The climate in Kenya varies across the country, from the tropical humidity of the coast, the dry heat of the savannah or semi-arid areas and the cool air of the highlands. Temperatures in these areas are fairly constant year round with an average of 27°C (80°F) at the coast, 21°C to 27°C (70°F to 80°F) in the hinterland, while in Nairobi and the highlands over 5,000 ft, the daytime temperatures normally range between 19°C and 24°C (66°F to 75°F).
Most parts of the country experience two rainy seasons: the ‘long rains’ falling over a ten week period between April and June, and the ‘short rains’ over a five week period between November and December. The rain tends to fall mainly at night and is usually a short and heavy tropical downpour.
Rain may occasionally fall outside of the normal rainy seasons in Kenya.
Please note that in the highland areas north of Nairobi it may get extremely chilly at night or in the early mornings – especially June, July, August when temperatures can be very much colder – so it is recommended that visitors ensure that they pack some items of warm clothing.
Average Monthly Temperatures – Kenya
Average Monthly Temperatures | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D | |
Nairobi City | Ave Daily Min °F | 54 | 55 | 57 | 57 | 55 | 54 | 52 | 52 | 52 | 55 | 55 | 55 |
Ave Daily Max °F | 79 | 77 | 79 | 75 | 72 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 75 | 75 | 73 | 73 | |
Ave Daily Min °C | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | |
Ave Daily Max °C | 26 | 25 | 26 | 24 | 22 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 23 | |
Mombasa City | Ave Daily Min °F | 75 | 75 | 77 | 75 | 73 | 73 | 72 | 72 | 72 | 73 | 75 | 75 |
Ave Daily Max °F | 88 | 88 | 88 | 86 | 82 | 82 | 80 | 80 | 82 | 84 | 84 | 86 | |
Ave Daily Min °C | 24 | 24 | 25 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 24 | |
Ave Daily Max °C | 31 | 31 | 31 | 30 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 30 |
Latest weather forecasts from the Kenya Meteorological Department: www.meteo.go.ke
Contact Gamewatchers for more information about the climate in Kenya