Must visit in Nairobi
a) Nairobi
Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya and is located in the south central part of the country. It is the largest city in Kenya and one of the largest cities in Africa, with an estimated population of over 4.5 million people. Thousands of businesses including international companies are located in Nairobi. The United Nations Environment Programme also has offices in Nairobi. The must visit in Nairobi include the Nairobi National Park, Giraffe centre, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust among others discussed below. There is so much to see and do while in Nairobi which is totally worth visiting. The city has a rich history, culture, and vibrant atmosphere that attracts visitors from all over the world.
b) History
Nairobi was founded in 1899 as a railway depot for the Uganda Railway. This Railway was being constructed by the British colonial authorities to connect the port of Mombasa to the interior of East Africa. The name “Nairobi” comes from the Maasai phrase “Enkare Nairobi,” which means “cool waters.” The city grew rapidly during the early 20th century and became the capital of Kenya in 1963 when the country gained independence from British colonial rule.
c) Culture
Nairobi is a melting pot of cultures, with over 40 different ethnic groups residing in the city. The majority of the population is made up of Kikuyu, Luo, and Luhya tribes. The city is home to several museums, art galleries, and cultural centers that showcase Kenya’s diverse history and traditions. The most famous of these is the National Museum of Kenya, which houses exhibits on the country’s natural history, archaeology, and cultural heritage.
d) Food
Kenyan cuisine is heavily influenced by its diverse ethnic groups. Staples include ugali (a maize-based dish), nyama choma (grilled meat), githeri, and chapati (a type of flatbread) being popular across the country. Nairobi also has a thriving street food scene, with vendors selling everything from roasted maize, mutura(special sausage), samosas to fresh fruit.
e) Climate
Nairobi has a tropical savanna climate with a distinct wet season and dry season. The city is located near the equator and has a high altitude which contributes to its relatively moderate temperatures throughout the year. The evenings may be cool, especially in the June/July season, when the temperature can drop to 5 °C (41 °F). The sunniest and warmest part of the year is from December to March, when temperatures average in the high-twenties during the day. The mean maximum temperature for this period is 28 °C
Below are some of the must visit places in Nairobi.
1. Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park is, as the name suggests located in Nairobi. It is one of the only national parks in the world that is located within a major city, making it a unique destination for tourists and locals alike. The park covers an area of 117.21 square kilometers and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including four of the big five animals(lion, buffalo, rhino, leopard). The endangered black rhinoceros as well as giraffes, zebras, and more than 400 species of birds.
In addition to wildlife viewing, the park also offers other activities such as guided walks, picnicking, and camping. Visitors can also learn about the park’s conservation efforts and the role it plays in protecting Kenya’s wildlife. It is one of the best places to visit in Nairobi.
Tips
Entry fees for non residents are USD 43 per adult and USD 22 per child (KWS FeeS 2022-2023). Check KWS website for latest fees. Fees can be paid through ecitizen website when booking.
It takes approximately 5 hours to do a safari of the whole park. Best time to start is early morning around 6:00 am or 7:00 am when the animals are more active.
Best way of seeing the park is by using a tour company with a guide.
1a) Challenges
Despite being located within the city, the park is surrounded by a fence to prevent the animals from wandering into the urban area. However, the park is not without its challenges, including encroachment and poaching. Conservation efforts are ongoing to ensure the park’s wildlife and ecosystem continue to thrive for generations to come.
