Weather in Nanyuki

Find out what weather awaits you in Nanyuki right now. In this section, you will find up-to-date forecasts, temperature charts, and other useful information to help plan your day.

The climate in Nanyuki can be described as mild and temperate, largely due to the city's high-altitude location at the foot of Mount Kenya. Despite its proximity to the equator, there is no extreme heat here: temperatures remain surprisingly stable throughout the year. During the day, the air usually warms up to a comfortable +20...+24°C, creating ideal conditions for safaris and outdoor activities.

Distinct periods of high humidity stand out during the year. According to statistics, April-May and October-November are the times of the so-called "long" and "short" rains, when the number of rainy days reaches a maximum (more than 20 days per month). During these periods, the sky is often overcast, and precipitation becomes a regular occurrence. Conversely, the beginning of the year (January and February) and mid-summer (June) are usually drier and suitable for those who prefer clear weather.

A key feature of the weather in Nanyuki is the cool nights. Regardless of the season, temperatures after dark drop to +11...+13°C. Travellers are strongly advised to carry warm clothing, as the contrast between the warm sunny days and the crisp evenings is quite noticeable.

The climate in Nanyuki is distinguished by enviable stability and mildness, making the city attractive to visit at any time of the year. Thanks to its location near the equator, there are no extreme seasonal temperature fluctuations. The warmest period is traditionally considered to be from January to March: at this time, the average daytime temperature reaches its maximum, rising to +23°C...+24°C. This time can be called the local "summer", when the weather is pleasant but not exhaustingly hot.

The period from June to August is characterised by a slight decrease in temperatures, resembling a very mild winter. In July, which is the coolest month of the year, the average temperature is around +16.4°C, and daytime highs rarely exceed +20°C...+21°C. Such weather feels fresh and comfortable, ideal for active recreation, although the sky may be cloudier compared to the beginning of the year.

An important feature of the local climate is the noticeable daily temperature fluctuations. Regardless of the season, the difference between daytime warmth and night-time coolness is about 10–12 degrees. While the air warms up to comfortable levels during the day, nights in Nanyuki always remain cool and invigorating: the thermometer steadily drops to +11°C...+13°C. Travellers are advised to have warm clothes for evening walks and early morning excursions.

The precipitation pattern in Nanyuki has a distinct seasonal character, due to its proximity to the equator. Throughout the year, there are two distinct rainy periods here, which alternate with drier intervals. Precipitation falls exclusively as rain, as temperatures, even in the coolest months, remain above freezing.

The wettest months are April and November. According to statistics, it rains very frequently during this time: in April and November, about 24 rainy days are recorded per month, and rainfall levels reach their annual maximums (up to 10 mm). High rain frequency is also observed in May (20 days) and October (23 days). During these periods, the sky is often covered with clouds, and travellers should be prepared for regular rainfall.

The relatively dry season falls at the beginning of the year. The "driest" month can be considered February, when the number of days with precipitation drops to 6, and the average rainfall level is minimal. January is also favourable for trips, with approximately 8 rainy days. In the middle of the year, from June to September, rains occur moderately often (from 12 to 18 days), but their intensity is usually lower than in the peak wet months.

Since Nanyuki is located at the foot of Mount Kenya and sits at a significant altitude, the climate here differs noticeably from the hot coast. The main principle when packing is layering. During the day, the temperature usually stays in a comfortable range of +20…+24 °C, so t-shirts and light trousers will come in handy. However, as soon as the sun sets, it becomes quite cool (down to +11…+12 °C), so be sure to take a warm fleece jumper, a sweater, and a light jacket.

Considering the rainfall statistics, especially if your trip falls in April, May, October, or November, it is worth preparing for frequent rains. In these months, the number of wet days is at its maximum, so a high-quality raincoat or a waterproof windbreaker will become your best friends. It is also recommended to bring comfortable, broken-in closed shoes or trekking boots, which are suitable for both walking around the city and nature trips on wet ground.

Despite the cool mountain air, do not forget that the city is located right on the equator, and UV radiation is very strong here. Be sure to pack high-factor sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat in your suitcase. For those planning a safari in the surrounding areas, it is better to choose clothing in neutral natural shades (khaki, beige) to blend harmoniously with the landscape and avoid attracting insects.