Nairobi, the capital of Kenya and the heart of eastern and central Africa, offers a wide range of activities for every type of traveler. Whether you're interested in immersing yourself in the local culture, exploring the city's history and art scene, or embarking on thrilling wildlife adventures, Nairobi has it all. Here are some of the top things to do in Nairobi.
Things To Do In Nairobi
Nairobi can be definitely considered an entertaining city and it will definitely suit any traveler. Among the great attractions which are unmissable for every tourist you have the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust where you can come across the elephant orphans. It is also pertinent not to bypass the Giraffe Centre which hosts a number of Rothschild giraffes. From cultures, wildlife, and adventure, something for everyone is offered when it comes to the things to do in Nairobi.
1. Discover Nairobi National Park
Imagine witnessing lions, giraffes, and zebras roaming freely against the backdrop of a bustling city skyline. That's exactly what you'll experience at Nairobi National Park. Located just outside the city center, this unique wildlife reserve allows you to embark on a safari adventure without having to travel far, making it one of the most fun things to do in Nairobi. During your visit, make sure to:
- Opt for a daytime game drive for the best chance of spotting animals, especially in the early morning hours when they're most active.
- Keep an eye out for the famous Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros) as well as other fascinating species.
- Capture stunning photos of this extraordinary juxtaposition between nature and urban life.
- Cherish the memories you make during this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
2. Take a Giraffe framed meal through the Giraffe Centre
Have you ever dreamt of feeding a giraffe? At the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi, considered an amazing spot for things to do in nairobi, you can turn that dream into reality. This conservation and education center focuses on protecting the endangered Rothschild giraffes while providing visitors with an opportunity to get up close and personal with these graceful creatures. Here's what you can do at the Giraffe Centre:
- Feed giraffes from a raised platform, allowing them to gracefully extend their long necks and pluck food from your hand.
- Experience the gentle touch of a giraffe's tongue as it reaches out to grab its snack.
- Learn about giraffe conservation efforts through informative talks and displays.
- Support the center's mission by contributing to their conservation programs.
3. The next recommended attraction is the Karen Blixen Museum
For literature enthusiasts and history buffs, a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum is a must thing to do in Nairobi. Housed in the former colonial farmhouse where the renowned author of "Out of Africa" once lived, this museum offers a glimpse into Blixen's fascinating life and works. Here's what you can expect during your visit:
- Take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding the museum.
- Explore the various exhibits showcasing Blixen's personal belongings, photographs, and writings.
- Gain insights into Kenya's colonial past and its influence on Blixen's literary masterpiece.
- Appreciate the enduring legacy of this iconic destination for lovers of literature and history.
4. Experience Traditional Culture of the Kenyan People at Bomas of Kenya
No trip to Nairobi is complete without experiencing its vibrant markets. These bustling hubs of activity offer a glimpse into the city's rich cultural tapestry while providing ample opportunities to shop for unique souvenirs and sample delicious local cuisine. Here are some popular markets worth exploring:
- Maasai Market: Known for its colorful array of traditional Maasai crafts, jewelry, and clothing.
- City Market: A bustling marketplace offering a wide range of fresh produce, spices, and Kenyan handicrafts.
- Gikomba Market: Nairobi's largest second-hand clothing market, perfect for bargain hunters and fashion enthusiasts.
- Kazuri Beads: A cooperative that produces beautiful handcrafted ceramic beads, jewelry, and pottery.
5. Stroll Through Karura Forest
If you're passionate about wildlife conservation, a visit to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is a must. This renowned organization is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned elephants and rhinos with the ultimate goal of reintroducing them back into the wild. Here's how you can show your support:
- Attend the trust's daily public viewing sessions to learn about their conservation efforts and meet the adorable elephant orphans.
- Consider fostering an elephant or rhino through their fostering program, which provides vital funds for their care.
- Spread awareness about the importance of protecting these majestic creatures and their habitats.
