About Nairobi
Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, is a city where the rhythm of modern urban life mingles effortlessly with the pulse of nature. Known for its towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and dynamic business environment, Nairobi offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and modernity. The city’s roots trace back to its humble beginnings as a railway depot in the early 20th century, but today, it stands as one of Africa’s most vibrant metropolises. Whether you’re drawn to its historical landmarks, wildlife attractions, or thriving art scene, Nairobi offers something for everyone.
Nairobi: The Gateway to East Africa
Often referred to as the “Green City in the Sun,” Nairobi is more than just the gateway to Kenya’s world-renowned safari experiences. It serves as a central hub for travellers venturing into the rest of East Africa. Strategically located, Nairobi connects to major cities like Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, Kampala in Uganda, and Kigali in Rwanda. Its bustling international airport, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, is the busiest in the region, making it a vital transit point for tourists and business travellers alike.
A City of Contrasts: Urban Life Meets Nature.
Nairobi is a city of contrasts where the modern world coexists with nature. While skyscrapers and high-end shopping malls dominate the skyline, just a few kilometres away lies Nairobi National Park, a vast expanse of savannah where you can spot lions, giraffes, and rhinos against the backdrop of the city. This juxtaposition of urban life and wildlife is one of Nairobi’s most striking features. Visitors often find it surreal to witness wild animals roaming so close to the urban hustle, a sight that sets Nairobi apart from other world capitals.
Nairobi National Park: Wildlife at the City’s Doorstep.
One of Nairobi’s most iconic attractions is Nairobi National Park, located just a short drive from the city centre. This unique park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, and over 400 bird species. What makes it truly special is the sight of these animals against the backdrop of the city skyline. The park is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, offering a chance to experience Kenya’s famous wildlife without leaving the capital. For an unforgettable experience, many visitors opt for early morning or late afternoon game drives, when the animals are most active.
The Karen Blixen Museum: A Glimpse into Kenya’s Past
For those interested in Kenya’s colonial history, the Karen Blixen Museum offers a fascinating insight into the life of the Danish author who lived and worked in Kenya in the early 20th century. Located in the suburb of Karen, the museum is housed in Blixen’s former home, where she wrote the memoir “Out of Africa.” The museum provides a glimpse into the country’s colonial past, showcasing artefacts and personal belongings from Blixen’s life. The surrounding gardens are also a peaceful retreat, offering stunning views of the Ngong Hills.
Giraffe Centre and David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Conservation is a key focus in Nairobi, and two of the city’s most beloved attractions are the Giraffe Centre and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. The Giraffe Centre, located in the leafy suburb of Langata, is dedicated to the conservation of the endangered Rothschild giraffe. Visitors can feed and interact with these gentle giants while learning about ongoing conservation efforts. Nearby, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is famous for its elephant orphanage, where rescued baby elephants are cared for before being released back into the wild. The trust’s daily public feeding sessions are a heartwarming experience, attracting visitors from around the world.
Top Tourist Attractions for Things to Do in Nairobi.
Nairobi National Park – Literally minutes from your hotel, one of Kenya’s oldest wildlife parks. Framed by downtown skyscrapers, you’ll see lions, cheetahs, hyenas, rhinos, zebras, ostriches, giraffes, and more. This one-of-a-kind wildlife park is also home to over 400 bird species.
David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage – Located within Nairobi Park, this world-famous non-profit adopts and raises orphaned baby elephants and black rhinos. Be sure to watch the morning feeding when the babies come charging to their handlers, to be fed with giant baby bottles. Playtime and mud baths follow!
Giraffe Centre – Care to get up close to a giant giraffe? At this sanctuary for endangered Rothschild’s giraffes, you can watch the long-legged creatures romp over the grounds or perhaps, climb up the feeding platform to offer a food pellet. A long, green giraffe tongue will respond and perhaps you’ll even get a kiss as a reward!
Karen Blixen Farmhouse & Museum – The home and farm of legendary author, Karen Blixen who wrote her famous memoir, “Out of Africa”, using the pen name, Isak Dinesen. The homestead is now a museum featuring artefacts from her life, as well as props from the movie version of her book. Enjoy the lovely grounds and gardens.
Kazuri Beads & Pottery Centre – A remarkable tribute to perseverance and artistic expression, the centre is a workshop where single mothers craft colourful beads and pottery for sale on the premises. The endeavour is a testament to self-sufficiency and the best of the Kenyan spirit.
Bomas of Kenya – Bomas are villages and this cultural centre showcases different types, each constructed in the style of Kenya’s major tribal groups. But that’s just the beginning of this lively experience. Artists here perform traditional songs and dances like Swahili taarab music, Kalenjin warrior dances, and Embu drumming.
National Museum – The Birds of East Africa, the Great Hall of Mammals, the Cradle of Humankind – these are just some of the colourful and imposing exhibits in this rich and extraordinary museum. Plus, you’ll find displays of Kenyan history and cultural artefacts showcasing the country’s tribes and ethnic groups. And all of this is housed in an imposing structure, set amongst lush grounds.
