Nairobi Kenya is the only capital city in the world with a national park on its boundaries, making it a prime tourist destination. Nairobi city has a diverse and multicultural composition; there are a number of churches, mosques, temples, and gurdwaras within Nairobi city. Nairobi is home to several museums, sites, and monuments, plus spectacular five-star hotels to cater for safari-bound tourists. Whether you are visiting Nairobi for business or pleasure there are many activities and experiences that would suit any traveler.

Nairobi: The Capital City of Kenya

Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya. Founded in the late 1890s as a British camp during the construction of the Mombasa-Uganda railway, it served as a British Provincial capital from 1899 to 1905 before becoming the capital city of Kenya in 1963.

A feature of the central business district that strikes foreign tourists the most is the skyline. Nairobi’s skyline has been compared to many Asian and American cities. The name “Nairobi” comes from the Maasai phrase Enkare Nairobi, which translates to “the place of cool waters”. Today, it is a metropolitan city popularly known as the “Green City in the Sun”. Besides being the economic powerhouse of the East African region, Nairobi is the only capital city in the world with a National park within her precincts.

Nairobi: The Safari Capital of the World

Cool, clear and cosmopolitan Nairobi is the natural departure point for most safari itineraries. A city of contrasts it is simultaneously the largest, the youngest, the most modern, the highest and the fastest growing city in East Africa.

Nairobi (Nyrobi meaning ‘the place of cool waters’ in the Maasai language, Maa), came into being in May 1899 as an artificial settlement created by the European builders of the East African railway, halfway between Mombasa and Uganda. Set in bleak swamps, it began life as a supply depot and campsite for the thousands of Indian workers, who were employed to build the so-called ‘Lunatic Line’.

Whether you begin or end your trip in Nairobi, there’s plenty to do and see: for an hour, a morning, a day or a week. Here are just some of the suggestions

Getting Around Nairobi Kenya

Nairobi city is served by Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, the largest and busiest airport in East Africa. Wilson Airport serves scheduled domestic flights to other towns in Kenya and to tourist destinations such as parks and game reserves. Buses and Minibusses [commonly known as matatus] are the most common means of public transport. The Railway line runs through Nairobi, from Mombasa to Kampala. Its main use is freight traffic, but regular nightly passenger trains connect Mombasa, Nairobi, and Kisumu. A number of morning and evening commuter trains connect the city centre with the suburbs.

Nairobi Culture

Nairobi is a cosmopolitan and multicultural city with many expats and immigrants, as well as, every local community and culture well represented

Where is Nairobi Kenya?

Nairobi city is located at 1°16S 36°48E and occupies approximately 150 km? Nairobi is situated between the cities of Kampala and Mombasa. The Ngong’ hills, located to the west of the city, are the most prominent geographical features in the city. Mount Kenya lies north from the city while Mount  Kilimanjaro is due south-east. Nairobi Fliver and its tributaries traverse through the city and her environs.

Shopping in Nairobi City

Nairobi offers many shopping options, and is definitely one of the best places in East Africa to buy African souvenirs, which are locally known as curios. There are many shopping malls in the city suburbs where one can get internationally renowned brands of fashion, gadgets, electronic appliances among others. Book and music stores, newsstands, cyber cafes are also in plenty. From large markets to roadside stalls, you will almost be spoiled for choice with the number of options available.

Shopping Malls in Nairobi Kenya

1. Lifestyle – Location: Within CBD along Monrovia/Moktar Daddah Street
2. Galleria – Location: Along Langata rd, opposite Bomas of Kenya
3. The Junction — Location: Along Ngong rd
4. Prestige Plaza — Location: Along Ngong rd
5. Yaya Centre – Location: Along Argwing Kodhek rd
6. The Mall – Location: ln Westlands, along Waiyaki way
7. Sarit Centre – Location: In Westlands, Westlands/Parklands rd
8. Westgate — Location: ln Westlands, along Mwanzi rd
9. Village Market – Location: In Gigiri, along Limuru rd
10. Diamond Plaza – Location: In Parklands, along 4th Parklands Avenue

Africa Heritage is a gallery and retail shop at the entrance to the Carnivore selling artifacts inspired by the designs of Africa. Also available are textiles, sculptures and arts of Africa as well as a clothing boutique and craft shop. Another feature of the shopping area is the  GALLERY selling wrought iron sculptures by the internationally acclaimed local artist Kioko Mwitiki.

Maasai Market is an open-air market ideal for African handicrafts, jewellery and souvenirs like beaded jewellery, batiks, baskets, sculptures, and paintings. It features at designated areas during the week.

Below are some places where the market is held:

1. Tuesday – Westgate shopping mall
2. Wednesday — Capital centre, along Mombasa rd
3. Thursday – The Junction shopping mall
4. Friday – Village market, Gigiri
5. Friday – Uchumi by Wilson airport
6. Saturday — Nairobi Law court grounds, CBD and Uchumi by Wilson airport
7. Sunday – Nairobi Law court grounds, CBD and Yaya Centre, Hurlingham

 Forex Bureaus and Banks in Nairobi Kenya

1. Barclays Bank
2. Equity Bank
3. Kenya Commercial Bank
4. Commercial Bank of Africa
5. Standard Chartered Bank
6. CFC Stanbic Bank
7. Co-operative Bank of Kenya
8. Family Bank
9. Consolidated Bank
10. Fina Bank
11. Gulf Bank
12. First Community Bank
13. National Bank of Kenya

Facts About Nairobi Kenya – Nairobi Kenya Facts

• Nairobi Kenya Area: 684 Square Km
• Nairobi Kenya Population: Over 3 Million
• Nairobi Kenya Languages: English, Swahili

Nairobi Kenya – Nairobi City

Nairobi Nightlife Guide

Nairobi is known for its vibrant nightlife with leading signature & contemporary restaurants, clubs, pubs, lounges & bars, cinemas, and casinos. Whether in search of something quite, something traditional, something eclectic… Nairobi has it all

Nightlife in Nairobi is bustling to say the least. Live music is everywhere and even nightclubs host a mix of DJ sets and guest bands. There are plenty of bars and discos in the City Centre but the best are to be found in the suburbs, particularly in Westlands.

The following are some of the best Nairobi Nightlife joints.

Bars in Nairobi include:

Casablanca Bar Nairobi Nightlife

Address: Lenana Road, Hurlingham, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254 20 723 173.

Champagne and  Fishbowls Bar Nairobi Nightlife

Address: Waiyaki Way, Westlands, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254 737 776 677.

Gipsy Bar Nairobi Nightlife

Address: Woodvale Grove, Westlands, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254 20 444 0964.

Lord Delamere Terrace Bar Nairobi Nightlife

Address: Harry Thuku Road, Central Business District, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254 20 226 5555.

Zanze Bar Nairobi Nightlife

Address: Moi Avenue, Central Business District, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254 20 222 532.

Clubs in Nairobi

Florida 2000 Club

Address: Moi Avenue, Central Business District, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254 706 577 009.

New Florida Nightclub

Address: Koinange Street, Central Business District, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254 20 221 5014.

Simba Saloon Club

Address: Langata Road, Lang’ata, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254 20 600 5933.
Website: www.tamarind.co.ke/simba-saloon

Live Music in Nairobi

Klub House

Address: Ojijo Road, Parklands, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254 717 969 500.

Ngong Hills Hotel

Address: Ngong Road, Ngong Hills, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254 20 3860 894.

Simmers Restaurant

Address: Kenyatta Road, Central Business District, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254 20 217 659.

Theatre in Nairobi

Kenya National Theatre

Address: Harry Thuku Road, Central Business District, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254 20 225 174

Professional Centre Theatre

Address: Parliament Road, Central Business District, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254 20 225 506.

Music and Dance in Nairobi

GoDown Arts Centre

Address: Dunga Road, South B, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254 72 699 2200.

Mzizi Arts Centre

Address: Moi Avenue, Central Business District, Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: +254 20 574 372.

Travel to Nairobi – Nairobi Travel Guide

Eclectic is the only word to describe Nairobi’s attractions. There are restaurants galore and one that is world-famous – the Carnivore, the ultimate meat-fest where you can get your teeth into everything from crocodile to ostrich. There are bars and clubs ranging from roadside shacks to five-star chic. There are hotels aplenty, with two of historical note: The Stanley and The Norfolk.

There are art galleries and art cooperatives; there are theatres and musical performances. And there are also a few staples that shouldn’t be missed, such as: the Kenya Railway Museum, the Karen Blixen Museum, the Nairobi National Museum and Snake Park, Daphne Sheldrick’s animal orphanage, the Bomas of Kenya, the City Market, and African Heritage House.

