Why Go to Nairobi
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Nairobi is the only capital on Earth with lions, rhinos and giraffes living just beyond the skyline. Known as the Green City in the Sun, Kenya's capital sits right next to Nairobi National Park, the world's only national park inside a major city, so your safari can start before you even leave town.
Spend a day or two here and you'll find some of the most heartwarming wildlife experiences in Africa. Watch baby elephants at feeding time at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust's orphanage, then hand-feed endangered Rothschild giraffes from the raised platform at the Giraffe Centre. History lovers can tour the Karen Blixen Museum, the farmhouse made famous by Out of Africa.
Getting there is simpler than many people think. Nonstop flights run from New York, or you can connect through Europe, arriving in East Africa in about 15 hours. As your plane descends, look for the open plains of the national park stretching out beside the city. I'll use Nairobi as the launch point for your safari, with arrival nights, park visits and bush flights all coordinated.
BEST FOR
Safari travelers, wildlife lovers, culture seekers and business travelers
BEST MONTHS
June to October or January to February
EXPLORE
- Karen: Leafy suburb with wildlife attractions.
- Westlands: Nightlife and dining.
- City Center: Museums and business.
- Gigiri: Diplomatic area with hotels.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Nairobi
Africa › East Africa › Kenya › Nairobi County
Lions on the city's edge, rescued elephants and East Africa's safari capital.
National Parks & Nature
Safari
Wildlife
Business
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Book your visit to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in advance; visiting slots are limited and fill quickly.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Go on an early morning game drive.
Nairobi National Park
A national park on the edge of the city, home to lions, rhinos and giraffes.
Visit in the morning.
Giraffe Centre
Feed endangered Rothschild's giraffes from a raised platform.
Book in advance.
Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Meet orphaned baby elephants being cared for before their return to the wild.
Explore the gardens.
Karen Blixen Museum
The former home of the author of Out of Africa.
Rent a bike and explore.
Karura Forest
A forest with walking trails, waterfalls and caves.
A famous boutique hotel where giraffes visit at breakfast.
Giraffe Manor
Langata
Hotel Tags
A luxurious boutique hotel with views of the Ngong Hills.
Hemingways Nairobi
Karen
Hotel Tags
A historic hotel with gardens and colonial charm.
Fairmont The Norfolk
City Center
Hotel Tags
A historic hotel in the heart of Nairobi.
Sarova Stanley
City Center
Hotel Tags
A stylish boutique hotel with African art.
Tribe Hotel
Gigiri
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Nairobi
High 75°F · Low 58°F · Rain 5.9 in
The short rains bring brief afternoon showers.
The best times to visit Nairobi are June through October and January through February, during the dry seasons. The long rains fall from March to May, with shorter rains in November.
Best Times to Visit Nairobi
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Nairobi's food scene ranges from Kenyan classics to international cuisine.
- Nyama choma: Grilled meat is a Kenyan favorite.
- Local dishes: Try ugali, sukuma wiki and pilau.
- Must-try: Nyama choma, ugali, samosas, Kenyan tea and coffee.
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Tours
Most attractions are easiest to reach with a driver or tour.
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Driving
Traffic can be heavy, so allow plenty of time.
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Trains
The Madaraka Express connects Nairobi with Mombasa.
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Taxis & Rideshares
Rideshare apps are widely used and convenient.
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Safari Flights
Wilson Airport handles flights to safari destinations.
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Flying In
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) is about 30 to 60 minutes from the city.
Most travelers fly into Jomo Kenyatta International. Once you're here, rideshares and private drivers are the easiest way to get around.
Getting Around Nairobi