September is a favorable time to visit Nairobi due to several reasons:
- Tourism Off-Season: The month falls outside of peak tourist seasons, leading to fewer crowds and potentially more affordable travel.
- Wildlife Migration: While the Great Wildebeest Migration is primarily associated with June and July, herds can still be seen in September, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing safaris.
- Cultural Events: September hosts the Nairobi International Cultural Festival, showcasing traditional arts, music, and performances from Kenya and around the world.
- Comfortable Temperatures: Nairobi experiences pleasant weather in September, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, providing comfortable conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Weather In Nairobi During September
Temperature:
- Average high: 26°C (79°F)
- Average low: 14°C (57°F)
- Warm and sunny days, with cooler nights
Rainfall:
- Average precipitation: 30mm (1.2in)
- Occasional showers, but generally not as rainy as other months
Relative Humidity:
- Average humidity: 60%
- Comfortable humidity levels
Wind:
- Moderate to strong winds, especially in the afternoon and evening
- Wind speeds can reach 25km/h (16mph)
Sunshine:
- Average sunshine hours: 8 hours per day
- Plenty of sunshine, with clear skies and few clouds
Overall:
The weather in Nairobi during September is generally warm and sunny, with comfortable humidity levels. There may be occasional showers, but they are typically not as heavy as in other months. The strong winds can provide some relief from the heat during the day, and the nights are generally cool and pleasant.
Things To Do In Nairobi In September
Festivals and Celebrations Unique to September in Nairobi:
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September 21: Madaraka Day Celebrations
- Commemorates Kenya’s internal self-governance in 1963. Festivities include parades, speeches, and cultural performances at various venues, including Uhuru Gardens.
-
National Garden Festival (typically mid-September)
- Held at the Kenya National Museum, this festival showcases the country’s rich horticultural diversity. Visitors can admire exotic plants, attend workshops, and purchase plant specimens.
Other Things to Do in Nairobi in September:
Cultural Attractions:
- National Museum of Kenya: Explore Kenya’s history, culture, and natural heritage through exhibits on everything from archaeology to zoology.
- Nairobi National Museum: Located just outside the city, this museum focuses on the natural history of Kenya and the wider East African region.
- Karen Blixen Museum: Visit the former home of the Danish author Karen Blixen, immortalized in the film “Out of Africa.”
Wildlife Encounters:
- Nairobi National Park: Go on a game drive just minutes from the city center to see lions, elephants, rhinos, and other wildlife.
- David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: Visit the orphanage and rehabilitation center for orphaned baby elephants.
- Giraffe Centre: Get up close with endangered Rothschild’s giraffes and feed them from an elevated platform.
Art and Culture:
- Goethe-Institut Nairobi: Attend exhibitions, film screenings, and cultural events focused on German and African arts and literature.
- National Archives of Kenya: Delve into Kenya’s rich history by exploring historical documents and artifacts.
- Nairobi Gallery: Showcasing contemporary East African art, this gallery offers rotating exhibitions and workshops.
Shopping and Dining:
- Village Market: Browse local and international brands, enjoy live music, and sample delicious food at this open-air shopping mall.
- The Junction Mall: Indulge in retail therapy at this modern mall with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Muthaiga Country Club: Dine at the renowned restaurant with panoramic city views and enjoy live entertainment on weekends.
Tourism In Nairobi, Kenya During September
September in Nairobi, Kenya, offers a vibrant blend of cultural experiences, wildlife encounters, and urban adventures.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s rich past at the Nairobi National Museum, showcasing Kenya’s history, culture, and biodiversity. The bustling markets, such as the Maasai Market, provide an authentic shopping experience, offering traditional crafts, souvenirs, and local produce.
For wildlife enthusiasts, a visit to the Nairobi National Park is a must, where they can witness lions, rhinos, leopards, and other majestic animals roaming freely in their natural habitat. The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust offers a unique opportunity to interact with orphaned elephants, providing an unforgettable experience.
Nairobi’s culinary scene is diverse and exciting, with restaurants serving traditional Kenyan delicacies alongside international cuisines. The city’s nightlife is also vibrant, with lively bars, clubs, and rooftop terraces offering entertainment options for all tastes.
