Trip101

The city center is about a 30-minute drive from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport if you are using the normal route, which runs under the expressway and has a lot of traffic. However, if you use the expressway, the drive takes about 10 to 15 minutes. The best way to get to the city center is via the expressway, even though it costs a bit more (about 5 USD or 500 KES) because it is faster and more convenient, and takes about 10 minutes.

Some nearby options are Nakuru and Naivasha, which are about two to three hours’ drive away; the best option is to hire a taxi, as Uber might not go all the way there. Alternatively, you can contact a local operator to get a vehicle with a guide for the trip. Travelers are advised to not just go into the city and ask someone to take them somewhere as it might not be safe. Instead, they should ask their hotel lobby or a trusted agency to arrange transportation.

The cheapest way for tourists to get around within the city is to use Uber, as the city does not have subways or trains. Tourists can also take a taxi from their hotel.

No, there is no travel pass or card available for tourists. The only option for payment is cash.

Travelers can rent a car in the city. There are a couple of car rental agencies in Nairobi where tourists can rent a car, such as Bamm Tours, Ride Rentals, Avis, and Vismart. Travelers need to have an international driver’s license to rent a car and must observe the traffic regulations and road rules. Renting a car can be a very safe option, but travelers are warned about certain areas, particularly closer to Somalia and Ethiopia, which may not be safe due to conflicts.

Local ride-hailing apps include Bolt. Uber is also available in Nairobi.

Travelers should try nyamachoma, which is a famous Kenyan food, especially popular with the Masai people. It’s a nicely roasted goat, often accompanied by Ugari, which is similar to polenta (Italian dish of boiled cornmeal), and it pairs well with beer. Another local snack to try is bajias, which are thinly sliced potatoes roasted like fries but round in shape, usually fried with onions and sprinkled with spices. Mokimo is a traditional Kikuyu (Bantu ethnic group native to East Africa) dish made mainly of mashed potatoes and is highly recommended. Samosas (fried South Asian pastry with a savoury filling of vegetables or meat, spiced potatoes, onions, peas), chips (fries), and various foods associated with different tribes in Kenya are also worth trying.

One of the best and most popular restaurants in Nairobi for trying local food is Carnivore Restaurant. It offers a great variety of grilled meats, including game meat like ostrich. Another favorite is Talisman, located in Karen, known for its nice ambiance and garden, making it suitable for big groups, couples, and solo travelers.

To experience a variety of traditional foods from different Kenyan tribes, such as Kalenjin, Kikuyu, and Masai dishes, Bomas of Kenya is an excellent place to visit. They offer a wide range of traditional foods, providing a comprehensive taste of Kenya’s diverse culinary heritage.

There are many convenience stores and supermarkets in Nairobi where you can buy snacks and essentials. Niva Supermarkets and Quickmart Supermarkets are prominent examples. Additionally, the city has many malls such as Galleria Mall, Design Mall, and WestGate Mall, all of which have stores where you can purchase a variety of items.

Several food delivery apps are available in Nairobi. Uber Eats, Bolt, Pizza Inc., and Glovo are some of the apps that deliver food.

Yes, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free food options are easily available in Nairobi. Most restaurants provide a menu with a selection of vegetarian dishes, catering to diverse dietary preferences.

No, the tap water in Nairobi is not safe for drinking. Tourists should always stick to bottled water.

Many restaurants in Nairobi are kid-friendly, though there are fewer pet-friendly options. Some pet-friendly restaurants include Wasp and Sprout, Chemichemi, and About Thyme.

Apart from Carnivore Restaurant, Talisman, and Bomas of Kenya, Ole Sereni is also a favorite. Ole Sereni, bordering Nairobi National Park, offers a unique dining experience with a rooftop lounge that provides a wide view of the park. While dining, you can enjoy the sight of giraffes, gazelles, and other wildlife, making it an exceptional place to visit.

Yes, travelers should make reservations in advance for popular and high-end restaurants such as Carnivore and Ole Sereni. These places can get fully booked, so reserving a table ensures that you have a spot and can enjoy your dining experience without any hassle.