Nairobi is an exceptional metropolitan city that has scores of historical attractions and activities not to be found in other cities. lt is therefore important to know what to expect and where to in Nairobi before leaving home.

The Nairobi ‘City Tour’

Discover the vibrant diversity of this historic city, the uncontested ‘Safari Capital of the World’ and self-styled ‘Green City in the Sun’. Travel straight to the heart of Kenyan culture by visiting art galleries, handicraft centres and bustling markets.

Gain a unique insight into Kenya’s past and present by seeing the Parliament Building, Jomo Kenyatta’s mausoleum, the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, the Railway Museum (background to the ‘Lunatic Line’ and man-eaters of Tsavo), or the stunningly renovated National Museum of Kenya with its Arboretum and Snake Park. Most hotels offer a city tour, which can be booked from reception.

Best Places to Visit in Nairobi Kenya

Whether you are visiting Nairobi for business or pleasure there are many activities and experiences that would suit any traveler.

Nairobi city is filled with fun and interesting activities for anyone to enjoy, from the breath-taking scenery and beautiful abundance of natural attractions to the glamour and glitz of the modern city lifestyle.

Nairobi National Park

• Location: Langata
• Distance: 10km from the CBD
• Duration of visit: Half day depending on interest points.

Nairobi National Park is unique. No other city in the world can boast a natural wilderness, teeming with wildlife and home to over 400 species of birds – just ten minutes from the city centre. Not only can you hope to see rhino, buffalo, lion, leopard, crocodile and hippo, but you can also visit the enchanting Animal Orphanage and enjoy the fabulous Safari Walk – a roller coaster of undulating boardwalk that allows you to stretch your legs and see captive animals living peacefully in their natural habitat.

For more information visit: Nairobi National Park

Nairobi Safari Walk

• Location: Langata
• Distance: 10Km from CBD
• Duration: Half day depending on points of interest

This is Kenya’s new conservation based recreation facility. The combination of skilled and creative landscape design, unique wildlife species and detailed interpretation, renders the facility supreme in tourism and conservation education.

It offers an opportunity to experience what you expect to see across the country. Introductory talks on Kenya’s parks and reserves can be arranged for you by the naturalists. You will have a taste of Kenya’s rich Animal collection including the rare bongo, white rhino, albino zebra, and a collection of cats, antelopes and primates.

Nairobi Safari walk also offers a wooden boardwalk that meanders through examples of savannah, forest and wetland areas and gives an overhead view into the holding pens of the many animals – all of which are designed in such a way that the animals appear to be in the wild.

For more information visit: Nairobi Safari Walk

Daphne Sheldrake Elephant Orphanage

• Location: Karen
• Distance: 10Km from CBD
• Duration: 1 – 2 hours depending on points of interest

Elephant calves orphaned by poachers or natural occurrences are brought here from all over the country. They receive
extremely specialized treatment and personalized care from highly dedicated staff.

The orphanage is open to the public during the calves feeding times where they can interact with calves and watch them being fed while they are informed about how the calves came to be at the orphanage.

There is also an option for visitors to choose to adopt an elephant where they will be in charge of the elephants care at the orphanage.

Places to Visit in Nairobi – Daphne Sheldrake Elephant Orphanage

For more information visit: Sheldrick  Elephant Orphanage

Giraffe Centre

• Location: Karen
• Distance: 15Km from CBD
• Duration: Half day depending on points of interest

The Giraffe Centre started life as a refuge for the endangered Rothschild giraffe translocated from western Kenya. lt is the perfect location to see giraffes eye-to-eye and feed them with specially made hay-pellets, which they take from your hand using their sticky 25-inch long blue-grey tongues. Today there are about 1,500 Rothschild in Kenya with the biggest herd at Soysambu Conservancy on the shores of Lake Elementeita.

For more information visit: Giraffe Centre

Nairobi Arboretum

• Location: Kileleshwa
• Distance: 3Km from CBD
• Duration: Half day depending on points of difference

The arboretum occupies 30 hectors and holds over 350 different species of trees. It is home to over 100 migrant and resident birds. The arboretum is one of Nairobi’s few remaining green spaces, with jogging trails, walking paths and picnic lawns.

