Things to Do in Nairobi in March

March Weather in Nairobi

28°C (82°F) High Temp

15°C (59°F) Low Temp

74 mm (2.9 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect temperature range 15-28°C (59-82°F) - warm enough for outdoor activities without extreme heat that plagues December-February
Post-rainy season clarity - excellent visibility for wildlife viewing at Nairobi National Park with animals gathering at remaining water sources
Jacaranda blooming season transforms the city into purple paradise along Uhuru Highway and university areas - peak Instagram season
School holidays end mid-March, reducing local crowds at attractions and restaurants after first two weeks

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms 60% of days can disrupt outdoor plans between 2-5pm, requiring flexible scheduling
High humidity 70% makes midday activities uncomfortable - locals avoid outdoor exertion 11am-3pm
Muddy conditions at some parks and nature walks due to recent rains - hiking boots essential

Best Activities in March

Nairobi National Park Game Drives

March offers exceptional wildlife viewing as animals concentrate around remaining water sources after the rains. Morning temperatures 18-22°C (64-72°F) are perfect for game drives, and post-rain air clarity provides stunning views of Nairobi skyline backdrop. Rhino sightings peak in March as they frequent the permanent waterholes.

Booking Tip: Book morning slots (6:30-10:30am) to avoid afternoon storms. Entry fees are KSh 1,200-2,400 for residents, higher for non-residents. Vehicle hire typically costs KSh 8,000-12,000 per day. See current tour options in booking section below.

Karen Blixen Museum and Giraffe Centre Tours

The cooler March mornings are ideal for exploring Karen suburbs. Giraffes are most active during 8-11am feeding times, and the museum gardens showcase March's blooming season. Afternoon indoor museum visits work perfectly when thunderstorms roll in around 3pm.

Booking Tip: Combine both sites in one morning trip. Entry typically costs KSh 400-600 per site. Book transportation 2-3 days ahead, expect KSh 3,000-5,000 for half-day tours. Reference booking widget for current packages.

Maasai Market Cultural Experiences

March's variable weather makes covered market visits perfect for rainy afternoons. Post-harvest season brings fresh crafts and competitive pricing. Markets rotate locations - Tuesday (Maasai Lodge), Friday (Village Market), Saturday (High Court parking).

Booking Tip: Start negotiations at 30% of quoted price. Budget KSh 2,000-8,000 for quality souvenirs. Avoid midday visits when heat builds up under covers. Cultural tour guides typically charge KSh 2,500-4,000 for half-day experiences.

Kibera Slum Walking Tours

March's cooler mornings provide comfortable conditions for 2-3 hour walking tours. Post-rain season means less dust, clearer air for photography. Community projects are most active during school term time in March.

Booking Tip: Book with community-based organizations only. Tours typically cost KSh 2,000-3,500 including local guide and community contribution. Morning slots (9-11am) avoid afternoon heat and storms. Verify guide credentials through your accommodation.

Nairobi Railway Museum and City Walking Tours

March's pleasant temperatures make downtown walking tours enjoyable. The colonial railway museum offers perfect rainy-day backup plans. Historic city center exploration works best during dry morning hours before afternoon storms.

Booking Tip: Museum entry costs KSh 200-400. Guided city walks typically range KSh 1,500-3,000 for 2-3 hours. Book morning time slots and confirm rain contingency plans. See current walking tour options below.

Bomas of Kenya Cultural Shows

Indoor cultural performances provide excellent entertainment during March's unpredictable afternoon weather. Traditional dances and homestead replicas showcase Kenyan heritage. Air-conditioned venues offer respite from March humidity.

Booking Tip: Shows run 2:30-4:00pm and 5:15-6:15pm daily. Tickets cost KSh 500-800 for adults. Book afternoon shows as weather backup plans. Transportation from city center typically costs KSh 1,200-2,000 return.

March Events & Festivals

Late March

Nairobi International Trade Fair

Kenya's largest trade exhibition featuring local businesses, crafts, and cultural displays. Perfect indoor activity during March's variable weather with air-conditioned pavilions and covered walkways.

Mid March

Alliance Française Cultural Festival

French cultural center hosts film screenings, art exhibitions, and performances. Indoor venues provide sophisticated entertainment options during rainy afternoons.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight waterproof jacket - afternoon thunderstorms last 30-60 minutes and arrive suddenly between 2-5pm

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester in 70% humidity conditions that make synthetic fabrics uncomfortable

Closed-toe hiking boots - post-rain mud at Nairobi National Park and nature trails requires proper footwear with grip

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 during clear morning periods, stronger at 1,661m (5,450ft) altitude

Light sweater for evenings - temperatures drop to 15°C (59°F) after sunset, especially in elevated areas

Quick-dry pants - versatile for both game drives and city walking, essential when seats are damp from humidity

Umbrella or rain poncho - more practical than jacket alone during heavy downpours common in March afternoons

Insect repellent with DEET - post-rain mosquito activity peaks around dawn and dusk periods

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - wet pavements in city center become slippery during and after rains

Daypack with waterproof cover - protect electronics and documents during unexpected weather changes

Insider Knowledge

Locals schedule outdoor activities 7-11am and after 6pm to avoid both midday heat and afternoon storms - follow this pattern for comfort

Traffic becomes nightmare during afternoon rains - plan indoor activities 2-5pm or budget extra travel time if moving between locations

March is mango season - street vendors sell perfectly ripe mangoes for KSh 20-50, but avoid if you have sensitive stomach

Most restaurants and cafes offer 'rainy day specials' during March - ask about discounted menu items when storms hit

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities 2-5pm when afternoon thunderstorms are most likely - ruins expensive game drive experiences

Wearing white or light colors to Nairobi National Park in March - post-rain red soil stains clothing permanently

Not carrying cash in small denominations - many local vendors can't break KSh 1,000 notes, especially at markets