25 Thrilling Issues To Do in Nairobi
Often known as the Inexperienced Metropolis beneath the Solar, Nairobi is without doubt one of the high vacationer locations in Africa. It’s a vibrant capital that’s residence to a combination of wildlife, nature, and cultural heritage.
With a nationwide park located on its outskirts and a Giraffe Centre and Elephant Sanctuary close by, it’s simple to see why so many guests are drawn to this metropolis. Moreover visiting museums, you can too take a stroll alongside the busy streets and expertise the Inexperienced Metropolis’s historic, cultural, and enterprise facet.
As a Kenyan native and somebody who’s lived in Nairobi for a few years, I like sharing my metropolis and Nairobi secrets and techniques. Though a few of my favourite spots embody vacationer sights, I’ll additionally share with you some native locations, very good nightlife joints, and hidden gems.
Right here’s my checklist of among the most enjoyable issues to do whereas in Nairobi.
This publish was up to date in 2023 to incorporate new Nairobi sights and actions.
25 Issues to Do in Nairobi
As an area Kenyan and somebody who’s lived in Nairobi for a substantial period of time, I’m excited to share with you my favourite Nairobi sights, bars, eating places, day journeys, and extra. Nairobi is without doubt one of the high locations to go to in all of Kenya. Let’s get into it.
1. Discover the Nairobi Nationwide Park
Nairobi National Park is located a couple of kilometers from the town heart. Apart from being among the best locations to go to in Nairobi, the park is an efficient place to begin for recreation reserve and safari journeys in Kenya.
It’s accessible each by non-public and public means from the capital. Nonetheless, one of the best ways to expertise this magical park is by taking a guided recreation drive.
Through the 5-hour early morning game drive of the Nairobi National Park, you’ll have the prospect to identify wildlife like lions, black rhinos, cheetahs, buffalos, giraffes, and hippos, in addition to many chicken species.
Some individuals want doing the sport drive solely, however visiting the Safari Stroll contained in the park can be each educating and refreshing. The safari stroll is residence to rhinos, hyenas, and different wild animals. It ranks excessive up as among the best locations to go to in Nairobi for {couples}.
2. Go to the Nairobi Elephant Sanctuary
Often known as the Nairobi Nursery, the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is a good attraction near the town. It’s a sanctuary the place orphaned elephants are taken care of earlier than being re-introduced into the wild.
Visiting the Elephant Sanctuary is certainly one of my favourite issues to do on a day journey from Nairobi. The sanctuary is located about 25 minutes by taxi from the town heart.
There’s an entrance price/donation of 1500 shillings ($15), and it’s solely open to guests for an hour: between 11:00 am and 12:00 pm. That is the time when the keepers convey the child elephants to a feeding space the place the general public can see them.
The easiest way to expertise the Elephant Sanctuary is by joining an organized tour. You not solely go to the nursery but in addition the close by Giraffe Middle too.
Handle: KWS Central Workshop Gate, Magadi Rd, Nairobi, Kenya
3. Go to the Giraffe Centre
An initiative of the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife, (AFEW), The Giraffe Centre is a conservation, schooling, and breeding heart for the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe.
It’s open each day between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm, together with weekends and public holidays. Apart from the knowledge heart, there’s additionally an elevated platform that means that you can hand-feed the giraffes, an exercise that shortly turned a favourite of buddies of mine I’ve proven across the space.
The middle is without doubt one of the hottest day journey locations in Nairobi. It’s additionally a part of the Nairobi wildlife experiences which embody a recreation drive at Nairobi Nationwide Park, a go to to the Elephant Sanctuary, and the Karen Blixen Museum.
An alternative choice is to spend an evening at this gorgeous BnB that’s about 1 kilometer (a fast stroll) to each the Giraffe Centre and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Belief heart.
Handle: Duma Rd, Nairobi, Kenya
4. Expertise Kenyan Tradition on the Bomas of Kenya
The Bomas of Kenya is a vacationer attraction that shows totally different facets of Kenyan tradition and heritage. It’s one other nice choice for a day journey from Nairobi resulting from its proximity to the capital.
