Фотогалерея ‒ Nairobi, Kenya

Guide to Nairobi

Nairobi Virtual Guide

Nairobi is a relatively young city, with its final construction completed in 1900. Today, it not only serves as the geographical capital of Kenya but also as its business hub. Nairobi holds the distinction of being the largest city in East Africa and continues to experience steady growth. The cityscape of Nairobi is characterized primarily by the soaring skyscrapers of its business center, composed of glass and steel structures that reach towards the sky. This is the view of Nairobi often encountered by travelers, for whom the Kenyan capital serves as a transit point before embarking on safaris. However, for those who take the time to explore the city, Nairobi reveals many captivating attractions. To experience an authentic African ambiance in Nairobi, a visit to the old part of the city is highly recommended. Here, you can stroll through bustling bazaars and admire well-preserved examples of colonial architecture. Nairobi boasts a diverse array of religious temples, with notable landmarks including the Cathedral of the Holy Family and the Friday Mosque, both celebrated for their architectural uniqueness. One of Nairobi's most captivating highlights is its National Park, where wildlife can be observed within the city limits. Additionally, the farm of Karen Blixen, a Danish writer, is another iconic attraction in the city worth exploring.

Tips for tourists

In Nairobi, it is forbidden to take photos in the main town square. You should also not take pictures of locals unless they have given you consent.
Do not get too close to the animals during the safari. And even more so, do not leave the vehicle without the guide's permission. Otherwise you may get hurt.
Only bottled water should be consumed in Nairobi. Fruits and vegetables should be washed very carefully. It is even better to peel them cleanly.
Population
3 240 155
Time zone
UTC+3
Language
English
Currency
Kenyan shilling

Tours to Nairobi

The exoticism of Kenya is not something everyone can afford. But even in high season, hot deals can make up for it. If you're ready for an expensive flight, but want to save money on the vacation itself, prepare at least 500 USD for it.

The best tours to Nairobi start at 1000-1200 USD. But you can always organize your own trip. There are museums, beaches, and excellent opportunities for a good safari. The Kenya National Park is well worth exploring.

It is believed that people go to Nairobi just for the safari, landscapes and colorful life of Kenya. The cheapest tours cost 500-700 USD. The price depends on the time of year, number of days, your travel plans and many other factors.

Seeing elephants and the African savannah, riding under palm trees and admiring lion prides is an adventure. Even the most inexpensive Nairobi vacation will give you that opportunity.

Getaways to Nairobi can be found all year round. They can save you anywhere from 100 to 300 USD, or even more. The savings are usually spent on wild Africa, shopping and other fun activities that the modern African metropolis has to offer in abundance.

You can see Kilimanjaro, visit the National Museum, and go to the market all year round. After all, Kenya has no unfavorable seasons for visits. So keep that in mind when you're traveling to Nairobi.

Interesting places in Nairobi

Nairobi doesn't always top the list of tourist destinations, as most visitors view it as a transit hub before embarking on a safari adventure. Nevertheless, dedicating a couple of days to explore the city can be rewarding. Strolling through the city center provides insights into East Africa's largest city, its economic vitality, and cultural richness. While Nairobi may not be the most kid-friendly destination, there are local parks that can delight young travelers, and you can savor the local cuisine at one of its many restaurants.
Sights

Travel budget

Flight ticket prices

Airfare to Nairobi will be cheaper if you take weekday flights departing in the morning. There are no direct flights to the African continent, and you'll have to make connections during the trip.

From a major European city, a flight to Nairobi and back will cost you from 820 USD. You will need to make two connections in the process.

The best hotels in Nairobi

High-end hotels in Nairobi are located in the business center of the city. These are modern buildings, many of which impress guests with their luxury. For example, the InterContinental Nairobi. At this five-star hotel you can get a room for two for 190 USD.

Four-star hotels start at 100 USD, like La Maison Royale. But you can find a room in a three-star hotel for as little as $35 USD, such as the Decasa Hotel.

In Nairobi's suburbs, you can find hostels or guesthouses for as little as $20 USD per night.

In the suburbs, you'll find hostels or guesthouses that charge less than $20 USD per night.

The cost of vacation

You should budget your trip to Nairobi carefully, as prices are quite high. You should include visa, airfare, accommodation, meals in restaurants and excursions to parks and museums of the city. It is worth considering souvenirs, because this is Africa, and a variety of curiosities from here you can bring a lot. Although the main item of expenses, of course, is a safari in the vicinity of the capital of Kenya.

The budget for a trip to Nairobi
Visa From 50 USD Flight From 550 USD
Accomodation From 20 USD Average check in a restaurant From 10 USD (1000 KES)
Transportation fare From 65 KES Excursion From 15 USD
Total: about 820 USD for four days

Nairobi: tips for tourists

We've compiled information for you about Nairobi that will help you better navigate your trip and feel more confident.

Visa to Nairobi

A single entry tourist visa for residents of both countries will cost 50 USD.

Airport

Nairobi Airport is named after Jomo Kenyatta. It was opened in 1958 and is now the largest international airport not only in Kenya, but in the whole of East Africa. Nairobi is 15 kilometers from the airport.

Transfer

To get to Nairobi from the airport, you can take bus #34 for a fare starting at 60 KES, or you can book a cab for 1400 KES (15 USD). If you plan to rent a car, you can do so at the airport.

Car rental

The average cost of renting a car in Nairobi is between 70 and 100 USD (7000-10000 KES). Drivers must be at least 23 years old, with at least two years' experience and an international driver's license.

The driver must be at least 23 years old and have an international driver's license.

Transport

Nairobi has an extensive bus transportation system. The fare for a regular bus starts from 65 KES and is calculated based on distance. In addition to buses there are tourist minibuses matatatu. Fare in them costs from 160 KES. A cab ride around the city costs from 640 KES.

Safety

The center of Nairobi is fairly safe for tourists, but it's not a good idea to carry large amounts of cash, even here. But it's definitely not a good idea to venture into the outlying areas of the city at night, unless you want to get mugged.

tripmydream - travel service, that helps to find compare and buy best flights and rooms worldwide with the given budget. All necessary information for travelers - is right here!