For more information visit: Nairobi Arboretum

Bomas of Kenya

• Location: Langata
• Distance: 10Km from CBD
• Duration: 3 – 4 hours depending on points of interest

For a one-stop introduction designed to deliver the full flavour of Kenyan culture, you might like to take in a visit to the Bomas of Kenya. A dedicated cultural entertainment centre, the ‘Bomas’ is located just 10 km from Nairobi and about one kilometer up from the main entrance to the Nairobi National Park.

Home to the famous ‘Harambee’ dancers and musicians, who perform daily, it also offers a traditionally-built Kenyan village for your exploration; and the Nyama Choma Boma restaurant, serving traditional
Kenyan food.

Bomas of Kenya is a living museum celebrating the colorful tribes of Kenya. Visitors here can learn about the lifestyle, art, music, crafts, and their culture.

The complex encompasses recreated traditional homesteads or Bomas built in the traditional style, each one reflecting the culture of a major ethnic group. Every afternoon, a team performs traditional dances and songs in the large theater.

For more information visit: Bomas of Kenya

Kitengela Glass

• Location: Kitengela
• Distance: 7 Km from CBD
• Duration: 3 – 4 hours depending on points of interest

This is a glass blowing factory. The workers create handmade glass bottles from renewed and recycled raw materials, such as scrap windows, glass bottles and other glassy material.
The finished products are stylish products, made through functional art and inspired design.

Kazuri Beads

• Location: Karen
• Distance: 10Km from CBD
• Duration: 1 – 2 hours depending on points of interest

Kazuri creates hand shaped and painted ceramic jewelry which is made in Kenya by over 300 local women and sold all over the world.

Karen Blixen Museum

• Location: Karen
• Distance: 10Km from CBD
• Duration: 1 – 2 hours depending on points of interest

The museum is located in Karen area, near the Karen Country Club. The museum was set up in 1985 on the Blixen’s coffee farm at the foot of the Ngong Hills and still retains much of its original features. The colonial farm house is indeed well preserved.

Much of the original furniture is still preserved in their original state, including kitchen utensils, photographs and original oil portraits painted by Ms Blixen. Within the compound is a coffee-drying plant and small carriages that were used to ferry the coffee to the market.

For more information visit: Karen Blixen

Kenya National Archives

• Location: Along Moi Avenue in the city center
• Duration: 1 – 2 hours depending on points of interest.

It houses the Murumbi gallery, dedicated to the late Joseph Murumbi, Kenya’s second vice-president from May 1965 – August 31, 1966. He and his wife Sheila were avid collectors of African art.

Murumbi’s collection has been described as “Africa’s best-known collection of priceless heritage and artifacts”. He left behind 50,000 books and sheaves of official correspondence.

The national archives department has set up a library containing some of the 8,000 “rare books” (those published before 1900) entrusted to them upon the death of Murumbi.

For more information visit: National Archives

Maasai Market

• Location: varies throughout the week
• Duration: Within the CBD
• Duration: 1 – 2 hours depending on points of interest.

Here visitors can buy and view different art designs by Kenyans. The designs are mainly to do with Kenya.
The market also moves around the city visiting different malls and locations selling their products.

• Monday – No market
• Tuesday – Off Kijabe Street near
• Text book centre
• Wednesday – Capital Center, Mombasa Road
• Thursday – The Junction Mall, Ngong Road, 3rd Floor parking
• Friday – Village Market, Upper car park
• Saturday – Low court parking CBD, Adams Arcade, Ngong Road
• Sunday – Yaya shopping Centre, Car park Adams Arcade, Ngong Road Safari Park Hotel, Thika Road

Nairobi City Market

Once the hangar of a hot air balloon, City Market is smack bang in the center of town and best reached by taxi. Colourful, chaotic and not for the timid (every stall holder vies to sell their wares and bargaining is a must) it is the ideal place to buy wooden carvings, soap stone statues, printed T-shirts, Maasai beadwork and more. Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm. Closes at noon on Saturday

Nairobi National Museum

• Location: Museum Hill
• Distance: 3Km from CBD
• Duration: 1hr depending on points of interest

The Museum aims to interpret Kenya’s rich heritage and offers a one stop shop for visitors to sample the country’s rich heritage both for education and leisure.

