Things To Do
in Nairobi
Nairobi, the vibrant capital city of Kenya, is a bustling metropolis that blends modernity with tradition, renowned for its skyline dotted with skyscrapers and surrounded by natural beauty, including the famous Nairobi National Park, home to diverse wildlife. It serves as a major economic and cultural hub in East Africa, offering a rich tapestry of arts, dining, and shopping experiences.
Despite its rapid urban growth, Nairobi retains a sense of community and retains pockets of green space, embodying a unique blend of urban and natural appeal.
- "Habari gani?" - How are you?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Karibu" - Welcome
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Sawa" - Okay
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to see orphaned elephants. Enjoy the lush surroundings and learn about wildlife conservation efforts.
Head to the Giraffe Centre to interact with the endangered Rothschild's giraffes. Feeding them from a raised platform is a memorable experience.
Dine at a local restaurant and savor authentic Kenyan cuisine. Consider trying dishes like ugali or nyama choma.
Visit the Nairobi National Museum to explore Kenya's rich history and diverse cultures. The exhibits are both informative and visually captivating.
Take a stroll in the nearby Karura Forest for a peaceful escape from the city's hustle. Enjoy the walking trails and serene environment.
Experience a cultural performance featuring traditional music and dance. It's a fantastic way to appreciate Kenya's artistic heritage.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Diverse culture and rich history
- Growing economy with numerous opportunities
- Vibrant food scene with a mix of local and international cuisines
- Access to wildlife and nature through nearby national parks
- Education and healthcare facilities are improving
- Strong tech ecosystem and startup culture
- Traffic congestion and transport challenges
- High levels of inequality and poverty
- Safety concerns in certain areas
- Pollution and environmental degradation
- Frequent power outages and poor infrastructure in some neighborhoods
- Cost of living can be high compared to average salaries
Best Activities in Nairobi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience a wildlife safari at Nairobi National Park, just a short drive from the city center.
Enjoy a scenic hike at Ngong Hills, which offers breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley and Nairobi city.
Get up close and personal with giraffes at the Giraffe Centre, where you can feed and interact with these majestic creatures.
Explore the tranquil and beautiful Karura Forest, perfect for walking, cycling, and birdwatching.
Embark on a cycling adventure at Hell's Gate National Park, known for its stunning landscape and unique rock formations.
Tours
Uncover the best of Nairobi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nairobi
Visit one of these nice places.
Get up close with giraffes and take stunning photos as they roam freely.
Explore the tranquil forest for beautiful nature shots and scenic landscapes.
Capture amazing wildlife and cityscape views against the backdrop of Nairobi's skyline.
Opportunity to photograph and interact with majestic ostriches in a picturesque setting.
Food in Nairobi
Nairobi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish, Nyama Choma is skewered and grilled meat, often made with goat or beef, served with a side of spicy sauces and Ugali (a maize-based staple). It's best enjoyed at local Nyama Choma joints like Carnivore Restaurant or Kenyatta Market.
Must-Try!
Ugali, a starchy side dish made from maize flour, is often served with Sukuma Wiki, a delicious and simple vegetable stew. You can savor this dish at Mama Oliech Restaurant or at local roadside eateries.
Mandazi, a type of fried bread similar to a doughnut, is a popular snack in Nairobi. You can find freshly made Mandazi at bakeries and street food vendors across the city.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nairobi better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
City Market is a vibrant and bustling market in Nairobi offering a wide range of fresh produce, spices, and street food. Visitors can sample local snacks, fruits, and freshly prepared dishes here.
For a cultural and culinary experience, Maasai Market is a great place to explore traditional Kenyan crafts and arts alongside a selection of street food stalls serving local delicacies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nairobi, it is important to greet people with respect, using appropriate titles and handshakes. Greetings are an important part of the social interaction and show respect for the other person.
Respecting elders is an important cultural norm in Nairobi. It is customary to show deference and listen attentively when elders are speaking. This demonstrates respect for their wisdom and experience.
When visiting Nairobi, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. This shows an understanding and respect for the local culture and traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nairobi with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nairobi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Nairobi, Kenya is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and for other services. A tip of 5-10% is commonly given for good service.
Cash is commonly used for transactions in Nairobi, but credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger establishments. Mobile money services like M-Pesa are popular for day-to-day transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Nairobi.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Nairobi, with warm weather and clear skies. Ideal for safari and outdoor activities.
Another great time to visit with dry weather and prime wildlife-viewing conditions. The famous wildebeest migration also occurs during this period.
The long rains occur during this period, with lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Some roads may be impassable, but it's a good time for bird watching.
Short rains may occur during this time, but it's still a good time to visit. The landscape is green and prices are lower, making it a great time to explore the city and its surroundings.
Nairobi at Night
Hiking in Nairobi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An urban forest offering a network of well-maintained trails for walking, running, and cycling, along with beautiful scenery and picnic spots.
A popular hiking destination located just outside Nairobi, featuring scenic views, cooler temperatures, and trails that meander through lush green hills.
A beautiful forest with trails that provide opportunities for bird watching and experiencing diverse flora and fauna, along with a serene atmosphere.
A lesser-known hiking spot situated near the Nairobi National Park, offering tranquil trails surrounded by rich wildlife and natural beauty.
An extinct volcano located about 90 kilometers from Nairobi, famous for its challenging hike to the summit and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
A scenic nature trail located in Karen, featuring beautiful indigenous trees, streams, and a cave, perfect for a peaceful hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Nairobi through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Nairobi by plane.
The main international airport in Nairobi, serving as a hub for international flights.
Primarily serves domestic flights, but also has some regional international flights.
Located in Eldoret, approximately 320 kilometers northwest of Nairobi, serves international and domestic flights.
Located in Kisumu, around 350 kilometers west of Nairobi, it has international flights especially to neighboring countries.
Located in Mombasa, about 480 kilometers southeast of Nairobi, it serves international flights especially for tourists.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Kikuyu are the largest ethnic group in Kenya, and they primarily inhabit the Central region, including the outskirts of Nairobi.
The Luhya community is one of the largest ethnic groups in Kenya and is known for their agricultural practices. Many have migrated to Nairobi for economic opportunities.
The Luo people are traditionally fishermen and are known for their rich cultural heritage. A significant number of Luos reside in Nairobi, particularly in areas like Kisumu Ndogo.
The Kalenjin community is mainly found in the Rift Valley, but many have moved to Nairobi for work, especially in the public sector and education.
The Maasai are known for their distinct culture and pastoral lifestyle. While traditionally from the southern regions of Kenya, a number of Maasai have settled in Nairobi.
The Coast people, including the Swahili and other communities, have a presence in Nairobi due to migration, especially for trade and commerce.
The Asian community in Nairobi, including Indians and Arabs, has a significant historical presence and has contributed to the economy, especially in trade and business.
The European community, although smaller in number compared to other ethnic groups, has been a part of Nairobi's historical and economic development.
The Soul of Nairobi
Discover the essence of Nairobi through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Nairobi, with numerous local clubs and leagues, attracting a passionate fan base.
Rugby has a strong following in Nairobi, with several teams competing in local and regional tournaments.
Nairobi is known for its talented athletes, especially in long-distance running, with many events and training camps.
Basketball is gaining popularity in Nairobi, especially among the youth, with various local leagues and schools participating.
Cricket has a dedicated following in Nairobi, with clubs, schools, and national competitions contributing to its development.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and local clubs, enjoying popularity as a recreational and competitive sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nairobi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Nairobi offer vegetarian and vegan menu items, with a growing number of dedicated vegetarian eateries. Notable mentions include the Green Corner Restaurant and Sunflower Cafe.
While gluten-free awareness is increasing, it's advisable for individuals with gluten intolerance to communicate their dietary needs clearly at restaurants. Some establishments like Nyama Mama and Asmara offer gluten-free choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Nairobi with these cultural adventures.
