Nairobi

Urban

Population: 6 million

Best Season to Visit: Summer

Best Off-Peak Month to Visit: October

Famous For: Nairobi National Park, Vibrant markets, Rich cultural heritage

Train Access: Yes (Nairobi Commuter Rail Service)

Bus Access: Yes (Matatus, City Shuttle, Double M, KBS, and others)

Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, is a bustling metropolis that offers a unique blend of urban and natural attractions to travelers. The city is a gateway to safari adventures with Nairobi National Park, a wildlife reserve where visitors can spot lions, giraffes, and rhinos against the backdrop of city skyscrapers. For a more intimate wildlife encounter, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust operates an elephant orphanage where visitors can watch baby elephants being fed and playing in the mud. The Giraffe Centre is another must-visit, allowing guests to feed and learn about the endangered Rothschild's giraffes. Cultural experiences abound in Nairobi, with the National Museum providing insights into Kenya's rich heritage and the Maasai Market offering a colorful array of traditional crafts and textiles. Food enthusiasts can indulge in diverse culinary offerings, from local Kenyan dishes like nyama choma (grilled meat) and ugali (cornmeal staple) at roadside eateries to fine dining at restaurants like Carnivore, famous for its game meat. For those seeking outdoor activities, the Karura Forest offers serene walking and cycling trails amidst indigenous trees and waterfalls. Nairobi's vibrant nightlife, with its array of clubs and bars, reflects the city's cosmopolitan character.

VRBO Vacation Rentals
Learn More

With over 2 million bookable vacation rentals, Vrbo connects homeowners with families and vacationers looking for something more than a hotel for their trip. The Vrbo community offers families an array of rental property types such as condos, cabins, lake rentals, beach houses, and more. Discover properties in destinations that everyone dreams of visiting.

VRBO Vacation Rentals

Planning Your Trip to Nairobi

Weather: Nairobi enjoys a subtropical highland climate with four distinct seasons. The city experiences moderate temperatures year-round, with sunny and cool conditions that are tempered by its high altitude.

Festivals: The Nairobi International Cultural Festival and the Kenya Music Festival are popular events showcasing the country's diverse cultures and musical talents.

Best Things for Kids to Do: Visiting the Nairobi National Park and the adjacent Animal Orphanage is a thrilling experience for kids, as is feeding giraffes at the Giraffe Centre.

Hidden Gem: The Karen Blixen Museum, once the farmhouse of the famous author, is a beautifully preserved piece of history tucked away in the leafy suburbs.

Accessibility: Nairobi has a mix of modern and less developed areas; while some parts have well-paved sidewalks, others may be challenging for older people due to uneven surfaces and lack of pedestrian infrastructure.

For the Runner: The Karura Forest is a popular spot for running and walking, offering well-maintained trails through lush greenery and tranquil surroundings.

Restaurants in Nairobi

Nairobi offers a diverse culinary scene with restaurants catering to various tastes and budgets. Carnivore Restaurant is a famous tourist attraction known for its meat-centric menu and unique dining experience. For a more upscale dining experience, one can visit Tamarind Nairobi, which offers gourmet seafood dishes. On the mid-range level, Talisman Restaurant is popular for its fusion of European, Pan-Asian, and African cuisines. For casual and budget-friendly meals, K'Osewe Ranalo Foods provides authentic Kenyan dishes in a relaxed setting.

Where to Stay

Nairobi has a wide range of hotels to suit different preferences and budgets. The luxurious Villa Rosa Kempinski offers opulent accommodations and amenities, while the Sarova Stanley provides a blend of historical charm and modern comfort in the heart of the city. For travelers seeking budget-friendly options, the Best Western Plus Meridian Hotel offers comfortable rooms and convenient access to the city's attractions.

Best Hotels: The Norfolk Hotel, Giraffe Manor, Sarova Stanley

Dog-Friendly Hotels: Fairmont The Norfolk, The Sarova Stanley, Hemingways Nairobi

Nairobi

Planning Your Trip to Nairobi

Restaurants in Nairobi

Where to Stay

Recommended Reading