Nairobi Travel Guide: Best Attractions, Food, and Safety Tips

Welcome to Nairobi, Kenya's vibrant capital city! Known as the "Green City in the Sun," Nairobi offers an incredible blend of urban sophistication, rich culture, and proximity to some of Africa's most spectacular wildlife. Whether you're here for business, safari adventures, or cultural exploration, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your visit to this dynamic East African metropolis.

Top Attractions in Nairobi

Wildlife and Nature

Nairobi National Park Just 7 kilometers from the city center, this unique park is the only national park in the world located within a capital city. Home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, rhinoceros, and over 400 bird species, it offers an authentic safari experience without leaving the city. The park provides stunning views of Nairobi's skyline as a backdrop to your wildlife viewing.

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust This renowned elephant orphanage rescues and rehabilitates orphaned elephants and rhinos. Visit during the daily feeding sessions (11 AM - 12 PM) to watch baby elephants being bottle-fed and playing in the mud. You can even adopt an elephant to support conservation efforts.

Giraffe Centre Get up close and personal with endangered Rothschild giraffes at this conservation center. The raised platform allows you to feed these gentle giants and learn about giraffe conservation. It's particularly magical during the golden hour before sunset.

Karura Forest This 1,041-hectare urban forest offers hiking trails, waterfalls, caves, and bamboo forests. It's perfect for jogging, cycling, or simply escaping the city's hustle. The forest features several walking trails of varying difficulty levels and beautiful picnic spots.

Cultural and Historical Sites

Karen Blixen Museum Step into the world of "Out of Africa" at the former home of Danish author Karen Blixen. The colonial farmhouse has been preserved as it was during her time in Kenya (1914-1931), complete with original furniture and personal belongings.

Nairobi National Museum Discover Kenya's rich heritage through exhibits on natural history, culture, and contemporary art. Don't miss the impressive collection of fossils, including early human remains, and the beautiful botanical gardens surrounding the museum.

Bomas of Kenya Experience traditional Kenyan culture through music, dance, and storytelling performances. The homesteads (bomas) represent different ethnic communities, offering insight into Kenya's diverse cultural heritage.

Uhuru Gardens Memorial Park This significant historical site commemorates Kenya's struggle for independence. The park features monuments, sculptures, and peaceful gardens, making it both an educational and relaxing destination.

Markets and Shopping

Maasai Market This rotating market (different locations on different days) is perfect for authentic Kenyan crafts, jewelry, fabrics, and souvenirs. Practice your bargaining skills while supporting local artisans. Popular locations include Westlands on Fridays and High Court on Fridays.

City Market Located in the heart of downtown Nairobi, this covered market offers fresh produce, spices, flowers, and crafts. It's an authentic local experience where you can practice Swahili and sample exotic fruits.

Food Scene: A Culinary Journey

Traditional Kenyan Cuisine

Nyama Choma Kenya's beloved grilled meat dish, typically goat, beef, or chicken, seasoned with local spices and grilled over open flames. Best enjoyed with ugali (cornmeal staple), sukuma wiki (collard greens), and a cold Tusker beer.

Ugali This cornmeal-based staple is eaten with almost every meal. It's prepared by cooking cornmeal with water until it reaches a dough-like consistency. Use your hands to scoop up stews and vegetables.

Githeri A nutritious mix of boiled corn and beans, often enhanced with vegetables and spices. This traditional dish represents the agricultural heritage of the Kikuyu people.

Mandazi These sweet, deep-fried doughnuts are perfect with tea or coffee. Often flavored with coconut milk and cardamom, they're a popular breakfast or snack option.

Must-Try Restaurants

Carnivore Restaurant Famous for its all-you-can-eat meat buffet featuring game meats like crocodile, ostrich, and zebra alongside traditional options. The restaurant's "Beast of a Feast" is a Nairobi institution.

Talisman Restaurant Located in Karen, this upscale restaurant offers international cuisine with an African twist, served in a beautiful garden setting. Their seafood and steaks are particularly renowned.

