Things to Do in Nairobi

About Nairobi

Lions roar five miles from downtown. Nairobi is the only major city with a national park inside its limits, where matatu minibuses rumble past the same grasslands where predators hunt at dawn. Skyscrapers tower over packed markets. The contrasts define everything here. Karen's quiet, tree-lined suburbs sit miles from Kibera's art collectives, where painters and sculptors work in converted shipping containers. Business deals happen over Kenyan coffee. Maasai beadwork vendors set up next to contemporary art galleries. This is Kenya's capital. Ancient cultures collide with tech startups and construction cranes. Every neighborhood carries stories of survival and reinvention. The altitude keeps temperatures mild year-round. You can drink wine while giraffes stick their heads through restaurant windows at the Giraffe Manor, or you can spend your evenings in Westlands, where live music spills out of bars until sunrise. Both experiences feel equally Nairobi. The city doesn't apologize for its chaos. It won't slow down for visitors. But if you match its pace, you'll find a place that rewards curiosity—crowded, loud, and unapologetically itself.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt for safe, reliable transport. Avoid walking alone after dark, especially downtown. For authentic local experience, try matatus (shared minibuses) during daylight hours – ask locals for route guidance.

Money: Kenyan Shilling (KES) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available, but notify your bank before traveling. Carry small denominations for markets and tips. Mobile money (M-Pesa) is ubiquitous – consider getting a local SIM card.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and rural areas. Learn basic Swahili greetings like 'Jambo' and 'Asante.' Always ask permission before photographing people, especially Maasai. Remove shoes when entering homes and some restaurants.

Food Safety: Stick to bottled or filtered water. Enjoy nyama choma (grilled meat) and ugali at reputable restaurants. Street food is generally safe at busy stalls with high turnover. Try local favorites like mandazi and samosas from established vendors.

When to Visit

Nairobi enjoys a pleasant highland climate year-round, sitting at 5,500 feet elevation with temperatures ranging 50-77°F (10-25°C). The dry seasons (January-March and June-October) offer ideal conditions with minimal rainfall (under 2 inches monthly) and clear skies perfect for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. Peak tourist season runs July-October and December-January, with accommodation prices increasing 40-60%. The long rains (April-May) bring heavy downpours but fewer crowds and 30-40% lower prices – perfect for budget travelers who don't mind afternoon showers. Short rains (November-December) offer a sweet spot with moderate precipitation, lush landscapes, and reasonable prices. Major events include the Nairobi International Trade Fair (September), Koroga Festival (quarterly), and various cultural celebrations during Jamhuri Day (December 12). Wildlife ensoiasts should visit during dry months when animals congregate around water sources. Business travelers find March-May and November optimal for meetings, avoiding holiday periods. First-time visitors benefit most from June-September's reliable weather, while repeat visitors might appreciate the authentic, less touristy atmosphere during shoulder seasons.