Nairobi
General Information
Nairobi is Kenya's capital city and is located in its own region. Having grown rapidly since its inception in 1899, today it is the economic, commercial and transport centre for East Africa.
Nairobi is a typical large city, busy, hot and overcrowded. There are the more affluent residential areas dotted around, but has its fair share of congested slums. Nairobi is an important base for the United Nations and is home to universities, NGO's and various organisations.
The city centre is locked-in with towering modern office blocks and an energetic atmosphere. Tourists can explore the city on foot, however caution must be taken for petty crime. The safer option would be to take a taxi, which are offered on almost every street corner.
Accommodation in Nairobi
Nairobi offers a large selection of budget-friendly and 5-star accommodation options. There are a range of hotels, lodges, bed and breakfasts and self-catering units in the area. Please view our accommodation directory for more information on places to stay.
Activities in Nairobi
Just outside the city there is the Nairobi National Park where you will find Zebra, Wildebeest, Buffalo, Giraffe, Rhino, Cheetah's and much more. Its quite incredible to have a national park within minutes drive of a major city!
There are a wide variety of things to do and see in and around Nairobi, of which some of them are listed below:-
- Jamia Mosque
- City Market - a great variety of arts and crafts from all over Africa.
- Kenyatta International Conference Centre – this was built in 1974
- National Archives – a wonderful collection of tribal and contemporary art
- City Square – statue of Kenya's first president, Jomo Kenyatta
- Railway Museum – tells the story around the building of the Uganda Railway (Lunatic Line)
- Nairobi National Museum
- Nairobi Arboretum – a must-see for all visitors, holds over 350 species of trees
- City Park – beautiful landscaped gardens
- Karen Blixen Museum – author of the book “Out of Africa”, and located in Nairobi’s suburb of Karen
Please see the activities directory for more information on the things to do in Nairobi.
Businesses
Nairobi's business community is thriving. Tourists can find shops, stalls and souvenirs in the vicinity. The restaurants are varied and plentiful, catering to all tastes and budges.
Please go to our business directory for a full list of businesses you can find in the region, or add your own free business listing.