Nairobi is the political, financial, and media capital of Kenya, home to 4.8 million people and one of Africa's largest and fastest-growing cities. Perched at 1,795 metres above sea level, it blends a vibrant urban energy with extraordinary natural surroundings, including a national park on its doorstep. Known as the safari capital of Africa, Nairobi offers a unique mix of wildlife, culture, history, and modern city life.

Best time to visit Nairobi

decemberjanuaryfebruarymarch

The sunniest and warmest period of the year, with average daytime temperatures in the mid-twenties Celsius, making it ideal for sightseeing and safaris.

What to see in Nairobi

01park

Nairobi National Park

A unique wildlife reserve just outside the city, home to zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, giraffe, lion, cheetah, hippo, and over 400 bird species. Also features the Nairobi Safari Walk and Animal Orphanage.

Paid entryAbout 240 minnature & outdoorscultureadventure

02other

Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

A renowned sanctuary that rescues and rehabilitates orphaned elephants from across Kenya until they can survive in the wild. Daily visiting hours at 11:00 allow guests to watch feedings up close.

Paid entryAbout 90 minnature & outdoorsculture

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Giraffe Centre

A conservation centre breeding the endangered Rothschild giraffe, where visitors can hand-feed and touch the giraffes. Also home to warthogs and leopard tortoises, with a free nature trail nearby.

Paid entryAbout 90 minnature & outdoorsculture

04museum

Nairobi National Museum

Founded in 1910, this museum explores Nairobi's history, culture, and natural heritage, offering a comprehensive introduction to Kenya for visitors.

Paid entryAbout 120 minculturehistory

05museum

Karen Blixen Museum

The former home of Danish author Karen Blixen, inspiration for the book and film 'Out of Africa'. Guided tours of the house and self-guided walks through the gardens are available.

Paid entryAbout 90 minculturehistory

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Things to do in Nairobi

Kereita Forest Zip Line

sportPaid entryAbout 180 min

East Africa's longest zip line tour, offering over 2.4 km of flight across the lush Kereita Forest near Kiambu along the Nairobi-Nakuru highway.

Tana River White Water Rafting

sportPaid entryAbout 300 min

White water rafting through cataracts on the Tana River, about an hour's drive from Nairobi, leading to the 14 Falls. Includes a full BBQ lunch.

Kitangela Glass

workshopPaid entryAbout 90 min

An imaginative studio where beautiful art objects are crafted from recycled glass and displayed in a lovely garden. Guided presentations run every 30 minutes.

14 Falls at Thika

otherPaid entryAbout 120 min

A dramatic waterfall 55 km from Nairobi where 14 small streams merge at the foot of the Kilima Mbogo Hills. Located near pineapple plantations and the historic Blue Post Hotel.

Where to go near Nairobi

Mombasa

Train 5h30Bus 8h

Kenya's coastal city and historic port, offering beaches, Swahili culture, and the old town. Accessible by the fast SGR Madaraka Express train.

Arusha

Bus 5h30

Gateway city to Tanzania's northern safari circuit, including Serengeti and Kilimanjaro, easily reached by bus from Nairobi.

Naivasha

Bus 1h30

A scenic lake town in the Rift Valley, popular for boat rides, hippo spotting, and Hell's Gate National Park.

Nanyuki

Train 6hBus 3h

A town at the foot of Mount Kenya, serving as a base for trekking and wildlife experiences in the Mount Kenya ecosystem.

Kampala

Bus 12h

The vibrant capital of Uganda, reachable by overnight bus from Nairobi, offering rich culture, history, and access to gorilla trekking.

Kisumu

Train 12h

Kenya's third-largest city on the shores of Lake Victoria, known for its fishing culture, wildlife, and access to western Kenya.

Photos: ChillTrip