Visitors are treated to a variety of shopping and dining facilities, as well as botanical gardens that offer a serene environment.
There is a wide variety of attraction on display at the museum ranging from cultural and natural exhibits, stuffed birds and mammals, fossils from lake Turkana, exhibits of local arts, impressive collection of rocks and minerals and a collection of pre-historic bones and fossils including one of an elephant.

One can purchase a combination ticket for the adjacent snake park with live specimens of Kenya’s most common reptiles.

For more information visit: Nairobi National Museum

Nairobi Mamba Village

Category: Places to Visit in Nairobi Kenya

• Location: Karen
• Distance: 13Km from CBD
• Duration: Half day depending on points of interest

Nairobi Mamba Village is famous for its Crocodile Farm. The pens are home to an estimated 70 Nile crocodiles. Four Maasai Ostriches can also be found strutting around their pen with grace.
Visitors often come into direct personal contact with them when given the opportunity to feed these gallant birds. The experience is always satisfying and exciting especially for children. Within the Village there is also a tented camp available for accommodation.

For more information visit: Nairobi Mamba Village

Other Tourists Attractions in Nairobi Kenya

Karura Forest

If you’d like to find yourself in the midst of an ancient forest, home to 605 species of wildlife and 200 species of birds; a place of plunging waterfalls and mysterious caves where Kenya’s freedom fighters once sheltered – then head for the Karura Forest Reserve on the outskirts of Nairobi. A place where monkeys swing and butterflies flit, this is the ideal place for family walks, cycling and picnics.

For More Information visit: Karura Forest

Nairobi Animal Orphanage

Established in 1964, it is the oldest animal orphanage in Kenya and set in Nairobi National Park. It is a refuge and rehabilitation centre for wild animals found abandoned or injured in Kenya. Animals at the facility undergo a thorough medical examination, followed by treatment if needed, before entering into an appropriate feeding and rehabilitation program.

For more information visit: Nairobi Animal Orphanage

Uhuru Park

A green park amidst the high-rise buildings in the heart of Nairobi, it has an artificial lake and is a popular place for Nairobi residents to relax and for occasional political and religious gatherings.

For more information visit: Uhuru Park

Central Park

Central Park is across the road from Uhuru Park whereas Uhuru Park is busy and exciting; Central Park is more relaxed and serene.

For more information visit: Central Park

Ngong Hills

This iconic range has been immortalized as ‘immovable waves against the sky’ in her novel turned Hollywood blockbuster” Out of Africa‘ by Karen Blixen who had a farm on its foothills in the early 1900s. One can climb the five peaks of the mountain which the Maasai believe is the clasped fist of the giant who fell to his death here.

For more information visit: Ngong Hills

Godown Arts Centre

Warehouses in Kenya are known as ‘go downs’ because back in the colonial days the instruction would be, ‘go down to the warehouse and …’. Today if you want to take the temperature of Nairobi’s pulsing arts scene you have to go down to the GoDown Arts Centre. A converted warehouse in the city’s Industrial Area, this is a multi-functional art gallery and cultural space for the visual and performing arts.

For more information visit: GoDown Arts Centre

Upepo Gallery

Rising from the shores of the Indian Ocean to the glacial towers of Mount Kenya, Kenya is the epitome of photogenic. And photographers flock to capture her magic. Some of the finest images, however, are framed by those who live in Kenya.
To see them, head to the fascinating Upepo Gallery (Upepo means ‘the wind’ in Swahili), which opened in May 2017 and showcases the works of some of the finest photographers working in Kenya today. Famous ‘names’ include Anup Shah, Carl de Souza, Tony Karumba, Georgina Goodwin, Natalia Mroz, Fredrik Lerneryd, Neil Thomas, Siegfried Modola and Michael Soi. You can also pick up some stunning limited edition prints.

Kenyatta Market

Kenyans love their meat (Nyama in Swahili). And best of all, they like it choma (literally ‘burned’, but actually barbequed). A classic Kenyan eating experience, nyama choma is best sampled at a nyama choma stand – and they come in all shapes and sizes. Recommended by those that know, however, are the stands in the Kenyatta Market
For more information visit: Kenyatta Market

City Market

Once the hangar of a hot air balloon, City Market is smack bang in the center of town and best reached by taxi. Colourful, chaotic and not for the timid (every stall holder vies to sell their wares and bargaining is a must) it is the ideal place to buy wooden carvings, soap stone statues, printed T-shirts, Maasai beadwork and more. Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm. Closes at noon on Saturday

For more information visit: Kenyatta Market

Ostrich Farm

Located in Langata, you can feed ostrxiches and watch them guard their gigantic eggs.

