Overview
Nairobi is the capital and largest city of Kenya; popularly known as “Green City in the Sun”. The name is derived from the Maasai phrase “Enkare Nairobi,” which translates to “place of cool waters”, a reference to Nairobi River, which flows through the city.
Nairobi has a great nightlife, outstanding restaurants and a broad range of accommodations to choose from. Known for its bustling markets, vibrant culture and rich history, it offers a diverse range of attractions. Below are some of the most interesting places to visit while in Nairobi.
1. Nairobi National Park
The World’s Only Wildlife Capital
Founded in 1946, Nairobi National Park is a unique safari destination. It is tiny in comparison to many of Kenya’s national parks and consists of savannah landscapes, with acacia trees dotting the open plains.
The park is home to diverse wildlife such as the endangered black rhino, leopard, hyena, giraffe, waterbucks, impalas, African buffaloes, Burchell’s zebra, ostrich, lions, cheetahs and over 400 bird species. Nairobi National Park is one of Kenya’s most successful rhino sanctuaries and is the best place to see these endangered species in their native environment.
2. Bomas Of Kenya
Bomas of Kenya hosts the biggest and largest auditorium in Africa. It is a cultural centre that promotes and preserves the diverse cultural heritage of Kenya’s various ethnic groups.
Music performances are an important part of the centre's activities, as music is a significant aspect of the culture and traditions of many Kenyan communities. Bomas of Kenya plays an important role in promoting cultural tourism and remains one of Nairobi’s most popular tourist destinations.
3. Carnivore Restaurant
Carnivore Restaurant is an iconic dining destination known for its unique concept and exceptional meat dishes. It offers an all-you-can-eat meat experience where various cuts of meat, including beef, chicken, lamb, pork and game meats like ostrich and crocodile, are grilled on Maasai swords over a huge charcoal pit.
As part of Kenya’s culinary traditions, Carnivore Restaurant celebrates the country’s love for grilled meat, providing locals and tourists alike with an authentic taste of Kenyan cuisine.
4. David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
As one of Africa’s oldest wildlife charities and a leading organisation, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust embraces measures that complement the preservation and protection of wildlife.
This non-profit trust was established in 1977, shortly after the death of David Sheldrick, who served as the anti-poaching warden of Tsavo National Park. Together with his wife Daphne, David pioneered techniques for raising orphaned black rhinos and elephants and reintroducing them into the wild. The centre is one of Nairobi's most popular tourist attractions.
5. Giraffe Centre
Enjoy sights of some of the biggest animals that wander the face of the earth with a visit to Giraffe Centre, a sanctuary where you can feed, interact with and learn more about Rothschild giraffes.
Over the years, the programme has had tremendous achievements, including the reintroduction of breeding groups of Rothschild giraffes into Kenyan national parks. There is also other wildlife around, including tamed warthogs and a nature sanctuary that is good for birdwatching.
6. Karen Blixen Museum
Karen Blixen Museum celebrates the life and works of the acclaimed Danish author Karen Blixen, famous for Out of Africa, by showcasing her former home, artifacts and history.
A visit to the museum offers insight into Blixen’s life, works and experiences in Africa during the early 20th century, as well as colonial Kenya’s history, culture and the challenges faced by European settlers.
7. Maasai Market
Maasai Market is a vibrant cultural market that offers handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, souvenirs and traditional artifacts.
It provides a unique shopping experience filled with color, tradition and local craftsmanship. It is also a great place to find unique gifts, interact with local artisans and experience the lively atmosphere of African street markets.
8. Nairobi National Museum
Nairobi National Museum is a prominent cultural institution that showcases Kenya’s rich heritage, history and contemporary art.
It features a diverse range of exhibits, including archaeological artifacts, ethnographic displays, wildlife specimens and contemporary art collections. The museum also hosts educational programs, events and temporary exhibitions that attract both locals and tourists.
9. Kazuri Beads
Kazuri Beads is a renowned bead workshop located in Karen. It was founded in 1975 with the aim of empowering disadvantaged women by providing them with employment opportunities.
It produces handmade ceramic beads and pottery using traditional techniques, resulting in unique and colorful designs. Visitors are drawn to the exquisite and one-of-a-kind ceramic beads and pottery created by the skilled artisans.
10. Nairobi Railway Museum
Nairobi Railway Museum is a historical museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing Kenya’s rich railway heritage. It was established in 1971 and is situated at the Nairobi Railway Station, which itself is a historical landmark.
The museum provides insights into the history of railways in Kenya, dating back to the late 19th century when the British colonial government constructed the Uganda Railway. Visitors can explore Kenya’s colonial-era railway development and its significant impact on East Africa's transportation system.
11. Ngong Hills
Ngong Hills are a series of knuckle-shaped hills standing at an elevation of around 2,460 meters above sea level. The hills offer breathtaking panoramic views of Nairobi and the surrounding mountain ranges.
It is a great place to engage in recreational activities with family and friends. The best part is hiking, where you get to experience nature at its best, from the great forest ecosystems to the cool breeze.
