Nairobi City Tours
Note that this standard information. Nairobi is a highly dynamic and fast-evolving city. The covers the most conventional and established attractions in Nairobi. Contact us for the latest recommendations and updates
ANIMAL SANCTUARIES
Nairobi Safari Walk
Nairobi Safari Walk is a glimpse of Kenya’s diverse national parks and reserves. It’s constituted of a nature trail that traverses representative semi-natural habitats that are found in Kenya with their representative species of animals and vegetation. Some animals include the pygmy hippopotamus, the bongo, white rhino, large cats, antelopes, albino zebra, and primates among others. There are also over 150 species of indigenous trees with interpretive labels on their names, distribution, and cultural values. The Safari Walk is an ideal learning environment with rich information and anecdotes on natural history and culture.
An adjoining animal orphanage enriches the visit with a rich collection of birds and primates
Giraffe Center
The giraffe centre is just 5 km away from the town center. It was established in order to protect the endangered Rothschild giraffe which is found only in the grasslands of East Africa. This center was started by Jock-Melville, the Kenyan grandson of a Scottish Earl when he and his wife Betty captured a baby giraffe to start a program of breeding giraffes in captivity at their home in Langata – home of the present center.
Since then the program has had huge success, resulting in the introduction of several breeding pairs of Rothschild giraffes into Kenyan National Parks.
The main attraction for visitors is feeding the giraffes from a raised observation platform and also warthogs which freely roam along with the giraffes.
Nairobi National Park
The main gate to Nairobi National Park is only 15 minutes drive from the city center. Here, you have the chance to see wild game, including rare species like black rhinos, giraffes, and lions. Nairobi Park is one of the most successful sanctuaries of black rhinos and is currently also home to a herd of white rhinos. It also has beautiful campsites for family and corporate picnics.
Daphne Sheldrick Orphanage
Visit the Daphne Sheldrick Animal Orphanage on the fringes of Nairobi National Park. It’s an orphanage for elephants. Here you can mingle with baby elephants and learn about each animal’s individual history. Visit here is subject to an entrance fee to Nairobi National Park and it opens at 11 am and closes at 12.00
BUILDINGS AND MUSEUMS
National Museums of Kenya
It is just five minutes away from the city center and is a worth visit to lovers of history, culture, and natural history.
The Hall of Kenya exhibits Kenyan history and the diverse culture ranging from the cost, central highlands to the western region. The great hall of Mammals showcases the big five. The extensive ornithological collection has thousands of different bird species one might encounter while on safari in Kenya and is truly an ornithologist’s favourite hall.
Geology and prehistoric gallery traces the evolution of the earth and the cradle of mankind. Here the fossils are depicted including the Stone Age tools that were collected on different prehistoric sites. Methods of establishing the ages of some particular fossils are also explained. There is also the gallery of Contemporary East African Art where local artists have exhibited different forms of paintings and sculptures full of creativity. African rock art is also showcased here.
The snake park which shares a compound with the museum exhibits the indigenous species of reptiles found in Kenya. Adjacent to the snake park is a botanical garden full of medicinal herbs and many more indigenous plant species.
Of course, there is a coffee shop, and some beautiful lawns and gardens very ideal for family outings and picnics; lest you imagine life at the museum is all work and no play
Karen Blixen Museum
This is the former home of the famous author; Karen von Blixen. The house still contains many of Blixen’s original works and along with some exhibits donated by the makers of the film “Out of Africa”. It is managed by the National Museums of Kenya and is easily visited together with the Giraffe Centre owing to their close vicinity.
Railway Museum
This museum is situated at the main railway station. It’s a collection of rich history of the Kenya-Uganda railway and has various steam locomotives and coaches that foreran modern railway (We hope what we have in Kenya commands the term modern), including one of the carriages from which superintendent Lyall was dragged away by the notorious man–eating lions of the Tsavo.
National Archives
The National Archives is situated in the city center along the famous Moi Avenue. This is a place to go if you are interested in Kenyan history. Government documentation, manuals, and photographs are some of the media you can browse at your leisure.
Kenyatta International Conference Centre
It is located in the heart of Nairobi Central Business and within a walk of several five star hotels. This makes it the perfect venue for conferences, meetings, exhibitions and special events. It is no wonder that it has been a home to many successful international conferences and seminars.
Its an extremely remarkable architectural product that contributes to its landmark setting and is a lofty location to see Nairobi city from the top floor of the center.
