How to Spend a Day in Nairobi Kenya – Discover Africa!
Thinking of diving into the heart of Africa's vibrant energy? Nairobi is where you’ll find it! This city is a whirlwind of colour, culture, and non-stop excitement. You might even spot a Maasai warrior on their way to work right next to a suited-up business executive! Get ready for a rollercoaster of sights, sounds, and flavours. It doesn't matter if you have just a day or a whole week; Nairobi's ready to show you the time of your life.
Best Time to Visit
Aim for the dry season, which usually runs from late June to October and then again from late December to March. The weather is just perfect during these months, and it is prime time for wildlife spotting. But keep in mind, since it's the peak season for tourists, things might be a bit pricier and more crowded.
If you're considering the rainy season, which is around April to June and October to December, you'll get to see a lush, green landscape. But the rain can make it a bit tricky for wildlife viewing, and some roads might not be in the best shape. And try to skip January and February – that's when the long rains hit, and they can really put a damper on your travel plans.
Where to Stay
If you want to explore the best of Nairobi in the course of a day, you should choose your accommodation wisely. A central location is what you should aim for. Serviced apartments in Nairobi are as popular as hotels these days, if not more. The likes of Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Nairobi are excellent choices for those short on time.
Keep a lookout for accommodation deals and discounts, and if you skip the high season, you can find lots of hotel packages.
Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Kick off your Nairobi adventure with an early visit to Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, right in the heart of Nairobi National Park. This sanctuary, founded by Daphne Sheldrick in memory of her conservationist husband David, is a haven for orphaned baby elephants and rhinos from across Kenya.
Get there in time for the 11 AM public feeding – it's something you don't want to miss. Watching these little ones guzzle down their bottles, splash around in water, and play in the dirt is just heart-melting. Plus, you get to see them roaming their fenced-off area, all playful and carefree.
The Giraffe Centre

Feeding Giraffe in Giraffe Centre in Nairobi | Image via Wikimedia Commons
Next up on your Nairobi adventure? The Giraffe Centre! This place isn't just a tourist spot; it's an educational goldmine, especially if you're keen on learning about East Africa's wildlife. As soon as you arrive, you'll be handed a bunch of pellets – your ticket to an up-close and personal feeding session with the giraffes from a raised platform. Imagine standing eye-to-eye with these tall beauties, feeding them right out of your hand. It's an experience you'll never forget!
The Karen Blixen Museum
For all you literature and history buffs out there, the Karen Blixen Museum in Nairobi is a spot you can't miss. It's dedicated to the legendary Danish author Karen Blixen, who called Kenya home from 1914 to 1931. If her memoir Out of Africa rings a bell, this is where she penned those captivating tales.
The museum is actually Blixen's former house, and it's like stepping back in time. The rooms are just as she left them, filled with her original furniture, photos, and personal items. It's not just a museum; it's a peek into the life of a woman who lived an extraordinary life as a coffee farmer in Africa.
The Bomas of Kenya
Just a quick 10-kilometre hop from Nairobi's bustling centre, you'll find Bomas of Kenya, a cultural treasure in Langata that's a must-see. This tourist village is a vibrant celebration of Kenyan culture, bursting with traditional dances, music, and crafts.
As soon as you step in, you'll be greeted with the warm, welcoming spirit of the Kenyan people. It's a fantastic place to mingle with locals and dive into their lifestyles. Wander through the various traditional villages, each representing a different tribal group. You'll be amazed by the authentic architecture and artefacts.
Dine at a Local Restaurant
What better way to wrap up your day in Nairobi than with a scrumptious dinner at a local eatery? Nairobi's buzzing with a diverse food scene, so you're in for a real treat. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat lover, Nairobi’s restaurants will not disappoint you.