2. Shopping malls
a) Westgate Shopping Mall
Located in the upscale neighborhood of Westlands, Westgate Shopping Mall is a premier destination for shopping enthusiasts. With a wide range of local and international brands, it offers an extensive selection of fashion, accessories, electronics, home decor, and more. Westgate also houses a supermarket, a multi-screen cinema, and various eating joints. This makes Westgate a one-stop destination for all your retail and entertainment needs.
b) The Junction Mall
Situated along Ngong Road, The Junction Mall is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse shopping options. This mall boasts a mix of local and international retailers, including fashion boutiques, beauty stores, and home decor outlets. Additionally, The Junction Mall features a children’s play area, a food court offering an assortment of cuisines, and a rooftop terrace where visitors can relax and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
c) Two Rivers Mall
As one of the largest malls in East Africa, Two Rivers Mall offers an unparalleled shopping experience. Located in the leafy suburb of Runda, this expansive mall houses over 200 stores, including luxury brands, high-street fashion outlets, and specialty stores. Two Rivers also boasts a vibrant indoor-outdoor lifestyle center, complete with an artificial beach, a water park, a cinema, and an array of dining options, ensuring a memorable day out for the whole family.
d) Sarit Centre
A pioneer in Nairobi’s mall scene, Sarit Centre has been a favorite shopping destination since its inception. Situated in Westlands, this mall provides a wide range of retail options, from clothing and accessories to home furnishings and electronics. Sarit Centre is also known for its weekly Maasai market, where visitors can purchase traditional crafts and souvenirs. With a food court, a supermarket, and various service outlets, Sarit Centre caters to all your shopping needs under one roof.
e) Garden City Mall
Nestled in Thika Road’s growing neighborhood, Garden City Mall offers a unique shopping experience with its open-air concept. This mall features a mix of local and international stores, showcasing a diverse range of fashion, beauty, and home decor brands. Garden City Mall also hosts regular events and entertainment activities, creating a lively atmosphere for shoppers. With ample parking space and a variety of dining options, it’s an ideal place to spend a leisurely day shopping and relaxing.
3. Visit the Giraffe Centre
The Giraffe Centre is a popular tourist attraction located in Lang’ata, a suburb of Nairobi, Kenya. It was established in 1979 by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) as a breeding and conservation center for the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe.
Visitors to the Giraffe Centre can interact with the giraffes up close, feed them and learn about their conservation. The center also offers guided nature walks and bird watching tours in the adjacent Gogo Riverine Forest.
In addition to its conservation efforts, the Giraffe Centre also serves as an educational center, providing school children and visitors with information about giraffes and the environment. Definitely worth a visit.
Entry fees non resident adults Kshs. 1,500 and non resident kids 3-12 years Kshs. 750. Resident adults pay Kshs. 400 and resident children Kshs. 200. Free for children under 3 years. Payments accepted by Visa, Mpesa or Mastercard.
Open 9:00am to 5:00pm everyday of the week including weekends and all public holidays.
4. Explore the Karen Blixen Museum
This museum is dedicated to the famous author of “Out of Africa,” which was set in Kenya. You can see her home and learn about her life in Kenya.
5. Shop at the Maasai Market
The Maasai Market is a popular open-air market in Nairobi, Kenya that sells a variety of African handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, and other souvenirs. The market is named after the Maasai people, who are known for their distinctive dress and crafts.
The Maasai Market operates on a rotating schedule, with different locations throughout Nairobi on different days of the week. This allows visitors to experience different parts of the city while shopping for unique, handmade goods.
Some of the popular items sold at the Maasai Market include beaded jewelry, wooden carvings, textiles, clothing, bags, and paintings. Bargaining is a common practice at the market, so visitors should be prepared to haggle over prices.
6. Visit the Nairobi National Museum
The Nairobi National Museum is the flagship museum of the National Museums of Kenya. It is dedicated to showcasing the rich cultural and natural heritage of Kenya and East Africa.
The museum’s exhibits include displays on the early human history of East Africa. It showcases the evolution of human beings, Kenyan art, traditional music instruments, and cultural artifacts from various Kenyan communities. Additionally, the museum also features exhibits on the country’s flora and fauna, including a bird gallery, a reptile house, and a butterfly house.
One of the most popular exhibits at the Nairobi National Museum is the “Cradle of Mankind” exhibit, which showcases the various fossils and artifacts that have been discovered in the nearby Great Rift Valley, including those of the famous hominids, such as the Turkana Boy and the Leakey family finds.