GREEN OUTDOOR PARKS
Karura Forest
Karura Forest is a 2570-acre urban forest bordering the Gigiri area and stranding between Kiambu and Limuru roads
The forest is a popular destination in the capital city due to its proximity to many people and its ecological freshness and diversity of activities. It hosts over 200 species of birds and a variety of mammals such as suni, Harvey’s Duiker, bushbucks, bush pigs, genets, civets, honey badgers, bush babies, porcupines, Syke's monkeys, bush squirrels, hares, fruit bats, and various reptiles and butterflies.
It is popular for walking and biking and is ranked by tripadviso.com as the third leading attraction in Nairobi
Paradise Lost
This is the largest picnic site in Kenya (54 acres of pure fun). It’s home to the 2.5 years Old Stone Age caves, trees thought to be hundreds of years old while the reeds have a long story to tell. Enjoy the nature trails, bird watching, horse riding, camel riding, boat riding and feeding Maasai ostrich, fishing, and coffee farms. It’s a few kilometers from the city center on Kiambu road and is surrounded by large coffee farms.
August 7th Memorial Park
Standing at the former site of the US Embassy, this small park exists mainly for historical and educational reasons. The visitors center has information on the deadly bomb blast that killed more than 200 people on 7th august 1998, and about the promotion of peace. The park is a beautiful setting for events involving small groups, and there are conference facilities.
A small gallery can be hired for art and cultural exhibitions, cocktail parties, and functions. There is a souvenir selling shop and kiosk selling snacks if you want to get refreshments during your visit.
City Park
The surrounding area of Parklands derives its name from this green space.
City Park is alive with birds, butterflies and predominant Sykes Monkeys, although other species inhabit the indigenous forest – the largest of its kind in the capital. In the city park cemetery, which occupies a small corner of the park, are the remains of two great figures in Kenya’s history: Pio Gama Pinto, a journalist, and politician, and not too far away Joseph Murumbi, Kenya’s second vice President with his wife Sheila buried beside him. This site is to become the Murumbi peace memorial park with a sculpture of Elkana Onge’sa depicting a bird of peace emerging from a stone of despair to be mounted above the Murumbi graves. It will mark a fitting tribute to a man who was known for his love of art. Vendors sell plants at the adjacent market, which also offers an opportunity to do some vegetable shopping after having your fill of delicious nyama and kuku (Chicken) choma.
Nairobi Arboretum
You‘ll be surprised at how peaceful the arboretum is, despite the bustling city nearby. Established in 1907, the 30-hectare green area has grown to include a diverse range of trees, birds, exotic and indigenous plants. It is a great picnic spot as the trees provide ample shade and seclusion from other picnickers. If you are feeling more energetic, there are a variety of activities to choose from. You can go on a walk to learn more about trees (every last Monday and second Saturday of the month) or bird watching arranged weekly also by Nature Kenya.
Central Park
Bordering Uhuru Park, Central Park is easily identifiable by the Nyayo monument depicting the famous club that was synonymous with Daniel Moi, Kenya’s second President. Apart from the children’s playground, hustle and bustle or sports and games here are plenty. This park attracts those who simply want to relax and have a quiet moment. It is also popular with young families and lovebirds. On weekdays it crowds with office workers taking a break over their lunch hour. Snacks are available from various vendors.
Ngong Hills
The hills have four summits that stand out against the horizon like knuckles, or ngong in maa. It has a beautiful view, overlooking the Great Rift Valley in one direction and the Nairobi National Park in another. It is a perfect place for scenic picnics or climbing the knuckle to test your mettle (in fact many climbers use these hills to train for climbing trips). It’s advisable that you go by car because it quite a distance from drop-off point to the main entrance if you use public transport. Drive up to the radio posts, where there is a car park, and admire the view or set out for a walk.
Jeevanjee Gardens
These gardens were donated by AM Jeevanjee, one of Nairobi’s first Indian businessmen when a bazaar that was formerly located here burnt down. He created the spot as a resting area for the poor. The statue of England’s Queen Victoria, unveiled in 1906, is a famous landmark. If you are after something a little more spiritual, then this is the park for you. A myriad of evangelists have made this their preaching zone and it isn’t unusual to see them trying to outdo each other. The park is frequented by locals who want to rest and by those who want to seek enlightenment.
