CLIMATE NOTES · January
1.28°S 36.82°E · Africa/Nairobi
CLIMATE NOTES · January
Nairobi · 🇰🇪 Kenya

Nairobi Weather in January: Climate, Temperature & Travel Tips

Avg 19.8°C · 41mm rain — January is summer in Nairobi.

AT A GLANCE
26° Avg High
15° Avg Low
41 Rain mm
Summer Season
January climate normals
Avg high
26.1 °C
Avg low
14.6 °C
Avg
19.8 °C
Precipitation
41 mm
ANNUAL CLIMATE
Nairobi · Annual Climate 35° °C 087174 mm JFMAMJJASOND TEMP RANGE · AVG · RAINFALL

Source: Open-Meteo Archive 2014–2023 · 10-year climate normals

Climate Overview

January in Nairobi, Kenya brings summer conditions: average temperature 19.8°C, average high 26.1°C, average low 14.6°C. Monthly rainfall averages 41mm, making it a drier time of year.

Conditions are pleasant for most travel activities.

What to Pack

  • Light layers (long sleeves + light jacket for evenings)
  • Comfortable walking shoes

Best Things to Do

  • Walking tours and city exploration
  • Parks and outdoor cafes
  • Seasonal food and night markets (where applicable)

Pros and Cons of Visiting in January

Pros:

  • Pleasant temperatures for walking and outdoor sightseeing
  • Low rainfall — minimal disruption to outdoor plans

Cons:

  • Peak season — expect higher prices and more crowds

Climate source: Open-Meteo Archive (2014–2023).

PACKING ESSENTIALS
01 Light jacket For cooler evenings and air-conditioned interiors
02 Breathable trousers Linen or travel-stretch fabric
03 Sun hat Wide brim for UV protection outdoors
04 Sunscreen SPF 30+ Reapply every two hours
05 Light layer for rain Brief showers in warm seasons
YEAR AT A GLANCE
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Colour = avg temperature · blue = cool · orange = warm

HOTTEST MONTHS
  1. 1 March 20.6°C
  2. 2 February 20.5°C
  3. 3 January 19.8°C
COOLEST MONTHS
  1. 1 July 17.2°C
  2. 2 August 17.5°C
  3. 3 June 17.7°C
Q&A

FAQ

01 What is the average temperature in Nairobi in January?
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The average is 19.8°C, with a high of 26°C and a low of 15°C.

02 What is Nairobi like to visit in January?
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It is summer in Nairobi, which is ideal for outdoor exploration.

03 Does it rain often in Nairobi during January?
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Average rainfall is 41mm, which is low.

04 What should I pack for Nairobi in January?
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Light layers (long sleeves + light jacket for evenings); Comfortable walking shoes.

05 Is January a peak travel season for Nairobi?
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Generally yes — book accommodations and flights well in advance.

06 Where does this climate data come from?
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Monthly averages computed from Open-Meteo Archive 2014–2023 daily observations.

Sources
Open-Meteo Archive 2014-2023
Updated
2026-04-17

Climate normals are averages; individual years vary.