Things to do in Nairobi: Based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
Two Rivers Mall, Nairobi
Overview: Two Rivers Mall is one of the largest mixed-use developments in East Africa, offering shopping, dining, entertainment, and residential spaces in a modern environment.
History: Developed by Centum Investment Company, the mall was created to bring world-class retail and lifestyle options to Kenya’s growing urban population.
Since When: Officially opened to the public in February 2017.
Review: Visitors appreciate its expansive layout, diverse store selection, and attractions like the Eye of Kenya Ferris wheel.
When to Go: Best visited on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a relaxed shopping experience.
How to Go: Accessible via Limuru Road by private car, taxi, or public matatus from Nairobi city center.
What to Do: Shop at international and local brands, dine at various eateries, watch movies, and enjoy amusement rides.
Free or Paid: Free to enter; individual attractions and services are paid.
Uhuru Park, Nairobi
Overview: Uhuru Park is a historic public recreational park located in central Nairobi, known for its green open space, monuments, and leisure boating lake.
History: Commissioned in the 1960s as a symbol of post-independence freedom and often used for political rallies and public gatherings.
Since When: Opened in 1969.
Review: Loved for its central location and iconic status, though some areas may show signs of aging or crowding.
When to Go: Ideal to visit during the daytime on weekdays for a peaceful walk or picnic.
How to Go: Easily reachable on foot or by public transport from downtown Nairobi.
What to Do: Relax on lawns, rent paddle boats, view monuments, and enjoy city views.
Free or Paid: Free entry; small fees apply for boat rides and certain facilities.
Sarit, Nairobi
Overview: Sarit Centre is one of Nairobi’s oldest and most popular shopping malls, offering a variety of retail outlets, services, and entertainment options.
History: Launched as one of Kenya’s first modern shopping malls, it has undergone several renovations to meet changing consumer needs.
Since When: First opened in 1983.
Review: Visitors admire its consistent upgrades, great location in Westlands, and reliable shopping and dining experience.
When to Go: Weekdays or early mornings on weekends are best to avoid congestion.
How to Go: Located in Westlands and accessible by matatu, taxi, or private car from the city center.
What to Do: Shop, enjoy a meal, attend events, or watch movies at the cinema.
Free or Paid: Free to enter; services and entertainment are paid.
The Junction Mall, Nairobi
Overview: The Junction Mall is a vibrant shopping and lifestyle destination that combines retail, dining, and family entertainment on Ngong Road.
History: Developed to meet the retail needs of Nairobi’s growing residential areas along Ngong Road and beyond.
Since When: Opened in 2004.
Review: Known for its accessibility, diverse tenant mix, and clean, organized environment.
When to Go: Weekday afternoons are ideal for a relaxed shopping experience.
How to Go: Easily reached via public transport or car along Ngong Road.
What to Do: Shop, catch a movie, enjoy food courts, and attend family events.
Free or Paid: Free to enter; movie tickets, food, and shopping are paid.
The Hub Karen, Nairobi
Overview: The Hub Karen is an upscale, open-air shopping mall offering premium retail, fine dining, leisure, and family-oriented entertainment in a serene environment.
History: Built to serve the affluent Karen and Lang’ata neighborhoods with a sophisticated and eco-friendly shopping experience.
Since When: Officially opened in February 2016.
Review: Visitors enjoy the peaceful ambiance, beautiful landscaping, and range of quality shops and eateries.
When to Go: Best on weekday afternoons or early mornings on weekends to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.
How to Go: Located in Karen, accessible by car, ride-hailing apps, or matatus from the city center.
What to Do: Shop at boutique stores, eat at gourmet restaurants, let kids enjoy the playground, and attend weekend markets.
Free or Paid: Free to enter; shopping and activities are paid.
Yaya Centre, Nairobi
Overview: Yaya Centre is a well-established shopping complex in Nairobi’s Hurlingham area offering a range of retail, dining, and service options in a secure and convenient location.
History: Developed in the 1980s, Yaya Centre was one of the earliest modern malls in Nairobi and played a key role in the city’s retail transformation.
Since When: Opened to the public in 1983.
Review: Favored for its accessibility, security, and long-standing presence, though considered smaller compared to newer malls.
When to Go: Ideal to visit on weekday mornings or early afternoons for easier parking and shorter queues.
How to Go: Easily reached by matatu, ride-hailing services, or private car via Argwings Kodhek Road.
What to Do: Shop at fashion outlets, enjoy local and international cuisine, get salon services, or browse the supermarket.
