Nairobi, the capital and largest city of Kenya, is a dynamic urban center that seamlessly merges modernity with nature and tradition. For those considering things to do in Nairobi, visiting the Nairobi National Park, a unique wildlife reserve on the city’s outskirts where lions, giraffes, and rhinos roam freely, and exploring the Karen Blixen Museum, the former home of the famed “Out of Africa” author, are essential experiences.
The city’s Maasai Market is a vibrant showcase of Maasai culture, offering colorful crafts, jewelry, and textiles. Nearby, the Giraffe Centre provides an up-close encounter with the endangered Rothschild giraffes, allowing visitors to feed and learn about these gentle giants.
Beyond its natural and cultural attractions, Nairobi is a hub for innovation, arts, and gastronomy, with numerous galleries, theaters, and restaurants reflecting its cosmopolitan spirit. For those seeking the best places to visit in Kenya, Nairobi’s blend of urban energy, wildlife encounters, and cultural richness makes it a standout destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Nairobi, Kenya
1. Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park is a unique wildlife reserve located just outside Nairobi’s city center. It boasts a wide variety of animals including lions, giraffes, zebras, and rhinos. The park is especially popular for its accessibility and for offering a safari experience without leaving the city.
Location: Located just outside Nairobi’s city center, about 7 km south of the CBD. Accessible by car or guided safari tours.
Scenic Spot: Wide open grass plains with a backdrop of the Nairobi skyline; home to lions, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and more.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best chances of spotting wildlife.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for everyone, though young children might need supervision during game drives.
Price: Approximately $43 for adults and $22 for children (non-residents).
Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning for the best chances of spotting wildlife, and don’t forget to bring binoculars for a closer look.
2. Giraffe Centre
The Giraffe Centre is a conservation center focused on the endangered Rothschild giraffe. Visitors can feed and interact with these gentle giants, learn about giraffe conservation, and enjoy a nature walk in the adjoining forest.
Location: Located in Lang’ata, about 20 km southwest of Nairobi. Accessible by car or taxi.
Scenic Spot: Up-close encounters with Rothschild giraffes and serene forested surroundings.
Best Time to Visit: Morning to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Perfect for families with children and all age groups.
Price: Approximately $15 for adults and $7.50 for children.
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the nature walk, and bring a camera for some up-close giraffe selfies.
3. David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
This elephant orphanage is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of orphaned elephants. Visitors can watch the baby elephants play in the mud and even feed them. It’s a fantastic place to learn about conservation efforts for these magnificent creatures.
Location: Located near Nairobi National Park, Lang’ata area. Accessible by car or taxi.
Scenic Spot: Baby elephants playing in mud pools and being bottle-fed.
Best Time to Visit: Visiting hours are between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. Arrive early for a good viewing spot.
Suitable for All Ages: Ideal for all, particularly families and animal lovers.
Price: Entry donation is $10 per person.
Travel Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot for viewing as the place tends to get crowded.
4. Bomas of Kenya
Bomas of Kenya offers visitors a taste of the diverse cultures and traditions of Kenya. From dance performances to traditional songs and crafts, this is the place to immerse yourself in Kenyan heritage.
Location: Located in Lang’ata, near Nairobi National Park. Accessible by car or taxi.
Scenic Spot: Traditional Kenyan homesteads, cultural dances, and crafts displays.
Best Time to Visit: Check the schedule to catch a live performance, usually held in the afternoons.
Suitable for All Ages: Great for all age groups, especially those interested in cultural heritage.
Price: Approximately $10 for adults and $5 for children.
Travel Tip: Check the schedule before visiting to catch a live performance, which is the highlight of the experience.
5. Nairobi Railway Museum
The Nairobi Railway Museum provides an intriguing look at the history of the railway in Kenya and its impact on the country’s development. The museum houses vintage locomotives, carriages, and other railway artifacts.
