Nairobi Weather in May: What to Expect
In May, Nairobi averages highs of 23.8°C and lows of 14.9°C, with about 18 rainy days (~104 mm). Verdict: Wet season — plan around rain — ~18 rainy days this month. That makes it the coolest of Kenya's 6 main cities this month.
Nairobi vs other Kenya cities in May
Kenya is not one climate. In May, Mombasa runs to 27.9°C while Nairobi sits at 23.8°C — a 4°C spread. Here is where Nairobi falls:
| City | Avg high | Avg low | Rainy days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mombasa | 27.9°C | 24.6°C | 22 |
| Diani Beach | 27.7°C | 24.3°C | 23 |
| Amboseli | 27.1°C | 17.3°C | 14 |
| Masai Mara | 26.6°C | 15.4°C | 10 |
| Lake Nakuru | 23.9°C | 14.3°C | 13 |
| Nairobi | 23.8°C | 14.9°C | 18 |
What to pack for Nairobi in May
With highs near 23.8°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 May
With 23.8°C midday highs, start outdoor sights early and keep afternoons for shaded or indoor stops. Top sights:
Public holidays in Kenya, May
- 2026-05-01 — Labour Day
- 2027-05-01 — Labour Day
Nairobi in May — FAQs
What is the weather like in Nairobi in May?
In May, Nairobi averages daytime highs of 23.8°C and overnight lows around 14.9°C, with roughly 18 rainy days and about 104 mm of rain across the month. Wet season — plan around rain — ~18 rainy days this month.
Is May 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 coolest this month.
What should I pack for Nairobi in May?
For May (14.9–23.8°C), pack layers — a light jacket for mornings and evenings, a compact umbrella or rain shell.
What is there to do in Nairobi in May?
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 May?
Yes — Labour Day (2026-05-01), Labour Day (2027-05-01). Sites can be busier or closed around these dates.
Nairobi weather by month: