Nairobi

Written by Andreas Keller, Harry Mboya
10/08/2025
Breathtaking view of Nairobi's skyline during twilight, showcasing vibrant city lights.
Ken Mwaura, Pexels

Nairobi, Kenya's capital, provides a distinctive blend of urban life and natural wonders, allowing visitors to experience wildlife encounters within minutes of the city center.

For socializing, the Westlands area serves as Nairobi's primary entertainment hub, featuring numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants popular with both locals and international visitors. Establishments like The Alchemist Bar, K1 Klub House, and Brew Bistro offer diverse atmospheres, from lively dance floors and live music to relaxed rooftop settings with city views.

Top 5 Things to do in Nairobi

Activities in Nairobi provide a unique blend of urban wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and historical exploration, highlighting Kenya's diverse heritage.

1. Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park offers an unparalleled safari experience, being the only national park located within a capital city. Here, visitors can embark on game drives to observe a wide array of wildlife, including lions, leopards, rhinos, giraffes, and zebras, with the city skyline as a dramatic backdrop. While elephants are not typically found here due to conservation efforts, the park provides an intimate connection to the wild just minutes from urban life. It is advisable to visit in the morning for optimal wildlife viewing.

Cost: For non-residents, the entry fee is typically USD 60 per adult during the high season and USD 35 during the low season. A foreign-registered vehicle incurs an additional fee of USD 22. Self-driving is possible with a 4x4 vehicle, or one can hire a safari van with a driver for game drives, which may cost between USD 80 and USD 160 for a personal game drive.

Transport: The park is approximately 7 kilometers from Nairobi's city center. Public transport via matatu to Langata costs KES 50-80, with an additional boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) to the gate for KES 200-300. A taxi/ride-sharing service like Uber or Bolt from the city center typically ranges from KES 500 to 1,000 (approx. USD 3.50-7) for a one-way trip.

2. David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (Elephant Orphanage)

At the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, visitors can witness the heartwarming efforts to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned elephants and rhinos. The nursery provides a unique opportunity to observe baby elephants during their daily feeding and playtime from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Keepers provide insightful talks about the individual elephants' stories and the trust's conservation work. It is an incredibly moving experience, offering a closer understanding of wildlife conservation.

Cost: A donation to the nursery is required for entry. Additionally, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) mandates that Nairobi National Park gate entry fees must be paid to access the trust, as it is located within the park. A typical tour combining the elephant orphanage and Giraffe Centre may cost around USD 90 per person, including transport and entry fees.

Transport: The trust is located within Nairobi National Park, approximately 30 minutes by car from the city center. Transport via taxi or ride-sharing services like Uber is convenient. A private car hire for pick-up from a hotel to Sheldrick and back may cost around USD 55 for 1-5 people.

3. Giraffe Centre

The Giraffe Centre offers a chance for incredibly close encounters with the endangered Rothschild's giraffes. Visitors can stand on an elevated platform to feed these majestic animals by hand, and even get a 'giraffe kiss'. The center also provides educational talks about giraffe conservation and a nature walk. It is a memorable and interactive experience suitable for all ages.

Cost: Entry costs 1,500 Kenyan Shillings (approximately USD 15) for adults and 750 Kenyan Shillings (approximately USD 8) for children (under 23 with student ID). This fee includes access to the giraffe sanctuary and an adjacent nature reserve.

Transport: The Giraffe Centre is located in Lang'ata, about 16.5 km from Nairobi CBD. Public transport (matatu) route 24 from Kenya Polytechnic Bus Stop to Kilimani Junior School takes about 55 minutes and costs approximately USD 1. A taxi from Nairobi to the Giraffe Centre takes around 21-22 minutes and costs between USD 30-45.

4. Bomas of Kenya

Bomas of Kenya serves as a living museum, showcasing the rich cultural diversity of Kenya's ethnic communities. Visitors can explore beautifully reconstructed traditional homesteads (bomas) of various Kenyan tribes, learning about their past living styles and architecture. The highlight is often the vibrant cultural performances, featuring traditional dances, music, and acrobatic shows that vividly portray the country's diverse heritage. It is a fantastic opportunity to immerse oneself in local culture.

Cost: For non-residents, adult entry is KES 1,000 (approx. USD 7), and child entry is KES 500 (approx. USD 3.50). An additional KES 1,000 (approx. USD 7) is charged for the cultural performance show.

Transport: Located about 10 km from Nairobi CBD. Public transport via matatu (bus number 24 or 125 from Kencom stage or Shell Haile Selassie Junction) to Galleria Mall or Wildlife Clubs of Kenya takes about 20 minutes and costs around USD 1. From the matatu stop, a boda-boda can take you to the gate for KES 50. A taxi/ride-sharing service like Uber or Bolt from the city center takes around 17-30 minutes and costs between USD 25-31.

5. Karen Blixen Museum

Step back in time at the Karen Blixen Museum, the former home of the renowned Danish author Karen Blixen, famously known for her book 'Out of Africa'. The beautifully preserved colonial house and its gardens offer a glimpse into her life in Kenya during the early 20th century. Visitors can tour the well-maintained rooms, see her original furniture, and gain insights into Kenya's colonial history and the inspirations behind her celebrated work, all while enjoying views of the Ngong Hills.

Cost: The entry fee is USD 15 per person (adult or child).

Transport: The museum is located approximately 10-20 km outside Nairobi, at the foot of the Ngong Hills. Public transport via matatu (line 24) from Kenya Polytechnic Bus Stop takes about 54-55 minutes and costs approximately USD 1. A taxi from Nairobi to the Karen Blixen Museum takes around 23-24 minutes and costs between USD 35-45.

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