Should you’re interested in Kenyan communities and their heritage, then the Bomas of Kenya is a must-see. Whilst an area, I nonetheless discover this type of cultural tour fascinating as a glimpse into one other lifestyle.
On the tour, you’ll expertise Kenyan range by way of conventional dances, meals, and vernacular structure.
Nai Nami (Nairobi With Me) is an initiative began by youths and is aimed toward creating consciousness about Nairobi road youngsters by way of strolling excursions.
Each metropolis on this planet has a narrative – enjoyable, attention-grabbing, or darkish – and Nairobi is not any exception. Each traveler returns residence with their very own tales based mostly on expertise or hypothesis.
One of many mysteries of the town is why it’s known as “Nairobery.” For a few years, I by no means knew the explanation both.
Should you’re eager on unlocking the thriller, like I used to be, be a part of the town strolling tour and wander alongside the alleys. You’ll uncover and perceive its previous and current by way of the eyes of those that have lived right here evening and day.
The excursions are run by a youthful era from slums and former road youngsters who know each nook of the town just like the again of their fingers, making this expertise among the best excursions in Nairobi.
A number of the metropolis sights featured on the strolling tour embody well-known landmarks, museums, monuments, and previous structure.
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6. Go Purchasing at a Maasai Market
As an area, I like the Maasai Market and nonetheless go to frequently after I’m in Nairobi. It’s no shock that it’s one of many high Nairobi sights.
The Maasai Market is an open-air market in Nairobi that’s held in several areas all through the week.
Vacationers go to the Masai Market to see and store for presents and keepsakes like work, beads, jewellery, materials, and wooden carvings.
The perfect days to go to are Saturdays and Sundays when the market is situated in Nairobi metropolis heart, (on the excessive court docket parking zone).
A substitute for the Masai Market is the Metropolis Market which is open each day.
Should you’re eager to check your bargaining expertise, be a part of this Maasai Market and skyline experience in Nairobi.
7. Go to the Gikomba Market
Located on the outskirts of the town, Gikomba is without doubt one of the largest markets in Kenya. Distributors available in the market promote garments, equipment, and different objects.
Due to its measurement and plenty of shops, it’s simple to get misplaced available in the market, even for locals. I’ve in all probability gotten misplaced each time I’ve visited. Though considerably daunting, this additionally makes it probably the most adventurous locations to go to in Nairobi.
I like to recommend that you simply go together with somebody who is aware of the market nicely to information you thru the stalls and to keep away from heading off target.
Handle: Kamukunji Highway, Nairobi, Kenya
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8. Expertise the Nairobi Nightlife
Check out native meals like Nyama Choma and Kachumbari, drink Tusker beer (an East African pale lager), and create some moments to recollect by becoming a member of this amazing Nairobi nightlife experience.
With out experiencing the nightlife, a visit to any metropolis or city is often incomplete. In my youthful years, I spent numerous time having fun with late nights out in Nairobi and I can say from expertise that the nightlife is actually wonderful.
You’ll be able to bask in nighttime actions like partying, board gaming, karaoke, dancing, watching performs, or listening to reside bands.
Exploring Nairobi at evening is nice, and it’s a enjoyable and thrilling strategy to expertise the native tradition.
Should you’re planning on touring round Kenya, be certain to take a look at our full Kenya Journey Information which gives numerous info on the issues to do, prices of journey, locations to go to, dos and don’ts, learn how to get across the nation and rather more.
9. Go Mountain climbing on the Ngong Hills
Located some kilometers from Ngong City, the Ngong Hills are among the best locations to go to close to Nairobi. The hills supply a tremendous day hike outdoors the town with unimaginable views of the good rift valley.
For so long as I’ve lived in Nairobi, I’ve at all times thought of Ngong Hills an ideal vacation spot. The seven hills from the Ngong Forest Gate to Kona Baridi will take a look at your health stage and reward you with probably the most memorable expertise.
There aren’t any wild animals in Ngong Hills, making it an ideal place for solo vacationers and teams. The forest is open each day from 8:00 am to five:00 pm and the charges are inexpensive.
