Across Kenya safari in November - Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru & Maasai Mara

Book this Across Kenya safari in November covering 7 days from Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru & Maasai Mara

A safari across Kenya in November is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the country’s most celebrated national parks and reserves. Some of the best parks to go on Safari in November are: Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru and the Maasai Mara. By combining Amboseli National Park, Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru National Park, and the Maasai Mara, travelers get the ultimate blend of wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural experiences. November is often referred to as the “short rains season” in Kenya, and while light showers may occur, they bring with them lush greenery, dramatic skies, and a quieter safari experience with fewer tourists.

Why Visit Kenya in November on a tour?

November is a transitional month between the dry and wet seasons, offering a unique atmosphere that makes safaris especially enjoyable. Unlike the peak migration months of July through October, November offers affordability, tranquility, and landscapes transformed by the rains. Here are some compelling reasons why this is the perfect time for a safari:

• Green Landscapes: The short rains rejuvenate Kenya’s plains, painting them in lush shades of green. This not only makes the scenery striking for photographers but also provides fresh grazing grounds for herbivores, drawing predators closer.
• Less Crowded Parks: November falls outside the high season, meaning fewer safari vehicles on game drives. Visitors can enjoy a more intimate connection with nature without jostling for space around wildlife sightings.
• Birdwatching Paradise: Migratory birds from Europe and Asia arrive, swelling the already impressive bird lists of Naivasha and Nakuru. November is one of the best months for ornithologists and casual bird lovers alike.
• Baby Season: Many animals give birth during this period. Watching elephant calves learning to walk or gazelles testing their speed is an unforgettable experience, and predators are often seen trailing these young herds.

Amboseli National Park safari in November – Home of Giants

Amboseli is among Kenya’s most iconic safari destinations, famous for its large herds of elephants and the stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. The park’s name means “salty dust” in Maasai, a reflection of its arid yet dramatic landscapes. During November, Amboseli becomes especially captivating as the rains settle the dust, creating crystal-clear vistas of Africa’s highest peak.

Wildlife Encounters in Amboseli especially in November

Amboseli’s elephant herds are the park’s crown jewels, and November is an excellent time to observe their interactions. The fresh grasslands attract not only elephants but also zebras, wildebeests, giraffes, and buffalos. Lions and hyenas can be spotted lurking near water sources, waiting for hunting opportunities. Bird enthusiasts will also appreciate the wetlands, where pelicans, kingfishers, and crowned cranes gather in large numbers.

November Photography Tips for Amboseli

The rains clear the air, making November one of the best months to capture Kilimanjaro rising above the savannah. Early mornings often bring golden light, while evenings can offer dramatic storm clouds illuminated by the setting sun—ideal for wildlife and landscape photography.

Cultural Experiences to expect in the month of November on a Kenyan tour

Amboseli lies in Maasai territory, and cultural visits to Maasai villages give travelers a deeper appreciation of Kenya’s heritage. Visitors can witness traditional dances, learn about Maasai beadwork, and hear stories from elders, making the safari not only about wildlife but also about people.

Lake Naivasha – A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Located in the Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake surrounded by lush forests and volcanic landscapes. November transforms the area into a vibrant ecosystem buzzing with life. With its proximity to Nairobi, Naivasha is often included as a stopover between Amboseli and Lake Nakuru.

November safari Activities at Lake Naivasha

The highlight of Naivasha is a boat ride across its waters. Here, visitors can glide past pods of hippos wallowing near the shores and spot giraffes and zebras grazing on Crescent Island. November is especially rewarding for birdwatchers: pelicans, cormorants, fish eagles, and migratory species from Europe fill the skies and shoreline.

Why Visit in November?

The lake’s shores bloom with fresh vegetation after the rains, attracting grazers like antelopes and waterbucks. This, in turn, draws predators to the area, making sightings more exciting. The mild temperatures and lush scenery also make Naivasha a refreshing contrast to the savannahs of Amboseli and Mara.

Lake Nakuru National Park – Flamingo Kingdom

Lake Nakuru is one of Kenya’s most famous birding destinations, renowned for its seasonal flocks of flamingos that transform the lake’s edges into a sea of pink. November is particularly special as the rains refresh the alkaline waters, supporting the growth of algae that attract flamingos in large numbers.

Wildlife Beyond Flamingos

While flamingos are the headline act, Nakuru is also a sanctuary for endangered rhinos. Both black and white rhinos roam its plains, making the park one of the best places in Kenya to see these majestic creatures. Rothschild’s giraffes, lions, leopards, and baboons are also commonly spotted. The combination of birdlife and big game makes Nakuru a must-visit stop on a November safari.

Scenic Beauty

November’s rains bring out the full beauty of Nakuru’s landscapes. The acacia woodlands become lush and green, while waterfalls like Makalia are revitalized, offering travelers scenic backdrops for photography and picnics.

Maasai Mara – The Crown Jewel

The Maasai Mara National Reserve is Kenya’s most famous safari destination, globally celebrated for the Great Migration. By November, the migration herds have moved back to Tanzania, but the Mara remains teeming with wildlife. In fact, this period offers a more peaceful experience with abundant game and fewer crowds.

Big Five Encounters

The Mara is one of the best places in Africa to spot the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. November’s lush vegetation attracts grazers like wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles, which in turn draw predators. Lions with cubs, cheetahs sprinting across open plains, and leopards lounging in acacia trees are common sights.

Predator Action

Because November is calving season for many herbivores, predators are especially active. Game drives often reveal dramatic hunts and the daily struggle for survival, giving travelers an authentic glimpse of Africa’s wilderness.

Why Visit the Mara in November?

Unlike the crowded migration months, November in the Mara is tranquil. Travelers can enjoy extended game drives without many other vehicles around, making the experience more personal. The fresh rains also turn the plains a deep green, creating a stunning setting for photography and wildlife viewing.

What to Expect in November

• Weather: Light afternoon showers are common, but mornings and evenings are perfect for game drives. Temperatures are mild, averaging 20–28°C during the day and cooler at night.
• Safari Gear: Pack neutral-colored clothing, a waterproof jacket, binoculars, and a quality camera with zoom lenses. Sturdy shoes are also useful for nature walks around Naivasha.
• Road Conditions: Some roads may be muddy after rain, but safari vehicles are equipped to handle these conditions. The fresh rains also keep dust levels low, making travel more comfortable.
• Affordability: November is considered a shoulder season, so many lodges and camps offer discounted rates compared to peak season, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Why Choose a November Safari in Kenya?

A November safari across Kenya is ideal for travelers seeking a balance of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and affordability. It offers opportunities that are not always present in the dry season, such as watching newborn animals take their first steps or enjoying bird migrations across Rift Valley lakes. For photographers, the contrast between green landscapes, dramatic skies, and wildlife makes November one of the most visually stunning months to visit.

• Affordable rates compared to peak season safaris.
• Stunning landscapes enriched by the rains, perfect for photography.
• Unique wildlife activity, including birthing seasons and predator-prey interactions.
• Less crowded national parks, providing more intimate wildlife encounters.

Final Thoughts

An across Kenya safari in November covering Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru, and the Maasai Mara is a journey through some of Africa’s most diverse and breathtaking ecosystems. From the towering elephants of Amboseli against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, to the pink flamingo-lined shores of Nakuru, and the predator-filled plains of the Maasai Mara, every destination offers a unique highlight. Add in the serenity of Lake Naivasha and the cultural richness of the Maasai, and November emerges as one of the most rewarding times to experience Kenya. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned safari enthusiast, November promises unforgettable moments in the heart of Africa.

Sample November safari Across Kenya: 7 Days Across Kenya Safari in November

Date: November 2025/2026

Duration: 7 days / 6 nights

Highlights: Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru & Maasai Mara

Activities: The big five, Photography, Culture, wildlife and sightseeing

Accommodation: Mid-Range / Luxury

Transport: 4x4 Safari Landcruiser

Itinerary

End of Safari Services

“Khaheri na Karibu tena Kenya” - Bye & welcome back to Kenya.

Cost & Inclusions

Based on 2 Pax

Cost per adult sharing in a double Room / Tent: US$ 2,260.00

Activities/services included in the cost:

• Complimentary departure airport transfer in Nairobi.
• Accommodation as per the itinerary.
• Lodges / Camps in the Game Reserves are booked on Full Board.
• Road transportation in safari 4x4 Landcruiser with English speaking driver guide throughout the safari.
• All park fees for game reserves and National Parks.
• Unlimited game drives as per the itinerary.
• Boat ride in Lake Naivasha.
• Unlimited drinking water.

Activities/services excluded in the cost:

• All International Flights + Taxes.
• Balloon ride.
• Crescent Island walk.
• Visa fees, Travel & Personal accident insurance.
• The flying doctors medical, emergency and rescue cover.
• Excursions, services and activities not mentioned in this program.
• Personal expenses e.g. laundry, telephone calls, Drinks, Tips and gratuities.