Nairobi

How many days: 3

Spend your first day exploring central cultural attractions such as the Nairobi National Museum and nearby public spaces. On the second, visit Nairobi National Park, ideally allowing a substantial part of the day for wildlife viewing.

Use the third day for the Karen area, conservation-related attractions or local markets. Three days provides a good introduction before continuing on safari or travelling elsewhere in Kenya. Add time if you want a slower pace or several wildlife activities.

What to do in Nairobi

Go on safari in Nairobi National Park

Explore this protected savannah landscape on the edge of the city, where wildlife can be seen against a distant urban skyline. A suitable vehicle and experienced guide make the visit easier.

Visit the Nairobi National Museum

Discover exhibitions covering Kenya's natural history, culture and heritage. It is an excellent introduction to the country beyond its wildlife.

Explore the Karen Blixen Museum

Visit the former home associated with the writer Karen Blixen and learn about its history and colonial context. The surrounding grounds offer a quieter setting.

Visit the Giraffe Centre

Learn about giraffe conservation and see these animals at a specialist education facility. Follow staff guidance and the rules governing visitor interaction.

Explore Karura Forest

Enjoy walking or cycling on designated paths through a protected urban forest. It is a welcome break from traffic and busy streets.

Visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

Learn about elephant rescue and conservation through an authorised visitor experience where available. Check the organisation's official information for access arrangements.

Discover Kenyan art and crafts

Visit established galleries or craft markets to see contemporary work, textiles and handmade goods. Buy directly from makers where possible.

Explore the city centre's architecture

See a mixture of civic buildings, commercial streets and landmarks reflecting Nairobi's development. Use local guidance for suitable walking routes.

Visit the Nairobi Railway Museum

Learn about the railway's role in the city's growth and Kenya's transport history. Check locally for visitor access and available exhibits.

Spend time in a local neighbourhood

Explore an appropriate district with cafés, shops and everyday activity rather than focusing entirely on tourist sites. Local guidance helps you choose areas suited to walking.

What to eat and drink

Try nyama choma

Enjoy Kenyan-style roasted meat, often served with vegetables, sauces and a starchy side. It is particularly suited to a shared meal.

Eat ugali with sukuma wiki

Try the staple maize-based accompaniment with cooked leafy greens. It is a simple introduction to everyday Kenyan cooking.

Sample Kenyan pilau

This fragrant spiced rice dish often includes meat and aromatic seasonings. It reflects the influence of coastal and wider regional food traditions.

Try chapati with stew

Enjoy soft flatbread alongside beans, vegetables or meat in a savoury sauce. It is filling and widely familiar across Kenya.

Enjoy Kenyan tea

Tea is commonly served strong, often with milk and sugar. It makes a pleasant pause between sightseeing stops.

Taste locally grown coffee

Kenya produces distinctive coffee, and Nairobi is a good place to try different brewing styles. Ask about the beans and their region of origin.

Getting around

Nairobi is extensive and road traffic can be very heavy. Reputable ride-hailing services, arranged drivers and registered taxis are generally the most practical choices for visitors. Confirm vehicle and driver details before entering, and allow generous travel time. Walking works within selected neighbourhoods and controlled attractions, but long cross-city walks are often impractical because of road conditions and safety considerations.

Matatus, the city's shared minibuses, form an important part of local transport but can be difficult for newcomers to navigate. Nairobi National Park and several conservation attractions are best reached using an arranged vehicle, sometimes with a guide. A self-drive car is possible, but unfamiliar traffic conditions make a driver appealing for a short visit.

Good to know

• Take sensible urban precautions, avoid displaying valuables and seek local advice about areas to avoid after dark.
• Nairobi sits at a relatively high elevation, giving it cooler evenings than many visitors expect.
• Check current Kenyan entry requirements and health guidance, including any vaccination documentation relevant to your journey.
• Traffic delays can be substantial, so allow extra time for airport transfers and scheduled excursions.
• Never approach or feed wildlife, including animals encountered around protected areas.
• Carry some Kenyan shillings for small purchases, although mobile payments are widely used.