Please word that money funds aren’t accepted on the Ngong Hills – solely Mpesa or Card, (Visa or MasterCard).
The easiest way to experience the Ngong hills is to hitch a mountain climbing journey. The climb takes about 5 hours from gate to gate, by way of open fields and pure forest trails. To high if off you may attempt ziplining over the forest cover (non-obligatory).
10. Chase the Githiga Caves and Waterfalls
Should you’re searching for waterfalls close to the town, the Githiga Waterfalls needs to be on the high of your checklist.
Karuru Falls (within the Aberdares) and Ragia Falls are probably the most spectacular, however the beauty of visiting the Githiga waterfalls is that the journey takes you thru idyllic highlands and tea farms.
And on the finish, you’ll see caves the place Kenyan freedom fighters hid throughout the wrestle for independence.
I like waterfalls, and as a tour information, when planning my actions in Nairobi, I’m at all times positive to incorporate locations that provide lovely waterfalls.
Do you want chasing waterfalls too? If sure, join this fun waterfall tour.
11. Expertise Nature on the Karura Forest
Should you’re into nature and out of doors actions, you’ve got a adequate cause to go to Nairobi – specifically, the Karura Forest.
Moreover participating in actions comparable to jogging and biking, Karura Forest is a superb place for chicken watching, strolling, and enjoyable.
The forest is open each day from 6:00 am to six:00 pm (gates shut at 7:00 pm).
For first-timers, it’s finest to visit and experience Karura Forest with somebody who is aware of the paths nicely. They’ll be capable to expertly information you thru the tracks, which is very useful when working or biking.
12. Go to a Native Farmer’s Market
Moreover wildlife, safaris, and nightlife, there are different enjoyable issues to do in Nairobi, comparable to visiting a local farmer’s market.
There are lots of grocery retailers in Nairobi neighborhoods, however for an adventurous and fantastic procuring expertise, I want visiting the Metropolis Park Market.
This native market has every part from contemporary greens and fruits, to meat and cereals. It’s located near a public park the place locals and residents hand around in the night.
13. Study to Prepare dinner a Conventional Kenyan Meal
Shopping for, making ready, and cooking Kenyan meals is without doubt one of the most enjoyable actions in Nairobi, and this cooking class immerses you into the individuals’s lifestyle and their tradition. It’s good in case you’re a bit of adventurous and interested in creating some Kenyan meals for your self.
Should you’re not available in the market portion of the tour, the identical chef additionally has the identical tour minus the market go to, and it’s a bit of bit cheaper. Study extra here.
If that is one thing that pursuits you, try locals who supply such experiences, typically from their very own houses!.
14. Go to a Kenyan Espresso Farm
Among the finest issues to do in Nairobi is to go to a espresso farm, and the most well-liked espresso farms close to the town are Fairview Coffee Estate and Karunguru Coffee Farm.
A go to to both of those farms gives an opportunity to study every part you might want to find out about Kenyan espresso. You’ll be taken on a journey of how it’s grown, processed, roasted, and ready. On the finish of this excellent expertise, you’ll get to get pleasure from a cup of espresso while watching the on a regular basis actions of the scenic farms.
Should you’re the kind of traveler searching for grassroots schooling, there’s no higher place in Africa to immerse your self in espresso than Kenya. Join a tour and learn to roast your personal beans for the proper cup of espresso.
15. Go to a Tea Farm in Limuru
Tea is a lot greater than only a beverage. It’s additionally a tradition, and for a lot of Kenyans, a manner to supply for his or her households. Touted as one of many world’s finest tea nations, the Kenyan tea story is each lovely and academic.
From selecting the leaves to understanding the method of tea manufacturing, Limuru is without doubt one of the locations you could go to close to Nairobi.
A visit to one of many tea-growing farms in Limuru like Tigoni will get you out of the busy metropolis and in addition takes you thru the gorgeous landscapes of the Kenyan highlands.
Moreover, you get to work together with locals, study the method, and get hands-on as you put together your personal cup of tea.