Free or Paid: Free to enter; purchases and services are paid.
Giraffe Centre, Nairobi
Overview: The Giraffe Centre is a conservation and education center focused on the endangered Rothschild giraffe, offering visitors close interaction in a serene setting.
History: Founded by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife in 1979 to protect Rothschild giraffes and promote conservation awareness.
Since When: Opened to the public in 1983.
Review: Highly rated for its educational value, family-friendliness, and unique experience of feeding giraffes from a raised platform.
When to Go: Best to visit in the morning between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM for fewer crowds and active giraffes.
How to Go: Located in Lang’ata, accessible by car, ride-hailing app, or tour packages from central Nairobi.
What to Do: Feed giraffes, learn about conservation, visit the nature trail, and take photos.
Free or Paid: Paid entry (with discounted rates for Kenyan citizens and residents).
Gikomba Market, Nairobi
Overview: Gikomba Market is one of Nairobi’s largest and busiest open-air markets, known for selling second-hand clothes, household goods, and fresh produce.
History: Gikomba grew organically from a small market in the 1960s into a massive hub for informal trade, especially in mitumba (second-hand clothes).
Since When: It has existed informally since the post-independence era and expanded significantly in the 1980s.
Review: Popular for bargain shopping but can be overwhelming due to congestion, noise, and occasional safety concerns.
When to Go: Best to visit early in the morning for fresh stock and better prices.
How to Go: Accessible via matatu, boda boda, or taxi from downtown Nairobi, located near the Eastlands area.
What to Do: Shop for cheap clothes, shoes, electronics, and other goods while bargaining for the best deals.
Free or Paid: Free to enter; all purchases are paid and negotiated.
Kenya National Archives, Nairobi
Overview: The Kenya National Archives houses an extensive collection of Kenya’s historical documents, photographs, and artifacts, serving as both a museum and research facility.
History: Established in 1965 and located in a colonial-era building that once housed the Bank of India, it preserves Kenya’s documentary heritage.
Since When: Opened in 1965 as a national institution.
Review: Valued for its cultural significance and low-cost entry, though the facilities are relatively modest.
When to Go: Ideal on weekday mornings for a quiet visit and better access to archival resources.
How to Go: Located at the junction of Moi Avenue and Tom Mboya Street, easily accessible by foot or public transport from Nairobi CBD.
What to Do: Explore historical photographs, artifacts, art from Joseph Murumbi’s collection, and archival records.
Free or Paid: Paid entry (with nominal fees for locals and tourists).
Gateway Mall, Nairobi
Overview: Gateway Mall is a modern shopping and lifestyle center located near Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, offering retail stores, eateries, and essential services.
History: Built to serve the fast-growing Syokimau and airport regions with a convenient stopover for travelers and locals.
Since When: Opened in 2014.
Review: Praised for its proximity to the airport and practical mix of stores, though it’s more functional than luxurious.
When to Go: Best visited on weekdays or while waiting for a flight due to its convenient airport location.
How to Go: Located along Mombasa Road, accessible by matatu, private car, or taxi from JKIA or Nairobi CBD.
What to Do: Shop for travel essentials, dine, catch a movie, or unwind between flights.
Free or Paid: Free to enter; shopping, parking, and entertainment are paid.
National Museum of Kenya, Nairobi
Overview: The National Museum of Kenya in Nairobi showcases Kenya’s rich cultural and natural heritage through comprehensive exhibits on history, paleontology, ethnography, and art.
History: Established in 1930, the museum was initially founded as the Coryndon Museum to honor Sir Robert Coryndon and later evolved to represent Kenya’s diverse heritage.
Since When: It has been operating under its current name and function since Kenya’s independence in 1963.
Review: Visitors praise the museum for its well-curated galleries and informative displays, making it a top educational attraction in Nairobi.
When to Go: The best time to visit is during weekdays in the morning hours to avoid crowds and enjoy quieter exploration.
How to Go: Located on Museum Hill, it is easily accessible by taxi, ride-share apps, or public matatus from the city center.
What to Do: Explore the permanent galleries, botanical gardens, Snake Park, and temporary art exhibitions.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, with tiered rates for citizens, residents, and non-residents.
Nairobi National Park, Nairobi
Overview: Nairobi National Park is a unique wildlife reserve located just outside the city, offering the chance to see lions, rhinos, giraffes, and more against a backdrop of Nairobi’s skyline.