Location: Located near Nairobi Central Station in the city center. Easily accessible by taxi or on foot from nearby areas.
Scenic Spot: Historic locomotives, vintage carriages, and railway artifacts.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or early afternoon when the museum is less crowded.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, particularly history enthusiasts and families.
Price: Approximately $3 for adults and $2 for children.
Travel Tip: Allocate at least an hour for the visit to thoroughly explore the exhibits and read the informative panels.
6. Kazuri Beads Women Factory
This is a social enterprise that employs disadvantaged women to create beautiful, handmade ceramic beads. The factory tour provides an insightful look into the bead-making process from start to finish.
Location: Located in Karen, about 15 km southwest of Nairobi. Accessible by car or taxi.
Scenic Spot: The vibrant workshop showcasing the bead-making process and displays of handmade crafts.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or afternoon during factory working hours.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, though younger children may need supervision.
Price: Free to visit, but purchasing souvenirs is encouraged to support the initiative.
Travel Tip: Consider purchasing some beads or pottery as souvenirs; the sales support a good cause.
7. Maasai Market
The Maasai Market is a vibrant, open-air market where you can buy traditional Maasai crafts, art, and fabrics. Each day the market is held in a different location, so it’s also a bit of an adventure finding it.
Location: Held at different locations in Nairobi depending on the day of the week (e.g., Village Market, Galleria Mall). Accessible by car, taxi, or public transport.
Scenic Spot: A colorful display of Maasai crafts, art, and fabrics.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for fewer crowds or late afternoon for better deals.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, though younger children may need supervision in busy market areas.
Price: Free to enter; prices vary depending on purchases. Bargaining is expected.
Travel Tip: Bargaining is expected, so don’t shy away from negotiating the price.
8. Nairobi National Museum
The Nairobi National Museum is a comprehensive institution showcasing Kenya’s rich cultural and natural history. It offers a range of exhibits, including art, paleontology, and ethnography.
Location: Located on Museum Hill Road, near the city center. Accessible by car, taxi, or public transport.
Scenic Spot: Exhibits on Kenya’s cultural and natural history, with a wide variety of fossils, art, and ethnographic displays.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or early afternoon for a quieter experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all age groups, with interactive and educational exhibits for children.
Price: Approximately $12 for adults and $6 for children (non-residents).
Travel Tip: Visit the adjacent Snake Park for a quick and educational follow-up to the museum tour.
9. Karen Blixen Museum
This museum was once the home of Danish author Karen Blixen, best known for her book “Out of Africa.” The well-preserved house provides a glimpse into her life and the colonial era in Kenya.
Location: Located in Karen, about 20 km southwest of Nairobi. Accessible by car or taxi.
Scenic Spot: The colonial-era home and gardens of the famed “Out of Africa” author.
Best Time to Visit: Midday for a relaxed tour of the house and grounds.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for adults and older children interested in history and literature.
Price: Approximately $12 for adults and $6 for children.
Travel Tip: Read “Out of Africa” before visiting for a more enriched experience.
10. Karura Forest
Karura Forest offers walking trails, waterfalls, and diverse birdlife right in the city. It’s a peaceful respite from Nairobi’s bustling streets and a perfect spot for hiking or a picnic.
Location: Located near Gigiri, north of Nairobi. Accessible by car, taxi, or bicycle.
Scenic Spot: Walking trails, waterfalls, caves, and diverse birdlife in a tranquil forest setting.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for cooler weather.
Suitable for All Ages: Ideal for families, couples, and solo adventurers.
Price: Approximately $6 for adults and $3 for children (non-residents).
Travel Tip: Rent a bike to cover more ground in the expansive forest; it’s a fantastic way to explore.
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Nairobi, Kenya: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Nairobi: 8/10 – Nairobi is very family-friendly, offering numerous attractions for children, such as the Nairobi National Park, the Giraffe Centre, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, and the Nairobi Safari Walk. The city also has several parks and playgrounds.
