Kenya Weather in April
Season: Long Rainy Season
In Short: Wettest month with frequent showers and moderate temperature
The Elephant Herd in Amboseli in April
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Kenya weather in April is rainy and with moderate temperature. It’s the wettest month in Kenya, with the average precipitation surging to 145mm and 11 rainy days. But the rain is usually showers in the evenings or around noon, and it clears up soon, so it does not influence the sightseeing that much in most of the years. However, the frequent rain may result in flood in some regions. Humidity is high, especially along the coast. In April 2024, the humidity of Nairobi got to 83%, Mombasa was 79%, and Kisumu reached 77%, which is quite different from what you may have imagined about dry Africa. The temperatures in this month averagely range from 20 - 30°C (68 - 86°F). And it is cool in the morning and evening, and a little bit hot at noon. The coastal parts can be hotter, with the temperatures being around 25 - 32°C (77 - 89.6°F), while the inland parts are cooler, with the temperatures being about 15 - 25°C (59 - 77°F).
April is not the best month to visit Kenya, but the rainy season makes travel cost lower, and if you still want to explore the land, check the weather before you go and be well-prepared.
The rainiest places in Kenya in April: Nairobi: 219mm, 16 rainy days; Kisumu: 213mm, 17 rainy days
The driest places in Kenya in April: Garissa: 68mm, 6 rainy days; Voi: 100mm, 7 rainy days
Packing List
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Clothes: At the daytime, you can wear breathable, comfortable and casual clothes such as quick-dry clothes, or short shirts, shorts, and loose pants made of linen and cotton. The nights and early mornings are a little bit cooler, so long trousers and long-sleeved shirts are good. Last but not least, considering the big rainfall, waterproof clothing are advised during this month.
Shoes: Wear light and comfy footwear, or sturdy walking shoes when you are outside. Sandals are also recommended for a city tour.
Accessories: Rain gear like an umbrella and a raincoat is a must during the rainy season. Due to Kenya’s location being near the equator, the intensity of UV is strong, so you need to bring sunscreen for sunny days. What’s more, as the mosquito may be prevalent, insect repellent spray is necessary, too.
Recommended Things to Do and Places to Go in April
Tourism Rate:
1. Watching Flamingos in Lake Bogoria
If the crowds and high costs of Kenya’s peak season dissuade you, birdwatching in April will add to your album of incredible photos. Kenya is one of the best birdwatching spots in the world. Seeing flocks of flamingos is an absolute must. Every April, flamingos migrate from Tanzania to Kenya, roosting in Lake Bogoria till November. It is said that about 90% of the flamingos around the world live in Lake Bogoria, making it a great place to see this pink glamour spectacle.|
Flamingos in Lake Bogoria
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2. Nairobi
Given the rainy climate in Kenya in April, some places with good infrastructure and interesting indoor activities are highly recommended, such as Nairobi, the capital city. The Nairobi National Museum showcases you the history and culture of Kenya. Nairobi National Park is good to see wild animals and appreciate the lush green landscape. In Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage, you can have a close look at many adopted elephants rolling and playing in the mud and being fed by the keepers. Nairobi Giraffe Park is another place you should not miss, where mainly houses the endangered giraffe species—Rothschild giraffe.3. Lamu Island
Lamu is a tropical island off the northeast coast of Kenya. The integration of eastern and western cultures is fully reflected in its architecture combining Swahili and Arabic styles, and Lamu city has basically maintained its ancient style. The only means of transport here is the cute donkey. I bet you’ve never tried it anywhere else, isn’t it? If you want to take one, make sure you avoid the rainy weather. Wood carving is a very famous specialty of Lamu Island, with careful selection of materials and unique craft. On a rainy day in April, an appreciation tour of woodcarving must be a delight. Lamu Island has direct flights from Nairobi, which can be taken into account when planning your trip.
Travel Tips
Avoid Flash Flood Areas: Be cautious when travelling outside and stay away from flood-prone areas such as northern Kenya.
Check Road Conditions and Park’s Opening Time Ahead: Heavy rain makes roads muddy and inaccessible, especially in rural areas, so check road conditions before travelling. In addition, some national parks may be closed, so check the official website in advance.
Precautions for Eid al-Fitr: You may encounter Eid al-Fitr in April. For example, Eid al-Fitr will start on 31st March in 2025. During this festival, you need to pay attention to a few things: dress conservatively and avoid wearing revealing clothes such as sleeveless tops and shorts; avoid eating in public places; and because many restaurants and entertainment venues may be closed during Ramadan, it is recommended to check and make your trip schedule in advance.
Weather in Major Cities in Kenya in April
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City |
Temp. |
Rainfall mm / days |
Humi- dity |
Sunrise / Sunset |
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Nairobi |
14 - 24°C (57.2 - 75.2°F) |
219 / 16 |
83% |
06:29 / 18:33 |
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Mombasa |
24 - 31°C (75.2 - 87.8°F) |
163 / 10 |
79% |
06:20 / 18:20 |
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Kisumu |
23 - 29°C (73.4 - 84.2°F) |
213 / 17 |
77% |
06:36 / 18:43 |
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Nakuru |
12 - 26°C (53.6 - 78.8°F) |
141 / 17 |
72% |
06:31 / 18:47 |
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Malindi |
24 - 31°C (75.2 - 87.8°F) |
163 / 11 |
79% |
06:18 / 18:20 |
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Lamu |
26 - 31°C (78.8 - 87.8°F) |
130 / 10 |
79% |
06:13 / 18:16 |
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Garissa |
24 - 36°C (75.2 - 96.8°F) |
68 / 6 |
53% |
06:17 / 18:23 |
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Voi |
20 - 32°C (68 - 89.6°F) |
100 / 7 |
75% |
06:24 / 18:25 |
Kenya Weather by Month
Recommended Kenya Tours:
Mount Kenya Trekking: 4 Days Nairobi - Old Moses Camp - Shipton Camp - Point Lenana - Met Station - Nairobi
Best Kenya Safari Tour: 7 Days Nairobi - Lake Nakuru - Masai Mara National Reserve - Nairobi
Kenya Birding & Big Five Safari: 7 Days Nairobi - Samburu National Reserve - Lake Nakuru National Park - Masai Mara National Reserve - Nairobi