Nairobi Kenya Travel Guide
Nairobi is the capital of Kenya and the largest city in the country. In addition to its urban core, the city has Nairobi National Park, a large game reserve known for breeding endangered black rhinos and home to giraffes, zebras and lions. Next to it is a well-regarded elephant orphanage operated by the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Nairobi is also often used as a jumping-off point for safari trips elsewhere in Kenya.
The word Nairobi derives from a water hole known in Maasai (an Eastern Nilotic language) as Enkare Nyirobi, which means "cool waters." Nairobi, which was a swamp area, was founded in 1899 and was first a railway camp for the Uganda Railway. The city became Kenya’s capital, which was Mombasa initially, and it also became the capital of the British East Africa Protectorate in 1905. With the spread of plagues in the early 1900s, the town was burnt down and had to be rebuilt. Having a railroad system in the system helped it to have drastic growth, becoming the second largest city in Kenya behind Mombasa.
The city of Nairobi also grew due to administration and tourism businesses (mostly big game hunting). The British, who were one of Kenya’s colonizers, set up shop in Nairobi, leading to the creation of big hotels primarily for the British hunters. Also, Nairobi has an East Indian community from those who are the descendents of original colonial railway laborers and merchants.
Kenya’s bus system is mostly reliable. There are many bus companies that have routes going to and from the country’s different cities, including Nairobi, the center of the bus network. Taxis are not very cheap, but will make city life easier and safer, at least at night. Always set and agree on prices before the trip, and pay afterwards.
Nairobi is known as the safari capital of Africa, however the city has still managed to keep up with modernization. Unlike other cities, Nairobi is surrounded by 113 km² (70 mi²) of plains, cliffs and forest that makes up the city’s Nairobi National Park. The city is filled with many things to do during the day and the night. Tourists can have their pick from numerous safaris (wildlife, cultural, sport, adventure, scenic and specialist), ecotourism tours, restaurants, culture, shopping and entertainment. While in Nairobi, tourists can also engage in numerous sports from golf, rugby, athletics, polo, horse-racing, cricket and football (soccer).
Nairobi National Park, just outside Nairobi. This is home to large herds of Zebra, Wildebeest, Buffalo, Giraffe, Lion, Cheetah, Hippo, Rhino and even birdlife (over 400 species). Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, close to the Nairobi National Park. This Orphanage takes in elephant calves and rhinos from all over Kenya which were orphaned by poaching. Giraffe Centre, in Lang'ata right outside of Nairobi. The Centre breeds the endangered Rothschild Giraffe and has conservation/education programmes for Kenyan children. Mamba Village. Typically the 3rd stop for most tourists after the Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center. Lake Naivasha. About 1.5hrs outside of central Nairobi, this area is a haven away from the chaos of the city where many 3rd and 4th generation British colonialists continue to reside.
Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park, 65 km from Nairobi, is centred around a 2,146-m (7,141 ft) mountain. Kenyatta International Conference Center (K.I.C.C) is the best place to get that far ranging view over the sprawling, congested metropolis that is Nairobi. Tana River, is an hour's drive from the city. White water rafting throughout cataracts, which leads to the 14 falls can be done here. Nairobi National Museum is where visitors can learn about Kenya, its history and culture. The museum celebrated 100 years in 2010. National Railway Museum, visitors can learn more about the history of Kenya’s railroads and the Kenya/Uganda railway. Uhuru Gardens, built in remembrance of the struggle for independence, which Kenya was granted in 1963. Westlands by night, Visit the bustling and hip Westlands district, which has turned into the new nightlife center of Nairobi. While Jamia Mosque is tucked away in between other buildings there are striking views to be glimpsed of its intricate structure from many different angles.
Go to Maasai market and buy keepsakes for yourself and friends: On Saturday it is at Nairobi High Court parking lot, Village Market on Friday, The Junction on Thursday, Capital Centre on Wednesday. Prepare to haggle and as a guide, pay about half to two thirds of the asking price.
A lot to do and see in Nairobi
Nairobi National Park
Giraffe Centre
Karen Blixen Museum
Bomas of Kenya
Nairobi Safari Walk
Nairobi Animal Orphanage
Ngong Hills
The Maasai Market
David Sheldrick Elephant & Rhino Orphanage
Karura Forest
Westlands
Uhuru Park
The Bomas of Kenya
Nairobi Railway Museum
Chogoria Road
Uhuru Gardens
Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Hell's Gate National Park
Kenya National Archives
Snake Park
Oloolua Nature Trail
The Mamba Village
The Nairobi Arboretum
Upper Hill, Nairobi
Amboseli Road
The Sarova Stanley
Jamia Mosque
Kenya Association of Tour Operators
Kibera slum
Sarit Centre
Elephant and Rhino Nursery
Central Business District
Kazuri Beads
Ngara
Kitengela Hot Glass Ltd. - Studio
African Heritage House
Gigiri
ABC Place
Diamond Plaza
Ngong Road
Jeevanjee Gardens
South B
Kenya National Theatre
Madaraka Estate
Karen Country Club
Mara Conservancy
Valley Arcade
Muthaiga Golf Club
Kenyatta International Conference Centre
Safari in central Nairobi park.
Try the many excellent restaurants in Nairobi.
Go dancing and be a part of Nairobi's excellent nightlife
Go ice skating at Panari
Visit Village Market and Sherlocks with your friends
Safari in central Nairobi park.
Try the many excellent restaurants in Nairobi.
Go dancing and be a part of Nairobi's excellent nightlife
Go ice skating at Panari
Visit Village Market and Sherlocks with your friends
Visit Kibera, the slums of Nairobi. Guided walks are arranged by Kiberatours.
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