Kenya, known officially as the Republic of Kenya (in Swahili: Jamhuri ya Kenya), is a nation situated in East Africa. As a member of the Commonwealth, Kenya had a population of over 47.6 million according to the 2019 census, making it the 28th most populous country globally and the seventh most populous in Africa. If you are planning to visit the country, you may have a question in mind: ‘’does it snow in Kenya’’? Here’s everything you need to know about snowing in Kenya.
Does it snow in Kenya?
Kenya does not experience snow, although Mount Kenya, the country’s highest peak, has snow all year. The semidesert landscapes and the country’s equatorial location make it a popular tourist destination. But it does not experience snow. However, a unique exception is Mount Kenya, the second-highest mountain in Africa.
Where does snow in Kenya?
As we mentioned, Kenya’s highest peak, Mount Kenya, is the place where it snows. It l is a majestic and iconic stratovolcano situated in Kenya. It stands as the highest point in the country, towering at an elevation of 5,199 meters (17,057 feet) above sea level. This impressive prominence of 3,825 meters (12,549 feet) ranks Mount Kenya 32nd among the world’s most prominent peaks. Furthermore, its isolation, a measure of its remoteness from other major peaks, spans 323 kilometers (201 miles). The Meru people, who reside in the region, have fittingly named the mountain “Kirimara,” which translates to “that which has white stuff.
When Does It Snow in Kenya?
Snow on Mount Kenya is not a year-round spectacle but typically occurs above an elevation of 5,000 feet. This elevation-dependent occurrence means that, indeed, snow can be found on the mountain, but it’s not a constant presence. In the lower alpine zone, temperatures typically remain above 12 °C (54 °F). Snow and rain are prevalent from March through December, particularly during the two wet seasons. These wet seasons collectively contribute to 5/6 of the annual precipitation.
Besides the snow, Mount Kenya boasts a number of ice glaciers. There are 11 named glaciers on the mountain, with the largest being the Lewis Glacier. However, these glaciers are under threat due to changing weather patterns and the impacts of global warming. The glaciers on Mount Kenya are retreating rapidly, and it’s predicted that in less than 30 years, there may no longer be any ice on the mountain.
Winter in Kenya
Winter in Kenya extends from June to September, encompassing a season characterized by mild and dry weather conditions. However, it’s essential to note that temperatures and climate patterns can vary across different regions of the country.
Coastal Areas
Coastal regions, such as the vibrant city of Mombasa, enjoy relatively warm and stable temperatures during the daytime. In the daytime, temperatures typically range from 24°C (75°F) to 30°C (86°F), providing a pleasant and inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities. As the sun sets, the nights become cooler, with temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 22°C (72°F). This coastal region generally experiences dry weather, making it an excellent destination for those seeking sunny and warm winter getaways.
Inland Areas, Including Nairobi
Inland areas, including the capital city of Nairobi, offer a slightly different winter experience. Here, temperatures are cooler during the day, with highs ranging from 19°C (66°F) to 25°C (77°F). As night falls, temperatures drop further, reaching around 10°C (50°F) to 15°C (59°F). Nairobi’s higher elevation contributes to the cooler climate during the day and the need for warmer clothing in the evenings. However, winter in Nairobi is characterized by clear skies and low precipitation, making it a comfortable time to explore the city and its surroundings.
Rainfall
Winter in Kenya is typically the driest season of the year, and most regions experience minimal to no rainfall. This dry spell provides excellent opportunities for outdoor adventures and wildlife safaris, particularly in Kenya’s renowned national parks and reserves.
While most areas remain rain-free during winter, some regions, particularly the highlands, may encounter occasional winter showers. Rainfall during this season is generally light and sporadic, so it is unlikely to disrupt travel plans significantly.
Why Does It Snow in Kenya?
The presence of snow on Mount Kenya is primarily due to its high elevation. The mountain’s peaks are perpetually snow-covered, and this natural phenomenon has led to various names for the mountain among local communities, such as “Kĩrĩma Kĩrĩnyaga,” meaning ‘the mountain with brightness’ in Kikuyu.
While most of the common hiking trails on Mount Kenya need to ascend higher for hikers to encounter snow, those who aspire to conquer the mountain’s icy peaks must be well-prepared with complete mountaineering gear, including cold-weather equipment like crampons and ice axes. The need for such gear is primarily due to the presence of glaciers on the mountain’s higher elevations.
