🇿🇦 Johannesburg vs 🇰🇪 Nairobi
Weather Comparison
Current Weather Right Now
🇿🇦
Johannesburg

64°F
Scattered Clouds
Feels like 63°F
H 64°F / L 62°F
Humidity: 79%
🇰🇪
Nairobi

60°F
Scattered Clouds
Feels like 60°F
H 60°F / L 60°F
Humidity: 94%
Climate Overview
Johannesburg
Johannesburg sits on the Highveld plateau at approximately 1,750m above sea level, giving it a subtropical highland climate with warm, thunderstorm-prone summers and dry, crisp winters with frequent frost. The city straddles the continental divide between the Limpopo and Vaal river systems, creating subtle drainage and elevation differences that influence local weather patterns. The world's largest urban forest — over 10 million planted trees — significantly modifies temperatures across the city, while mine dumps, ridges, and vast disparities in building density create pronounced microclimate variation between neighborhoods.
Nairobi
Subtropical highland — mild year-round due to altitude, two rainy seasons
Nairobi sits at 5,889 feet (1,795m) elevation, keeping temperatures moderate year-round. There are two rainy seasons: the long rains (March–May) and short rains (October–December). July–August is the driest and most comfortable period.
Seasonal Comparison
| Season | 🇿🇦 Johannesburg | 🇰🇪 Nairobi |
|---|
Johannesburg vs Nairobi: Frequently Asked Questions
Does Johannesburg or Nairobi have better weather?
Johannesburg and Nairobi have very different climates. Johannesburg sits on the Highveld plateau at approximately 1,750m above sea level, giving it a subtr Nairobi: Subtropical highland — mild year-round due to altitude, two rainy seasons. The best city depends on your preferred season and temperature range.
When is the best time to visit Johannesburg vs Nairobi?
Best time for Johannesburg: spring and fall. Best time for Nairobi: July, August, January, February.