A number of native hosts supply immersive tea farm tours near Nairobi, the place you’ll be taken to a tea farm in a spot like Tigoni.
16. Study to Play the African Djembe Drum
Identical to in different nations, conventional music is a type of language for Kenyans. The accompanying beats and percussions are therapeutic.
Devices such because the djembe drums, Litungu, and shakers discuss our cultures greater than phrases can, and studying learn how to make music from these devices is an artwork you’ll be happy to share once you return residence.
The Bomas of Kenya is without doubt one of the most unusual locations to go to in Nairobi the place you may find out about Kenyan music. Simply previous the Utamadumi restaurant, there are retailers that showcase and promote conventional musical devices.
Alternatively, vacationers can learn how to play African instruments like Djembe from skilled dance artists in Nairobi.
17. Be a part of a Tour of the Karen Blixen Museum
Karen Blixen Museum Tour is certainly one of our greatest for Nairobi sightseeing. It explores the life, love, struggles, and tragedies of Karen Blixen throughout her time in Kenya.
This museum is a lovely farmhouse and park the place Baroness Karen von Blixen, creator of Out of Africa, lived from 1914 till 1931.
Should you love historical past, this can be a excellent spot to find out about Nairobi throughout the early years of the twentieth century. There’s an excessive amount of info, and each time I go to I study one thing new and attention-grabbing.
The museum is open each day for guided excursions and moreover studying, you’ll additionally discover Karen’s books in addition to souvenirs within the reward store.
Afterward, you may get pleasure from a cup of espresso on the Tamambo Restaurant or go to the close by Kazuri Beads Factory.
Handle: Karen Rd, Nairobi, Kenya
18. Take an Empowerment Strolling Tour of Kibera
The Kibera Empowerment walking tour is without doubt one of the finest issues to do in Nairobi. This regionally guided tour takes you thru the most important slum in Africa.
A number of the experiences embody visiting a crafts heart and listening to highly effective tales from dreamers and creatives who name the slum residence – probably the most genuine experiences in Nairobi.
19. Hearken to the Tales of Kenya at Pawa254
Should you love artwork, then Pawa254 is a must-visit. Go to this a artistic house in Nairobi for artists, painters, and storytellers to listen to the stories of Kenya from Imbaka. Right here, you may get pleasure from each vocal and visible tales.
We’re all tales, or fairly, our tales outline us. Tales about Kenya – how we reside, dance, play, worship, and extra, are nicely price exploring in your journey to Nairobi.
20. Stroll in Search of Nairobi Monuments
Nairobi wouldn’t be a number one vacationer vacation spot in Kenya with out its monuments: Dedan Kimathi statue, Tom Mboya statue, warfare memorial pillars, Kipande home, Macmillan library, and plenty of extra.
All of those nationwide monuments recount the colonial historical past of Kenya. It’s an journey again in time to when Nairobi was simply however a swamp. Previous, current, and future representations of the town intermingle. New streets pop up, and previous buildings are changed, however some monuments nonetheless stand tall.
There are historic monuments, majestic structure, and statues to stare upon on nearly each nook. Taking a stroll by way of any a part of Nairobi is a journey of discovery, one which I get pleasure from very a lot each time I hit its bustling metropolis streets.
21. Get Misplaced on the Nairobi Nationwide Museum
Situated a couple of minutes from the town heart, Nairobi National Museum is without doubt one of the finest locations to go to in Nairobi. It’s a flagship of the Nationwide Museums of Kenya and homes collections of artworks, tradition, and historical past of Kenya.
The Nairobi National Museum experience may be very fashionable with locals and worldwide guests. I do know, having loved it simply as a lot because the worldwide buddies I’ve taken there.
Handle: Kipande Rd, Nairobi, Kenya
22. Go to the August 7 Memorial Park
The August 7 Memorial Park is located alongside Haile Selassie Avenue within the coronary heart of Nairobi. It’s a peaceable out of doors house for remembering victims of the 1998 US embassy bombing.
