What December feels like in Nairobi
December sits between Nairobi's dry and wet seasons. Warm daytime weather invites long lunches outside and evening strolls. After dark the temperature drops clearly: nights stay mild. The air carries some moisture, so hot spells feel a little sticky.
Rain in Nairobi in December
December is persistently wet here: some rain falls on about every other day. Each rainy day adds about 4.8 mm (0.2 in), a proper wetting rather than a sprinkle. That is close to Nairobi's typical rain per wet day for the whole year (about 5.6 mm).
How December compares to the rest of the year
In Nairobi's temperature order, December sits as the 6th coolest month. Against November, the average high is 0.6°C (1.1°F) higher, with 44 mm less rain. January continues the upward trend. January averages a high of 26.1°C (79°F).
Who December suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — the weather rarely gets in the way of a city walk.
- Parks & outdoor: a good fit — pleasant for gardens, parks and riversides.
Tips for visiting Nairobi in December
Versatile Layers
Pack pieces you can take off by noon and put back on at dusk.
Rain Protection
A packable rain jacket saves the day on showery afternoons.
Sunglasses
Frequent sunshine — sunglasses and a light hat.
Quick questions
How warm is Nairobi in December?
Expect around 24.5°C (76.1°F) in the afternoon and 14.7°C (58.5°F) at night, which most visitors would call warm.
Does it rain a lot in Nairobi in December?
It does: about 14 rainy days bring roughly 68 mm, so plan some indoor options.
What should I wear in Nairobi in December?
Based on the averages: versatile layers, rain protection and sunglasses. Add a layer for after dark.
Is December or January better for visiting Nairobi?
On our 12-month climate ranking, January comes out ahead (#4 of 12 vs #9). January is warmer and has fewer rainy days.
