Long Rains (Apr-May)

From the latter part of March through May, East Africa typically experiences it's "long rains" when heavy downpours and sometimes prolonged periods of rain are the norm. This is the season of replenishment and growth, and it's also the timeframe when many safari and beach properties close for their annual refurbishments.

Generally speaking, this is not a time of the year that we recommend travel to East Africa because, unlike the "short rains" in October and November, the "long rains" are of sufficient volume and duration to impact safari activities, gorilla trekking, and beach time. However, if you are going to be in the region for other purposes, and you would like to enjoy a safari while there, destinations like the Maasai Mara and Serengeti can still offer a quality safari experience at great value and without crowds.