There is also an informal debating group christened “people’s parliament” that attracts those keen to discuss pertinent political and social issues. Its your place for eavesdropping on pertinent gossip of the day.
Uhuru Park
As most Nairobi people will tell you, Uhuru Park was once a time the highlight of family outings – especially as you can go out on the man-made Lake that is a center of attraction. Your childhood was seen as incomplete if you hadn’t been to Uhuru Park. As it is in the heart of the Nairobi CBD, many office workers can be seen taking a break in the Park over the lunch hour. However, since there is no entry fee and it is so centrally located, it is also still hugely popular over the weekends with families and all young lovers who all enjoy the open space. The park has recently been renovated with new pathways and footbridges, and the ever-popular boats have been upgraded. You can also buy snacks from the many vendors that ply their trade here. One corner of the Park identified by a big green signboard is a commemorative site called Freedom Corner.
In the 1990s, mothers of imprisoned men accused of political crimes gathered at the spot and demanded the release of their sons and other political prisoners. The corner was named in memory of this showdown by Wangari Maathai, who actively supported the protest and the Green Belt Movement
Uhuru Gardens
These gardens are a memorial of Kenya’s struggle for independence. It has monuments like a 24m-high column supported by a pair of clashed hands and a dove of peace, and a statue of freedom fighters raising the flag. Plans are now underway to set up a Heroes Corner, celebrating all of those who played a role in building modern-day Kenya.
The Park is a favorite of families and picnickers. There is plenty of space, ensuring you will get a quiet spot. Informal football games are popular among visitors, and camel rides and face painting are occasionally on offer. There is a snack shop at the entrance but as well you can carry your own food, you can even have a barbecue.
POPULAR SHOPPING MALLS
The Maasai Market
The market is the most famous rendezvous for lovers of African crafts and souvenirs. It is indeed the apex of Kenyan beauty and diversity and a must-visit for all visitors to Nairobi. The main markets are on Tuesdays and Saturdays within the central business district. However, “mini” editions of the market are also in select locations during the other days of the week. A visit to Maasai Market can be combined with other points of interest.
Other popular crafts markets include:
The Sarit Centre
Offers and provides a controlled tenant “mix” of supermarkets, shops, service outlets, offices, and entertainment. A two-screen, 300 cinema, a health club with swimming pool, a 1500 sq ft food court included in phase two of construction is augmented by cafes and new international exhibition centre
A busy calendar of trade shows, and cultural and community events, is a major component of the center’s appeal.
Sarit Centre is good for the shopping and dining experience.
Yaya Centre
A centre described as a place with all your needs in one roof. It is located 5 km away from the city centre. It is a modern multifunctional shopping mall with new state of art lifts, remodeled the main entrance and atrium and shopping floors with a bright and modern look.
Village Market
This is a fabulously modern and exquisite shopping center with many amenities including supermarkets, clothing, and hospitals, and is popular with international and local visitors.
It currently also hosts a 5-star hotel and has a rich variety of restaurants offering international cuisine in a safe and elegant setting.
The City Market
It is on the Muindi Mbingu Street and its worth a visit if you are chopping for curios. Depending on how good your bartering is, you can get a good bargain be it soapstone carvings, wood carvings drums, spears, Maasai jewellery, clothing or other handcrafts
There are many new shopping malls such as:
Two Rivers Mall
FARM VISITS
Mlango Farm
Mlango Farm is in Ngecha, Limuru, about 40 km away from Nairobi City. It is run by a Kenyan-Dutch couple and they founded it from neglected farmland. Over the years they have built up a beautiful organic farm with over 50 different crops. The farm is vibrant, beautiful, and welcoming to visitors and learners from different backgrounds.
There are many farm animals too and a garden for relaxation, picnic and play. Many visitors love to spend some time at Mlango Farm, walk with our hosts for a tour of the farm, enjoy the green environment, learn about farm life, and harvest their own vegetables. Children enjoy feeding and petting the animals. A (mostly vegetarian) lunch is another highlight of the most visits
Kiambethu Tea Farm
Kiambethu Farm is in Limuru, a few km from Naiorbi. It is as much about tea farming as it is about history. It was started way back in 1910 by colonial settler who was one of the first to make and sell tea commercially in Kenya. The farm house is set within beautiful gardens surrounded by acres of tea and indigenous forest which hosts Colobus monkeys.
