🇿🇦 Johannesburg vs Nairobi 🇰🇪

Johannesburg, South Africa vs Nairobi, Kenya — a side-by-side climate comparison to help you pick. Nairobi is the warmer of the two — about 2 degrees warmer on average across the year. Johannesburg is drier, with roughly 105 fewer rainy days a year.

Climate at a glance

🇿🇦 Johannesburg🇰🇪 Nairobi
Avg annual high23°C25°C
Hottest monthOctober (26°C)February (27°C)
Coldest monthJuly (4°C low)July (13°C low)
Rainy days / year150255
SnowRareRare
Best months to visitMay, August, SeptemberJune, July, August

🇿🇦 Johannesburg

Best around May, August, September. Hottest in October (26°C), coldest lows in July (4°C).

🇰🇪 Nairobi

Best around June, July, August. Hottest in February (27°C), coldest lows in July (13°C).

Frequently asked questions

Is Johannesburg or Nairobi warmer?

Nairobi is warmer overall, averaging about 2 degrees higher across the year.

Which is rainier, Johannesburg or Nairobi?

Nairobi is rainier — Johannesburg sees about 105 fewer rainy days per year.

When is the best time to visit Johannesburg vs Nairobi?

Johannesburg is best around May, August, September; Nairobi is best around June, July, August.

Not sure? Find your ideal destination by climate →