Nairobi is Kenya’s vibrant capital city that can easily be described as a fusion of the contemporary and the wild. From the moving markets to the rather tranquil Nairobi National Park, this city has it all. However, to feel the most of what the city has to offer, knowing when to visit Nairobi is very important. Before going any further, let us look at the best time to visit Nairobi.
Best Time To Visit Nairobi
Think about entering the great city that is occupied by people and filled with the pulse of the contemporary world and the sound of the wild and free. Nairobi is Kenya’s capital city and no doubt will provide you with the kind of experience of a city yet surrounded by nature’s beauty. The markets, the delicious food available in restaurants, and most especially the opportunity to go on a safari, all these are granted by Nairobi.
To get the best experience out of any place, there is a special time, therefore we brought you a perfect list mentioning the best time to visit Nairobi so that you don’t miss out on anything.
Nairobi's Climate:
Reliable and professional, it is a place that effectively remains an all-star year-round spot.
These conditions make Nairobi a destination throughout the year although it also experiences four seasons. However, the best time to visit Nairobi can be divided into two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season.
The Dry Season: June to October
Why Visit During the dry season?
- Perfect Safari Weather: There is no better time to go for a safari than during the dry season. Trees are few and far between, and animals congregate near water which therefore makes sighting of the animals easy. Next to Nairobi, Nairobi National Park is an added advantage to wildlife spotting as it is a reserve.
- Comfortable Temperatures: During the daytime the temperature varies between 20-25 degree Celcius, the climate is fine and good for sightseeing and getting around the city and other attractions, making it one of the best times to visit Nairobi.
- Cultural Events: This period overlaps with some of the cultural activities that depict some of the Kenyan traditions including cultural events, festivals, among others. There is also Kenya's Nairobi International trade fair in the month of October that displays locally manufactured goods and technologies.
The Wet Season: It is always open from November to May.
Among the changes that one is likely to realize during the wet season he or she should expect the following:
- Lush Scenery: Rains are very beautiful and the surrounding of Nairobi, and the entire city becomes a green city as plants turn green. This is an ideal occasion for lovers of the phenomenal beauty of nature as well as photographers intending to photograph the city.
- Fewer Tourists: The wet season is considered as the off-peak season, which means that it is less crowded, and the experience is more laid back. It also can mean better offers for accommodation and things to do.
- Migratory Birds: Bird lovers are going to especially enjoy this time as many migratory birds take up residence in this area thus augmenting the array of birds found on the island.
When to go to Nairobi, depending on the Activities
Safaris and Wildlife Viewing
As for the best months to visit Nairobi with the intention of doing a Safari and/or doing wildlife tourism, is beyond doubt, during the dry season, that is, July-October. Regarding the few trees, the densely populated areas for water are ideal for identifying different species of animals. The Nairobi National Park gives you a chance to see lions, giraffes, zebras and even rhinos within the park while in the background you glimpse some of the city buildings.
Exploring the City
The alternative times which would also be suitable, especially if your bend is more on historical and city attractions like the National Museum, Karen Blixen Museum as well as markets are during the dry season. Although the wet season is characterized by a low number of tourist visits, this is a good time to explore cultural and historical attractions.
Cultural Experiences
For cultural lovers, it will be even more beneficial to plan the trip in the time when some holidays and shows are held in the region. October has the Nairobi International Trade Fair while August has the Kenya Music Festival and these are amongst the events that portrays the culture of the city and hence can be considered the best time to visit Nairobi for the people who want to experience Nairobi’s culture.
Getting the Best out of Your Nairobi Trip
- Plan Ahead: If you are lucky to travel when it is on sale, ensure to book for your flight ticket as well as the hotel early enough.
- Pack Wisely: The climate in Nairobi is somewhat unsuitable, or at least, unpredictable. For the outing wear jeans and T-shirts, formal wear is there for the night party and do not forget an umbrella or a raincoat if it is a rainy season trip.
- Stay Safe: However, crime has not been rampant to an extent that would affect the visitation of tourists in the city although tourists should always be careful. Consumption of liquor and other alcoholic substances should be limited and people should not show off by wearing necklaces and other valuable items in the regions they visit and they should be very much more careful anywhere they find a large congregation of people.
- Explore Beyond the City: Kenyan capital Nairobi lies in the middle of the country; hence, it will be useful to start your tour in this region when visiting Kenya. One can decide to do day trips to places such as Maasai mara or Mount Kenya or even just a one day Nairobi city tour.
- Embrace the Local Culture: Learn about Kenyan food and try Kenyan food such as ugali and nyama choma, go to markets and even the Maasai Market.
Conclusion
This is a city that provides the facade as well as the jungle all in one. It is obvious that it is pivotal to understand when is the best time to visit Nairobi so as ensure that the taste of the holiday is achieved no matter if it is wrought by the desire to go to a safari, the desire to go to cultural events, or merely to have a tour of this great city. So get ready with Capture a Trip to visit the city that is as unforgettable as the name, can be done during the best time of the year.
