If you think the Kenyan capital is merely a transit point en route to Masai Mara, think again.
With the Masai Mara National Reserve home to an epic array of wildlife, both big and small, most tourists never slow down long enough to explore Nairobi, hightailing it out of Kenya soon after crossing ‘spot the Big Five’ off their bucket list — much to their detriment. What happens in this process, however, is a lost opportunity to discover why Nairobi remains one of the most underrated capitals in the world. Not only does it boast exceptional farm-to-table eateries, thriving cultural venues, influential art galleries, and upscale concept stores that proudly support artisans across the region, but also some of the friendliest locals you’ll encounter on your travels. Here, we reveal eight ways to experience its spirited appeal firsthand.
1. Get up close with wild Rothschild giraffes
It’s a sight you’ve undoubtedly seen countless times online: Rothschild giraffes poking their famously long necks through the windows of Giraffe Manor in hopes of a treat from hotel guests. And while the moment makes for social media gold, room rates clock in at over $1,100 per night. Instead, be savvy with your shillings by heading to Giraffe Center, and feed these tall and majestic wild animals for a fraction of the cost — USD 15 to be exact.
2. Try your hand at upcycling discarded flip-flops
Nearby in the leafy suburb of Karen awaits Ocean Sole, a social enterprise that ingeniously upcycles discarded flip-flops found along the beaches and waterways of Kenya, transforming them into all manner of multicoloured toys and sculptures. Not only does a guided tour of its workshop offer insights into this crossroads of creativity and environmental conservation, but you can also add your own touch to their creations by joining an onsite group activity.
3. Escape to a glass art wonderland in the south
Creative and artistic talent pervades the Kenyan capital, so journey south of its centre and while away a few hours at Kitengela Hot Glass. Not only is it the workplace of renowned glassblower Anselm Croze, but it’s also a whimsical wonderland where visitors can join a glassblowing class, buy recycled glass objects that are artworks in their own right, detox in a sauna reminiscent of a porcupine, or brave the suspension bridge that shakes and sways upon contact.
4. Breathe and reboot in a sprawling urban forest
Between its size and notorious traffic congestion, Nairobi can feel overwhelming for first-timers, making Karura Forest a must on any itinerary. At a staggering 2,572 acres, it’s one of the world’s largest gazetted forests within city limits, and home to activities like horseback riding, tennis, and eco-tours. You can also venture out to this urban forest to take a leisurely stroll or ride a bike ride through designated trails in the company of honey badgers, bush babies, and nearly 200 species of birds.
5. Bop and sway at the home of live music
With the Kenyan capital attracting young talent from across the country, and East Africa overall, the diversity of its dynamic music scene often takes first-time visitors by surprise — EDM is on the rise, as are genres such as punk and heavy metal. Do as the locals do and catch live music at Geco Café, an achingly cool gastropub with an intimate feel, despite its indoor-outdoor setting. It hosts the likes of jazz, hip-hop, and Afro house on a weekly basis, but you’ll want to get there early enough to secure a good spot.
6. Expand your palate at an exotic meats extravaganza
Nairobi ‘s burgeoning dining scene only adds to its appeal — specialty cafés, trendy food trucks, and farm-to-table concepts collectively leave foodies spoilt for choice. But if you’re seeking a meal with a side of novelty, the famed Carnivore is where it’s at. Here, meats of all manner are roasted on Maasai swords over a huge charcoal pit that greets diners at its entrance, echoing the country’s longstanding love for nyama choma (Swahili for ‘grilled meat’) — ostrich meatballs and skewered crocodile included.
7. Immerse in local culture aboard a matatu
Catch a glimpse of matatu culture on the aptly named Feel Like a Local for a Moment tour by Starvel Safaris. Dubbed “museums on wheels”, these minibuses are mobile symbols of the city’s urban youth culture, elaborately spray painted to depict famous slogans, sayings, and all manner of public figures. Inside blares homegrown hip-hop music, keeping locals entertained on their everyday commutes while promoting up-and-coming talent — and making for a quintessentially Kenyan experience.
8. Take a walk with former street children
Another tour that translates to meaningful connections with Nairobi ‘s locals are the guided walks by Nai Nami, a social enterprise that was founded to hire youth from impoverished backgrounds as city guides to put their street skills into practice. Not only are its ‘storytellers’ able to live with purpose and make an honest living, but they also serve as role models for future generations in the process. Keep an open mind as you take in their life stories, and you’ll be rewarded with a travel experience unlike any other.
