When flying into Kenya, you will likely be flying into Kenya’s largest city – Nairobi.
Unfortunately, most travelers don’t stay in Kenya’s capital city for too long. However, this article aims to convince you why you should visit Nairobi during your Kenya Holiday.
Despite its bustling and busy environment, Nairobi is an exciting and welcoming city to explore, and in our opinion, a must-visit on your Kenya itinerary.
Firstly, Nairobi isn’t just the starting point for some of the more well-known Kenya safaris.
In fact, did you know that Nairobi offers incredible wildlife experiences basically on its doorstep?!
Alongside spotting fantastic animals, you can learn about the many cultures, shop at local markets, explore modern malls, and dive into the city’s vibrant nightlife with great bars and restaurants.
We are certain that you will not regret spending a few days exploring Kenya’s capital – let’s check out why.
Is Nairobi Safe?
Let’s start with a common concern about Nairobi and offer our take on the question “Is Nairobi safe?“
Having spent over a week in downtown Nairobi, which doesn’t have the greatest of reputations, we encountered zero issues.
At night-time, we would often go out and explore the busy streets that transform into lively markets. All we encountered was friendly locals!
However, for first-time visitors to Kenya, the downtown hustle might feel a bit too overwhelming. Opting for quieter areas is advisable, a point we’ll discuss shortly.
Despite its past reputation for petty crime, Nairobi has significantly improved in safety due to a crackdown by the Kenya Police Force.
You will still encounter people who are looking for free money, but be prepared to handle such situations.
Similar to any place in the world, staying aware, avoiding walking alone, and trusting your instincts regarding safety is crucial.
As with anywhere else in the world, stay switched on, trust your gut, and when in doubt, it’s best to steer clear of anything that doesn’t feel right or safe.
Prepare yourself by reading our tips on how to deal with tourist trap scams, tricksters, scammers, and con artists.
What are the Best Things to do in Nairobi?
Now we have all the scary stuff out of the way, let’s look at all the top things to do in Nairobi.
Things to do in Nairobi: Nairobi National Park
This is one of the few national parks in the world that is located within the city’s borders. Imagine seeing some of Africa’s famous wildlife on your doorstep with the skyline of a major city as a background.
Entrance fees cost 43 USD and are often NOT included with day trips.
Things to do in Nairobi: The Giraffe Center
The Giraffe Center is an educational nature sanctuary for Rothschild’s giraffes just outside of Nairobi. Visitors can hand-feed these giant majestic creatures from a raised observation platform, and learn about giraffe conservation.
It is also possible to stay in the luxurious Giraffe Manor which is located next door and allows you to feed giraffes from your bedroom window.
Things to do in Nairobi: Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is an orphan rescue center for baby elephants. where they are looked after until they are reinserted back into the wild. This is most definitely not a tourist trap and the elephants are extremely looked after.
There is a limited number of visits allowed per day, so you MUST book in advance.
Things to do in Nairobi: Nairobi National Museum
For those interested in exploring Kenya’s culture, nature, history, and art, then this is the place for you.
Some amazing and unique items are on display such as ancient human skeleton remains, a full elephant skeleton, and many items of African Art.
For an additional fee, you can visit the reptile park next door which contains some of Africa’s deadliest snakes, chameleons, crocodiles, tortoises, and fish aquariums.
Things to do in Nairobi: Maasai Markets
Visit the free Maasai Markets around Nairobi to find traditional Maasai crafts or African art such as jewelry, clothing, statues, and paintings.
As soon as you enter you will be offered “assistance” by middlemen. If you do not want their help politely decline and insist you are fine.
The Maasai Markets rotate around the city each day of the week. Like many markets in Africa, be prepared to bargain for your best price that is fair for you and the seller.
Things to do in Nairobi: Nairobi Arboretum
Escape from the bustling city madness to a tranquil environment. Observe the local life as friends, families, and colleagues gather here for parties, children’s activities, picnics, and team-building exercises.
There is a small entrance fee that can not be paid by cash or card. It is the local system called MPESA. We simply gave our entrance money to the person in front of us to buy our tickets.
Day Trips From Nairobi
Nairobi is also the starting point for many of the big day trips and safaris in Kenya, here are our top three recommendations.
Day Trips From Nairobi: Maasai Mara National Park
The best and most affordable safari in Africa will start with a pick-up from your hotel in Kenya. As it takes at least 5 hours to get to Maasai Mara National Park, we would recommend at the minimum to do a 2-day safari.
Trust us, this will be one of the best things you will ever see in your life!
After our overland Cairo to Cape Town trip, read all about what we consider to be, not only the best, but the most-affordable African safari here.