The knowledge heart showcases photographs and a documentary of occasions resulting in the dual bombings in Nairobi and Dar Es Salaam.
Handle: Junction of Moi Avenue, Nairobi, Kenya
23. Go on a Day Journey to the Amboseli Nationwide Park
One of the vital superb nationwide parks close to the town is Amboseli, certainly one of my all-time favorites wherever on this planet for beautiful panoramic views.
Should you’re quick on time however nonetheless desire a safari expertise outdoors Nairobi, it is best to completely think about a day trip to the Amboseli National Park.
Most safari journeys to nationwide parks and vacationer sights in Kenya are simply accessed from Nairobi, together with Amboseli, situated about 4 hours away.
You’ll get the prospect to go on a recreation drive, spot Mount Kilimanjaro, go to an area Masai Village, and nonetheless make it again to Nairobi in time for a nightlife expertise.
24. Discover the Railway Museum
One other place price visiting in Nairobi is the Railway Museum.
What I like in regards to the museum is its distinction with the close by railway station. Whereas the station is new with trendy facilities, the museum takes you thru Nairobi’s wealthy historic previous.
It homes details and details about the railways of Kenya and the way they have been constructed, and reveals the Kenya-Uganda railway. Exterior the primary constructing, there’s a show of previous locomotives together with the well-known Garatts.
In your strategy to the museum, there’s a bridge from which a railway graveyard is seen. Previous rolling inventory from the 1900s is parked alongside the tracks and this expertise brings about concepts of what life with the steam locomotives will need to have been like.
Go to the Nairobi Railway museum and take a tour of the historical past of railway transport in East Africa.
25. Cycle within the Wild on the Hells Gate Nationwide Park
After visiting sights in Nairobi, you may wish to spend a day away from the town within the nice outdoor at Hell’s Gate National Park.
Located about 90 kilometers outdoors Nairobi, the park may be very distinctive and the one one in Kenya the place you may stroll or cycle within the wild. You’ll be able to cycle while having fun with nice landscapes, and watch wildlife comparable to giraffes, zebras, and gazelles.
After the actions within the park, go for a swim on the pure pool or go to the close by Lake Naivasha for a ship trip.
See additionally: 15 Finest Issues To Do in Naivasha
Nairobi has many sights that enchantment to those that are occupied with historical past, artwork and native tradition, wildlife, nature, or procuring. A number of the different fashionable customer sights embody the Nairobi Arboretum, Oloolua Nature Path, the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), Uhuru Gardens, and the African Heritage House.
Go to and discover authentic experiences in Nairobi.
Fast Journey Itineraries for Nairobi
Are you visiting Kenya’s capital quickly and questioning what there’s to do and see?
If sure, beneath is a listing of enjoyable issues to do in Nairobi. It contains itineraries for Nairobi in case you’re visiting for the day, three days, or every week.
1 Day in Nairobi Itinerary
Should you’ve solely obtained at some point in Nairobi, you’ll must plan effectively. This itinerary means that you can get a superb sampling of the highest actions to do within the metropolis.
Begin your day by heading to the outskirts of the town. Go to the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Sanctuary and the close by Giraffe Middle. Afterward, return to the town heart for a strolling tour.
A strolling tour of Nairobi is a must-do. It takes you thru historic buildings, monuments, and museums that you simply may in any other case miss alone. You additionally get an opportunity to check your bargaining skills while looking for presents on the Masai Market (open air) or Metropolis Market.
There’s no higher strategy to finish your at some point in Nairobi than to expertise the town’s nightlife. There are a variety of eating places and bars price visiting. There are lots of selections that provide good meals, drinks, and occasional reside bands.
2-3 Days in Nairobi Itinerary
It’s potential to cowl among the finest issues to do in Nairobi in a day. Nonetheless, if I’m trustworthy, 24 hours within the metropolis isn’t enough to expertise all of the superb actions the town is thought for.
I beneficial staying for at the very least 2 days in Nairobi to see all the primary sights. Under are the issues you could do in Nairobi in 3 days.
