Masai dance is distinctive and infectious, and visitors are often invited to join in the fun.The Kenyan capital is also East Africa’s most developed and westernized city, a metropolis that manages to blend western conveniences while still holding on to its own distinct culture.
Alive with life and activity, Nairobi is generally the starting and/or finishing point for any safari in Kenya, and sits at a crossroads that connects Kenya’s many national parks.
As East Africa’s most prominent city, Nairobi is positively bursting with things to do, places to eat, and fantastic accommodations for you to rest your head in after a long and unforgettable safari.
Do
Nairobi is a city awash with things to do. Ranging from cultural experiences to up close and personal wildlife encounters, there’s always something to occupy when you’re in Nairobi – whether it’s for business or pleasure.
- Nairobi National Park: The world’s most accessible safari park lies just a short drive from the city centre, and it’s the only place on earth where you can be on safari while still being able to see skyscrapers. Home to four of the Big Five (there are no elephants), Nairobi National Park is a perfect half day or full day safari for those on a tight time budget.
- David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage: A perfect outing for families or elephant enthusiasts, visits to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage take place between 11am and noon each day. Visitors can watch as the orphanage’s baby elephants come out for a feeding and some fun in the mud, pet one of the little beauties, and even sponsor one to ensure its continued health.
- Giraffe Centre: Fancy a kiss from a giraffe? The Giraffe Centre’s eight resident giraffes are only too happy to oblige – provided you’re promising them some food. For an up close and personal interaction with the tallest mammals in the world, the Giraffe Centre can’t be beaten.
- Nairobi National Museum: Whether it’s rainy out or you’re just wanting to learn more about Kenya, the Nairobi National Museum is a great 2-3 hour excursion that features exhibits on the animals and birds of Kenya, Kenyan history, and Kenyan art. The attached snake park charges an additional fee to gaze at some of the deadliest reptiles in the world.
- Karin Blixen Museum: Made famous by Out of Africa, the Karen Blixen Museum is the original homestead of the famous European settler. Here you can explore her former property while learning more about her fascinating life.
- Bomas of Kenya: Featuring art, music, food, and cultural displays from the major tribes of Kenya – Bomas of Kenya is a great window into tribal Kenyan life. A particularly highlight is the dance and music performance underneath the great boma.
Eat
Nairobi has no shortage of restaurants to cater to any appetite. Below you’ll find a few of our favourites.
- Carnivore: For the meat-eater, Carnivore cannot be beaten. A Brazilian churassco style BBQ joint, you’ll be met with wave after wave of delicious meat as you battle to prove that you’re an apex predator. Vegetarian options are a little light, but the staff are lovely and they do a killer dessert.
Sleep
As the capital of Kenya and its safari launch pad, Nairobi has an abundance of accommodation options ranging from down and dirty backpacker hostels all the way up to decadent luxury.
Below, you’ll find a few of our favourites
- Kenya Comfort: One of the nicer budget hotels you’ll ever stay in, Kenya Comfort is the chosen haunt of our Australian team member when he’s in Kenya. Site-wide WiFi, a pool, a 24 hour restaurant, and spacious rooms make it a steal.
- Panafric: For those wanting a little more luxury in their lives, Panafric does the trick! With stunning views of the city, decadent food available at the attached Flame Tree Restaurant, and all of the luxuries you’d expect from a European hotel – Panafric brings a little bit of Europe to Africa while still having plenty of African charm.
