On this article, I’ll take you thru the most effective time to go to Nairobi. I’ll give attention to numerous seasons based mostly on climate patterns and price issues, drawing from my in depth expertise as a longtime resident of town.
Nairobi has been my house for over a decade. This East African metropolis provides guests a wealthy tapestry of points of interest, starting from a sport park and historic websites to various cultures and vibrant nightlife. Though these experiences are potential year-round, figuring out when to go to is critical when planning your journey.
To start with, there are distinct seasons in Nairobi to be aware of. January, February, and June to September mark the dry seasons, that are superb instances for out of doors exploration. Nevertheless, lodging costs are usually increased throughout these months.
Conversely, the lengthy rains from March to Might could make out of doors actions difficult, however the metropolis’s lush inexperienced landscapes come alive throughout this era. If you happen to’re a price range traveler, take into account visiting in the course of the brief rains from October to December. Showers are widespread within the afternoons, and mornings are sometimes sunny.
General Greatest Time To Go to Nairobi
I used to be born within the Kenyan hinterland however studied and lived in Nairobi for over ten years. The town experiences comparatively good climate year-round, making it an ideal journey vacation spot. It has a number of dry months and two durations of rain. Generally, July is chilly, however the drop in temperature shouldn’t have an effect on your travels.
Deciding when to go to Nairobi will depend on your preferences based mostly on climate circumstances and locations you wish to discover. You also needs to issue during which months have essentially the most cheap charges and when to keep away from crowds.
Going by my expertise, the general greatest time to go to Nairobi is in the course of the peak season between June and September. Right now, you’ll be able to discover the whole lot the capital provides and even take day journeys exterior town. Nevertheless, you need to be ready for increased costs for excursions and lodging.
For price range vacationers and people who dislike crowds, head to Nairobi in its wet months – March to Might and October to early December. The height season is the proper time for visiting wildlife facilities and going climbing.
Peak Season in Nairobi (June-Early October)
The excessive (or peak) season in Nairobi tends to be from June to September (typically into early October). Temperatures are excessive, and town is heat after three months of lengthy rains. There are many issues to do in Nairobi this season, and planning forward is a good suggestion.
You’ll be able to go to Nairobi Nationwide Park for a sport drive, be a part of a metropolis strolling tour, or go to wildlife sanctuaries just like the well-known Giraffe Heart. Karura Forest and Ngong Hills are excellent locations should you’re extra into the good outdoor. Ensure you additionally expertise the Nairobi nightlife and culinary scene.
The height season in Nairobi coincides with college holidays and safari adventures in different components of the nation. Many vacationers are visiting nationwide parks and reserves, whereas others flock to the coast for seaside holidays. Subsequently, reserving flights, trains, lodging, and excursions upfront is beneficial.
Shoulder Season in Nairobi (November-February)
Shoulder season in Nairobi runs from November to February. The town ushers within the festive interval on the finish of brief rains, which fall from October to early December. Throughout this time, vacationers and households go to Nairobi for its quite a few points of interest. To others, town is a pit cease on their option to safari parks or seaside locations, resulting in increased lodging costs.
January and February are normally quiet and two of the most effective instances to journey to Nairobi. Throughout these months, it’s dry, most vacationers have left, and fogeys are busy taking their youngsters again to high school. If you happen to’re within the metropolis in these months, you’ll have the ability to expertise luxurious at very inexpensive costs.
The shoulder season hosts a number of the greatest festivals in Nairobi. These embody the Nairobi Metropolis Pageant and StoryMoja Pageant. You can even go to vacationer locations resembling Elephant Nursery, Nairobi Nationwide Park, Oloolua Nature Path, and the Railway Museum.
Off Season in Nairobi (March-Might)
Heavy rain months in Nairobi are off-peak (or low) season. March via Might experiences lengthy rains and sees fewer vacationers. Nevertheless, attributable to local weather modifications, it primarily rains in April and early Might. You’ll get nice offers on transportation, excursions, motels, and points of interest should you dare go to throughout this era.
The off-season in Nairobi is ideal for vacationers who love indoor actions and nightlife. You’ll be able to go to museums, uncover historic websites and go clubbing. Some points of interest, resembling Elephant Nursery and Bomas of Kenya, are additionally open this season.
When to Go to Nairobi For Festivals
Many festivals, occasions, and concert events happen in Nairobi. These actions rejoice artwork, tradition, music, literature, and sports activities within the nation all year long. Subsequently, there’s no particular season to go to Nairobi for festivals; the most effective month will depend on your style.
