On this article, I’ll take you thru the most effective time to go to Nairobi. I’ll give attention to varied seasons primarily based on climate patterns and price issues, drawing from my in depth expertise as a longtime resident of town.
Nairobi has been my dwelling for over a decade. This East African metropolis gives guests a wealthy tapestry of points of interest, starting from a recreation park and historic websites to numerous cultures and vibrant nightlife. Though these experiences are doable year-round, realizing when to go to is important 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 splendid occasions for outside exploration. Nonetheless, lodging costs are usually increased throughout these months.
Conversely, the lengthy rains from March to Could could make outside actions difficult, however the metropolis’s lush inexperienced landscapes come alive throughout this era. Should you’re a funds traveler, take into account visiting through the brief rains from October to December. Showers are widespread within the afternoons, and mornings are sometimes sunny.
General Finest Time To Go to Nairobi
I used to be born within the Kenyan hinterland however studied and lived in Nairobi for over ten years. Town experiences comparatively good climate year-round, making it an ideal journey vacation spot. It has a number of dry months and two intervals of rain. Typically, 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 primarily based on climate situations and locations you need to discover. You also needs to issue through which months have essentially the most affordable charges and when to keep away from crowds.
Going by my expertise, the general greatest time to go to Nairobi is through the peak season between June and September. Presently, you’ll be able to discover the whole lot the capital gives and even take day journeys outdoors town. Nonetheless, try to be ready for increased costs for excursions and lodging.
For funds vacationers and people who dislike crowds, head to Nairobi in its wet months – March to Could and October to early December. The height season is the right 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 things to do in Nairobi this season, and planning forward is a good suggestion.
You’ll be able to go to Nairobi National Park for a recreation drive, be a part of a city walking tour, or go to wildlife sanctuaries just like the well-known Giraffe Center. Karura Forest and Ngong Hills are excellent locations in case you’re extra into the nice outside. Be sure to 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 national parks and reserves, whereas others flock to the coast for seashore holidays. Subsequently, reserving flights, trains, lodging, and excursions upfront is really helpful.
Shoulder Season in Nairobi (November-February)
Shoulder season in Nairobi runs from November to February. 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 solution to safari parks or beach destinations, resulting in increased lodging costs.
January and February are often quiet and two of the most effective occasions to journey to Nairobi. Throughout these months, it’s dry, most vacationers have left, and oldsters are busy taking their youngsters again to highschool. Should you’re within the metropolis in these months, you’ll have the ability to expertise luxurious at very reasonably priced costs.
The shoulder season hosts among the greatest festivals in Nairobi. These embody the Nairobi City Festival and StoryMoja Festival. You can even go to vacationer locations resembling Elephant Nursery, Nairobi Nationwide Park, Oloolua Nature Trail, and the Railway Museum.
Off Season in Nairobi (March-Could)
Heavy rain months in Nairobi are off-peak (or low) season. March via Could experiences lengthy rains and sees fewer vacationers. Nonetheless, because of climate changes, it primarily rains in April and early Could. You’ll get nice offers on transportation, excursions, accommodations, and points of interest in case 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 live shows happen in Nairobi. These actions have fun 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 among the greatest festivals and the months they’re held in:
When to Go to Nairobi For Historic Websites
Should you’re questioning when the most effective time of yr is to go to Nairobi for historic websites, I like to recommend the off-season months (March to Could). 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 doable from June to September. This era is right for these unfazed by crowds and excessive season costs. Town is mostly dry, and you’ll go to wildlife facilities or be a part of walking tours.
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 National Park, Giraffe Center, and the Elephant Nursery. If in case you have restricted time within the capital, these locations will present you what to anticipate in larger game 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 straightforward. Nonetheless, that is peak season, so anticipate 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 Could is the most effective time to go to Nairobi in case you’re on a funds. Most accommodations and vacationer attraction websites are abandoned throughout this off-season. Costs are considerably diminished, and it’s doable to get offers of as much as 70% lower than the usual charges.
One other of the most effective occasions to journey to Nairobi for reasonable costs is January via February. Holidays are often 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 Mountaineering
I like climbing, and Nairobi gives a chance to take action with its nature trails, serene forest, and close by hills. My favorites embody the average Ngong Hills, the attractive Karura Forest, and the tranquil Oloolua Nature Trail. You can even join a tour to Mount Longonot, lower than two hours away.
