Fascinated by Kenya and its safaris? Don't miss the chance to visit Nairobi, its sprawling cosmopolitan metropolis radiating impressive dynamism.

Capital of Kenya and Africa's safari capital, it's also known as "the green city under the sun". Nestled amid wild nature, Nairobi is a modern city located roughly 150 km south of the equator.

A city that never sleeps, it's often considered the starting point for embarking on safari. This largest city in Kenya will impress you with its numerous parks and green spaces, its exotic atmosphere, and its warm-hearted inhabitants…

A brief history of Nairobi

The city of Nairobi: its genesis

Nairobi was once merely marshy terrain inhabited by a few East African peoples, notably the Akamba, Maasai, and Kikuyu.

Toward the end of the 19th century, a railway company built a line connecting Uganda to Mombasa in Kenya, passing through Nairobi. When the railway reached the region, engineer Sir George Whitehouse found it expedient to relocate the company's headquarters from Mombasa to Nairobi. The few tribes occupying the territory were thus displaced to another region.

The area subsequently became a strategic hub for British business interests, transforming Nairobi into a burgeoning new settlement.

Nairobi, Kenya's capital

The name Nairobi derives from the Maasai phrase "Enkare Nyirobi", meaning "the place of cool waters".

Shortly after its founding, the city was devastated by a terrible fire. Its restoration began promptly in the early 20th century.

Once rebuilt, Nairobi was immediately chosen to serve as the capital of British East Africa (1905), then of the Kenya colony and protectorate (1919), of the Commonwealth realm of Kenya (1963), and of the Republic of Kenya (1964).

Nairobi today

Nairobi was known not only for its grandeur, but also for being highly appreciated for its safaris. And although modernity is gaining ground, it maintains today its status as Africa's safari capital.

Nairobi proves to be a young metropolis, home to over 4.5 million inhabitants (2019). Joyfully animated, it has become one of Africa's most sought-after tourist destinations. Nairobi is also a very common stopover point for flights heading to the continent.

What to see in Nairobi?

Nairobi is a place of escape and discovery! It will not fail to captivate you with its many points of interest:

Nairobi's natural treasures

Nairobi National Park

Spanning 117 km², this park is among Kenya's protected natural reserves. Established in 1946, it lies just kilometres from the city's green heart. It's the ideal place to admire the beauty of African wildlife. You'll find herds of buffalo, zebras, giraffes, rhinoceroses, antelopes, lions, reptiles and much more.

The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage

A unique and highly educational activity, a visit to this orphanage will teach you more about these elephants and their stories, and allow you to share a pleasant moment with them.

The Giraffe Centre

A remarkable place where giraffes take centre stage, this centre is located south of the city in Langata. Founded in 1979, this venue lets you become acquainted with these magnificent animals.

The Maasai Market

This market takes place on Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The Maasai Market is the ideal place to meet Nairobians and discover local products.

Historical sites

The National Museum

For a brief journey through time, this museum will introduce you to some of humanity's most impressive historical collections.

The Karen Blixen Museum

Author of the novel Out of Africa, Karen Blixen is a Danish writer who lived in Nairobi. The museum is the home of this illustrious 20th-century author, where objects from the film "Out of Africa" are displayed. Its magnificent garden will help you find tranquillity.

Other popular attractions for travellers include:

• Jamia Mosque
• Bomas of Kenya

What to do in Nairobi?

Nairobi is an ecological destination. It's worth noting that Nairobi records the most bird species in the world. Visiting the parks remains an absolute must during a stay in this city.

Nairobi is also the perfect place to purchase souvenirs from your Kenya trip. The capital is brimming with shopping centres, boutiques…

Don't miss tasting the Kenyan gastronomy, prepared in the city's many restaurants! You'll love the famous ugali, a typical dish of the country.

A brief overview of Nairobi's climate

Nairobi is subject to a tropical climate, with characteristics closely resembling an equatorial climate.

Perched at 1,600 m altitude, the city enjoys pleasant temperatures year-round, typically oscillating between 12°C and 27°C. During this period, the morning will greet you with cool dew.

With sunny days and a bit of chill in the evening, the best period to visit the capital is winter. Short and dry, the winter season is most keenly felt at night (between July and September).

Temperatures also drop quite low during the rainy season, which occurs in March, April, May and November.

Getting to and around Nairobi

By air

To reach Nairobi, you can take a flight to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. It's located fifteen kilometres from the city centre. You can reach the centre by car, shuttle, bus or taxi.

To explore this great city, a handful of options are available to you:

The bus

Nairobi buses are distinguished by their very vibrant colours. This transport crosses all the city's main arteries with well-defined routes. Departures and arrivals follow set schedules. The cost of a bus trip is around 50 KES (less than 0.5€).

The taxi

Nairobi taxis are recognised either by their black colour or yellow side stripe. There are no taxi meters in Kenya, so it's advisable to agree on the fare with the driver before getting in. Generally, a trip costs around $20. This option is recommended at night.

Private car

Renting a private car is a very interesting alternative, though the price is somewhat higher compared to a taxi.

The tuk-tuk

Similar to taxis but more affordable, tuk-tuk fares are negotiable. These are motorised rickshaws very common in Nairobi.

The matatu

The most frequently used transport in Nairobi, the matatu is a public minibus seating 9 to 13 passengers. No fixed stops, anyone can board or alight wherever they wish. The fare depends on the distance: from 20 KES to 100 KES.

Walking

To better admire the city, many tourists prefer to walk. However, you should remain cautious regarding petty crime.