Ultimate Nairobi Guide: Top 5 Must-Visit Attractions in Kenya’s Capital City.
Nairobi, Kenya's bustling capital, is often regarded as the quintessential gateway to the country's vast savannahs and iconic wildlife. Yet, for those spending a brief 24 hours in this cosmopolitan hub before delving into their safari adventure, the city offers a rich tapestry of experiences that beautifully melds modern urban life with deep-rooted African traditions. From wildlife encounters at the edge of the city to arts and crafts markets echoing the rhythm of Maasai culture, Nairobi promises a tantalising glimpse into Kenya's diverse heritage. Dive into our curated list of the top 5 must-visit attractions, ensuring that even a short stay becomes a memorable part of your Kenyan journey.
Wildlife viewing in Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park
Just a stone's throw from the bustling heart of Kenya's capital lies Nairobi National Park, a unique wildlife reserve where the city skyline merges with the untamed African savannah. Covering 117 square kilometres, a drive through the park can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on how much of the area you want to explore. Visitors can expect to encounter a rich array of wildlife, from graceful giraffes and bounding antelopes to prowling lions and rhinos, all roaming freely with the view of skyscrapers in the distance. The park offers designated picnic spots, such as the Impala and Kingfisher picnic sites, where guests can disembark, enjoy a meal amidst nature, and even stretch their legs along short walking trails.
Best time to visit: Early morning (6:30 AM - 9:30AM) to spot the wildlife when they are most active.
Entrance Fees: rates can change but at last check adults are $43 per person and children are $22
Where to stay: Emakoko Lodge or Nairobi Tented Camp
Giraffe Centre
Located just a short drive from the heart of Nairobi, the Giraffe Centre offers an unparalleled opportunity to get up close and personal with the world's tallest mammals. Established primarily as a conservation center for the endangered Rothschild giraffe, the facility has evolved into a must-visit attraction for anyone passing through Kenya's capital. Here, visitors can feed and even share a kiss with these gentle giants, as they stand on a raised platform, bringing them eye-to-eye with the giraffes. Apart from the interactive feeding sessions, the center offers a comprehensive information hall where guests can learn about giraffe conservation efforts and the various species that exist across Africa. Stroll along nature trails in the adjacent Giraffe Manor’s small forest, and if you're lucky, you might spot some resident warthogs or the elusive dik-dik. An experience at the Giraffe Centre not only provides cherished memories but also supports a noble cause of wildlife conservation.
Best time to visit: Late morning around 10:00AM - 12:00PM
Entrance Fees: Kenyan Shillings KES 1500 / USD $10.50 per adult and KES 750 / USD $5.50 per child
For more details, check out our blog Neck & Neck with Nature: Nairobi’s Giraffe Centre
Karen Blixen Museum
Nestled in the leafy suburbs of Karen in Nairobi, the Karen Blixen Museum offers visitors a rich and immersive trip back in time. Once the home of the famed Danish author Karen Blixen, best known for her autobiographical novel "Out of Africa," this preserved house now serves as a testament to her profound love for Kenya and her life among its people during the early 20th century. The museum, with its beautifully preserved rooms and personal belongings, captures the essence of Blixen's years in Africa and the inspiration behind her iconic writings. As you wander through the house and gardens, you can almost hear whispers of bygone tales of love, passion, and connection to the land. The Karen Blixen Museum isn't just about literature; it's about a deep and enduring bond between an author and the enchanting Kenyan landscape she called home. Whether a literary enthusiast or a history buff, this museum offers a serene and introspective experience in the heart of Nairobi.
Best time to visit: Early afternoon, perfect post lunch
Entrance Fees: KSH 1200 / USD $8.50 per adult and KSH 600 / USD $4.20 per child
Kazuri Beads Womens Co-Op
Situated in the verdant suburbs of Karen, the Kazuri Beads Women's Co-op stands as a beacon of empowerment, artistry, and sustainable enterprise. Kazuri, meaning 'small and beautiful' in Swahili, captures the essence of the handcrafted ceramic beads and pottery made by the talented local women artisans. Established initially to uplift single mothers, the co-op now employs hundreds, offering them not just livelihoods, but also a platform to showcase their heritage and creativity to the world. Visitors are warmly invited to take guided tours, where they can witness the intricate bead-making process, from molding and painting to stringing. The showroom and sales outlet is a burst of colors, with beadwork ranging from necklaces and earrings to pottery, making for perfect, meaningful souvenirs. The workshop is open for tours from Monday to Saturday, 8:30 am to 6:00 pm. As of my last update in September 2021, the entrance fee was approximately KES 400 for non-residents, but it's always advisable to check directly with Kazuri Beads for the most recent timings and prices.
Best time to visit: The workshop is open for tours from Monday-Saturday, 8:30am - 6pm
Entrance Fee: Free, its highly recommended to visit the shop afterwards for some shopping.
Maasai Market
Step into the vibrant world of Nairobi's Maasai Market, and you're instantly enveloped in a kaleidoscope of colors, patterns, and the infectious energy of local artisans. This movable feast of handicrafts, which rotates its location within the city depending on the day, showcases the rich culture and unparalleled craftsmanship of the Maasai community and other Kenyan tribes. From intricately beaded jewelry, vibrant kitenge fabric, and striking Maasai shuka (traditional blankets) to hand-carved wooden sculptures, soapstone art, and tribal masks, each stall tells its own story of tradition and artistry. As you navigate through the bustling lanes, you'll often find artisans at work, weaving tales of heritage into their crafts. Bargaining is part and parcel of the shopping experience, so come prepared to haggle with a smile. Beyond just shopping, the Maasai Market offers a sensory immersion into Kenya's diverse cultures, making it an unmissable experience for any Nairobi visitor.
Best time to visit: Late afternoon to early evening (5:30PM - 7:30pm)
Entrance Fee: Free
Feeding time at Giraffe Centre
Remember to factor in Nairobi’s traffic when moving from one place to another, as it can be quite heavy, especially during peak hours. Hiring a local guide or using a reputable taxi service can help navigate the city for efficiently.
Enjoy your time in Nairobi!