That will help you plan your go to to Nairobi, listed here are a number of the greatest festivals and the months they’re held in:
When to Go to Nairobi For Historic Websites
If you happen to’re questioning when the most effective time of 12 months is to go to Nairobi for historic websites, I like to recommend the off-season months (March to Might). Throughout this time, fewer persons are exploring town, and also you’ll have the ability to see all of the locations. Though ticket costs stay fixed, there are nice offers to be discovered on lodging.
Visiting Nairobi’s museums and monuments can be potential from June to September. This era is right for these unfazed by crowds and excessive season costs. The town is usually dry, and you may go to wildlife facilities or be a part of strolling excursions.
A few of my favourite locations for historical past within the metropolis embody the next:
When to Go to Nairobi For Wildlife
Though Nairobi is used as a base for safari expeditions upcountry, there are a number of wildlife facilities within the metropolis. These embody Nairobi Nationwide Park, Giraffe Heart, and the Elephant Nursery. When you have restricted time within the capital, these locations will present you what to anticipate in greater sport reserves and safari parks.
As an area tour information, the most effective time for wildlife in Nairobi is between June and early October. It’s dry throughout this era, and transferring round is simple. Nevertheless, that is peak season, so count on increased charges on lodging and excursions. For fewer crowds, January and February are nice months to go to.
When to Go to Nairobi For Low-cost Costs
The lengthy wet interval between March and Might is the most effective time to go to Nairobi should you’re on a price range. Most motels and vacationer attraction websites are abandoned throughout this off-season. Costs are considerably diminished, and it’s potential to get offers of as much as 70% lower than the usual charges.
One other of the most effective instances to journey to Nairobi for affordable costs is January via February. Holidays are normally over for vacationers and households, however the climate is ideal for exploration. If these months are an possibility, plan your journey to Nairobi on weekdays to get even higher bargains on excursions and lodging.
When to Go to Nairobi For Mountain climbing
I like climbing, and Nairobi provides a possibility to take action with its nature trails, serene forest, and close by hills. My favorites embody the reasonable Ngong Hills, the gorgeous Karura Forest, and the tranquil Oloolua Nature Path. You can even be a part of a tour to Mount Longonot, lower than two hours away.
If you happen to’re like me, there’s no excellent time to hit the outside – any time is price it. Nevertheless, the wet season isn’t superb for tenting, picnicking, or working. To greatest expertise climbing in Nairobi, go to in January, February, June, August, September, or early October when the paths are dry.
The Greatest Time to Go to Nairobi By Month
Nairobi is a implausible metropolis to go to all 12 months spherical, due to its huge collection of actions, occasions, and reasonable local weather. Though its peak vacationer season tends to coincide with the dry months, there’s no motive why it’s best to skip the shoulder months. The low-season months are additionally a singular time to go to, particularly should you’re watching your spending.
So, should you’re planning a visit to Nairobi and questioning which month to go to, learn on. On this part, I’ll share a month-by-month breakdown with climate insights, costs, and beneficial locations to discover:
Nairobi in January
January is a wonderful time to be in Nairobi, with the December crowds dwindling and nice climate within the metropolis.
Climate in Nairobi in January
It is a dry and sizzling month in Nairobi, with temperatures above the 24°C mark. It’s heat, and the clear sky makes it straightforward to catch sunrises and sunsets. Though most locals are busy with college students returning to high school, count on vacationers in points of interest websites, bars, and eating places.
Issues To Do in Nairobi in January
January in Nairobi is ideal for metropolis sightseeing, being in nature, and sport viewing. Most motels are crammed up early within the month, however you’ll be able to nonetheless get some bargains should you guide upfront.
A few of the greatest issues to do throughout this month embody climbing at Ngong Hills and wandering within the streets of Nairobi. You can even watch wildlife at Nairobi Nationwide Park or be taught Kenyan historical past at Nairobi Nationwide Museum.
Nairobi in February
With its sunny days and heat nights, February is considered one of my favourite months in Nairobi.
Climate in Nairobi in February
Like January, February has wonderful climate for exploring vacationer points of interest in Nairobi. Day temperatures vary from 24°C to 29°C, and it’s cool at evening. As March approaches, it’s normally cloudy with indicators of rain, however touring continues to be potential.
Issues To Do in Nairobi in February
Along with climbing and wildlife viewing, there are different actions within the metropolis this month. You’ll be able to discover Nairobi’s nightlife, go to its neighborhoods, or attend a pageant.
Story Moja, Safaricom Jazz, and Nairobi Restaurant Week are my favourite occasions in February. If you happen to choose experiencing folks’s tradition and sightseeing, be a part of this thrilling metropolis tour. You’ll stroll alongside Nairobi’s busy streets, appreciating its structure, markets, and historic websites.
Nairobi in March
The climate in Nairobi in March is chilly and moist attributable to lengthy rains that reach to Might.
Climate in Nairobi in March
March is the start of the first wet season in Kenya. Out of doors actions are affected by the heavy downpours, which regularly final the entire day. Most locations within the metropolis are moist, and roads in sport parks and across the metropolis are impassible.
Nevertheless, local weather modifications have impacted climate patterns within the metropolis, and typically rainfall is delayed till April. If this occurs, you’re left with mid-range temperatures, stunning blue sky days, and hardly some other vacationers round.
Issues To Do in Nairobi in March
If you happen to’re not too involved about rainfall, March in Kenya could be your greatest guess. You’ll be able to go to notable metropolis points of interest, eat and drink, discover indoor historic websites, and reap the benefits of diminished lodging costs.
In March, a number of the greatest locations to go to in Nairobi embody the Railway Museum, August seventh Memorial Park, and the Nationwide Archives. For nightlife lovers, K1 Klub Home and Quiver Lounge are nice venues to hang around. You can even head out of Nairobi to the well-known Masai Mara Sport Reserve, which is dry year-round.
Nairobi in April
Chilly climate and lengthy rains proceed in April, making it arguably the worst month to go to Nairobi and the remainder of Kenya.
Climate in Nairobi in April
If you happen to’re visiting Nairobi in April, you’ll have to layer up with heat clothes and carry a rain jacket. Heavy rain at evening extends to the most effective of days, temperatures hardly ever rise past 21°C, and most locations are moist.
Issues To Do in Nairobi in April
Though it’s fairly a difficult month to go to Nairobi, April does have its perks. Sport viewing at Nairobi Nationwide Park is affected, however visiting museums and having fun with the blooming inexperienced vegetation at Oloolua Nature Path is feasible. Charges on locations to remain additionally are usually at their lowest right now of 12 months.
For individuals who love experiencing native tradition, head to Bomas of Kenya. Right here, you’ll be able to sit again and be entertained by acrobats, watch numerous cultural dances, and go to mannequin homesteads of Kenyan communities. From there, head to The Carnivore Restaurant for a culinary expertise or watch an area play at Kenya Nationwide Theatre.
Nairobi in Might
The climate in Might improves in the direction of the tip of the month, with barely increased temperatures and fewer wet days.
Climate in Nairobi in Might
Just like April, the climate in Nairobi in Might is normally chilly and moist, with temperatures solely reaching round 23°C. It’s typically cooler and wetter in all places, however the metropolis is getting ready for the height season.
You’ll be able to count on extra sunny days, and the atmosphere is lush inexperienced. Visiting town in Might provides you extra time to discover locations earlier than crowds begin arriving in June.
Issues To Do in Nairobi in Might
Might is a wonderful time to be in Nairobi should you fancy out of doors actions. Karura Forest and Oloolua Nature Path are exceptionally inexperienced, and chicken melodies will be heard in all places. Ngong Hills path is much less muddy, and though not fully clear, you’ll be able to take pleasure in climbing with out the new January solar.
Along with being in nature, you’ll be able to discover town’s historic websites, expertise its nightlife, or go to the Elephant Nursery. Labour Day celebrations in Kenya additionally happen in Might.
Nairobi in June
June in Kenya marks the start of the excessive (or peak) journey season after the lengthy rains.
Climate in Nairobi in June
June sees the final of the lengthy rains, temperatures hold rising, and town begins experiencing the results of the excessive season. The surroundings is inexperienced and exquisite in all places, and nationwide parks are lush with newborns taking part in within the tall grass. It’s a well-liked time to go to Nairobi.
Temperatures in June are round 24°C on common, with highs of as much as 28°C. The rain is over, and you may count on brighter days and heat nights. This month is right for indoor and out of doors actions and day journeys from Nairobi to close by locations.
Issues To Do in Nairobi in June
There are many unbelievable locations to go to in Nairobi in June. These embody town’s wildlife facilities, nature locations, historic websites, and extra. If you happen to’re questioning the place to start, try our information on thrilling issues to do in Nairobi. You can even be a part of day journeys to Hell’s Gate Nationwide Park or hike Mount Longonot.
There are additionally some vital occasions and festivals to attend, with my favourite being the Koroga Pageant. This annual occasion celebrates African tradition, artwork, music, trend, and meals via concert events.
Since June is the start of the height journey season, lodging costs are nonetheless cheap. Nevertheless, I like to recommend reserving upfront to keep away from the push, which begins round mid-month.
Nairobi in July
Though most components of Kenya are chilly in July, Nairobi enjoys sunny days, making it potential to journey across the metropolis comfortably.