The farm offers tours with interesting talks on the history of the farm and the process to making tea. The tour walks you in the indigenous forest and closes with a lunch and rest as you savour the beautiful tea plantations and distant hills.
THEATRES
Bomas of Kenya
A short drive from the city center takes you to Bomas, Kenya’s cultural center depicting ethnic groups in their model traditional villages. Various dance groups perform daily in the afternoon. It’s a great show for lovers of African culture, folklores, and costumes.
Currently, they have 37 different traditional dances collected from different tribes of Kenya and also 11 traditional villages of various ethnic groups. Dances are performed daily between 2.30 and 4.00 pm on weekdays and 3.30 – 5.15 pm on weekends and public holidays.
National Theatre
The National Theatre (previously known as the Kenya National Theatre) hosts various amateur and professional groups, plays, and musicals throughout the year. It is also home to Wasanii Restaurant a recently refurbished and renamed establishment designed especially for artistic intercourse.
Phoenix Theatre
This is home to the Phoenix players; the theatre hosts a continuous program of monthly repertory theatre shows. Apart from the plays staged by the Phoenix players which average 16 a year, a variety of visiting groups also use the auditorium which seats about 120. Phoenix also offers customer hire, set design and construction, lighting design and construction, skits for occasions such as launches, anniversaries and dinners.
EATING OUT/DINING
Carnivore Restaurant
Considered one of the best restaurants in Africa, Carnivore has won many international awards. And it is worth the reputation.
The restaurant operates on an all-you-can-eat basis, where servers pass between tables with various types of roasted meat. You can choose from lamb, ostrich, beef rump, sirloin, and crocodile meat, and once you’re full or need a break, you lower the “flag” placed in the middle of the table.
The Mayura
This is one of the best Indian Restaurants in Nairobi. It has three branches within the city, each offering an excellent Indian food experience.
The Westlands branch is especially well located where there is ample parking and space.
K’Osewe Ranalo Foods
K’Osewe Ranalo Foods is said to be perhaps the best restaurant in Nairobi city center for traditional dishes. And live music.
Their most popular dishes include tilapia fish, goat meat, and ugali served with traditional vegetables. The evening atmosphere is great listening to a live band over a beer.
Java House
The Java House chain of restaurants is one of the most popular and has the highest number of branches, spread across East Africa. It has carved a well-deserved reputation for world-class coffee and great dining. All branches have a standard appealing and classy interior and ambiance. They have a wide selection of dishes from coffee to burgers, vegetarian options, and even cakes and pastry
About Thyme
About Thyme is a gem of a restaurant, set with a great outdoor feel in a serene green garden and private neighborhood
The garden is lit by traditional lanterns and rustically furnished giving it a relaxed and romantic ambiance. Their cuisine is great, both continental and oriental
Cafe Deli Restaurant
Cafe Deli is one of the best for lovers of burgers. It is popular with young people who cherish trendy foods, lovely ambiance, perfectly brewed coffee, and tasty cakes. It has three branches and a cake shop, all within the city center.
Abyssinia Restaurant
Abyssinia is one of the most welcoming and laid-back restaurants in Nairobi. It is perhaps the best for Ethiopian dishes, which gives a chance to explore different vegetarian dishes as well as delicious meaty options.
Mama Oliech Restaurant
A popular local restaurant located in Kilimani. Though physically modest, it is a great dining place best known for its delicious fish and a variety of accompaniments. It once came to the spotlight after hosting Facebook co-founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg when he visited Nairobi
Mawimbi Seafood Restaurant
Mawimbi is one of the best seafood restaurants in Nairobi. It is near the city center and is reputed for a good variety of fresh seafood, lovely ambiance, and the quality of dishes. This is your restaurant if you are a fan of oysters, lobsters, prawns, salmon, and seafood tagliolini.
Fogo Gaucho
Is a Brazillian steakhouse that has built a reputation for having the best selection of juicy meats. Some would say it’s the best steakhouse in Nairobi. It has four branches in Westlands, Kilimani, and along Mombasa Road.
A green and red card is placed on your table. You will receive different steaks until you show the waiters a “red card”
Acacia Restaurant
Located at the Ol Sereni Hotel, Acacia Restaurant is and said to be one of the most romantic restaurants in Nairobi, with charming interiors and ambiance. Popular dishes include ostrich steaks, sirloins, Indian ocean snapper, and spiced chicken
