About Nairobi
Lying at the heart of Africa is Nairobi, the dynamic capital city of Kenya. The city has the highest population in Kenya with over 3.1 million residents.
Nairobi is the ultimate adventure city for anyone. In fact, it’s the only city in the world with a game reserve! Major tourist attractions in Nairobi include the Karura Forest, the Giraffe Center, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and the Nairobi National Park.
Raydoll Tours offers cheap flights to Nairobi from local cities such as Mombasa, Eldoret and Kisumu as well as international cities. Get ready for a fascinating visit to this beautiful city that connects Kenya to the world through the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). The airport is just a 30-minute drive from the city center. Domestic flights are also available from Wilson Airport (WIL).
Why Visit Nairobi
· Historic Attractions
Find out the rich historical past of Nairobi that is brought to life through a collection of sights, landmarks and museums. The Bomas of Kenya and Karen Blixen Museum are two must-visit attractions in Nairobi.
· Distinct Kenyan Cuisine
Kenyan cuisine comes to life in Nairobi through its many restaurants and eatery joints. Delve into mouthwatering charcoal-roasted crocodile, camel and ostrich at popular venues such as Fogo Gaucho and Carnivore.
· Enchanting Wildlife
You can’t speak of attractions in Nairobi without mentioning safari parks and numerous wildlife. This nature’s paradise city is a treat for animal lovers. Meet the Big 5 animals as well as other enchanting wildlife.
Best Time to Visit Nairobi
The best time to visit Nairobi will depend on what you want to do in the city. If you want to experience the thrill of being close to African wildlife, visit between January and mid-March and between June and October. These are the dry seasons in Nairobi when most animals tend to come closer to the city. However, the period is also a peak tourist time. Therefore, you may have to deal with overcrowded attractions.
The low tourist season in Nairobi is from mid-March to May and in November. During these periods, most camps and lodges are empty. Some may be closed due to the high volume of rainfall. If you will be visiting Nairobi during this time, make sure you have a raincoat.
Overview
Nairobi is a buzzing business capital of East and Central Africa. However, don’t let the modern skyscrapers fool you. Just a few kilometers outside the City Center are a range of wildlife attractions. Museums and historic sites also dot the city.
You should not leave Nairobi without visiting the Nairobi National Park. This is a major attraction for visitors looking for an authentic game safari experience. Immerse yourself into the local crafts at the Pottery Center and Kazuri Bead Factory and discover the authentic culture of Nairobi at the Kenyatta Market.
If history is for you, the Karen Blixen Museum and the Nairobi National Museum should be in your list of places to visit before transitioning into the exciting nightlife.
Compare several airlines and book cheap flights to Nairobi at Raydoll Tour’s portal.
Health & Safety
Before flying to Kenya, visit your doctor to receive routine vaccinations at least four to six weeks. Moreover, take precaution against diseases such as Zika, malaria, meningitis, rabies, cholera, typhoid, hepatitis A and hepatitis B.
Like most major African cities, the crime rate in Nairobi is quite high. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Keep your valuables out of sight and securely
- Avoid walking alone outdoors at night
- Carry enough cash that you need
- Avoid displaying large amounts of cash as this could make you a target
- Finally, beware of groups of people following you, scams and con artists
Where to Stay
There are many hotels, resorts, villas and hostels available all around Nairobi. Majority of these establishments are in the CBD and between Eastleigh and Kileleshwa. You can get accommodation based on your budget. Most accommodation options have bars, restaurants, free Wi-Fi, spas, pools, and many more amenities.
Expect to pay from between $10 for cheap accommodation to $400 for high end accommodation in Nairobi. Some of the reputable establishments in the city include Villa Rosa Kempinski, Qaribu Inn, Amber Hotel and Mdawida Homestay.
Getting Around
Getting around Nairobi can be quite hectic due to heavy traffic, especially during the rush hours (07:00 – 09:00 and 16:30 – 18:30). If you are flying to Nairobi for business and have an appointment, plan your trip in advance. It’s even better if you get help from a local or guide.
You can get around Nairobi cheaply by using buses (matatus). The buses cost less than $1 from one place to another. However, the best option would be calling a taxi using an app like Uber.
Traveling around Nairobi on foot, especially in the city center, is also a good idea. However, like is the case with traveling anywhere, make sure you stay vigilant and are aware of your surroundings.