For more information visit: Ostrich Farm

Uhuru Gardens

It is where Kenya’s first flag was raised on 12 December 1963. The national monument on Langata Road is Kenya’s largest memorial park. The park offers a tranquil picnic site, a popular family outing destination and a venue for corporate events. The Uhuru monument stands in it.

For more information visit: Uhuru Gardens

Kenyatta International Conference Centre

For a modest fee the general public can travel up the interior of the conference centre tower in the high speed lifts to the 27th floor and walk the final three floors of stairs up to the roof for a bird’s eye view of 360 degrees of Nairobi City. For safety, there is a handrail around the perimeter. It has a helipad, the only one in the city on the top tier of the tower.

For more information visit: Kenyatta International Conference Centre

Dedan Kimathi Monument

The life-size bronze statue of the Mau-Mau freedom fighter on Kimathi Street, opposite the Hilton Hotel was unveiled in Nairobi on the anniversary he was executed – February 18, 1957. Kimathi, clad in military regalia, holds a rifle in the right hand and a dagger in the other, symbolizing the last weapons he held in his struggle for the Nation’s freedom.

Tom Mboya Monument

Standing twenty meters from where the late Hon. Tom Mboya was murdered, the Tom Mboya Monument is along Moi Avenue by the National Archives. It was erected in 2011 in honor of the Kenyan Minister who was assassinated in 1969.The monument by the artist Oshottoe Ondula, cost the Government Sh15 million while the whole project took about Sh20 million. It was taken to China where it was cast in bronze.

Nyayo Monument

Built in 1988 on Uhuru Highway to commemorate 25 years of independence, the marble monument shows the lowering of the British colonial flag and the raising of the Kenyan flag. It cost nearly a million dollars to construct.

For more information visit: Nyayo Monument

Jomo Kenyatta Mausoleum

The mausoleum on the grounds of the Parliament in Nairobi’s CBD, is the final resting place of Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, Kenya’s first president who took up office as Prime Minister of the self—governing Kenya in 1963. A year later, Kenya became a Republic with Kenyatta as its first president.

Nairobi National Museum

A visit to the newly (and wonderfully) modernized Nairobi National Museum offers an unrivalled introduction to Kenya’s rich natural and cultural heritage. It also allows you to catch up with your earliest relatives in the single most important collection of early human fossils in the world. The line-up includes ‘Proconsul’ which is 18-million-years-old; ‘Homo habilis’ which is 1.9 million-years-old, and ‘Turkana boy’, a mere 1.6 million-years-old. For more information: www.museums.or.ke
The quickest safari in the world

For more information visit: Nairobi National Museum

Snake Park

The adjoining Snake Park has a large collection of reptiles and mammals.

For more information visit: Snake Park

Botanical Gardens

The Botanic Gardens and Nature Trail has the Kaya forest, grasses of Kenya and sculptures including medicinal plants. Located on the grounds of Nairobi National Museum is the office for Nature Kenya. Membership includes a Wednesday weekly bird walks around Nairobi, a day out within 100-km radius of Nairobi and occasional safaris. Log on to www.naturekenya.org. It is an affiliate of other nature groups in the country

For more information visit: Botanical Gardens

Nairobi Gallery

Located right in the heart of Nairobi City next to the towering Nyayo House is the Nairobi Gallery. Built in 1913, this Old Provincial Commissioner’s office was fondly referred to as ‘Hatches, Matches and Dispatches’ because births, marriages and deaths were recorded here. The museum holds temporary exhibitions.

For more information visit: Nairobi Gallery

Institute Of Primate Research Nature Trail

Tucked Within the Oloolua Forest a few minutes from Karen Blixen Museum is the institute of Primate Research’s nature trail. The indigenous forest has a spectacular waterfall, picnic site, caves, campsite and a viewing tower. The National Museums of Kenya helps to conserve and protect this valuable natural heritage for future generations. Enjoy a walk in the forest or a picnic. Entrance is strictly by prior arrangements with IPR or the National Museums of Kenya.

Places to Visit in Nairobi Kenya – Video

 

Best Hotels in Nairobi Kenya

Nairobi is a culinary melting pot with a good variety of cuisine types available. Restaurants in Nairobi cater for all budgets and tastes with dishes from virtually all corners of the globe. All continents are aptly represented, and what is most impressive is the authentic touch that characterizes these dishes.