Nightlife in Nairobi: 8/10 – Nightlife in Nairobi is vibrant, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Popular areas such as Westlands, Karen, and the Central Business District (CBD) offer diverse entertainment options, from trendy clubs to relaxed lounges.
Sport in Nairobi: 8/10 – Nairobi offers a variety of sports activities, including running, hiking, and cycling in Karura Forest and Ngong Hills. The city also has numerous gyms, swimming pools, and sports clubs, and hosts various sporting events throughout the year.
Culture and Attractions in Nairobi: 8/10 – Nairobi is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including the Nairobi National Museum, the Karen Blixen Museum, and the Bomas of Kenya. The city also hosts numerous cultural festivals, art galleries, and theatres.
Gastronomy in Nairobi: 8/10 – The gastronomic scene in Nairobi is diverse, featuring traditional Kenyan cuisine, fresh seafood, and a variety of international dishes. The city offers numerous high-quality restaurants and street food vendors, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets.
Shopping in Nairobi: 8/10 – Shopping in Nairobi includes modern shopping malls such as Westgate, Two Rivers Mall, and The Hub Karen, as well as local markets and artisan shops. Visitors can find a wide range of goods, from luxury items to unique local crafts and souvenirs.
Prices in Nairobi: 6/10 – Nairobi offers a range of prices for accommodation, dining, and activities, making it accessible for various budgets. However, it can be more expensive compared to other parts of Kenya, particularly in terms of high-end accommodations and dining.
Average price for a hotel night: $120
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: $15
Price of a beer: $3
Price of a coffee: $2
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Nairobi, Kenya
For those looking to explore beyond Nairobi’s urban sprawl, top day trips near Nairobi reveal the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife of Kenya. From the dramatic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley to the wildlife-rich Nairobi National Park, each excursion offers a unique glimpse into the natural wonders surrounding the capital.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Nairobi accommodations offer a wide variety, from luxurious safari lodges on the city’s outskirts to boutique hotels nestled in the heart of the city, ensuring guests have a memorable base for their Kenyan adventure.
FAQ About Things to Do in Nairobi, Kenya
What are the top attractions in Nairobi?
Some of the top attractions in Nairobi include the Nairobi National Park, the Giraffe Centre, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, and the Karen Blixen Museum.
Is it worth visiting the Nairobi Railway Museum?
Absolutely! The Nairobi Railway Museum offers a unique look into the history of the railway system in Kenya and its role in the country’s development. It displays vintage locomotives and coaches that have been preserved.
Can I take a tour of the Kibera Slum?
Yes, there are guided tours available in Kibera, Africa’s largest urban slum. These tours offer insights into the daily life of residents and showcase the community’s resilience, creativity, and spirit.
Are there any safari tours available from Nairobi?
Yes, Nairobi National Park, located just outside the city, offers a unique safari experience where you can see a variety of wildlife, including lions, giraffes, zebras, and rhinos against the backdrop of the city skyline.
What cultural experiences can I have in Nairobi?
You can visit the Bomas of Kenya for traditional music and dance performances, explore the Maasai Market for local crafts, or dine in local restaurants to taste Kenyan cuisines like nyama choma (roasted meat).
Is the Kazuri Beads Women’s Factory worth a visit?
Definitely! Kazuri Beads offers a unique experience where you can see how handmade beads and pottery are produced and support the local women artisans. It’s also a great place to buy souvenirs.
Where can I experience Nairobi’s nightlife?
Westlands and Kilimani areas are popular for their vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues where you can dance the night away or enjoy local performances.
Are there any local festivals or events I should look out for in Nairobi?
Nairobi hosts various cultural and art festivals throughout the year, such as the Nairobi Film Festival, the GoDown Arts Centre’s monthly event, and the annual Nairobi Marathon which attracts participants from all over the world.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nairobi
https://www.getyourguide.com/nairobi-l267
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