6. Check the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Tourists can watch the entertaining elephants as they enjoy their bath and feeding time, at the same time, visitors get to have insights on the Trust’s goals. The life histories of each elephant are heartwarming and encourage people to work to save such magnificent creatures who have been through so much pain, thereby making it one of the best things to do in Nairobi..
7. Savor Kenyan Cuisine
In terms of the review of its culinary culture, Nairobi refers to itself as a city with tasty and fascinating food and food culture. To taste traditional Kenyan food one can go to local restaurants, cafes and food vendors’ markets. Try Nyama choma, Ugali, and Sukuma wiki, some of the popular meals you should expect to taste in Tanzania. As for something different, try Carnivore Restaurant which has many types of meat, including game meat, that are roasted to perfection.
8. Approach Art at the Nairobi National Museum
The Nairobi National Museum is very suitable to those who want to have a basic understanding of Kenya’s cultures as well as its natural endowment. With treasures such as the ancient fossils, tribal pieces, and artifacts, right to today’s masterpieces and wildlife, there is something for everyone and that’s why it can be considered as one of the many things to do in Nairobi. It also has a snake park right next to the museum which aims at educating the people of the area about the snakes of this world. Touring a museum is one of the best activities that help a person to understand more about Kenyan history and natural resource endowment.
9. Tour the Nairobi Arboretum;
Last activity should be a visit to the Nairobi Arboretum that is a botanical garden specializing in trees, flowers as well as different types of plants. This is one of the beautiful places where people could take a peaceful walk, go for a picnic with their family and even practice yoga in the middle of nature. The paths are well paved and the surrounding atmosphere calm and beautiful which is why this is among the well-frequented things to do in Nairobi.
10. Explore the Ngong Hills
Located just a short drive from Nairobi the Ngong Hills provide the set piece of rolling green hills and sweeping views of the Great Rift Valley, making it one of the adventurous things to do in Nairobi. Enjoying nature through a hiking experience, taking a picnic with friends and family to the Ngong Hills is an enjoyable pastime.
Conclusion
Nairobi is definitely a city that will never disappoint. Due to the presence of organic features within close proximity to urban structures, it has to provide an ability to fulfill the desires of any tourist. In Nairobi National Park for the animal lovers, in Bomas of Kenya for cultural discovery, or in local restaurants for the food lovers, Nairobi is a city for every risk taker. So get ready with Capture a Trip, a travel company with a team of experts aiming to provide the best of their services to make your trip a memorable one. Be prepared to embrace all the fun things to do in Nairobi; a city that has much to offer.
FAQs:
1. What activities involving wildlife can be enjoyed in Nairobi?
It is possible to get acquainted with the programs of protection and preservation of various species, as well as get used to different animals, including feeding and communication with them, bird-watching, in different parts of the city, and forested areas.
2. What are the ways through which one can have a feel of the culture and traditions of Nairobi?
To showcase and practice cultural activities in Nairobi, music, and dance, local craftsmanship, fair, and cultural interactive sessions are open for tourists.
3. What outdoor activities can be done in Nairobi?
There are lots of physical activities that one can do in Nairobi for the lovers of nature and adventures. They include hiking, mountain biking, and nature walking through the green and beautiful sceneries. In the park, activities include taking off food items for a picnic near the waterfalls, taking off on a horse and undertaking a zip activity in the forest.
4. Can one find shops and restaurants to eat out in Nairobi?
You can shop till you drop at the markets for some interesting mementos and other local products. The same is true for the offers of restaurants in Nairobi where one is free to choose between traditional meals of Kenya and meals of global cuisine in street food stalls, cafes and restaurants of the superior class.
5. Is Nairobi safe to explore on your own?
Nairobi is rather safe for tourists though it is always better to follow general rules regarding security during the journey. Be in established areas only, and do not flash jewelry and cash. Also consider getting a tour guide if you are planning to visit other parts of the country with areas of interest that aren’t heavily toured.