Nairobi Weather in January: What to Expect
In January, Nairobi averages highs of 26.1°C and lows of 14.7°C, with about 9 rainy days (~49 mm). Verdict: Good — comfortable — manageable 26.1°C days. That makes it the 5th hottest of Kenya's 6 main cities this month.
Nairobi vs other Kenya cities in January
Kenya is not one climate. In January, Diani Beach runs to 30.8°C while Lake Nakuru sits at 26°C — a 5°C spread. Here is where Nairobi falls:
| City | Avg high | Avg low | Rainy days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diani Beach | 30.8°C | 25.2°C | 9 |
| Mombasa | 30.3°C | 25.2°C | 8 |
| Amboseli | 29.1°C | 18.1°C | 10 |
| Masai Mara | 27.6°C | 15°C | 12 |
| Nairobi | 26.1°C | 14.7°C | 9 |
| Lake Nakuru | 26°C | 14°C | 5 |
What to pack for Nairobi in January
With highs near 26.1°C and lows around 14.7°C, pack light summer clothing plus a thin layer for evenings, a compact umbrella or rain shell.
What to do in Nairobi in January
January's weather suits sightseeing through the day. Top sights:
Public holidays in Kenya, January
- 2026-01-01 — New Year's Day
- 2027-01-01 — New Year's Day
Nairobi in January — FAQs
What is the weather like in Nairobi in January?
In January, Nairobi averages daytime highs of 26.1°C and overnight lows around 14.7°C, with roughly 9 rainy days and about 49 mm of rain across the month. Good — comfortable — manageable 26.1°C days.
Is January a good time to visit Nairobi?
Good — comfortable. January is comfortable enough for full-day sightseeing in Nairobi. Among Kenya's cities, Nairobi is the 5th hottest this month.
What should I pack for Nairobi in January?
For January (14.7–26.1°C), pack light summer clothing plus a thin layer for evenings, a compact umbrella or rain shell.
What is there to do in Nairobi in January?
Nairobi's main sights include Nairobi National Park, Mount Longonot, Karen Blixen Museum, Nairobi National Museum. The weather suits visiting these comfortably through the day.
Are there public holidays in Kenya in January?
Yes — New Year's Day (2026-01-01), New Year's Day (2027-01-01). Sites can be busier or closed around these dates.
Nairobi weather by month: