Nairobi Weather in December: What to Expect
In December, Nairobi averages highs of 24.6°C and lows of 14.9°C, with about 16 rainy days (~81 mm). Verdict: Wet season — plan around rain — ~16 rainy days this month. That makes it the 5th hottest of Kenya's 6 main cities this month.
Nairobi vs other Kenya cities in December
Kenya is not one climate. In December, Diani Beach runs to 30.2°C while Lake Nakuru sits at 24.6°C — a 6°C spread. Here is where Nairobi falls:
| City | Avg high | Avg low | Rainy days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diani Beach | 30.2°C | 24.8°C | 18 |
| Mombasa | 30.1°C | 24.9°C | 20 |
| Amboseli | 27.7°C | 17.9°C | 19 |
| Masai Mara | 27.3°C | 15.1°C | 13 |
| Nairobi | 24.6°C | 14.9°C | 16 |
| Lake Nakuru | 24.6°C | 13.9°C | 8 |
What to pack for Nairobi in December
With highs near 24.6°C and lows around 14.9°C, pack layers — a light jacket for mornings and evenings, a compact umbrella or rain shell.
What to do in Nairobi in December
With 24.6°C midday highs, start outdoor sights early and keep afternoons for shaded or indoor stops. Top sights:
Public holidays in Kenya, December
- 2026-12-12 — Jamhuri Day
- 2026-12-25 — Christmas Day
- 2026-12-26 — Boxing Day
- 2027-12-13 — Jamhuri Day
- 2027-12-25 — Christmas Day
- 2027-12-26 — Boxing Day
Nairobi in December — FAQs
What is the weather like in Nairobi in December?
In December, Nairobi averages daytime highs of 24.6°C and overnight lows around 14.9°C, with roughly 16 rainy days and about 81 mm of rain across the month. Wet season — plan around rain — ~16 rainy days this month.
Is December a good time to visit Nairobi?
Wet season — plan around rain. Plan outdoor sights for early morning and keep midday for indoor or shaded activities. Among Kenya's cities, Nairobi is the 5th hottest this month.
What should I pack for Nairobi in December?
For December (14.9–24.6°C), pack layers — a light jacket for mornings and evenings, a compact umbrella or rain shell.
What is there to do in Nairobi in December?
Nairobi's main sights include Nairobi National Park, Mount Longonot, Karen Blixen Museum, Nairobi National Museum. Time outdoor sites for early morning given the midday heat.
Are there public holidays in Kenya in December?
Yes — Jamhuri Day (2026-12-12), Christmas Day (2026-12-25), Boxing Day (2026-12-26), Jamhuri Day (2027-12-13), Christmas Day (2027-12-25), Boxing Day (2027-12-26). Sites can be busier or closed around these dates.
Nairobi weather by month: