Nairobi – safari capital of Africa

Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi is the hub of African business and culture, standing proud on the Eastern edge of the Great Rift Valley. A city of lush and leafy parks, Nairobi provides shelter from the sun and is an abundant oasis for the business traveller and tourist alike. Nairobi offers many 5-star hotels and upmarket eateries befitting for an African centre of commerce and politics.

Nairobi’s modern skyline provides the remarkable backdrop to Kenya’s jewel, the Nairobi National Park. It’s the only game reserve to border a capital city, and offers views of lions, giraffes and hundreds of species of birds on its unique safari walks. Nairobi is a great starting point for safaris and expeditions to the Great Plains of Kenya.

Why Go?
Choose a different place to eat every night. There are hundreds of restaurants serving excellent traditional and international cuisine. Hop aboard a cheap local Matatu and head for the nightlife. Dance to the beat of western and fusion music - there are bars and clubs aplenty in night-time Nairobi.

How to get there?
Nairobi is served by the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, 12 miles from Nairobi’s business centre. Some visitors may need a visa before entry with most being able to purchase one upon entry at the airport. Regular flights to Nairobi are operated by Air Kenya, Kenya Airways, KLM, British Airways, Turkish Airlines, Emirates and Qatar Airways and direct flights are available from the UK. Nairobi is also easily accessible by train.

When to Go?
Nairobi is situated over 5000 ft above sea level and is near the equator. Wonderfully warm days, chilly evenings and little seasonal difference make it a very popular destination throughout the year. December to March is the warmest season of the year with average temperatures of 20˚C. June and July are the coolest months. It can get overcast in September and March, April and May are the wettest times to visit. 

Must see
Get up close to the Big Five on a wide range of safaris in and around Nairobi, or plunge into the sights and sounds of Africa and haggle for exquisite gifts and souvenirs at Maasai Market. The Snake Park at the Nairobi National Museum thrills travellers of all ages with its diversity of snakes, fish, alligators, birds and lizards. Celebrate African, Western and Oriental music at The Kenyan Music Festival in August, or enjoy live music and entertainment by River Café’s pond, bedecked in wild birds.