Map Of Nairobi Kenya

If you’re planning to visit Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city, then get ready for an unforgettable experience. Nairobi has a lot to offer, from its bustling city life to its natural beauty and wildlife. In this travel guide, we’ll take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports. So, let’s get started!

Top Attractions

Nairobi is home to some of the best attractions in Kenya. The most popular ones include:

Nairobi National Park – A wildlife sanctuary located within the city
Giraffe Centre – A conservation centre where you can feed and interact with giraffes
Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage – A sanctuary for orphaned elephants
Karen Blixen Museum – A historic house museum dedicated to the author of ‘Out of Africa’
Nairobi Gallery – A contemporary art gallery showcasing Kenyan art

Hidden Gems

While Nairobi has some popular attractions, there are also some hidden gems that are worth exploring. These include:

Ngong Hills – A series of hills that offer breathtaking views of Nairobi
Karura Forest – A lush green forest with walking and biking trails
Matbronze Wildlife Art – A gallery that showcases bronze sculptures of African wildlife
Nairobi Railway Museum – A museum that showcases Kenya’s railway history
Kazuri Beads Factory – A factory that produces handmade ceramic beads

Food Scene

Nairobi has a diverse food scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Ugali – A staple dish made from maize flour
Nyama Choma – Grilled meat served with sides like ugali and kachumbari
Pilau – Spiced rice dish
Chapati – A flatbread that is usually served with stews and curries
Mandazi – A type of sweet doughnut

Budget-Friendly Tips

Nairobi can be expensive, but there are ways to keep your costs down. Here are some budget-friendly tips:

Use public transport like matatus and buses instead of taxis
Eat at local food stalls and markets instead of restaurants
Stay in budget-friendly accommodations like hostels and guesthouses
Book tours and activities directly with local operators
Visit free attractions like Uhuru Park and City Park

Outdoor Adventures

If you love the outdoors, then Nairobi is the perfect destination for you. Here are some outdoor adventures you can try:

Hiking and trekking in Ngong Hills, Karura Forest, and Hell’s Gate National Park
Cycling in Karura Forest and Hell’s Gate National Park
Hot air balloon safaris over the Maasai Mara
Rock climbing in Lukenya and Hell’s Gate National Park
White water rafting in Tana River

Historical Landmarks

Nairobi has a rich history, and there are several landmarks that showcase this. Some of the top historical landmarks include:

Uhuru Gardens – A monument that celebrates Kenya’s independence
Jomo Kenyatta Mausoleum – A tomb dedicated to Kenya’s first president
Fort Jesus – A historic fort in Mombasa that dates back to the 16th century
Old Town – A historic neighbourhood in Mombasa that has retained its Swahili architecture
Fort Smith – A historic British colonial fort in Kitale

Family-Friendly Activities

If you’re travelling with children, then Nairobi has plenty of family-friendly activities. These include:

Visit to Nairobi National Park and Giraffe Centre
Visit to the Nairobi Safari Walk – A wildlife conservation centre
Visit to the Nairobi Animal Orphanage – A sanctuary for orphaned animals
Visit to the Nairobi Museum – A museum that showcases Kenya’s history and culture
Visit to the Bomas of Kenya – A cultural centre that showcases Kenya’s diverse cultures

Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you want to get off the beaten path and explore Nairobi’s hidden corners, then try these experiences:

Take a walking tour of Nairobi’s street art scene
Visit the Railway Museum and take a train ride to the outskirts of Nairobi
Visit the Kibera slum and learn about community projects
Take a tour of the Nairobi Central Business District and learn about the city’s architecture
Visit the Wangari Maathai Institute for Peace and Environmental Studies

Natural Wonders

Kenya is known for its natural wonders, and Nairobi is no exception. Here are some natural wonders you can explore:

Hell’s Gate National Park – A park that offers hiking, cycling, and rock climbing
Nairobi National Park – A wildlife sanctuary that is home to lions, leopards, giraffes, and more
Ngong Hills – A series of hills that offer panoramic views of Nairobi
Mount Longonot – A dormant volcano located in the Great Rift Valley
Karura Forest – A lush green forest with waterfalls and caves

Vibrant Nightlife

If you’re looking for a vibrant nightlife scene, then Nairobi won’t disappoint. Some of the top spots include:

Simba Saloon – A live music venue that plays a mix of African and Western music
Brew Bistro – A craft beer bar with live music and a rooftop terrace
Alchemist Bar – A bar and restaurant with a bohemian vibe
K1 Klub House – A nightclub that plays a mix of Kenyan and international music
Galileo Lounge – A rooftop bar with panoramic views of Nairobi

Local Markets

Nairobi has a vibrant market scene where you can buy everything from fresh produce to handicrafts. Some of the top markets include:

Maasai Market – A market that sells Maasai handicrafts like beaded jewellery and traditional clothing
City Market – A market that sells fresh produce, spices, and souvenirs
Gikomba Market – A market that sells second-hand clothing and electronics
Toi Market – A market that sells second-hand clothing and household items
Wakulima Market – A market that sells fresh produce

Beaches and Mountains

Nairobi is located close to both the beach and the mountains, so you can easily take a day trip to either. Some of the top beaches and mountains include:

Diani Beach – A white sandy beach located in Mombasa
Watamu Beach – A beach known for its clear waters and coral reefs
Mount Kenya – The highest mountain in Kenya
Mount Kilimanjaro – The highest mountain in Africa
The Aberdare Range – A mountain range that offers hiking and trekking opportunities