Travelers generally can bring their medications into Kenya, especially if they have a prescription or advisory from a doctor. Some medications may require a prescription to be allowed into the country, but with the necessary documentation, it usually isn’t a problem. However, bringing a drone into the country is more challenging. You need to obtain a permit to fly a drone in Kenya. Without this permit, the drone may be confiscated upon entry and only returned when you leave. For an updated list of prohibited and restricted goods, refer to this link: https://www.kra.go.ke/images/publications/Prohibited%20and%20Restricted%20Goods%20Under%20the%20Second%20and%20Third%20Schedule%20of%20the%20Eac%20Customs%20Management%20Act,%202004.pdf

One of the past issues involved fake websites offering visas to Kenya, which led travelers to pay for illegitimate visas. Currently, tourists do not need a visa but an electronic travel permit obtained from the official website by filling out the necessary data. This has reduced the incidence of visa-related scams, but travelers should still be cautious about ensuring they use legitimate sites.

Additionally, while the city is generally safe, tourists should be cautious with personal items, especially within the city. Avoid long conversations with strangers on the street, keep personal items secure, and avoid taking photos of everything as there are phone snatchers around. Stay within safe areas and avoid deserted places.

Nairobi is generally safe for tourists, but there are some areas where travelers should be cautious. There are no significant violent threats, but petty theft, such as phone snatching, can occur in certain streets. It’s advisable to keep personal items secure, avoid engaging in long conversations with strangers, and stay within areas considered safe.

For solo or female travelers, the same precautions apply: stay in safe areas, avoid deserted places, and be mindful of your surroundings. Using reputable transportation options like Uber or taxis is recommended for safety.

For most attractions in Nairobi, travelers do not need to make reservations in advance. You can usually pay at the gate for places like Giraffe Center, Nairobi National Park, and National Museum of Kenya. However, Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (Elephant Orphanage) does require reservations.

While there isn’t a strict dress code for most attractions in Nairobi, when visiting places like Masai Mara or Amboseli for safaris, it’s advisable to dress in formal attire. Opt for khaki, brown, or gray outfits to blend into the environment and improve the safari experience. However, for other popular attractions like the Giraffe Center or the National Museum of Kenya, casual and comfortable clothing is generally acceptable.

In Nairobi, popular attractions include the Giraffe Center, the National Museum of Kenya, the current Ligla Museum, and Nairobi National Park, one of the city’s largest attractions. Beyond Nairobi, Lake Nakuru National Park and Lake Naivasha offer scenic beauty and wildlife. Healthgate National Park, particularly in Lake Naivasha, is known for cycling safaris, a favorite activity among visitors.

Karura Forest, located just minutes from the city center, offers tranquility and opportunities for picnics and cycling away from the crowds. Mamba Village is a lesser-known spot popular for its crocodile and reptile encounters, as well as boat rides. Ololuwan HHT, situated in the suburb of Karan, provides a serene setting for nature walks and picnics. Another hidden gem is Kazuri Beats, a factory producing unique beats worth exploring.

In the city, families can enjoy the Giraffe Center, a friendly attraction suitable for kids. Nairobi National Park offers game drives and opportunities to see elephants, although walking around the city with young children may pose challenges. Alternatively, families can explore art galleries, shopping malls, and restaurants for a more relaxed outing.

Similar to families with young kids, senior citizens can also enjoy attractions such as the Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, and Nairobi National Park. The Nairobi National Museum offers a cultural experience that may interest seniors. For outdoor activities, day tours to Lake Nakuru National Park or Lake Naivasha, including boat rides, provide a leisurely and refreshing experience suitable for the elderly. Additionally, a one-hour boat ride for sightseeing and birdwatching can be particularly enjoyable and refreshing for seniors.

For adventure seekers, there are plenty of thrilling activities just a short drive away from Nairobi. Head to Sagana for exciting rafting experiences, camping, and water sports. You can also try adrenaline-pumping activities like bungee jumping and zip-lining. Additionally, there are options for paintballing in forest areas, offering an exhilarating and competitive experience. These activities make for a memorable adventure outside the city.

For purchasing souvenirs or local goods, Maasai Market and Nairobi City Market are excellent options. The Maasai Market is known for its wide variety of souvenirs, crafts, and traditional items, while the Nairobi City Market offers a diverse selection including birds, African clothes, and shukas (Maasai blankets). Additionally, Galleria Mall and Village Market are great choices for tourists seeking a mix of shopping and souvenir hunting.

