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Nairobi

Craft markets, cafe hopping & safari gateways

Browse Nairobi

Nairobi is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Nairobi City Market, Nairobi National Park and Giraffe Centre. Food lovers should not miss Black Diamond and Carnivore. Below you will find 12 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Nairobi at a glance

  • Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
  • Best time to visit: spring and autumn
  • Highlights: Nairobi City Market and Nairobi National Park
  • Where to stay: South and Langata
  • Local picks: 12 hand-chosen recommendations
  • Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Local tips for Nairobi

Stories and neighbourhood know-how from our local guides.

Where to stay in Nairobi

Compare live hotel prices and availability on the map. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Westlands

Black Diamond

One of the most famous nightspots in Westlands, a big bar, grill and nightclub known for its live bands on Wednesdays and Sundays and a lively, late crowd. A Nairobi night-out institution.
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Langata

Carnivore

A legendary all-you-can-eat nyama choma barbecue.
★ 4.5
$$$
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Langata

Giraffe Centre

Feed endangered Rothschild giraffes from a raised platform.
★ 4.6
$
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Gigiri

Karura Forest

A vast urban forest of trails, waterfalls and caves.
★ 4.6
$
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Various

Maasai Market

A roving open-air market of beadwork, carvings and textiles.
★ 4.3
$
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Kilimani

Mama Oliech

A local institution for whole fried tilapia and ugali.
★ 4.5
$$
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CBD

Nairobi City Market

Nairobi’s main souvenir market, right in the city centre, packed with dozens of stalls selling wood carvings, drums, soapstone, Maasai jewellery and clothing, alongside flower and food sections. It’s one of the best spots in Kenya for African crafts – come ready to browse and bargain.
★ 4.2
$
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Museum Hill

Nairobi National Museum

Kenyan heritage, prehistory and the famous hominin fossils.
★ 4.4
$
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South

Nairobi National Park

A big-game safari park within sight of the city skyline.
★ 4.6
$$
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Various

Nairobi Safari Day Trip

A guided game drive through Nairobi National Park at dawn.
★ 4.7
$$
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Centre

Sarova Stanley

Nairobis oldest hotel, home to the famous Thorn Tree Cafe.
★ 4.4
$$$
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Langata

Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

A moving sanctuary for orphaned baby elephants.
★ 4.7
$
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Book your trip to Nairobi

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Nairobi travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Nairobi?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Nairobi at a relaxed pace.

Where is the best area to stay in Nairobi?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit.

What are the best things to do in Nairobi?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay. Or read our best things to do in Nairobi guide.

What is the best time to visit Nairobi?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Nairobi is worth visiting year-round.

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