The choices are numerous with options for fine dining or casual eats with dining establishments ranging from five star hotels to restaurants offering take away services.

Villa Rosa Kempinski

Category: Hotels in Nairobi Kenya

The Villa Rosa Kempinski hotel is located on Chiromo Road, within the commercial centre of Nairobi, 20kms from the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

For more information visit: Villa Rosa Kempinski

Nairobi Serena Hotel

Category: Hotels in Nairobi Kenya

Nairobi Serena Hotel in Kenya is located in central Nairobi overlooking Central Park and five minute’s walk from the Central Business District.

The hotel is 30 minute drive away from Jomo Kenyatta International airport and a five minute walk from the city center.

For more information visit: Nairobi Serena Hotel

The Sarova Stanley

Sarova Stanley is the oldest hotel in Nairobi established in 1902, with a rich and proud history. It has undergone an intensive programme of renovation. It is centrally located in the CBD and is 18km from JKIA.

For more information visit: The Sarova Stanley

Sankara Hotel

Established in September 2010, Sankara is a sleek, contemporary hotel in the heart of Westlands, Nairobi’s commercial and entertainment center.

For more information visit: Sankara Hotel 

Intercontinental Hotel

This Nairobi hotel is ideally located for business, close to the Parliament buildings and next to Kenyatta International Convention Center.

For more information visit: Intercontinental Hotel

Fairmont Norfolk hotel

Playing a dominant role in the development of the city since its earliest days is Fairmont The Norfolk. Built in 1904, the hotel continues to be one of the most beloved landmarks in the city, and the launch point for safari tours. It has been refurbished over the years to give it a modern touch while preserving its traditional charm. Its conveniently located 20km from JKIA and 3km from the CBOR

For more information visit: Fairmont Norfolk hotel

Nairobi Safari Park Hotel

Located 30 minutes drive from JKIA, the Safari Park Hotel is a fusion of international sophistication, safari style, theme-park fun and cultural creativity.

For more information visit:  Nairobi Safari Park Hotel

Ole Sereni Hotel

Strategically positioned 12 km from the airport and approximately 15 minutes drive, Ole-Sereni combines the best features of a modern city hotel and a traditional wildlife lodge to present guests with a cocktail of breathtaking fundamentals of nature’s tranquility from a very close range.

For more information visit: Ole Sereni Hotel

House of Waine

Was originally built in the 1970’s as a private home. It was acquired by its present owners, a local family, and carefully refurbished over two and a half years resulting in the unique boutique property that exists today.

For more information visit: House of Waine

Weston Hotel

luxurious hotel tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the Nairobi Central Business District. Designed to be a comfortable home away from home for discerning business and holiday guests, we are the ideal choice of hotels for exploring Nairobi’s iconic attractions and an abundance of renowned shopping destinations, including the popular Galleria Mall and The Hub, which is one of East Africa’s largest malls.

For more information visit: Weston Hotel

Other Hotels in Nairobi City

Southern Sun Mayfair Nairobi

Built in 1945 as the Mayfair Court Hotel, the hotel is set in 12 acres of lush landscaped gardens and retains the charming architecture of the colonial days. The hotel became Southern Sun Mayfair in 2010, and has a selection of conferencing and recreational facilities.

For more information visit: Southern Sun Mayfair Nairobi

12. The Boma Nairobi

Boma Club Nairobi is Located on the 1st floor of Galana Plaza, Galana Road, Kilimani, Boma Club is the latest entertainment joint in the capital. Boma Club Nairobi  aim is to ensure that all the partner restaurants provide the best possible service to the clients.

For more information visit: The Boma Nairobi

13. Fairview Hotel

Fairview Hotel is a country hotel near the center of the city. The hotel combines comfort with modern facilities and i state of the art security system.

For more information visit: Fairview Hotel

14. Tribe Hotel

Tribe is a luxury boutique hotel in Nairobi. Set in a leafy suburb within Nairobi’s Diplomatic District and attached to The Village Market. The hotel is ideally located 25km from JKIA.

For more information visit:  Tribe Hotel

15. Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club

Victorian-designed buildings set within a colorful landscaped gardens overlooking a fusion of indigenous forest and a 18-hole championship golf course, this five-star luxury hotel is located 15 minutes from the city center of Nairobi.