Mama Oliech Restaurant A local institution serving authentic Luo cuisine, particularly famous for fish dishes. The tilapia and ugali combination is a must-try for authentic Kenyan flavors.

Java House Kenya's popular coffee chain offers excellent coffee, pastries, and light meals. With multiple locations throughout the city, it's perfect for a quick bite or business meetings.

Street Food Adventures

Mutura Kenya's version of blood sausage, grilled and served with kachumbari (tomato and onion salad). Find it at local butcheries and street-side grills.

Rolex Despite the name, this isn't a watch but a popular Ugandan street food that's gained popularity in Nairobi - an omelet wrapped in chapati with vegetables.

Fresh Fruit Vendors Try tropical fruits like passion fruit, mangoes, pineapples, and the unique baobab fruit from street vendors throughout the city.

Safety Tips for Nairobi

General Safety Guidelines

Stay Alert and Aware Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like markets and bus stations. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, electronics, or large amounts of cash.

Transportation Safety Use reputable taxi services like Uber, Bolt, or Little Cab rather than street taxis. If using matatus (shared minibuses), choose newer vehicles and avoid overcrowded ones. For airport transfers, arrange pickups through your hotel or use official airport taxis.

Area Awareness Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially after dark. Areas like Westlands, Karen, and the Central Business District are generally safer during the day. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in downtown areas.

Neighborhoods to Exercise Caution

Eastleigh While culturally rich, this area requires extra vigilance due to higher crime rates. If visiting, go during daylight hours and preferably with a local guide.

Downtown After Dark The Central Business District becomes less safe after business hours. If you must be downtown in the evening, use reliable transportation and stay in groups.

Kibera Africa's largest urban slum offers cultural tours, but only visit with reputable tour operators for your safety and to ensure tourism benefits the community.

Health and Medical Safety

Altitude Adjustment Nairobi sits at 1,795 meters above sea level. Stay hydrated and take it easy for the first few days if you're coming from sea level.

Water and Food Safety Drink bottled or properly filtered water. Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach. Most upscale restaurants maintain high hygiene standards.

Medical Facilities Nairobi has excellent private hospitals like Nairobi Hospital, Aga Khan Hospital, and MP Shah Hospital. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance.

Money and Scams

Currency Exchange Use official forex bureaus or banks for currency exchange. The Kenyan Shilling (KES) is the local currency. Most establishments accept mobile money (M-Pesa), credit cards, and cash.

Common Scams Be wary of fake police officers asking for bribes, overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help, and "charity" scams. Always ask for official identification and receipts for any payments.

Getting Around Nairobi

Ride-Hailing Apps Uber, Bolt, and Little Cab are widely available and offer the safest transport option for visitors. They provide upfront pricing and driver tracking.

Matatus These colorful shared minibuses are an authentic local experience but can be crowded and chaotic. They're inexpensive but may not be comfortable for visitors with luggage.

Boda Bodas Motorcycle taxis are quick for short distances but can be risky due to traffic and driving standards. Only use them for short trips and always wear the provided helmet.

Best Time to Visit

Nairobi enjoys a pleasant climate year-round due to its elevation. The best times to visit are during the dry seasons: January to March and July to October. These periods offer clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and optimal conditions for wildlife viewing.

Final Tips for Your Nairobi Adventure

Pack layers as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Bring a light jacket for evenings and early mornings. Don't forget sunscreen and a hat for outdoor activities.

Learn basic Swahili greetings - locals appreciate the effort and it enhances your cultural experience. "Jambo" (hello), "Asante" (thank you), and "Karibu" (welcome) will go a long way.

Respect local customs and dress codes, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Modest clothing is always appropriate.

Consider hiring a local guide for cultural sites and markets - they provide valuable insights and help ensure fair pricing.

Nairobi offers an incredible introduction to East Africa, combining urban sophistication with cultural richness and unparalleled wildlife access. With proper preparation and awareness, your visit to Kenya's capital will be both safe and unforgettable. Karibu Nairobi - welcome to this remarkable city where adventure begins at your doorstep!