Elevation of Nairobi above Sea Level
1661 mabove sea level
About Nairobi
Nairobi is one of the world's highest capital cities, sitting at 1,661 m above sea level in the East African Rift highlands. Its high altitude gives it a surprisingly mild climate despite its equatorial location.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Elevation (average) | 1661 m |
| Lowest point | 1580 m |
| Highest point | 1800 m |
| Country | Kenya |
| Coordinates | -1.2921° N, 36.8219° E |
Elevation by District
| District / Area | Elevation |
|---|---|
| City Centre | 1661 m |
| Westlands | 1670 m |
| Karen | 1720 m |
| Langata | 1680 m |
| Eastleigh | 1640 m |
Comparison with Other Cities
| City | Elevation |
|---|---|
| Nairobi | 1661 m |
| Cairo | 23 m |
| Johannesburg | 1753 m |
| Addis Ababa | 2355 m |
Interesting Facts about Nairobi's Elevation
- Nairobi's altitude keeps temperatures mild year-round (15–26 °C) despite being just 1° south of the equator.
- The city sits on the eastern edge of the East African Rift Valley.
- Nairobi National Park, at 1,660 m, is the world's only national park within a capital city.
FAQs – Elevation of Nairobi
How high is Nairobi above sea level?
Nairobi sits at approximately 1,661 m (5,449 ft) above sea level.
Why is Nairobi so high?
Nairobi is located on the East African Plateau, a vast highland region formed by volcanic activity and tectonic uplift.
Does Nairobi's altitude affect the climate?
Yes – the altitude keeps temperatures pleasantly mild (average 18–22 °C) even on the equator, earning it the nickname 'The Green City in the Sun'.