Kenya in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for December
Average temperature across Kenya in December.
City Weather in December
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nairobi | 25° | 14° | 88 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Kakamega | 27° | 14° | 83 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Mombasa | 31° | 23° | 76 mm | extreme | Hot |
| Nakuru | 25° | 10° | 50 mm | extreme | Cool |
| Ruiru | 26° | 14° | 73 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Eldoret | 24° | 11° | 41 mm | extreme | Cool |
| Kisumu | 30° | 17° | 105 mm | extreme | Mild |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Coast (Mombasa, Diani, Lamu, Malindi)
December warms back up under the northeast monsoon; humidity rises and festive-season crowds return to coastal towns for holidays. Sea temperatures climb and snorkel conditions are generally good between showers, though brief tropical downpours occur. Expect busy ferries and higher prices in Mombasa and Diani-book ahead, bring sun protection and plan shore excursions early in the day before potential afternoon clouds.
Central Highlands & Nairobi (Nairobi, Naivasha, Nakuru)
December settles into a drier, warmer rhythm with bright days and cooling nights-ideal for city breaks in Nairobi and short escapes to the Rift Valley lakes. Holiday crowds increase around the festive season and lakefront lodges are busier; boat trips are generally available and clear skies are excellent for early-morning photography. Pack sun protection for afternoons and a light sweater for cooler nights.
Rift Valley & Maasai Mara (Maasai Mara, Nakuru, Naivasha, Amboseli fringe)
December moves toward the drier, warmer season; daytime heat picks up and skies clear after periodic showers, making it comfortable for lodge-based safaris and family holidays. Wildlife viewing remains good outside heavy downpours and camps are busier over the festive period. Book early for holiday weeks and pack sun cream and light layers for cool mornings.
Mount Kenya & Aberdares (Nanyuki, Mount Kenya, Aberdare Range)
December becomes drier and moderately warmer at lower elevations, with improved windows for trekking though summit attempts still need careful planning. Festive-season bookings rise for lodges near Nanyuki, and the mountain views clear between showers. Pack for variable conditions-cool nights, warm midday sun, and possible short storms-especially if attempting higher camps.
Lake Victoria & Western Kenya (Kisumu, Homa Bay, Kakamega, Siaya)
December moderates to a drier, warmer pattern with clear mornings and late-afternoon showers less frequent; lakeside festivals and markets pick up for the holiday season. This is a pleasant window for boat trips to Rusinga Island or visits to Kisumu’s museums and markets. Mosquito activity remains a consideration-pack repellents and consider an antimalarial consultation if staying in rural lakeside areas.
Northern & Arid North (Marsabit, Turkana, Samburu, Isiolo)
December generally dries out and becomes hot again, with clear skies and cooling nights-this is an easier month for expedition-style travel and cultural visits to communities around Turkana and Samburu. Daytime heat can be intense so schedule outdoor activities early and late. Bring broad-brimmed sun protection, plenty of water and confirm vehicle readiness before long drives on remote sections.