No trip to Kenya is complete without at least stopping in the nation’s capital and spending some time visiting some of Nairobi’s many attractions. From spending time with animals, learning more about Kenyan culture, tasting some local cuisine, and more, here are 20 of the unmissable stops located all throughout Nairobi.
The Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC) helipad is one of the best places to see the panoramic view of the city and its environs because it is the tallest building in Nairobi.
Nairobi has a story rich in history and culture. Visit the main museums in the city and learn a thing or two about traditions and history. Some of the museums include the Nairobi National Museum, the Nairobi Railways Museum Nairobi Gallery, and the Karen Blixen Museum.
The Talisman is a favorite for many people because of the restaurant’s super-tasty food, organic approach, and serene location. The menu contains Pan Asian and African cuisine that’s sure to excite the palate. A couple of the items to try are the sushi platter and pork belly.
Bomas of Kenya shows the villages of the many Kenyan tribes, and it is a place to learn about the culture of Kenya.
Feed some giraffes in Giraffe Centre or get some giraffe kisses while having breakfast in Giraffe Manor.
To see some animals against a backdrop of beautiful skyscrapers, go on the Nairobi Safari Walk or have a picnic in Nairobi’s National Park.
Tap into your innate sense of adventure and go running, hiking, zip lining, and paintballing at The Forest. Other activities include archery, tree planting, nature walks, and biking.
The hills are in the South West of Nairobi, and it is a great place to hike. Visit the famous Ngong Hills wind farm and soak in some views.
Karura Forest is a great place to hike or cycle, and the trail leads to a forest, waterfall, and caves.
Alan Donovan designed the African Heritage House, and this exhibition has art, fabric, books, and jewellery that all tell the story of Africa.
Drive from the city center to Olepolos Country Club in Kiserian, Nairobi. Their meat departs from the usual lineup with unexpected dishes including mutura (sausages) and chemsha (stewed meat).
Visit a local restaurant for some delicious food. Even Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerburg had to try the fish—this restaurant in Kilimani serves tilapia and other local dishes such as ugali.
Visit Brown’s Cheese farm in Limuru’s tea country and see how natural cheeses are made. Tastings involve an assortment of homemade jams, bread, and chutneys—and full meals are also available for those wanting more.
Kazuri Bead Factory in the Karen Blixen Estate started as a small workshop that made small beads. The beads are charming, unique, and reflect Kenya’s culture. Visitors can also learn more about the beads.
Shoppers will never run out of things to buy including bags, jeans, shoes, scarves, and dresses. Visit Nairobi’s flea markets and find something special. There are also flea markets that sell jewellery and décor items like the Maasai Market.
There are many shopping malls in the city including the Galleria, Westgate Shopping Mall, Sarit Centre, Thika Road Mall, Garden City Mall, Two Rivers Mall, and The Hub Karen among others.
This resort was initially a ranch house offering spacious accommodation options, fully-furnished rooms, and great gardens. One of the main attractions, however, is the giant ostrich, a beautiful-flightless bird.
Visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and adopt an elephant. Feed other orphaned elephants, and learn more about conservation.
When visitors arrive at Kitengela, they will see sculptures and ornaments adorning the path that leads to the establishment. Also on view are different-mosaic paths and the artisans who make glass into art and décor. There are also some activities including horse riding, felting, swimming, and mosaic classes.
Rolf’s Place is a cliff mansion in the southeast part of the Nairobi National Park. It is a great place that has a suspension bridge where those brave enough to cross can see Mount Kenya, Ngong Hills, and the Karen Area. The nearby restaurant also has good food.
