Nairobi Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Top things to do in Nairobi

Nairobi combines wildlife, culture and city life in a way few capitals can. Many of its highlights are in the leafy southern and western suburbs, so plan your days by area.

• Nairobi National Park — Spot lions, giraffes, zebras and rhinos on the open plains, with the city's skyline on the horizon. Early morning game drives are the most rewarding.
• Giraffe Centre — In Lang'ata, this conservation centre lets you meet endangered Rothschild's giraffes up close from a raised platform.
• Nairobi National Museum — A good introduction to Kenya's history, cultures, art and natural heritage, set in pleasant gardens.
• Karen Blixen Museum — The farmhouse of the Danish author of Out of Africa, at the foot of the Ngong Hills.
• Karura Forest — A large urban forest with walking and cycling trails, waterfalls and caves, perfect for a peaceful morning outdoors.
• Maasai Market — A rotating open-air craft market selling beadwork, fabrics, carvings and baskets. Friendly bargaining is expected.
• Ngong Hills — A popular day hike on the city's south-western edge, with wide views across the Rift Valley on clear days.

Best time to visit Nairobi

Thanks to its altitude, Nairobi has a mild climate with warm days and cool nights. The main dry season, from June to October, is the most popular time to visit and coincides with peak safari season in Kenya's parks. January and February are also generally dry and warm.

The long rains usually fall from March to May and the short rains from November to December. Rain tends to come in afternoon or evening showers, and the city is quieter and greener at these times.

Getting from the airport

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) is about 15 km south-east of the city centre. Taxis are available outside arrivals, ride-hailing apps are widely used and many hotels offer transfers. The Nairobi Expressway links the airport area with the city centre and Westlands, which can help avoid heavy traffic at busy times.

Where to stay

Nairobi is a large city, so choose an area that suits your plans.

• Westlands — A busy commercial hub with shopping, dining and nightlife, popular with business travellers.
• Kilimani and Lavington — Central residential areas with a good choice of cafés and easy access to the city.
• Karen — Leafy and spacious, close to the Giraffe Centre, the national park and the Ngong Hills.
• Gigiri — A calm, green area near Karura Forest and the United Nations offices.

Travel tips

• Money: Cards are accepted in many hotels and malls, and mobile money is extremely common. Keep some shillings in cash for markets and small purchases.
• Getting around: Ride-hailing apps are the easiest way to travel. Allow extra time, as traffic can be heavy at rush hour.
• Safety: Keep valuables out of sight, avoid walking alone after dark and use registered taxis or ride-hailing at night.
• Plastic bags: Single-use plastic bags are banned in Kenya, so leave them at home.
• What to pack: Light clothing for the day, a warm layer for cool evenings and neutral colours for game drives.
• Entry requirements: Check the latest entry requirements for Kenya before you travel.