Nairobi
Capital of Kenya
Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya, with a population of about 5.5 million as of 2016. Visitors travel here to explore diverse wildlife parks and international landmarks.
What to see
The city offers a mix of wildlife and institutional sites. Nature enthusiasts can visit Nairobi National Park or Hell's Gate National Park. For those interested in international affairs, the United Nations Office at Nairobi is located within the city. Other notable landmarks include the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, the Karen Blixen Museum, and the Nairobi Railway Museum. Religious and community sites include the All Saints' Cathedral, the Cathedral Basilica of the Holy Family, the Jamia Mosque, and the Uhuru Gardens. Visitors can also see the Giraffe Centre, walk through the Karura Forest, or visit the Tana River.
When to go
The driest months are July, August, and September, which see the least rain and moderate temperatures ranging from highs of 21 °C to 24 °C and lows around 12 °C. January and February are also relatively dry with highs reaching 25 °C to 26 °C. April and November are the wettest months, experiencing significant rainfall on about 19 to 20 days, respectively. Temperatures remain consistent throughout the year, typically staying between 12 °C and 26 °C.
Getting there
Nairobi is served by two main airports. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is the primary hub, located 13 km from the city. Nairobi Wilson Airport is closer, situated 4 km away.
Top sights in Nairobi
Weather by month
The warmest month is February, with an average high of 26 °C. The wettest is April, with about 191 mm of rain.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average high, °C | 25 | 26 | 26 | 24 | 23 | 22 | 21 | 22 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 24 |
| Average low, °C | 14 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 |
| Rainfall, mm | 53 | 41 | 84 | 191 | 130 | 26 | 20 | 18 | 24 | 61 | 118 | 84 |
| Rainy days | 7 | 5 | 10 | 19 | 12 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 10 | 20 | 14 |
Temperatures and rainfall: 1981–2010 averages for Nairobi (4 km grid), from CHELSA. Rainy days: 2015–2024, NASA POWER.
Also worth a look
- All Saints' Cathedral, Nairobi
- Cathedral Basilica of the Holy Family, Nairobi
- Giraffe Centre
- Jamia Mosque
- Karen Blixen Museum
- Karura Forest
- Kenyatta International Convention Centre
- Nairobi Railway Museum
- Tana River
- Uhuru Gardens