When to Visit Nairobi
Year-round climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit by Travel Style
Beach & Relaxation
June through September during the dry season when you can easily combine Nairobi visits with coastal trips, enjoying clear skies and minimal rainfall.
Cultural Exploration
October through December when temperatures are warm but comfortable (77-80°F highs) with manageable rainfall, ideal for walking tours and outdoor cultural sites.
Adventure & Hiking
June through September during the dry season when trails are less muddy, visibility is clearer, and cooler temperatures (74-79°F) make hiking more comfortable.
Budget Travel
April through May during the long rains when accommodation prices drop significantly, though you'll need to plan around afternoon showers.
Month-by-Month Climate Guide
January
Warm and relatively dry post-holiday weather with pleasant temperatures. Light rainfall makes it excellent for outdoor activities and safari excursions. Peak tourist season continues from December holidays.
February
The driest month with minimal rainfall and warm temperatures, making it ideal for all outdoor activities. Clear skies provide excellent conditions for photography and sightseeing. Tourist crowds remain elevated.
March
Transition month as the long rains begin, with increasing rainfall but still warm temperatures. Early March can be excellent for travel before the heavier rains arrive later in the month.
April
Peak of the long rainy season with the highest rainfall of the year. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, but mornings often start clear. Lush green landscapes emerge, and tourist crowds thin out significantly.
May
Continuation of the long rains with cooler temperatures and substantial rainfall. The city is at its greenest, but outdoor activities may be limited by afternoon showers. Good time for indoor cultural attractions.
June
Beginning of the dry season with significantly reduced rainfall and cooler temperatures. Excellent weather for all activities as skies clear and humidity drops. Tourist season begins to pick up again.
July
Peak dry season with minimal rainfall and the coolest temperatures of the year. Excellent conditions for safari and outdoor activities, though you may need light layers for cooler mornings and evenings.
August
Continues the dry season with very little rainfall and cool, comfortable temperatures. Prime time for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources. Peak tourist season with higher accommodation rates.
September
End of the main dry season with minimal rainfall and warming temperatures. Excellent conditions continue for outdoor activities and safari. Tourist crowds remain high but begin to moderate toward month's end.
October
Pleasant transition month with warm temperatures and light rainfall. Often considered one of the best months to visit with comfortable weather and fewer crowds than peak season. Good balance of clear skies and manageable precipitation.
November
Short rains season arrives with significant rainfall but warm temperatures. Afternoon storms are common, but mornings typically start clear. Landscape becomes lush and green, with fewer tourists and lower prices.
December
Holiday season with moderate rainfall tapering off and comfortable temperatures. Popular time for visitors despite occasional showers. End of short rains brings clearer skies as the month progresses.