11 Best Things to Do in Nairobi

Don’t know what to do in Nairobi? Look no further! This bustling city is one of Africa’s megacities, boasting a population of over 3,500,000 inhabitants and a metropolitan area swelling to 7 million. It holds significant political and economic influence, housing the headquarters of numerous multinational corporations and serving as one of the three main United Nations (UN) headquarters.

The city is characterized by its energetic, modern, and multicultural ambience, offering a fascinating yet contrasting tapestry of experiences. From the depths of poverty in the “slums” to the opulence of cutting-edge shopping centers, the city showcases both ends of the spectrum within a mere 20-minute journey. This article provides you with a list of the 11 best things to do in Nairobi to make the most of your visit to this vibrant metropolis.

1. Gastronomy: One of the Interesting Things to Do in Nairobi

Gastronomy is one of the highlights of Nairobi, with its diverse array of world foods. One of the best experiences in the city is dining at its numerous ethnic restaurants, where you can immerse yourself in a variety of cuisines from around the globe.

Given its status as a melting pot of cultures and races, Nairobi boasts restaurants catering to all tastes. I highly recommend exploring the culinary scene by dining at an Ethiopian restaurant like “Habesha Restaurant” for injera with various types of wat, trying crocodile meat at “Fogo Gaucho,” or indulging in the famous offerings of “Carnivore Restaurant.” Alternatively, you can savor a delicious samaki with ugali at the Kenyan establishment “Mama Oliech’s Restaurant.”

For vegetarians, the Indian restaurants in Parklands or Westlands neighborhoods offer delightful and high-quality options, given the city’s sizable Indian community. And if you’re seeking authentic Kenyan dishes, “Hot Dishes” in Town is a great choice.

2. Safari in Nairobi National Park.

This National Park is just a 20-minute drive from the center of Nairobi and can be easily explored in a single morning. This makes it one of the best things to do in Nairobi if you have limited time but still want to experience a safari. The portion of the park facing the city is fenced to ensure Nairobi’s protection from wildlife. Here, you can observe black rhinoceroses, lions, hippos, hyenas, buffaloes, giraffes, antelopes, and over 400 registered bird species. Additionally, the park provides picnic areas, allowing visitors to bring their own food for a relaxing outdoor meal.

• Opening Hours: 6 am to 7 pm
• Admission: $43
• Recommended duration: 6h

3. Giraffe Center

The Giraffe Center is situated approximately 5 kilometers from the heart of Nairobi. Its primary mission is the conservation of the Rothschild giraffe, one of Kenya’s three subspecies, alongside the reticulated and Masai giraffes.

Founded by Jock Leslie-Melville, the Kenyan grandson of a Scottish Earl, and his wife Betty, the Giraffe Center originated from their initiative to establish a captive giraffe breeding program. This endeavor began at their residence, which now serves as the headquarters of the center.

At this Nairobi attraction, you can observe, feed, and even interact closely with these magnificent animals, providing a unique and memorable experience.

• Opening Hours: 9 am to 5 pm
• Admission: €12
• Recommended duration: 1.5h

4. David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

The David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is a project dedicated to rescuing young elephants left orphaned after their mothers fall victim to poaching. They are nurtured with love and care, each given a name and assigned a dedicated caretaker who even sleeps with them to replicate the intimate bond between mother and calf. Once they are deemed ready, they are reintegrated into the wild herds of Tsavo National Park.

Daphne Sheldrick established “The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust” in 1977 in honor of her late husband, David Sheldrick, a renowned conservationist. David played a crucial role in establishing Tsavo Reserve, Kenya’s largest national park. Alongside his wife, they advocated tirelessly for the protection and welfare of wildlife, particularly elephants and rhinos. Therefore, this becomes one of the points of interest in Nairobi you can’t miss if you’re a nature lover.

• Opening Hours: 11 am to 12 pm
• Admission: €5
• Recommended duration: 1h

5. Visit the Nairobi National Museum: One of the Top Attractions in Nairobi

The recently renovated Nairobi National Museum offers a rich exploration of Kenya’s history and culture. Construction of the museum commenced in 1929 after the government allocated land for its establishment, and it was officially inaugurated on September 22, 1930.

Visitors can visit a wide array of exhibits, including a display of birds, a detailed exploration of Kenya’s history from its earliest days as a nation, and an extensive collection of taxidermy animals. Additionally, the museum features the “Snake Park,” a sprawling terrarium showcasing various snake species native to the African continent.

• Opening Hours: 8.30 am to 5.30 pm
• Admission: €12 museum – €15 museum+terrarium
• Recommended duration: 1h

6. Nairobi nightlife

If you’re a party enthusiast, enjoying the city nightlife is one of the best things to do in Nairobi. Kenyans, known for their love of music and vibrant energy, offer an array of nightlife options to suit every taste. From the latest commercial hits to traditional African tunes, you’ll find a diverse range of music and atmospheres to enjoy.

