Nairobi

A brief journey from the city center brings you to Bomas, Kenya’s cultural center, which showcases model traditional villages representing various ethnic groups. Each afternoon, diverse dance groups perform, offering a captivating show for enthusiasts of African culture, folklore, and traditional attire. Bomas currently presents 37 distinct traditional dances from various Kenyan tribes, alongside 11 model traditional villages representing different ethnic groups. Performances are held daily from 2:30 to 4:00 pm on weekdays and from 3:30 to 5:15 pm on weekends and public holidays.

The market stands as the ultimate destination for enthusiasts of African crafts and souvenirs, representing the pinnacle of Kenyan beauty and diversity. A visit to Nairobi would not be complete without exploring this vibrant marketplace. The main markets operate on Tuesdays and Saturdays in the central business district, while smaller versions can be found at select locations throughout the week. Combining a visit to the Maasai Market with other attractions like the Nairobi Safari Walk or Museum enhances the overall experience for visitors.

Explore the Daphne Sheldrick’s Animal Orphanage located on the outskirts of Nairobi National Park, dedicated to caring for orphaned elephants. Visitors have the opportunity to interact with baby elephants and discover the unique history of each animal. Admission to the orphanage is included with entry to Nairobi National Park. The orphanage is open from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm for visitors to enjoy this enriching experience.

Located just a five-minute drive from the City Centre, this destination is a must-visit for history, culture, and natural history enthusiasts alike. The Kenya Hall offers a comprehensive display of Kenyan history and diverse cultures from the coastal regions to the central highlands and western areas. The Great Hall of Mammals showcases Africa’s iconic “Big Five” animals. Ornithologists will be delighted by the extensive collection of bird species commonly encountered during Kenyan safaris.

The Geology and Prehistoric Gallery traces the Earth’s evolution and the origins of humanity, featuring fossils and Stone Age tools from various prehistoric sites. Methods for dating fossils are also explained. The Contemporary East African Art Gallery exhibits paintings and sculptures by local artists, showcasing their creativity. Additionally, the museum highlights African rock art.

Adjacent to the museum, the Snake Park showcases indigenous reptile species found in Kenya. Next to it, a botanical garden boasts medicinal herbs and indigenous plant species. Visitors can unwind at the on-site coffee shop, as well as enjoy the beautiful lawns and gardens, perfect for family outings and picnics, ensuring a balanced mix of education and leisure.

This historic site was once the residence of the renowned author Karen von Blixen. The house preserves many of Blixen’s original works and features exhibits donated by the creators of the film “Out of Africa.” Managed by the National Museums of Kenya, it conveniently shares its location with the Giraffe Centre, allowing visitors to easily explore both attractions due to their close proximity.

The Giraffe Centre is conveniently located just 5 km away from the town centre. It was established with the primary aim of conserving the endangered Rothschild giraffe species, which is native to the grasslands of East Africa. The initiative was spearheaded by Jock-Melville, the Kenyan grandson of a Scottish Earl, and his wife Betty. They began the program by capturing a baby giraffe and initiating a breeding program at their residence in Langata, which is now the site of the present Centre.

Over the years, the program has achieved significant success, leading to the introduction of several breeding pairs of Rothschild giraffes into Kenyan National Parks. The main highlight for visitors is the opportunity to feed the giraffes from a raised observation platform, while also observing warthogs that freely roam alongside the giraffes.

The National Archives is situated in the city Centre along the famous Moi Avenue. This is a place to go if you are interested in Kenyan history. Government documentation, manuals, photographs are some of the media you can browse at your leisure.

This is the largest picnic site in Kenya (54 acres of pure fun). It’s a home to the 2.5 years Old Stone Age caves, trees thought to be hundred of years old while the reeds have a long story to tell. Enjoy the nature trails, bird watching, horse riding, camel riding, bout riding and feeding Maasai ostrich, fishing, coffee farms. It’s a few kilometres from city centre on Kiambu road and is surrounded by large coffee farms.

The hills have four summits that stand out against the horizon like knuckles, or ngong in maa. It has a beautiful view, overlooking the Great Rift Valley in one direction and the Nairobi National Park in another. It is a perfect place for scenic picnics or climbing the knuckle to test your mettle (in fact many climbers use these hills to train for climbing trips). It’s advisable that you go by car because it quite a distance from drop-off point to the main entrance if you use public transport. Drive up to the radio posts, where there is a car park, and admire the view or set out for a walk.