Nairobi, the bright capital city of Kenya is not only an economic and political centre, it is also a cultural melting pot which is a fascinating blend of city life, nature, history and an adventure. Nairobi is a city present at the intersecting point of East Africa and is characterized by its distinct contrasting nature of the city streetscape and the possibility to discover some of the best wildlife and nature in the African continent. As a first time visitor or an experienced traveler, there are numerous activities to engage in Nairobi that will see you explore the array of commodities the city has to offer.
Due to the exploration of the famous Nairobi National Park, where lions graze on the background of skyscrapers, to the experience of local cuisine, history, and art, Nairobi is a city that never ceases to surprise and delight. We shall work with the 10 best things to do in Nairobi, and you shall not miss anything in this fascinating city.
1. Safari in the city at Nairobi National Park.
The possibility to make a safari in Nairobi national park which is only some few kilometers away form the city center is one of the most remarkable and thrilling experiences that one can have in Nairobi. It is among the few places that the world can see wild animals such as lions, giraffes, zebras, and rhinos with the city skyline at the background.
The park has a rich wildlife and provides various types of safarian activities, such as; the game drives, walking safari and birdwatching. Nairobi National Park is a legendary tourist destination, which maintains the essence of a safari and the benefits of being situated at a large city, at the same time. This is certainly among the most extraordinary wildlife activities that one can have in Nairobi as a wildlife lover.
2. Visit Giraffe Centre: Go Behind the Scenes with Rothschild Giraffes.
The Giraffe Centre is a nature reserve center where the endangered Rothschild giraffe species which are only found within a few areas in Kenya are located. The center is situated in the Lang’ata area of Nairobi where it offers a rare chance of communicating with these magnificent animals. Tourists have a chance to feed the giraffes using a raised area, make photos and hear talks about conserving the giraffe and how it is done.
Giraffe Centre is a perfect place to visit with the family, animal enthusiasts and one who just wants to be close to the marvelous wildlife of Kenya. Having a tranquil environment with welcoming giraffes, the center can be considered among the best tourists activities in Nairobi as it is an extraordinary wildlife experience.
3. Discover Nairobi Railway Museum: A historical tour.
The Nairobi Railway Museum is a tourist attraction that history lovers must visit. The history of Kenya railway and its great contribution to the development of this country is the subject of the museum that is situated in the very center of Nairobi. It has a collection of old locomotives, carriages and other railway memorabilia dating back in the colonial days.
The museum has guided tourism in which a person can learn the intriguing past of the railroad system both as it contributed to Kenya infrastructural construction and East Africa development. The Nairobi Railway Museum is the best thrilling and educative attraction in Nairobi whether you are a historical enthusiast or just a curious person of what the country has been through in its colonial times.
4. Karen Blixen Museum: Walk into the World of Out of Africa.
The Karen Blixen Museum is situated in a tranquil suburb by the name Karen, and it was once home to a Danish writer, Karen Blixen, whose memoir was titled Out of Africa. The museum provides a peek into the life and work of Blixen who spent more than 17 years of his life in Kenya in the early 20 th century. The well-maintained house and the vibrant gardens are the ideal replicas of the time Blixen spent in Kenya and the key to her world-known literary writings.
People can also see the house that is decorated the way it was in those days when Blixen was living there and also visit the well-preserved grounds. The museum gives a visitor an in-depth experience of colonial Kenya, where they can learn about the history of the country and also get a connection with the legacy of the author. Karen Blixen Museum is a must visit site in Nairobi to any person whose interest is in literature, history, and just to enjoy serene environment.
5. Visit Nairobi National Museum: Kenya Historical Tour.
The Nairobi National Museum is the place where one can find the history of Kenya and its art and culture. The Museum is situated in the Museum Hill district which exhibits the diverse biodiversity, prehistoric, and cultural background of the nation. Tourists are shown exhibits on the early human history of Kenya such as fossils and archaeological excavation and also the flora and fauna which constitute the various ecosystems of Kenya.
The museum has a Kenyan art gallery that is also one of its best attractions, complete with both modern and traditional art. The botanical garden is also present in the museum and it is a good way to have a stroll after your exploration in the museum. The Nairobi national Museum offers fascinating extensive displays that make it one of the best places to visit in Nairobi so as to learn more about the culture and natural heritage of Kenya.
