Best Time to Visit Buffalo Springs

Your Seasonal Guide to Wildlife, Weather, and Experience

🏞 Overview: Why Timing Matters

Buffalo Springs National Reserve is a semi-arid, year-round safari destination located in northern Kenya. With hot temperatures throughout the year, two distinct rainy seasons, and a dynamic wildlife population, the best time to visit depends on your interests—whether that’s clear skies, big game sightings, photography, or quiet, crowd-free safaris.

This guide breaks down the ideal months based on weather, wildlife behavior, landscape conditions, and tourist traffic, so you can plan your trip with confidence.

🌤 Dry Season: Best for Classic Game Viewing

Months: January to March and June to October

✅ Why It’s Ideal:

Animals congregate around permanent water sources, especially the Ewaso Ng’iro River and natural springs.
Sparse vegetation improves visibility—great for spotting predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
Dry tracks make for smoother game drives, especially for self-drivers or long full-day excursions.
Clear skies and golden light create perfect conditions for photographers.
Cooler mornings and evenings during June–August provide pleasant safari temperatures.

🦓 Wildlife Highlights:

Large elephant herds often visible along the riverbanks.
Easy sightings of the Samburu Special Five: reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk.
Good chances of predator-prey interaction, especially in August and September.

👥 Crowd Level:

Moderate to high during August and December holidays—book lodges early.

🌧 Green Season: Best for Scenery and Birding

Months: March to May and October to December

✅ Why It’s Worth Considering:

The park turns lush and green, with dramatic skies and colorful blooms.
Migratory birds arrive, making this a top season for birdwatchers.
Fewer tourists mean quieter drives and better lodge availability.
Excellent for photographers, especially landscape and bird specialists.

🐘 Wildlife Viewing:

Wildlife is still present but may be more dispersed due to widespread water availability.
April and November are peak birding months, with over 390 species recorded.

⚠️ Considerations:

Rain can affect road conditions, especially in April—4x4s are essential.
Short afternoon showers are common but rarely last all day.
Mosquito activity increases slightly—pack repellent and wear long sleeves.

📸 Best Time by Travel Style

Interest	Best Time to Visit
Big Game Viewing	June – October, January – February
Birdwatching	November – April
Photography	February, September, November
Budget-Friendly Travel	April – May, November
Avoiding Crowds	May, June, early December
Cultural Visits	Year-round (best with dry conditions)
Walking & Nature Tours	June – September (cool and dry)

🧭 Quick Month-by-Month Summary

January–February: Hot and dry; excellent wildlife density. Best for big cats and elephant herds.
March: Transition month; green season begins mid to late month.
April–May: Wettest months; great for birding and lush scenery but fewer animals near rivers.
June–August: Peak safari season; comfortable weather, top predator sightings.
September: Excellent for photography and game viewing as dry season peaks.
October: Short rains may begin late in the month; early October still great for safaris.
November: Birdwatching heaven; moderate rains and low visitor numbers.
December: Mixed conditions; rains taper mid-month. Great for family holidays if booked early.

🏁 Final Recommendation

For first-time safari-goers, wildlife photographers, or families, the dry season from June to October offers the most reliable game viewing and ease of travel. For birdwatchers, returning travelers, and those seeking a greener, quieter experience, the green season months of April, November, and December bring a different kind of magic to Buffalo Springs—lush, colorful, and full of life.

No matter when you go, Buffalo Springs promises an authentic, uncrowded safari with unique species, stunning landscapes, and meaningful cultural encounters.