season conditions at below-peak prices. Late March requires managing rain, road access, and more dispersed wildlife. For first-time visitors, early March is recommended; late March suits experienced Kenya travellers or budget-conscious visitors.
Which parks are best in March? Samburu is the best choice throughout March — it receives less rain and the northern wildlife is reliable. For early March, the Mara and Amboseli are both excellent. Late March is better handled in Samburu.
Do I need a 4WD in March? In early March, any vehicle manages most parks. From mid-March, a proper 4WD is essential for the Masai Mara’s black cotton soil roads. Samburu stays more passable throughout March.