For more information visit: Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club

16. Sarova Panafric Hotel

Named in honor of the Pan African movement, Sarova Panafric was inaugurated by the first president of Kenya H.E. Mzee Jomo Kenyatta on the 5th of January 1965 and truly represents Neo Africa.

For more information visit: Sarova Panafric Hotel

17. Carnivore Restaurant

Set in attractive tropical gardens, the Carnivore is the ultimate ‘Beast of a Feast’ a variety of meat including ostrich, crocodile and camel, is roasted over charcoal and carved at your table. The Carnivore is also home of the Simba Saloon, a delicious a la carte restaurant by day and Nairobi’s most popular nightclub. Situated 4 kilometers from the city center.

For more information visit: Carnivore Restaurant

18. The Clarion Hotel

The Clarion Hotel, Nairobi, an oasis of tranquility and serenity where we blend Hospitality with creativity to ensure consistent delivery of high quality service. The Clarion Hotel is located in the heart of Nairobi, overlooking the central business district and close to major landmarks. It is in Kenya’s most exciting, commercial and entertainment district

For more information visit: The Clarion Hotel

19. Ngong Hills Hotel

The Ngong Hills Hotel was established in 1978, and has remained in the hands of the same family since then.

For more information visit: Ngong Hills Hotel

20. The Heron Portico

The Heron Portico is Nairobi’s finest and best known business hotel located at a distance of 3 kilometers from the city center and about 18 kilometers from the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

For more information visit: The Heron Portico

21. Panari Hotel

The hotel is a central point for any tourist, business traveler, diplomat and dignitary or airline crew and it offers five star, luxurious and comfortable space to relax, unwind and rejuvenate in an ideal location that is conveniently 10 minutes away from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

For more information visit:  Panari Hotel

22. Marble Arch Hotel

Marble Arch Hotel is located in the center of Nairobi, next to Akamba Bus Services. Affiliated to Kibubuti Coffee Farm, the hotel’s coffee shop serves its own Kent mere coffee with homemade cakes and pastries.

For more information visit: Marble Arch Hotel

23. Central Park Hotel

The Central Park Hotel is a 3 star hotel located in bustling downtown Nairobi, along Sheikh Karume Road between Ronald Ngala Street and Luthuli Avenue.

For more information visit: Central Park Hotel

24. Fahari Gardens Hotel

Fahari Gardens Hotel in Nairobi features a 24-hour front desk, a lush garden, a fitness centre and an outdoor pool.

For more information visit: Fahari Gardens Hotel

25. Jacaranda Hotel Nairobi

Surrounded by the Jacaranda trees that give it its name, the Jacaranda Hotel is in Westlands, the commercial center of Nairobi.

For more information visit: Jacaranda Hotel Nairobi

26. West Breeze Hotel

West Breeze Hotel has the ability to provide you with quality, personalized services to match your individual needs.

For more information visit: West Breeze Hotel

After 40 Hotel

After 40 Hotel is located in Nairobi,s bustling city center.Intimate and original, in the heart of Nairobi, After 40 Hotel has a total of 63 rooms, 6 meeting rooms and 3 dining areas. The hotel offers the perfect solution for both business travelers and leisure vacations.

For more information visit:  after 40 hotel

Best Restaurants in Nairobi City

Chinese and Japanese Restaurants in Nairobi Kenya

1. August Moon; situated at the food court, Westgate Mall.
2. Bamboo; situated at Zen gardens, Lower Kabete Rd.
3. Taste of China; situated inside the stylish Prime Apartments at the very end of Rhapta Road, Westlands.

Continental Restaurants in Nairobi Kenya

1. Alabaster Lounge
2. Half Past One Café
3. Jade Coffee and Tea House

French Cuisine Restaurants in Nairobi Kenya

1. Le Rustique
2. Ambiance Restaurant
3. Piano Bar at Captains Club Casino

Italian Restaurants in Nairobi Kenya

1. La Prudna D’oro.
2. La Grigla Restaurant.
3. La Dolce Vita.

Indian Restaurants in Nairobi Kenya

1. Haandi Udupi.
2. Open House Karen &Westlands.
3. Anghiti Westlands & Muthaiga.

Arabian Restaurants in Nairobi Kenya

1. Café Habibi and Sheesha lounge.