Most of the city’s renowned clubs are concentrated in the Westlands district. Among the must-visit venues are “Brew Bristo,” “The Alchemist Bar,” and “Gipsy.” On Thursdays, don’t miss out on the lively atmosphere at “J’s Fresh Bar & Kitchen,” a hotspot frequented by expatriates. Additionally, Sundays at “Jiweke Tavern” promise a memorable experience. Other popular clubs in Nairobi include “Quivers Lounge & Grill,” “B-Club,” “Cassavera Lounge,” “1824 Whiskey Lounge” and many more.

While immersing yourself in Nairobi’s nightlife scene, be sure to indulge in the local Kenyan beer, “Tuskers,” available in various delightful varieties.

7. Karen Blixen House: One of the Best Places to Visit in Nairobi

I had a farm in Africa at the foot of the Ngong hills…” begins the novel that inspired the unforgettable film of the same name, which went on to win seven Oscars.

Karen Blixen’s house stands as one of Kenya’s most visited destinations among travelers. Converted into a national museum, the interior of the house preserves Karen’s original furniture and some of her personal belongings, including several of her paintings—a beloved hobby of hers—and her typewriter. Visitors are not permitted to photograph the typewriter to ensure its preservation in its original state.

Whether you’ve seen the movie, read the book, or simply heard the soundtrack, a visit to this museum offers a fascinating experience. Guided tours provide detailed insights into Karen Blixen’s life and legacy.

• Opening Hours: 8.30 am to 6.00 pm
• Admission: $13
• Recommended duration: less than 1h

8. Masai Market

The Masai Market stands out as Nairobi’s most renowned market, drawing visitors with its vibrant outdoor setting. Operating every day except Monday, the market changes location daily.

Featuring numerous small stalls, the market offers a diverse array of goods, including intricately carved wooden sculptures, traditional Maasai beads, musical instruments, clothing, and much more. It’s the perfect destination for purchasing souvenirs, and remember, bargaining is customary! With some negotiation, you can often secure items for half their initial asking price. 

I leave the locations below, the hours are from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Monday – Normally there is no market
• Tuesday – Prestige Plaza on Ngong Road
• Wednesday – Capital Center on Mombasa Road
• Thursday – The Junction Mall on Ngong Road
• Friday – The Village Market on Limuru Road
• Saturday – City center parking lot in front of Prestige Plaza on Ngong Road
• Sunday – Yaya Center

9. A Walk Through Town: Popular Activity to Do in Nairobi

Nairobi Town serves as the financial hub of this African country, housing the core administrative institutions such as the Kenyan Parliament and Nairobi City Hall. The city also boasts local restaurants, diverse shops, travel agencies, bustling cafes, and a constant flow of vehicles.

This vibrant district also hosts currency exchange centers offering competitive rates, safari, and car rental offices, as well as outlets for obtaining Kenyan SIM cards. For the breathtaking sights of Nairobi, I highly recommend ascending to the rooftop of the Kenyatta International Conference Center (KICC), where you can enjoy aerial views of the city and take in its panoramic skyline (€5 admission fee). This, In Fact, is the tallest building in Nairobi.

10. Visit the Kibera slum

Kibera, the second-largest slum in Africa after Soweto (South Africa), is home to over a million people. Its notoriety extends beyond borders, characterized by extreme poverty, makeshift tin shacks, widespread lack of electricity, steep and narrow alleyways, pervasive piles of garbage, and alarmingly high unemployment rates. Interestingly, it even features in the Oscar-winning 2005 film “The Constant Gardener.”

 Despite its challenges, Kibera holds a unique place in Nairobi’s cultural landscape. For visitors interested in gaining insight into the realities of urban life in Kenya, a guided tour of Kibera is a must and one of the unique things to do in Nairobi.

11. Visit a shopping center

Nairobi is experiencing a boom in the construction of shopping centers, with new developments emerging at a rapid pace in recent years. Therefore, one of the best places to visit in Nairobi is the array of modern shopping destinations that cater to various tastes and needs.

A popular shopping center is the “Two Rivers Shopping Mall” which opened its doors in 2017 and stands as one of the largest malls in Africa. It boasts amenities and facilities comparable to those found in Europe or America. Other renowned shopping destinations in Nairobi are the Village Market, The Junction, Yaya Center, and The Hub, each offering a unique shopping and entertainment experience.

Also Read: Best Beaches in Kenya

Best Things to Do in Nairobi

Nairobi offers a myriad of must-visit attractions and experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests. I recommend spending at least three days to fully enjoy all the fun activities and things to do in Nairobi. However, if time is limited, there are still several key attractions that should not be missed. I suggest visiting Nairobi National Park, Nairobi National Museum, the Giraffe Center, and David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. I promise that a visit to these Nairobi attractions will leave a lasting impression.