Many visitors treat Nairobi as nothing more than a transit stop before the safari. That is a mistake. Kenya's capital is a genuinely fascinating city — cosmopolitan, green, with remarkable wildlife, world-class food, excellent museums, and surprising diversity. Here is how to make the most of Nairobi whether you have a day or a week.
Top Attractions in Nairobi
Nairobi National Park
The world's only national park bordering a major capital city. Just 7km from the CBD, Nairobi National Park is home to lions, cheetahs, rhinos, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, hippos and over 400 bird species — all against the backdrop of the city skyline. Entry fee: approximately USD $60 per adult per day. A morning game drive can realistically be done before an afternoon flight. Easily accessible with a hired car or arranged transfer — no need for an expensive package.
The Giraffe Centre
Home to the endangered Rothschild's giraffe, the Giraffe Centre in Karen allows you to hand-feed giraffes at eye level from an elevated platform — an experience that children and adults find equally extraordinary. Run by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife, the centre also operates a breeding programme. Open daily, entry approximately USD $10–$15. Combine with a visit to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage nearby.
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (Elephant Orphanage)
An elephant orphanage caring for baby elephants rescued from poaching and habitat loss. Visiting hours are daily 11am–12pm — a one-hour window when the orphans come out for their milk feeds and mud baths. One of the most emotional and memorable wildlife experiences in Kenya. Book online in advance as capacity is limited. Located adjacent to Nairobi National Park in Langata.
Karen Blixen Museum
The former home of Danish author Karen Blixen (Isak Dinesen), author of ‘Out of Africa.’ Set on beautiful grounds in Karen, the museum preserves the colonial-era farmhouse as it appeared in the 1920s and 30s. The surrounding neighbourhood of Karen — named after Blixen herself — is one of Nairobi's most pleasant suburbs. Entry approximately USD $10.
Nairobi National Museum
One of East Africa's finest natural history and cultural museums. Home to the famous hominid fossil collection, the ‘Turkana Boy’ skeleton, Kenyan contemporary art galleries, natural history exhibits, and the Snake Park adjacent. Located near the city centre on Museum Hill. Entry approximately USD $12. Allow 2–3 hours.
Bomas of Kenya
A cultural village showcasing traditional homesteads from Kenya's 40+ ethnic communities. Daily traditional dance and music performances (typically 2:30pm and 4pm). Excellent for understanding Kenya's cultural diversity before heading out into the country. Located near Nairobi National Park in Lang'ata.
Shopping in Nairobi
Where should tourists shop in Nairobi?
- Maasai Market: A rotating open-air market selling Maasai crafts, beadwork, carvings, textiles and jewellery. Held at different locations each day of the week (check current schedule as it rotates). Bargaining is expected and part of the experience.
- Village Market (Gigiri): Shopping centre near the UN complex with a craft market, supermarkets, and a good mix of restaurants. Safe, convenient and well-organised.
- Westgate Shopping Mall (Westlands): Upmarket mall with international brands, great restaurants and a supermarket. Central Westlands location.
- Karen Curio Market: Handicrafts, wooden carvings and Kenyan art — good quality and near the Giraffe Centre.
Food & Restaurants
What should I eat in Nairobi?
Nairobi has an exceptional dining scene — far beyond what most visitors expect. You will find world-class restaurants serving Japanese, Indian, Lebanese, French and Italian food alongside Kenyan classics. Do not leave without trying:
- Nyama choma: Slow-roasted goat or beef — Kenya's national dish. Best experienced at a local nyama choma joint.
- Ugali: Stiff maize meal — the everyday staple, eaten with stew, sukuma wiki (kale), or meat
- Githeri: Maize and beans stew — hearty, cheap and deeply Kenyan
- Mandazi: Lightly sweet fried dough — excellent with a cup of chai
- Fresh fruit: Mangoes, pawpaw, passion fruit and avocados are exceptional in Kenya — buy them from supermarkets or roadside vendors
Best areas for dining and nightlife in Nairobi
- Westlands: The restaurant and nightlife hub — dozens of excellent restaurants, bars and clubs within walking distance
- Karen: More relaxed, garden restaurants and country clubs — great for a long lunch
- Gigiri: Diplomatic area — international restaurants catering to the UN community
- Kilimani: Emerging foodie neighbourhood with independent restaurants and cafes
Day Trips from Nairobi
What are the best day trips from Nairobi?
- Hell's Gate National Park (90km, ~1.5 hrs): The only Kenyan park where you walk or cycle freely among wildlife — cliffs, geothermal activity, gorge hike. Combine with Lake Naivasha for a full day out.
- Lake Nakuru (160km, ~2.5 hrs): Flamingos, rhinos, and buffalo on the shores of a soda lake. Good as a day trip if you leave early, better as an overnight.
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy (230km, ~3 hrs): Home to the last two northern white rhinos and excellent big-cat populations. Better as an overnight but possible as a very long day trip.
- Amboseli National Park (240km, ~4 hrs): Elephants and Kilimanjaro views. Too far for a day trip — plan at least 2 nights.
Is Nairobi worth visiting beyond a layover?
Absolutely. Two full days in Nairobi — combining Nairobi National Park, the Giraffe Centre, Elephant Orphanage and an evening in Westlands — is a genuinely satisfying urban experience that most safari-focused visitors underestimate.
Getting Around Nairobi
What is the best way to get around Nairobi as a tourist?
For tourists, the options in order of practicality:
- Hired car: The most comfortable and flexible option. A hired car with driver means you control your schedule, avoid traffic stress, and stay safe. See our Nairobi transport comparison.
- Uber / Bolt: Widely available and reliable in Nairobi. Use the app — it is safe and price-transparent.
- Taxis: Use only licensed cabs (white with a yellow stripe) or app-based services. Do not hail unmarked taxis from the street.
- Self-drive: Possible for experienced drivers but Nairobi traffic is challenging and roads are not well signposted. Not recommended for first-time Kenya visitors.
- Matatus: The local minibus system — cheap, authentic, chaotic, and not practical for tourists navigating an unfamiliar city.
Arriving at JKIA and need transport into the city or direct to a safari park? We offer airport pickup and car hire from Nairobi — your vehicle ready when you land, whether you need a city runabout or a fully kitted 4x4 heading straight to the Mara.