Nairobi National Park weather

Typical temperatures

• Daytime highs: 22–28°C most of the year, hottest in February and March
• Dawn lows: 10–13°C, and colder in an open safari vehicle at speed
• July and August are the coolest and often overcast months
• Humidity is low and evenings cool quickly after sunset

Rainfall pattern

Long rains fall from late March to May, usually as heavy afternoon storms rather than all-day rain. Short rains arrive in November and early December and are lighter and more scattered.

January to March and July to October are the dry months, when tracks are firm and game concentrates around permanent water.

What the weather means for your drive

• After heavy rain the black-cotton soil tracks in the Athi Basin become slippery — a high-clearance 4x4 is strongly advised.
• Green-season mornings are often clear and beautiful even when afternoons storm.
• Overcast July skies are excellent for photography of dark subjects such as buffalo and rhino.
• Dust in October can be heavy; carry a lens cloth and keep camera bags closed.

Dressing for the conditions

Layer. A fleece or light down jacket for the 06:00 start, a long-sleeved shirt for sun protection by mid-morning, and a rain shell between March and May.