Should you’re like me, there’s no excellent time to hit the outside – any time is price it. Nonetheless, the wet season isn’t splendid 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 Finest Time to Go to Nairobi By Month
Nairobi is a implausible metropolis to go to all yr spherical, due to its large collection of actions, occasions, and average local weather. Though its peak vacationer season tends to coincide with the dry months, there’s no purpose why you must skip the shoulder months. The low-season months are additionally a singular time to go to, particularly in case you’re watching your spending.
So, in case 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 really helpful 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
This can be a dry and scorching month in Nairobi, with temperatures above the 24°C mark. It’s heat, and the clear sky makes it simple to catch sunrises and sunsets. Though most locals are busy with students returning to highschool, anticipate 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 recreation viewing. Most accommodations are stuffed up early within the month, however you’ll be able to nonetheless get some bargains in case you guide upfront.
Among 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 National Museum.
Nairobi in February
With its sunny days and heat nights, February is one in all 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 often cloudy with indicators of rain, however touring remains to be doable.
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. Should you choose experiencing folks’s tradition and sightseeing, join this exciting city 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 because of lengthy rains that reach to Could.
Climate in Nairobi in March
March is the start of the first wet season in Kenya. Outside actions are affected by the heavy downpours, which frequently final the entire day. Most locations within the metropolis are moist, and roads in recreation parks and across the metropolis are impassible.
Nonetheless, climate changes 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 every other vacationers round.
Issues To Do in Nairobi in March
Should you’re not too involved about rainfall, March in Kenya may be your greatest guess. You’ll be able to go to notable metropolis points of interest, eat and drink, discover indoor historic websites, and make the most of diminished lodging costs.
In March, among the greatest places to visit in Nairobi embody the Railway Museum, August 7th Memorial Park, and the National Archives. For nightlife lovers, K1 Klub House and Quiver Lounge are nice venues to hang around. You can even head out of Nairobi to the well-known Masai Mara Game 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
Should you’re visiting Nairobi in April, you’ll must layer up with heat clothes and carry a rain jacket. Heavy rain at evening extends to the most effective of days, temperatures not often 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 yr.
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 varied 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 National Theatre.
Nairobi in Could
The climate in Could improves in the direction of the top of the month, with barely increased temperatures and fewer wet days.
Climate in Nairobi in Could
Much like April, the climate in Nairobi in Could is often chilly and moist, with temperatures solely reaching round 23°C. It’s usually cooler and wetter in all places, however the metropolis is making ready for the height season.
You’ll be able to anticipate extra sunny days, and the atmosphere is lush inexperienced. Visiting town in Could offers you extra time to discover locations earlier than crowds begin arriving in June.
Issues To Do in Nairobi in Could
Could is a wonderful time to be in Nairobi in case you fancy outside actions. Karura Forest and Oloolua Nature Path are exceptionally inexperienced, and hen melodies might 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 Could.
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 preserve rising, and town begins experiencing the consequences of the excessive season. The surroundings is inexperienced and exquisite in all places, and nationwide parks are lush with newborns enjoying 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’ll anticipate brighter days and heat nights. This month is right for indoor and outside actions and day trips 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. Should you’re questioning the place to start, try our information on exciting things to do in Nairobi. You can even be a part of day journeys to Hell’s Gate National Park or hike Mount Longonot.
There are additionally some vital occasions and festivals to attend, with my favourite being the Koroga Festival. This annual occasion celebrates African tradition, artwork, music, style, and meals via live shows.
Since June is the start of the height journey season, lodging costs are nonetheless affordable. Nonetheless, 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 doable to journey across the metropolis comfortably.
Climate in Nairobi in July
July is a superb time to go to Nairobi when it comes to 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 nice place to be. Though it’s hotter than the countryside, you continue to must pack for unpredictable climate. I like to recommend carrying mild and heat garments, sunblock, and climbing gear if you wish to go outside.
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 join a tour of wildlife centers within the metropolis, resembling Elephant Nursery and Giraffe Heart.
July can be a beautiful time to move into the nice outside. Whether or not you want climbing, jogging, chasing waterfalls, or birdwatching, this time of the yr 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 in case you’re not into nature and historical past, July in Nairobi gives a chance for extra actions. These embody watching stay reveals in theaters, hitting the golf equipment, and procuring. K1 Klub House is my go-to nightlife spot within the metropolis for drinks, motion pictures, stay music, and good meals.
Nairobi in August
August is a superb time to be in Nairobi, however anticipate extra vacationers and better costs on excursions and lodging – particularly in main nationwide parks.
Climate in Nairobi in August
Wonderful climate continues in August. This can be a peak journey month, with many vacationers visiting Masai Mara for the annual great migration. Households additionally make the most of the college holidays, and the entire nation is busy – together with the capital metropolis.
You’ll be able to anticipate temperatures of as much as 27°C and a transparent blue sky. You received’t see any signal of rain in August, and journey locations are accessible. Most lodging services are absolutely booked; in case you’re fortunate to get a room, it’s often overpriced.
Issues To Do in Nairobi in August
Touring to Nairobi in August is sort of handy. This month’s nice climate situations make it a really perfect time to go to town. You’ll be able to take pleasure in metropolis sightseeing, recreation viewing, climbing, and uncover many historic websites.
Nairobi Nationwide Park, Bomas of Kenya, and the Railway Museum are among the greatest points of interest in and across the metropolis. You can even be a part of this exciting 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 likely one of the hottest months in Nairobi, with daytime temperatures reaching as much as 30°C. It cools a little bit through the evening, so in case 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 varied attraction websites.
Issues To Do in Nairobi in September
September is a wonderful time of yr for outside excursions in Nairobi. Should you 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 International Trade Fair 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 nicely 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 adjustments 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 may get good offers on accommodations and excursions.
In the direction of the top of October, vacationers arrive within the metropolis, and costs hike for a brief interval. Should you plan to remain in Nairobi within the second half of October, strive reserving excursions and accommodations upfront. Bear 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 often the final greatest month weather-wise, and also you need to go to nationwide parks earlier than it rains.
Should you’re into wildlife, head to Masai Mara or Amboseli National 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 perfect locations for hikers outdoors Nairobi are Ngong Hills and Mount Longonot.
Again in Nairobi, there are additionally a number of issues to do. Apart from 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 anticipate 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 day by day surprises, from cool mornings, sudden afternoon showers, and nice nights.
Temperatures vary from 18°C within the mornings to round 25°C through 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 faculties are but to interrupt for holidays, making it one of many most cost-effective months to go to. Lodging services are discounted, transport is reasonable, and excursions are reasonably priced. It’s a wonderful time for outside 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 may make your travels all of the extra memorable. This time of yr is ideal for wildlife viewers because it minimally disrupts recreation drives. It’s additionally splendid 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 City Market.
Carnivore Restaurant is a superb place for an evening out. Right here, you’ll be able to feast on unique recreation meats, pattern native beers, and take heed to African music.
Nairobi in December
December is often heat and merry, however the charges of lodging, excursions, and transport rise because of holidays.
Climate in Nairobi in December
June to September is the most effective time to journey to Nairobi weather-wise. Nonetheless, December is the busiest month. It’s additionally often heat, and the atmosphere is blooming with completely different flowers, together with the attractive 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.
Apart from public holidays resembling Christmas and Jamhuri Day, preserve a watch out for occasions resembling Blankets and Wine and the Nairobi City Festival. You can even enterprise outdoors town and attend well-known festivals like Beneath the Baobabs in Kilifi.
Finest Time to Go to Nairobi: FAQs
Beneath are solutions to some generally requested questions on the most effective time to go to Nairobi:
The perfect months to go to Nairobi for nice climate are often June to October and December to February. These months are thought-about the dry seasons and supply comfy temperatures for wildlife safaris and outside adventures.
In contrast to many different components of the world, Nairobi doesn’t have a winter season. As a substitute, 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 good time to go to town.
Nairobi has two hottest months – January and February. You’ll be able to anticipate excessive daytime temperatures that usually attain as much as 29°C.
Nairobi experiences two important wet seasons. The lengthy rains happen from March to Could, 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 Finest Time to Go to Nairobi
Nairobi is an unbelievable metropolis that draws guests year-round. Every season has a wealth of experiences, providing a singular perspective on town’s magnificence.
Town has one thing to supply each traveler; whether or not you favor the dry, wildlife-rich months, the plush greenery of the moist season, or the budget-friendly low and shoulder intervals.
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 decide a season and confidently plan a beautiful journey to my dwelling capital – to discover and create recollections that may final ceaselessly.
