Weather in Kenya
Kenya’s weather varies strongly by region and altitude. Much of the country has two main rainy periods — the March to May Long Rains and the October to December Short Rains — but rainfall patterns differ across the coast, highlands, Lake Victoria basin and the arid north and east. Higher places such as Nairobi and Eldoret are generally cooler than low-lying coastal areas such as Mombasa.
The rough shape of the year
These are broad patterns rather than fixed seasons. Rainfall timing, duration and intensity vary by region and from year to year, so different parts of Kenya can experience very different conditions during the same month.
January–February
Short dry period
Often relatively dry and sunny in many parts of Kenya. Temperatures can be high in lower-altitude and northern areas, while the central highlands remain milder.
March–May
Long Rains
The main rainy season over much of Kenya. Rainfall generally increases during March, April and May, although the amount, timing and distribution vary considerably by region and year. Heavy rainfall and flooding can occur during strong seasons.
June–September
Cooler, generally drier period
Generally cooler in Nairobi and the central highlands, with many areas experiencing relatively dry conditions. The coast and parts of western Kenya can still receive rainfall, so conditions are not uniformly dry nationwide.
October–December
Short Rains
A second important rainy period in many parts of Kenya. The October to December Short Rains vary greatly in timing and strength and can be above average, below average or weak in some areas during a particular year.
City by city
Kenya’s cities experience very different climates because of altitude, distance from the ocean and regional rainfall patterns. These descriptions are general climate guides rather than forecasts.
Nairobi
Central Highlands · about 1,795 m
Nairobi has a mild highland climate because of its elevation. Days are generally comfortable, while mornings and nights can be cool, particularly from June to August. The main rainy periods are usually March to May and October to December.
Mombasa
Indian Ocean coast · near sea level
Mombasa is warm and humid throughout the year, with much smaller temperature changes than the highlands. Rainfall occurs during both main rainy periods, although coastal rainfall patterns differ from those inland.
Kisumu
Lake Victoria basin · about 1,130 m
Kisumu is warm and relatively humid. Rain occurs during many months of the year, and the Lake Victoria basin has rainfall patterns that differ from much of central and eastern Kenya.
Nakuru
Rift Valley · about 1,850 m
Nakuru’s high elevation gives it generally mild days and cool nights. Rainfall varies through the year, and temperatures are noticeably cooler than in Kenya’s coastal lowlands.
Eldoret
Western Highlands · about 2,100 m
Eldoret is one of Kenya’s cooler major urban areas because of its elevation. Nights can be distinctly cool, and rainfall is distributed differently from the drier eastern parts of the country.
What this means for packing
If your trip includes Nairobi, the central highlands or higher parts of the Rift Valley, bring a light jacket or warm layer for cool mornings and evenings. Coastal areas such as Mombasa are generally warmer and more humid, so lightweight clothing is more suitable there. Conditions vary with elevation and season.
During rainy periods, carry a light waterproof layer or umbrella. Rain can range from brief showers to prolonged or heavy rainfall depending on the region and weather system.