Nairobi
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Nairobi Weather in January

Nairobi in January sees high temperatures, with highs around 27°C (81°F) and overnight lows of 15°C (59°F). Overall excellent conditions make it one of the better months to visit.

Rainfall in Nairobi in January

Records from the past 30 years suggest around 8 days of rain, with 39 mm (1.5 in) average for the month. The rainfall pattern this month is fairly balanced. Showers tend to be moderate rather than extreme.

Temperature in Nairobi in January

January is one of the better months to visit Nairobi. Expect 27°C (81°F) during the day and 15°C (59°F) at night. Overall, the month follows a fairly predictable daily temperature pattern. With lows of 15°C (59°F), nights are cool. If you're out after dark, an extra layer will keep you comfortable. The cooler air at night is also great for getting a good rest.

Sunshine in Nairobi in January

The city usually sees around 288 hours of sunlight, indicating many sunny days , a great month for sightseeing.

Wind Speed in Nairobi in January

Average wind conditions reach 5 m/s (10 knots) in January. This creates lively weather with fresh winds that make small trees sway noticeably. Remember this is an average: some days are less windy while others have particularly active windy conditions.

If you favor pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, January is one of the best months to visit Nairobi.

Nairobi Temperature in January

Min Temperature
15°C (59°F)
Max Temperature
27°C (81°F)
Chance of Rain
26%
Precipitation
39 mm (1.5 in)
Rainy days
8 days
Humidity
69%
Windspeed
5 m/s (10 knots)
Sunshine
288 hours
Percentage Sunshine

Nairobi Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Nairobi - and find the best time to visit.

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2026)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Nairobi typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 27°C (81°F). Nights are pleasant, with lows around 14°C (57°F).

Average temperatures in January

Daily Historical Precipitation

50-year average (1976-2026)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in January

Historical weather records for Nairobi in January

Browse day-by-day weather records for Nairobi spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Nairobi historical weather extremes in January

According to our 31 years of weather records for Nairobi, the following extremes were recorded between 1994 and 2025.

  • Nairobi recorded its highest January temperature of 31°C (88°F) on January 30, 2006.
  • The coldest January day was on January 10, 1999, with a maximum of 18°C (64°F).
  • The coldest night in January in Nairobi was on January 24, 2010, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F).

Best Places in Kenya in January

Find out more about the weather in Kenya and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Kenya in January →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Nairobi in January

Warm temperatures in January make for comfortable sightseeing weather. Pack breathable fabrics like cotton shirts, knee-length shorts or skirts, and comfortable walking shoes. A thin long sleeve for indoor spaces is handy. Pack a light rain jacket or compact umbrella for occasional showers. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.

What To Do in Nairobi in January

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    10/10
  • Cycling
    8/10
  • Walking
    8/10
  • Barbeque
    10/10
  • Camping
    10/10
  • Outdoor sports
    8/10

Nairobi 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Nairobi

Popular in January

Where to go in January - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.