Nairobi - When to Visit

When to Visit Nairobi

Climate guide & best times to travel

Monthly Climate Data for Nairobi Average temperature and rainfall by month Climate Overview 6°C 12°C 19°C 26°C 33°C Rainfall (mm) 0 64 129 Jan Jan: 26.0°C high, 14.0°C low, 58mm rain Feb Feb: 28.0°C high, 14.0°C low, 36mm rain Mar Mar: 28.0°C high, 15.0°C low, 74mm rain Apr Apr: 26.0°C high, 15.0°C low, 130mm rain May May: 24.0°C high, 14.0°C low, 102mm rain Jun Jun: 23.0°C high, 13.0°C low, 28mm rain Jul Jul: 23.0°C high, 11.0°C low, 10mm rain Aug Aug: 24.0°C high, 12.0°C low, 18mm rain Sep Sep: 26.0°C high, 12.0°C low, 18mm rain Oct Oct: 26.0°C high, 14.0°C low, 51mm rain Nov Nov: 25.0°C high, 15.0°C low, 130mm rain Dec Dec: 25.0°C high, 14.0°C low, 86mm rain Temperature Rainfall
Nairobi enjoys a pleasant subtropical highland climate year-round due to its elevation of approximately 5,500 feet above sea level. The city experiences two distinct rainy seasons: the long rains from March to May with peak rainfall in April and November (both receiving 5.1 inches), and the short rains from October to December. The dry seasons occur from June to September and January to February, with July being the driest month at just 0.4 inches of rainfall. Temperatures remain remarkably consistent throughout the year, with highs ranging from 74°F to 82°F and lows from 53°F to 60°F, making it one of the most temperate capital cities in Africa. The humidity stays steady at around 70% year-round, contributing to the comfortable climate that rarely requires air conditioning.

Best Time to Visit

Beach & Relaxation
January to March offer the warmest temperatures (80-82°F highs) with minimal rainfall, perfect for outdoor relaxation and poolside activities.
Cultural Exploration
June to September provides the coolest, driest weather ideal for walking tours, museum visits, and exploring the city's cultural attractions without rain interruptions.
Adventure & Hiking
June to September offers the best conditions with cool temperatures (74-79°F) and minimal rainfall (0.4-0.7 inches), perfect for safari trips and outdoor adventures.
Budget Travel
April, May, and November during the rainy seasons offer lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds, though you'll need to plan around occasional showers.

Month-by-Month Guide

January

January kicks off the year with warm, pleasant weather and minimal rainfall, making it one of the most popular months to visit. The dry conditions and comfortable temperatures create ideal circumstances for outdoor activities and sightseeing. This is peak tourist season with clear skies and excellent visibility for wildlife viewing.

80°F High
57°F Low
2.3 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

February

February continues the dry season with the warmest temperatures of the year and the lowest rainfall. The excellent weather conditions make this another peak month for tourism. Clear skies and minimal precipitation provide perfect conditions for safaris and outdoor exploration.

82°F High
57°F Low
1.4 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

March

March marks the beginning of the long rainy season with increased rainfall but still maintaining warm temperatures. The rains typically come as afternoon showers, leaving mornings clear for activities. Tourist crowds begin to thin out as the wet season approaches.

82°F High
59°F Low
2.9 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

April

April experiences the heaviest rainfall of the year as the long rains reach their peak. Despite the wet conditions, temperatures remain pleasant and the landscape becomes lush and green. This is considered low season with fewer tourists and better accommodation rates.

79°F High
60°F Low
5.1 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

May

May continues the rainy season with substantial precipitation and slightly cooler temperatures. The frequent showers create beautiful, verdant scenery throughout the region. Tourist numbers remain low, making it a good time for budget travelers who don't mind occasional rain.

76°F High
58°F Low
4.0 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

June

June marks the beginning of the cool, dry season with significantly reduced rainfall and pleasant temperatures. The weather becomes increasingly stable and comfortable for outdoor activities. This transitional month sees tourist numbers starting to increase as conditions improve.

74°F High
55°F Low
1.1 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

July

July is the driest and coolest month of the year, offering excellent conditions for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures. The minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures make this a favorite time for safaris. Clear skies and cool mornings provide ideal conditions for early game drives.

74°F High
53°F Low
0.4 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

August

August continues the dry season with minimal rainfall and cool, comfortable temperatures perfect for all outdoor activities. This is peak safari season with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. The pleasant weather attracts many visitors, making it one of the busiest tourist months.

75°F High
54°F Low
0.7 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

September

September extends the dry season with gradually warming temperatures while maintaining minimal rainfall. The excellent weather conditions continue to attract tourists for safaris and outdoor exploration. This remains a popular month with good visibility and comfortable conditions for wildlife viewing.

79°F High
55°F Low
0.7 inches Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

October

October marks the beginning of the short rainy season with slightly increased precipitation and warming temperatures. The rains are typically less intense than the long rains, often occurring as brief afternoon showers. Tourist crowds begin to decrease as the wet season approaches.

80°F High
58°F Low
2.0 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

November

November experiences heavy rainfall equal to April as the short rains reach their peak intensity. Despite the wet conditions, temperatures remain pleasant and the landscape becomes beautifully green. This is low tourist season with excellent opportunities for budget travelers.

77°F High
59°F Low
5.1 inches Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

December

December sees moderate rainfall as the short rains begin to subside, with temperatures remaining comfortable. The month often experiences a mix of wet and dry periods, with conditions gradually improving toward year-end. Tourist numbers start to increase again as the holiday season approaches.

78°F High
58°F Low
3.4 inches Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

Explore Activities in Nairobi