Day Trips From Nairobi: Amboseli National Park
Have you ever come across a famous image featuring elephants against a backdrop of umbrella trees and the Kilimanjaro Mountain Range? Then more than likely that photo originates from Amboseli National Park.
This National park is another famous Kenya safari destination and offers sightings of all members of the “Big Five.”
Allow yourself at least two days to explore this part of Kenya.
Day Trips From Nairobi: Hells Gate National Park
Hop on a bicycle and ride through the wildlife (don’t worry, no predators here!) while discovering bubbling mud pools, geysers, gorges, and unique rock formations at Hell’s Gate.
It is possible to explore Hells Gate in one day as it is only 2 hours from Nairobi. But if time allows, we would recommend staying in Naivasha for an extra day to hike Mount Longonot which is a non-active volcano for some spectacular views.
If you fancy any of these activities, then please use the following links to allow us to earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Where Do I Stay In Nairobi?
There is various Nairobi accommodation options to suit many different preferences and budgets. There are three popular areas for tourists.
Where to Stay in Nairobi: Westlands
Great for first-time visitors with plenty of shopping malls, restaurants, and bars.
Where to Stay in Nairobi: Nairobi City Centre
Nairobi city centre accommodation will suit backpackers or those on a budget, like us.
There are many great accommodation deals available starting as low as 12 USD per night. At night the streets transform into never-ending markets with lots of cheap food deals on offer.
Where to Stay in Nairobi: Kilimani
Voted one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Kenya.
Kilimani is near the Nairobi Arboretum. With many students in the area, it is a great place for restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
Where to Stay in Nairobi: Karen
No, not a demanding and entitled nag. But a relaxed and very fancy area that is suitable for families.
Nearby popular attractions are the Giraffe Centre and Sheldrick Wildlife Trust which makes this a perfect location for day trips.
How Do I Get Around Nairobi?
The best and easiest way to get around Nairobi is by using Uber. A safe, cheap, and convenient way instead of using expensive private drivers, confusing public transport, or taxi drivers that will try and overcharge you.
An alternative option, something we use quite often, is to walk! We felt safe in Nairobi at all times.
You may be asked for money or spare change. Just simply say no thanks and continue walking – if you so choose.
The best way to walk around is by using Google Maps, it is easy, just follow the directions and you will get to your destination. Just don’t be waving your phone around for everyone to see!
You will know the difference between the people who are trying to get a few easy dollars of you, and the real people who are struck with poverty. Try and help the real people in need, especially with young kids, now and again with a bit of change or a sandwich. We all can do with a helping hand now and again!
Getting From Nairobi Airport to Nairobi City
Jomo Kenyatta is the international airport that serves Nairobi and it takes roughly a half hour to get to the city center.
The easiest way to get to Nairobi is by having a private driver waiting for you and picking you up on your arrival.
At the airport, you can also use the NBO (Nairobi Airport Shuttlebus). Make sure to check the fares PP as if there are a few of you travelling then this could end up more expensive than a private taxi which will cost you around 30 USD.
The best option we would recommend is to use the app UBER. This is the safest and cheapest compared to a private taxi. Fares will cost you around 15 – 17 USD for a single fare from the airport to Nairobi city center. Obviously, if you go further, your fare will be higher.
Getting From the Airport to Nairobi by Public Transport
The cheapest option, but the longest time to get from the airport to Nairobi by public transport. Bus number 34 ONLY runs on weekdays from 06.00 – 21.00 and leaves the airport every 20 minutes. A ticket will only cost you 0.50 cent.
Only if you are a seasoned traveler or budget backpacker we would recommend this choice of getting from the airport to Nairobi by public transport.
What is the Best Time to Visit Nairobi?
The best time to visit Nairobi is generally during the dry seasons, from late December to March and from late June to early October.
The latter is also the time when millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles trek into Maasai Mara, which is also known as the Great Migration.
These periods offer pleasant weather for exploring the city and wildlife, with clearer skies and less rainfall. However, Nairobi’s climate is relatively mild all year round, making it a destination that be visited at any time.
Enjoy Your Nairobi Trip!
We always believe that every destination in the world is best judged for yourself. One person’s version of a nightmare can be another person’s dream.
Nairobi is a city that may come across as an intimidating destination, which is far from the truth. We met many very friendly people who were honest and curious. Overall we had a great time, and will be back again.
If you have the time, then spend at least two days here to add to your Ultimate Kenya itinerary and discover Nairobi for yourself.
We are certain it will be a new, fun, and great experience for you.
What are your thoughts about Nairobi, is it included in your Kenya itinerary already?
We would love to hear your thoughts. Please feel free to leave us a message below or contact us through our socials.
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