6. Maasai Market Shopping Streak: Cultural Shopping.
The ceil of authentic cultural shopping is Maasai Market in Nairobi. It is an all-outdoors marketplace where one can find handmade Maasai jewellery, vibrant fabrics, beads and traditional arts and crafts. The market is the festivity of the rich Maasai culture and it provides so many special and lovely products which make ideal souvenir or gifts.
Maasai Market is an excellent location to experience the authentic culture, find pleasant sellers, and negotiate the most favorable prices. The market circulates around Nairobi with a permanent location at Yaya Centre and the other locations on certain days in a week. Part of the tourist places is the Maasai Market, where one would need to visit in search of unique African art. It is considered one of the most common activities in Nairobi, and it is very local.
7. Day Trip to Ngong Hills: Viewing and Adventure trip.
Ngong Hills is a well-liked day-trip site situated outside Nairobi where visitors are afforded the chance to get away and take a breather of the busy city life. Ngong Hills is a peaceful retreat by the nature of its rolling hills and long distances overlooking the Great Rift Valley. Tourists have a chance to picnic, hike and cycle and also horseback ride whilst admiring the spectacular views.
The cool fresh atmosphere and the scenic views turn Nagong Hills into a favorite destination among both locals and visitors. Ngong Hills is among the best visiting spots in Nairobi when one would want to enjoy their time in the wilderness or have one of the fun outdoor recreational events.
8. Kenya Sightseeing: A Food Tour of Nairobi.
Nairobi is a city of good food, and it has highly appealing restaurants and food joints that specialize in local food and foods as well as in international food. Among the dishes that need to be tried is nyama choma (grilled meat), usually served with ugali (dish made of maize) and sukuma (collard greens). The street food culture is also active in the city, as there are people selling fresh samoas, mandazi, and other tasty dishes.
There are good dining restaurants within Nairobi like Talisman, Carnivore and Tamarind, among others. Even when you want to visit the gastronomical pleasures of Nairobi, there is no better experience to get an overview of the best local cuisine by taking a food tour. The Nairobi food industry is varied and therefore food lovers and culinary enthusiasts find it as one of their top attractions in Nairobi.
9. The Art Scene of Discover Nairobi: Galleries and Exhibitions.
Nairobi has a vibrant artistic community, and there are spaces of art and several galleries that exhibit the productions of Kenyan and African artists. The Nairobi Art Gallery, the National Museum and the Kuona Artists Collective are some of the few places where you can find a vast array of both the contemporary and traditional art styles.
Besides the visual art, several art galleries, cultural festivals, and music events are held in Nairobi throughout the year. A visit to these galleries and exhibitions is an experience that provides a singular experience of accessing the bustling cultural life of the city of Nairobi. When you are an admirer of art, visiting the galleries in the city is surely among the most popular activities to do in Nairobi.
10. Experience Nairobi was a nightlife tour that included live music, dancing, and entertainment.
The night life in Nairobi is vibrant and varied with one having something to do. Nairobi has it all in terms of nightlife, he loves to listen to live music, gyrate the night, or just sit back in a rooftop bar and have breathtaking views of the city.
Westlands, which hosts vibrant bars and clubs is a popular place in night life activities and the city centre, which has numerous entertainment centres. The music scene of Nairobi is also quite varied, and jazz, reggae, and Afrobeat are also performed regularly at such places as the Sarakasi Dome and the Nairobi Railway Club. When you are out having fun and feel like partying, the Nairobi nightlife is one of the best places to visit in Nairobi.
Conclusion
Nairobi is a city that makes no exception as it consistently amazes and entertains a visitor with its different blends of the urban-yet-natural charm. Wildlife, cultural or nature get-away, Nairobi has unlimited experiences of activities that will leave a long-lasting impression on your visit. Nairobi is an incredibly varied city and the variety of things to do in the city is equal to the diversity of the city. One can explore history, diverse markets, taste local food, and explore the surrounding nature. The capital city is a dynamic city and will provide you with unbelievable experiences that will see you leave with a rich memory of the vibrant spirit of Kenya.