Can be visited every Monday to Sunday 8:30 am to 5:30 pm all through the year including public holidays. Night tours also available.
7. Walk through the Nairobi Arboretum
Nairobi Arboretum is a 30-hectare (74-acre) park located in Kilimani which is about 3 km from the city centre. It was established in 1907 by Mr. Batiscombe, then Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests of Kenya. The park is a popular destination for nature lovers, bird watchers, joggers, and families who come to enjoy the lush greenery and serene atmosphere.
The Nairobi Arboretum is home to over 350 species of trees, both indigenous and exotic. Some of the notable trees in the park include the African olive, the cedar, the camphor, the jacaranda, and the eucalyptus. The park is also home to a wide variety of birds, including the Hartlaub’s Turaco, the pied crow, the augur buzzard, and the Egyptian goose.
Visitors to the Nairobi Arboretum can enjoy a leisurely walk on the winding paths, have a picnic in one of the many designated areas, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The park is open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm daily.
The Nairobi Arboretum is an important green space in Nairobi, providing a haven for wildlife and a place for people to connect with nature. It is also an important educational resource, with guided tours and educational programs available for school groups and other visitors. Include it in your list of best things to do in Nairobi.
8. Visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
This orphanage was established in 1977 by Dame Daphne Sheldrick in memory of her late husband David Sheldrick, who was a famous naturalist and founding warden of Tsavo East National Park.
The orphanage is home to baby elephants who have been orphaned due to poaching, human-wildlife conflict, or other reasons. The orphanage provides a safe and nurturing environment for these elephants, and the staff work tirelessly to care for them and prepare them for eventual release back into the wild.
Visitors can visit the orphanage and watch the baby elephants during their feeding times, which are open to the public. The orphanage also offers a fostering program where visitors can sponsor an elephant and receive regular updates on their progress.
9. Visit the Bomas of Kenya
The Bomas of Kenya is a living museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing Kenya’s cultural heritage. It serves as a storehouse of diverse tribal traditions and customs, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the country’s history. Through carefully curated displays, authentic artifacts, and captivating performances, the Bomas of Kenya brings to life the cultural tapestry that makes up Kenya’s identity.
i) Traditional Music and Dance
One of the highlights of a visit to the Bomas of Kenya is the opportunity to witness traditional music and dance performances. The talented performers, dressed in vibrant costumes, showcase the unique rhythms, melodies, and movements of various Kenyan tribes. From the exhilarating Maasai warrior dances to the graceful Swahili taarab melodies, each performance is a mesmerizing spectacle that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
ii) Cultural Workshops and Exhibitions
The Bomas of Kenya offers an array of cultural workshops and exhibitions where visitors can actively engage with Kenya’s traditions. Things like learning traditional craft-making techniques, participating in tribal storytelling sessions, or trying a hand at playing traditional musical instruments, these interactive experiences provide an immersive insight into the daily lives and skills of different Kenyan communities.
iii) Vibrant Village Experience
Stepping into the Bomas of Kenya feels like entering a vibrant Kenyan village, complete with traditional homesteads representing various tribes. These replicas allow visitors to experience the architecture, lifestyles, and traditions of different ethnic groups firsthand. Explore the Maasai manyattas (traditional huts), marvel at the intricate woodwork of the Kikuyu houses, or admire the coastal Swahili-style architecture – each village offers a unique glimpse into Kenya’s cultural diversity.
iv) Engaging Cultural Events
Throughout the year, the Bomas of Kenya hosts a wide range of cultural events and festivals, providing an opportunity to witness grand celebrations and ceremonies. From the colorful Jamhuri Day celebrations commemorating Kenya’s independence to tribal festivals showcasing traditional rituals and rites of passage, these events create an atmosphere of festivity and celebration, leaving visitors captivated by the vibrant energy and sense of community. Bomas of Kenya is definitely one of the best places to visit in Nairobi.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Nairobi is a vibrant and diverse city with a rich history, culture, and atmosphere. It is a bucket list destination for holiday lovers.