Climate in Nairobi in July
July is a good time to go to Nairobi by way of climate. Though it’s chilly typically, there’s little rain, and also you’ll take pleasure in sunny days all through the month. Temperatures are okay (17°C-25°C), and virtually all vacationer points of interest are accessible.
I’ve spent many July months in Nairobi and discover it a pleasing place to be. Though it’s hotter than the countryside, you continue to have to pack for unpredictable climate. I like to recommend carrying gentle and heat garments, sunblock, and climbing gear if you wish to go outdoor.
Issues To Do in Nairobi in July
Vacationer points of interest in Nairobi stay open in July. I like to recommend visiting museums (just like the Nairobi Nationwide Museum) and monitoring metropolis monuments (like Kimathi and Tom Mboya statues). You can even be a part of a tour of wildlife facilities within the metropolis, resembling Elephant Nursery and Giraffe Heart.
July can be a stunning time to go into the good outdoor. Whether or not you want climbing, jogging, chasing waterfalls, or birdwatching, this time of the 12 months is ideal. You’ll be able to go to Karura Forest, Nairobi Arboretum, Oloolua Nature Path, or Ngong Hills – my favourite climbing path close to town.
Even should you’re not into nature and historical past, July in Nairobi provides a possibility for extra actions. These embody watching stay reveals in theaters, hitting the golf equipment, and buying. K1 Klub Home is my go-to nightlife spot within the metropolis for drinks, motion pictures, stay music, and good meals.
Nairobi in August
August is a good time to be in Nairobi, however count on extra vacationers and better costs on excursions and lodging – particularly in main nationwide parks.
Climate in Nairobi in August
Glorious climate continues in August. It is a peak journey month, with many vacationers visiting Masai Mara for the annual nice migration. Households additionally reap the benefits of the varsity holidays, and the entire nation is busy – together with the capital metropolis.
You’ll be able to count on temperatures of as much as 27°C and a transparent blue sky. You gained’t see any signal of rain in August, and journey locations are accessible. Most lodging amenities are totally booked; should you’re fortunate to get a room, it’s normally overpriced.
Issues To Do in Nairobi in August
Touring to Nairobi in August is kind of handy. This month’s nice climate circumstances make it a really perfect time to go to town. You’ll be able to take pleasure in metropolis sightseeing, sport viewing, climbing, and uncover many historic websites.
Nairobi Nationwide Park, Bomas of Kenya, and the Railway Museum are a number of the greatest points of interest in and across the metropolis. You can even be a part of this thrilling tour of the Nairobi vacationer circuit. It consists of visiting Elephant Nursery, Giraffe Heart, and Nairobi Nationwide Park.
Nairobi in September
September in Nairobi is heat and nice, with extra sunny days than cloudy ones.
Climate in Nairobi in September
September is without doubt one of the hottest months in Nairobi, with daytime temperatures reaching as much as 30°C. It cools somewhat in the course of the evening, so should you’re visiting town this month, pack one thing heat for the evenings. On the plus aspect, town is dry, providing guests an opportunity to discover numerous attraction websites.
Issues To Do in Nairobi in September
September is a wonderful time of 12 months for out of doors excursions in Nairobi. If you happen to love climbing and nature, Karura Forest, Ngong Hills, and Oloolua Nature Path are all nice locations so as to add to your itinerary. For individuals who love historical past and humanities, town has a number of museums and galleries, together with the lesser-known Nairobi Archives.
Occasions such because the Nairobi Worldwide Commerce Truthful additionally seem on the calendar, and along with indoor actions, barely a day will go by with out you discovering one thing to do.
September is within the peak season. Subsequently, be sure you guide lodging and excursions effectively upfront.
Nairobi in October
October in Nairobi marks the height season’s finish and the start of the brief rain interval.
Climate in Nairobi in October
October marks the start line of the “brief rains” interval, which begins late within the month. The climate modifications from sunny and heat to comparatively chilly and moist. This comes with a transition from peak to shoulder season.
The primary half of the month falls within the excessive season, with many vacationers nonetheless out watching the wildebeest migration. Throughout this time, Nairobi is much less crowded, and you will get good offers on motels and excursions.
In direction of the tip of October, vacationers arrive within the metropolis, and costs hike for a brief interval. If you happen to plan to remain in Nairobi within the second half of October, attempt reserving excursions and motels upfront. Keep in mind to hold heat garments and rain gear.
Issues To Do in Nairobi in October
Though there are lots of locations to go to in Nairobi in October, I like to recommend spending time exploring different components of Kenya. That is normally the final greatest month weather-wise, and also you wish to go to nationwide parks earlier than it rains.