History: It was established in 1946 as Kenya’s first national park, marking the beginning of the country’s conservation movement.
Since When: The park has been open to the public and in operation since December 16, 1946.
Review: It receives high praise for being an extraordinary wilderness experience so close to a major urban center.
When to Go: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
How to Go: Accessible by car or taxi from central Nairobi, with many tour operators offering game drives.
What to Do: Take a guided safari, visit the animal orphanage, or enjoy a picnic at designated spots.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid with rates varying for local and international visitors.
Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Nairobi
Overview: The Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) is an iconic skyscraper and major venue for conferences, exhibitions, and panoramic city views.
History: Built in 1973, KICC was developed under President Jomo Kenyatta’s regime as a symbol of national progress and modernization.
Since When: The center has been serving as Nairobi’s primary convention and event space since its official opening in 1973.
Review: Guests highlight the rooftop view deck for its breathtaking 360-degree view of Nairobi city.
When to Go: The best time to visit is during weekdays when it’s open and not crowded with events.
How to Go: Located in the Central Business District, it is accessible by foot, public transport, or private car.
What to Do: Attend events, exhibitions, and head to the helipad for panoramic sightseeing and photography.
Free or Paid: Access to the rooftop viewpoint is paid, though general ground-level visits are often free.
Village Market, Nairobi
Overview: Village Market is an upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment complex catering to locals and expatriates with a blend of global and African experiences.
History: Opened in 1995, it was initially designed to serve the Gigiri area’s diplomatic and residential community.
Since When: It has been operational since 1995 and has expanded significantly over the years.
Review: Visitors commend its variety of restaurants, international retail brands, and lively family-friendly atmosphere.
When to Go: The best time to visit is on weekends or public holidays when more events and activities are available.
How to Go: Located in Gigiri, it is reachable via taxi, ride-share services, or matatus from Westlands and the CBD.
What to Do: Shop, dine, watch movies, bowl, attend craft markets, or enjoy spa services.
Free or Paid: Entry is free, though activities and shopping are paid.
The Nairobi Arboretum, Nairobi
Overview: The Nairobi Arboretum is a peaceful urban green space housing over 300 species of indigenous and exotic trees, perfect for nature walks and picnics.
History: Established in 1907 by the then colonial government to test tree species for commercial forestry in Kenya.
Since When: It has been open to the public since the early 20th century as a recreational and conservation site.
Review: It’s loved by nature enthusiasts for its serene environment, birdwatching opportunities, and jogging paths.
When to Go: Visit during morning hours or late afternoons for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
How to Go: It is easily accessed by car or matatu from Nairobi city center via State House Road.
What to Do: Enjoy nature walks, have a picnic, do photography, and observe various tree and bird species.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, though the fees are minimal and affordable for most visitors.
Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Nairobi
Overview: The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is a renowned conservation organization dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of orphaned elephants and rhinos, offering visitors an intimate wildlife experience.
History: Founded in 1977 by Daphne Sheldrick in memory of her husband David Sheldrick, a pioneering conservationist in Kenya.
Since When: The elephant nursery at Nairobi National Park has been operational and open to the public since the early 1980s.
Review: Visitors highly recommend the Trust for its heartwarming elephant feedings and conservation efforts.
When to Go: The best time to visit is during the public viewing hour from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM daily.
How to Go: Located inside Nairobi National Park, it is best accessed via taxi or tour operator from central Nairobi.
What to Do: Watch the baby elephants being fed, learn about their stories, and support adoption programs.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid and usually requires advance booking due to limited visitor slots.
The Waterfront Karen, Nairobi
Overview: The Waterfront Karen is a modern lifestyle mall offering shopping, dining, entertainment, and lakeside relaxation in an upscale environment.
History: Opened in late 2018, it was designed to cater to the growing demand for high-end retail and leisure experiences in Nairobi’s Karen suburb.
Since When: It has been serving shoppers and families since its grand opening in December 2018.
Review: It’s praised for its clean, open-air design, diverse restaurants, and family-friendly facilities.
When to Go: Weekends and late afternoons are ideal for shopping, dining, and people-watching.
How to Go: Easily reachable by private car, ride-hailing services, or matatus from the city center heading to Karen.
What to Do: Shop at international brands, dine at cafes, enjoy lakeside walks, and attend weekend events.
Free or Paid: Entry is free, but services and shopping are paid.
Nairobi Animal Orphanage, Nairobi
Overview: The Nairobi Animal Orphanage serves as a rehabilitation center for rescued and injured wild animals, giving visitors an up-close view of Kenya’s native species.
