Things to Do in Nairobi

About Nairobi

Where the pulse of modern Africa beats strongest, Nairobi emerges as a captivating paradox of wilderness and urbanity. This is the only capital city in the world where giraffes graze against a backdrop of gleaming skyscrapers, where the ancient rhythms of Maasai culture blend seamlessly with the entrepreneurial energy of Silicon Savannah. The city breathes with an intoxicating vitality—from the bustling markets of Eastleigh where spices perfume the air, to the sophisticated cafes of Westlands where innovation takes root over Ethiopian coffee. Here, conversations flow between Swahili, English, and dozens of local languages, creating a linguistic symphony that echoes the nation's diversity. Nairobi's soul lies in its contrasts: the serenity of Karen Blixen's colonial legacy juxtaposed against the vibrant street art of the city center, the wild majesty of lions roaming just kilometers from traffic jams. This is Africa's gateway city, where every sunset promises adventure and every dawn brings the possibility of encountering both the cosmopolitan and the untamed in a single, unforgettable day.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use ride-hailing apps like Uber, Bolt, or local Little Cab for safe city transport. Avoid matatus (shared minibuses) unless with locals. For airport transfers, pre-book reputable companies. Walking downtown requires caution—stick to busy streets during daylight hours and avoid displaying valuables.

Money: Kenyan Shilling (KES) is the local currency. US dollars are widely accepted at tourist establishments. Withdraw cash from bank ATMs inside malls or hotels for security. Mobile money (M-Pesa) is ubiquitous—ask your hotel to help set up an account for convenient payments.

Cultural Respect: Greet with 'Jambo' or 'Habari' in Swahili. Dress modestly when visiting local areas—avoid shorts and sleeveless tops. Always ask permission before photographing people. Bargaining is expected in markets but not in formal shops. Respect for elders is paramount in Kenyan culture.

Food Safety: Stick to busy restaurants and avoid street food initially. Bottled water is safest, though tap water in hotels is generally treated. Try nyama choma (grilled meat), ugali, and sukuma wiki at reputable establishments. Wash hands frequently and carry hand sanitizer for market visits.

When to Visit

Nairobi enjoys a pleasant highland climate year-round, sitting at 1,795 meters above sea level with temperatures averaging 20-25°C (68-77°F). The dry seasons offer optimal conditions: January-March sees warm, sunny days with minimal rainfall (25-50mm monthly), while June-October brings cooler, crisp weather perfect for wildlife viewing with virtually no rain. These peak periods command premium pricing, with accommodation costs 30-50% higher than off-season rates. The long rains (April-May) bring heavy downpours (150-200mm monthly) and lower tourist numbers, offering 25-40% savings on hotels and tours, though some roads become challenging. Short rains (November-December) feature brief afternoon showers with generally clear mornings, providing excellent value with 15-20% discounts. Key events include the Nairobi International Trade Fair (September), Blankets & Wine music festival (quarterly), and the Standard Chartered Marathon (October). Wildlife enthusiasts should visit June-October for optimal game viewing, while budget travelers benefit from April-May's dramatic landscapes and reduced crowds. Culture seekers will find December's festive atmosphere particularly vibrant, despite occasional showers. The city's equatorial location ensures consistent daylight hours year-round, making any season viable for urban exploration.