If you happen to’re into wildlife, head to Masai Mara or Amboseli Nationwide Park. Hell’s Gate Nationwide Park is ideal for journey seekers, the place you’ll be able to rock climb and bike experience, amongst different actions. The very best locations for hikers exterior Nairobi are Ngong Hills and Mount Longonot.
Again in Nairobi, there are additionally a number of issues to do. In addition to visiting cultural facilities, historic websites, and wildlife spots, you’ll be able to attend festivals or go partying. My favourite occasions in October embody Tusker Oktoberfest and Blankets and Wine.
Nairobi in November
Late October rains proceed to November, however you’ll be able to count on sunny days and hotter nights.
Climate in Nairobi in November
November in Nairobi brings a mixture of brief rains and hints of dry climate. Anticipate each day surprises, from cool mornings, sudden afternoon showers, and nice nights.
Temperatures vary from 18°C within the mornings to round 25°C in the course of the day, making it pretty delicate. The air carries the scent of recent rain on the earth, and town landscapes burst with greenery. This makes November in Nairobi charming and full of life.
There are few vacationers within the nation, and native colleges are but to interrupt for holidays, making it one of many least expensive months to go to. Lodging amenities are discounted, transport is affordable, and excursions are inexpensive. It’s a wonderful time for out of doors adventures like safaris in close by nationwide parks or exploring markets and metropolis streets.
Issues To Do in Nairobi in November
Nairobi in November beckons with a fascinating mix of pure magnificence and cultural heritage that can make your travels all of the extra memorable. This time of 12 months is ideal for wildlife viewers because it minimally disrupts sport drives. It’s additionally superb for cultural experiences and nightlife.
The Nairobi Nationwide Park is a must-visit, as you’ll be able to witness new child wildlife amidst tall grasses. You can even immerse your self within the Kenyan tradition by looking for distinctive crafts and souvenirs on the Metropolis Market.
Carnivore Restaurant is a good place for an evening out. Right here, you’ll be able to feast on unique sport meats, pattern native beers, and hearken to African music.
Nairobi in December
December is normally heat and merry, however the charges of lodging, excursions, and transport rise attributable to holidays.
Climate in Nairobi in December
June to September is the most effective time to journey to Nairobi weather-wise. Nevertheless, December is the busiest month. It’s additionally normally heat, and the atmosphere is blooming with completely different flowers, together with the gorgeous bougainvilleas.
Colleges have closed for lengthy holidays throughout this time, and Nairobi attracts festive holidaymakers in droves. Resorts, excursions, and home flights are costly, and prime points of interest are crowded.
Issues To Do in Nairobi in December
December is a month of leisure, celebrations, and touring with household and pals. With its quite a few occasions and enjoyable locations to go to, Nairobi is nice for all that and extra. You’ll be able to stroll round, go to museums, see wildlife, or uncover town’s culinary and nightlife scene.
In addition to public holidays resembling Christmas and Jamhuri Day, hold an eye fixed out for occasions resembling Blankets and Wine and the Nairobi Metropolis Pageant. You can even enterprise exterior town and attend well-known festivals like Beneath the Baobabs in Kilifi.
Greatest Time to Go to Nairobi: FAQs
Beneath are solutions to some generally requested questions on the most effective time to go to Nairobi:
The very best months to go to Nairobi for nice climate are normally June to October and December to February. These months are thought-about the dry seasons and provide comfy temperatures for wildlife safaris and out of doors adventures.
In contrast to many different components of the world, Nairobi doesn’t have a winter season. As an alternative, it has two wet seasons (lengthy rains and brief rains), and a dry season. The dry season, which happens from June to September, is a positive time to go to town.
Nairobi has two hottest months – January and February. You’ll be able to count on excessive daytime temperatures that usually attain as much as 29°C.
Nairobi experiences two major wet seasons. The lengthy rains happen from March to Might, with April being the wettest month general. The brief rains happen from October to early December, with November being the rainiest.
Though Nairobi’s local weather stays delicate and constant year-round, July is taken into account the coldest month. It has barely decrease temperatures in comparison with different months.
Now You Know the Greatest Time to Go to Nairobi
Nairobi is an unbelievable metropolis that pulls guests year-round. Every season has a wealth of experiences, providing a singular perspective on town’s magnificence.
The town has one thing to supply each traveler; whether or not you like the dry, wildlife-rich months, the plush greenery of the moist season, or the budget-friendly low and shoulder durations.
I hope this information for the most effective time to go to Nairobi for climate and prices has been useful. If that’s the case, now you can choose a season and confidently plan a beautiful journey to my house capital – to discover and create reminiscences that can final eternally.