Just outside Blixton museum, there’s a captivating art gallery where you can acquire exquisite paintings featuring animals and landscapes. Bomas of Kenya also serves as an exceptional cultural exhibit center. If you’re keen on immersing yourself in Kenyan culture, exploring different styles, dances, and musical traditions of various Kenyan tribes, Bomas of Kenya is unparalleled. It showcases a rich tapestry of traditions, offering a glimpse into the majority of Kenya’s diverse cultural heritage.

These items include animal wood carvings and crafts made from crops. They also consist of beads, which are often braided into beautiful designs. These beads are used to create various accessories such as necklaces, bangles, and earrings. Most of these crafts are crafted by women from tribes of the Maasai culture, showcasing their unique skills and traditions. This practice serves as a means of promoting local communities. Even in places like Maasai Mara, you’ll find Maasai women selling these handmade items at the park entrance gates. Additionally, there are wood carvings depicting animals, as well as paintings, particularly animal paintings. The range of items available includes bracelets, necklaces, and other accessories. Furthermore, you’ll find bags with different African designs and clothing items, such as stylish jackets featuring African prints.

Yes, bargaining is common in local markets such as the Maasai Market and Village Market. When bargaining, it’s important to start with a lower price than the asking price and negotiate from there. Having a local guide or driver to assist in bargaining can be helpful for tourists.

In addition to the markets mentioned earlier, Sarit Centre is another option for shopping, offering a variety of stores and stalls dedicated to souvenirs and local goods. This mall, along with Galleria Mall, Village Market, and Nairobi City Market, provides ample opportunities for tourists to find unique souvenirs and shop for local goods.

January, February, and March are optimal months due to minimal rainfall, allowing for daytime activities in the sun. April, May, and June are characterized by rainy weather, with drizzles or cold temperatures prevalent throughout the day. From July to October, the weather is sunny and ideal for outdoor activities. November experiences some showers, while December is generally sunny. However, weather unpredictability can lead to occasional rainy days even in sunny periods.

Tourists may want to avoid visiting during April, May, and June due to the rainy weather prevalent during these months. Those who prefer dry weather might find these months less favorable for outdoor activities.

The duration of stay in Nairobi depends on individual preferences and interests. Visitors can explore the city’s attractions within a week, allocating time for activities both within Nairobi and in nearby destinations. Some tourists choose to extend their stay to two weeks or even a month to experience the nightlife and attend exhibitions.

Travelers should pack essential items such as sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and insect repellent due to the sunny weather and insect activity, especially in parks. Additionally, comfortable clothing suitable for both warm and cool temperatures is recommended.

Westlands, Parklands, and Karen are vibrant neighborhoods known for their nightlife and entertainment options. You’ll find plenty of clubs and venues to enjoy with friends.

Westlands and Karen are great areas for shopping. You’ll find boutique stores, markets, and malls offering a variety of goods. Additionally, the city center has shopping options, although traffic can be challenging.

For stunning views of the city, Apar Hill and Westlands are excellent choices. Karen offers a serene environment with green spaces. My favorite accommodation with a scenic view is Ole Sereni Hotel. It provides breathtaking views of the city and is conveniently located near the airport. The rooftop pool and music make it a perfect place to unwind.

The area around Carnivore Restaurant, ibis Styles in Westlands, and the vicinity around Tamarind Tree Hotel offer a plethora of dining options, from restaurants to cafes. You’ll find diverse cuisines and vibrant culinary scenes in these neighborhoods.

Karen area is ideal because it’s a bit quieter. There’s also a place called Rongai, which offers accommodations where you can have your own space and time. For example, Masai Lodge is situated closer to Rongai, providing a tranquil environment away from the hustle and bustle. This is perfect for solo travelers, families, and couples who prefer a peaceful atmosphere.

The best budget accommodations are typically found within the city center. By “budget,” I mean the lowest-priced options. However, the concept of budget can vary depending on individual perspectives. Generally, hotels within the city center tend to be more affordable compared to those in the suburbs or luxury areas. So, if you’re looking for budget-friendly options, consider staying in hotels within the city center.

My favorite accommodation in the city is Ole Sereni Hotel. I appreciate its stunning views of the city and its proximity to the airport, making it convenient for travelers. The hotel’s rooftop pool and music add to its charm, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration or safari adventures.