The Best Time To Visit Nairobi

The best time to visit Nairobi is from late June to October, during the dry season, when temperatures are mild, and humidity levels are lower. But first things first, Nairobi is in Kenya and its its capital city. It’s the safari capital of Africa and this is why, just within the city there is Nairobi National Park  which offers excellent game viewing against the unique backdrop of a city skyline. Over forty ethnic groups add to Nairobi’s cultural melting pot, offering a rich history steeped in Kenyan traditions and modernity. It’s a city that invites you to explore its many delights. Visit the enchanting David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage to delight in the feeding of baby elephants, and Giraffe Manor and get up close and personal with the Rothschild giraffe. Discover Karen Blixen’s captivating story at the Karen Blixen Museum and experience life in colonial Africa.

Giraffes having some breakfast at Giraffe Manor Nairobi Kenya
Giraffes having some breakfast at Giraffe Manor Nairobi Kenya

 

Best Time to Visit Nairobi Kenya  by Season

nairobi cbd map source Google earth
Nairobi cbd map source Google earth

June To September

June marks the official end of the long rains and introduces the start of the dry season, although temperatures can still be quite cool during this month. The peak dry season starts in July, bringing plenty of sunny days. July is a warm month, with temperatures averaging around 24°C (75°F), remaining consistent throughout August and September as the dry season wears on. These are the best months to visit Nairobi National Park as the conditions are excellent for game viewing. The humidity in town is lower during these months, but with peak season you should expect more traffic and anticipate delays entering and exiting the domestic and international airport.

October to January

October is usually still hot and dry as the dry season begins to draw to a close. Game viewing in Nairobi National Park is particularly good at this point, just ahead of the approaching rains. By early November the humidity is starting to climb as clouds gather with the threat of rain, usually breaking by mid-November. The short rains continue to mid or late December, delivering regular afternoon showers which help to refresh the city and the neighbouring park. Despite the short rains, good wildlife opportunities remain as they minimally disrupt safari adventures, and migratory birds begin to return to Nairobi National Park. Due to the mild weather and affordable low-season prices, December is an ideal time to visit, although an increase over the festive break should be anticipated. Dry conditions prevail in January, with the occasional afternoon shower. This is an excellent time to book a Nairobi holiday safari package , with warm days and fewer tourists. Daytime conditions in late December and January are around 27°C (80°F). After sunset, evenings can cool down as low as 10°C (50°F).

Ostrich birds in Nairobi national park in the city of Nairobi
Ostrich birds in Nairobi national park in the city of Nairobi

February To May

February is a delightful month, offering hot and dry conditions with daytime temperatures around 28°C (82°F). By early March, there are usually signs of the approaching rains, which typically start mid-way through the month. Heavy rainfall should be expected through to mid-May, creating challenging conditions both in the city and in the neighbouring national park. By the end of May, Nairobi is in full bloom as the sun returns after the rains. Vegetation in the park is green and lush, making game viewing difficult, but consistently improving with the start of the dry season. This usually isn’t a very good time to book a Nairobi safari holiday package.

Entrance of Nairobi National Park Main Gate Nairobi Kenya
Entrance of Nairobi National Park Main Gate Nairobi Kenya

Best Time For Sightseeing in Nairobi

The best time to visit Nairobi Kenya to savour splendid sightseeing opportunities is during the dry weather months of June to October or during the Christmas holiday season that’s on December-January if your budgets allow. During the dry season, you’ll enjoy clear skies, mild temperatures, and perfect weather for exploring attractions in Nairobi like the Nairobi National Museum, Karen Blixen Museum, and the Giraffe Centre. A guided walking tour offers a closer look into life in Nairobi, while meeting baby elephants at the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is always a fulfilling experience. Ideal Nairobi safari conditions prevail in the Nairobi National Park, mere minutes from the city’s heart. Due to their dry weather and hot sunny days, January and February are also superb, typically with fewer tourists in the region and alittle pocket friendly.

Giraffes checking on what is in the rooms at Giraffe Manor Nairobi kenya
Giraffes checking on what is in the rooms at Giraffe Manor Nairobi kenya

 

Best Time to Visit Nairobi Kenya For Cultural Events And Festivals

We have several festivals that happen in Nairobi on annual basis the only issue with them is we cant specify the day or the month since they are usually planned yearly. Some of these festivals and events are,the Nairobi International Book Fair, the Nairobi Wine Festival educational event that offers genuine wine enthusiasts the chance to savour quality wines and learn about their origins. We also have Nairobi Beer Festival, Nairobi Fashion Week, Nairobi Restaurant Week, Karibu Kenya Festival, Blankets and Wine Festival, Nairobi International Film Festival, Lamu Cultural Festival, Koroga Festival, and International Jazz Day Nairobi.

 

When Is The Hottest Month In Nairobi

January and February are the hottest months in Nairobi and are considered shoulder seasons, meaning the number of tourists is usually lower at this time. These two months are ideal for travelling to Nairobi as the city experiences very little rainfall, and temperatures average 28°C (82°F). You can enjoy various outdoor activities, but being cautious of the heat is essential. Additionally, accommodation costs are usually more affordable.

an elephant taking milk at Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage in Nairobi Kenya
an elephant taking milk at Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage in Nairobi Kenya

 How Long To Stay In Nairobi

How long you decide to stay is based on your interests but to explore what Nairobi has to offer extensively you need at least 3 days. This vibrant city beckons international tourists, offering diverse experiences. For a brief layover, 24 hours suffices to glimpse wildlife at Nairobi National Park and explore local foods and culture. A 48-hour stay allows for sampling local cuisines, shopping at a traditional Maasai Market, and engaging with museums and other cultural pursuits. So if your wondering how long should you stay duding a Nairobi Safari well, for more profound adventures, additional days will unveil Nairobi’s charm and nearby wonders.

The king of the jungle surving her teritory behind her its Nairobi city
The king of the jungle surving her teritory behind her its Nairobi city

Since the best time to visit Nairobi is from June to October and January to February, there’s ample time to position yourself in this vibrant and culturally rich city to explore and discover. Call us now and talk to our expert trip designers Twinkle Tours and Safaris. Share your interests and priorities, and let us help you create an extraordinary cityscape expedition. Contact us today and prepare for an unforgettable adventure.

 

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