Nairobi Travel Guide
Neighborhoods, transport, day trips, safety notes, and food—how to plan Nairobi in a practical 2–4 day itinerary.
Why visit
Nairobi is one of the most useful bases in Kenya for culture, food, and day trips. This guide focuses on practical planning: where to stay, how to move around safely, and how to structure 2–4 days.
Best areas to stay
- Westlands — Restaurants, malls, and a convenient base.
- Karen — Leafy area near attractions; more spread out.
- CBD (daytime) — Useful for errands and markets; choose carefully at night.
Getting around
Traffic can be heavy. For most visitors, ride-hailing is easiest. If using matatus (minibuses), do so with local guidance. Plan extra time to reach the airport.
Top things to do
- Build a realistic daily plan (2–3 major activities).
- Start early for popular sights to beat crowds and heat.
- Keep a flexible slot for weather, markets, or museums.
Day trips
- Nairobi National Park — A rare city-adjacent park; go early for best sightings.
- Giraffe Centre — Short visit; pair with Karen Blixen Museum area.
- Kiambu/coffee farms — Easy half-day to see estates and tastings.
Safety, scams, and common pitfalls
Petty theft and phone snatching can occur. Keep bags zipped, avoid displaying valuables, and use trusted transport after dark.
- Use licensed taxis/ride-hailing when available.
- Keep valuables minimal and close in crowded areas.
- Confirm prices before services (tours, guides, taxis).
Food highlights
- Nyama choma (grilled meat)
- Ugali and sukuma wiki
- Swahili coastal flavors in select restaurants
- Specialty coffee culture is strong
Related reading
Last updated: Feb 2026. We review this page periodically for seasonality, pricing, and policy changes.
Sources & references
We link to primary sources where possible (tourism boards, park authorities, and health agencies).