What October feels like in Nairobi
October sits between Nairobi's dry and wet seasons. Days are warm enough for short sleeves, and time outdoors is easy. Once the sun goes down the air changes: nights stay mild. Some humidity hangs in the air, noticeable when the sun is strong.
Rain in Nairobi in October
Expect a mix of dry and wet days, with rain about one day in 3. A rainy day brings about 5.8 mm (0.2 in) on average — steady rain rather than a passing shower. That is close to Nairobi's typical rain per wet day for the whole year (about 5.6 mm).
How October compares to the rest of the year
October is the 4th warmest month of the year in Nairobi. Against September, the average high is 0.8°C (1.4°F) higher, with 42 mm more rain. From here temperatures start to ease, beginning in November. By November, typical highs are 23.9°C (75°F).
Who October 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 October
Versatile Layers
Mornings and evenings are cooler than midday, so dress in layers.
Rain Protection
A packable rain jacket saves the day on showery afternoons.
Sunglasses
Plenty of sun, so bring sunglasses and a cap.
Quick questions
How warm is Nairobi in October?
Expect around 25.7°C (78.3°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 October?
Quite a lot — 70 mm spread over about 12 days.
What should I wear in Nairobi in October?
Based on the averages: versatile layers, rain protection and sunglasses. Bring something extra for the cooler evenings.
Is October or November better for visiting Nairobi?
On our 12-month climate ranking, October comes out ahead (#8 of 12 vs #11). November is cooler and has more rainy days.