The first day in Nairobi needs to be devoted to a wildlife expertise. It prepares you for safari expeditions in case you have extra time in Kenya. Your first cease would be the Nairobi Nationwide Park for a recreation drive. Afterward, you may go to the Elephant Sanctuary and Giraffe Middle.
There are a number of enjoyable locations to go to in Nairobi Metropolis Middle. In your second day, you’ll begin by strolling alongside the streets of the town. Right here, you’ll recognize historic structure, see essential monuments, and study the historical past of Kenya. The final cease of the day is at a bar or restaurant to expertise Nairobi’s vibrant nightlife.
The third day takes you to Bomas of Kenya the place you study in regards to the wealthy tradition and heritage of Kenya. Watch conventional dances, see homesteads, and luxuriate in native delicacies on the Utamaduni restaurant afterward.
1 Week in Nairobi Itinerary
If in case you have an entire week in Nairobi, it’s potential to expertise every part throughout the metropolis and even get pleasure from enjoyable day journeys.
Monday to Wednesday: Go on a recreation drive on the Nairobi Nationwide Park and go to different wildlife facilities just like the Giraffe Middle.
Thursday to Friday: Discover different locations to go to close to Nairobi. You’ll be able to be a part of a day journey to Amboseli Nationwide Park, hike Mt Longonot, expertise Hell’s Gate Nationwide Park, and go to Lake Naivasha.
Saturday and Sunday: Your final 2 days in Nairobi needs to be spent exploring the town, visiting artists in Kibera, sampling conventional meals, and immersing in Kenya’s tradition. Finish your weekend by experiencing the very best of the town’s nightlife.
FAQs About Issues to Do in Nairobi
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Nairobi.
There are lots of low-cost locations to go to in Nairobi. These embody the Bomas of Kenya, Giraffe Middle, Masai Market, and Railway Museum. It’s also possible to expertise the town on foot or discover its nightlife.
Moreover the Nairobi Nationwide Museum and Bomas of Kenya, the Metropolis Market, Karen Blixen Museum, and Ngong Hills are among the high sights in Nairobi.
Exploring Nairobi on foot with former road youngsters, consuming conventional meals at Ronalo meals, and visiting the Giraffe Middle are thought of the most well-liked actions in Nairobi.
Visits to the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Sanctuary happen every single day between 11 am and 12 midday. The middle is closed on December twenty fifth. Entry charges are Kshs 1500 and tickets can be found by way of advance reserving solely. Nonetheless, in case you’re becoming a member of a day journey to the Elephant Sanctuary, a reserving shall be made in your behalf.
There are a number of vacationer sights close to Nairobi Nationwide Park just like the Bomas of Kenya, Giraffe Middle, Uhuru Gardens, and Mamba village.
There are a number of sights and issues to do close to Karen Blixen Museum like Kazuri Beads Manufacturing unit, Tamambo restaurant, and Olollua nature path.
There are a number of vacationer sights close to Nairobi Nationwide Museum just like the August seventh Memorial park, KICC, Railway Museum, and Nairobi Gallery.
Jomo Kenyatta Worldwide Airport, (NBO), is the foremost airport for arrivals. It’s situated about 18 Kilometers from the town heart and shared taxis like Uber are the most affordable and best choice in the case of transfers to your lodges in Nairobi. A visit into most neighborhoods prices about Kshs 2000.
You’ll be able to expertise Kenyan delicacies on the Ronalo Kosewe Meals or Kilimanjaro restaurant situated alongside Kimathi road. They’ve totally different Kenyan dishes like ugali and fish which begins at Ksh 500. Nyama Choma, (barbecue), can be out there from roadside eating places which matches nicely with a chilly Tusker beer.
Now You Know What to Do in Nairobi
There are lots of locations to go to and issues to do in Nairobi. The actions are located both close to the town or only a quick distance away, however all of them give you a worthwhile expertise.
Whether or not you select to go for a recreation drive, nature walks, or bask in historic excursions and nightlife, Nairobi won’t disappoint.
Go to Kenya and uncover the enjoyable, the wild, and the cultural facet of the Inexperienced Metropolis Underneath the Solar.
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