Come discover the "Green City in the Sun," the beating heart of Kenya, where nature's omnipresent beauty softens the frenetic urban rhythm.

History

Nairobi emerged following the creation of the Kenya Uganda Railway in 1899. After the railway company relocated its headquarters here from Mombasa, the new city quickly became a commercial crossroads and business hub of the British East Africa Protectorate. Following devastating plague outbreaks and a major fire, Nairobi was entirely rebuilt in the early 20th century. It was subsequently chosen as the capital of British East Africa in 1905, and later in 1964, following Kenya's declaration of independence, it became the capital of the Republic.

Discovering Nairobi

Stroll through the hometown of international Kenyan footballer Dennis Oliech. Visit the Karen Blixen Museum, housed in the former residence of the celebrated Danish author. You'll have the chance to see sets used in the Oscar and Golden Globe-winning film "Out of Africa" (1986).

Then head to the Nairobi National Museum. Explore the paleoanthropology department for a journey to humanity's origins. The exhibit features hominid fossils dating back millions of years, recovered from the Lake Turkana region, which some scientists consider the "cradle of humanity."

Immerse yourself in tribal culture

Don't miss the Bomas of Kenya cultural village, located in the residential suburb of Langata. It's the best place in Nairobi to experience tribal heritage. Admire replicas of traditional dwellings and plan your visit to catch a performance of dance and acrobatics.

Afterward, seek out the Maasai Market in Nairobi. Vendors relocate daily, so don't hesitate to ask locals for directions. Maasai craftsmanship encompasses sculpture, jewelry making, beadwork, weaving, and more.

Explore Nairobi's parks

Just outside the city (10 km away), you can visit Nairobi National Park to observe rhinos, lions, leopards, wildebeest, and an impressive variety of birds. Stop by the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to meet orphaned elephant calves. The AFEW Giraffe Centre is another wildlife sanctuary worth your time.

Evening in Nairobi

As the day winds down before returning to your accommodation, visit a local restaurant to taste regional food and drinks. Try a Tusker beer or indulge in nyama choma, a barbecued meat dish. For a night out, head to the Westlands suburb, where you'll find numerous secure bars. Avoid public transport after dark.

Practical Information

Nairobi can be explored in various ways. Main downtown attractions are walkable, but outside tourist areas, extreme caution is advised, especially as night falls. Nairobi does have a high crime rate. With a local travel agency, you'll benefit from private car service with driver to reach points of interest.

By air

Direct flights are available between Paris and Nairobi (8 hours). Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is located roughly 15 kilometers from downtown. Upon arrival, you can take a taxi or shuttle to your accommodation.

By train

Just one kilometer from downtown, Nairobi Central Railway Station serves suburban trains.

By bus

As the capital, Nairobi is the main hub for national bus routes.

When to visit?

Nairobi enjoys a tropical climate. Mornings are typically cool but can turn cold during rainy seasons (April to June and November to December). Year-round temperatures range between 12 and 24°C, averaging 20°C. In the higher elevations of the city and surroundings, nights can be chilly.

The best times to visit Nairobi are January and February, as well as August and September. Avoid rainy seasons, when roads—including some paved ones—become difficult to navigate.

What to do in Nairobi?

• Explore author Karen Blixen's former home
• Marvel at the collections in the Nairobi National Museum's paleoanthropology department
• Attend a traditional dance performance at the Bomas of Kenya cultural center
• Shop at Maasai markets
• Visit Nairobi National Park, and more