History: Established in 1964, it was created to care for orphaned and injured wildlife found across Kenya.
Since When: It has been open to the public and operating continuously since its founding in 1964.
Review: Visitors find it informative and ideal for families, though it’s more like a zoo than a true wilderness experience.
When to Go: Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak sun and crowds.
How to Go: Located within Nairobi National Park, it’s accessible via taxi or matatu through Lang’ata Road.
What to Do: Observe lions, cheetahs, monkeys, and birds, while learning about wildlife conservation.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, with different rates for citizens, residents, and non-residents.
Nairobi Safari Walk, Nairobi
Overview: Nairobi Safari Walk is an elevated boardwalk experience offering a close-up view of wildlife and ecosystems, designed for education and family exploration.
History: Developed by the Kenya Wildlife Service to promote conservation awareness and sustainable tourism near the city.
Since When: It has been open to the public as a conservation and tourism site since the early 2000s.
Review: It’s often described as a fun and educational outing, especially popular with school groups and young families.
When to Go: Best visited in the morning for cooler weather and active animals.
How to Go: Located adjacent to Nairobi National Park’s main gate, it’s accessible by car, ride-share, or matatu.
What to Do: Walk the boardwalks, spot animals like leopards and rhinos, and explore Kenya’s habitat zones.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, with rates depending on visitor residency status.
Ngong Road Forest Sanctuary, Nairobi
Overview: Ngong Road Forest Sanctuary is a tranquil indigenous forest area ideal for nature lovers seeking walking trails, birdwatching, and eco-friendly recreation within the city.
History: Once heavily deforested, it has been revitalized through community and conservation efforts to preserve native forest land.
Since When: The sanctuary has been open for public use and conservation education since the early 2000s.
Review: Visitors appreciate its peaceful trails and fresh air, noting it as a hidden gem in Nairobi.
When to Go: Ideal for morning hikes or late afternoon walks when the temperatures are cooler.
How to Go: Located along Ngong Road, it is accessible by car, matatu, or motorbike.
What to Do: Hike, jog, birdwatch, enjoy forest photography, and participate in community forest events.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, but rates are low and support conservation efforts.
Bomas of Kenya, Nairobi
Overview: Bomas of Kenya is a cultural center showcasing Kenya’s diverse ethnic traditions through music, dance, architecture, and artifacts.
History: It was established by the Kenyan government in 1971 to preserve and promote the country’s cultural heritage.
Since When: It has been open to the public and hosting traditional performances since 1971.
Review: Visitors enjoy the vibrant dance shows and authentic village replicas, though some feel the facilities are slightly dated.
When to Go: Best visited in the afternoon when the live cultural performances are scheduled.
How to Go: Located in Lang’ata, it is easily accessible via taxi, matatu, or private vehicle from central Nairobi.
What to Do: Watch traditional dances, explore tribal homesteads, and learn about Kenyan cultures.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, with affordable rates for both locals and tourists.
Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Nursery, Nairobi
Overview: The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Nursery is a world-famous elephant orphanage dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating baby elephants for reintroduction into the wild.
History: Founded in 1977 by Daphne Sheldrick in honor of her late husband, the nursery became central to their wildlife conservation mission.
Since When: The public nursery viewing experience has been open since the early 1980s as part of their awareness efforts.
Review: It receives glowing reviews for its emotional and inspiring animal rescue work, especially among families and conservation lovers.
When to Go: Visit during the 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM public hour when elephants are fed and introduced.
How to Go: Situated inside Nairobi National Park, it’s best reached by car or organized tour from the city center.
What to Do: Watch elephants feed and play, hear their rescue stories, and adopt an elephant to support their care.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid and must be pre-booked online due to strict visitation limits.
Maasai Market, Nairobi
Overview: Maasai Market is a vibrant open-air market offering traditional African art, beadwork, textiles, and souvenirs handcrafted by local artisans.
History: It began as a grassroots initiative to economically empower local communities, especially the Maasai, through direct trade.
Since When: Operating informally since the 1990s, it gained popularity as a rotating citywide market by the early 2000s.
Review: Tourists and locals love the colorful ambiance and wide variety of handmade items, though haggling is essential.
When to Go: Best visited on weekend mornings when it’s most active and fully set up.
How to Go: It rotates locations—commonly in CBD, Westlands, or Yaya Centre—so check online for the daily spot and use public transport or a ride-share.
What to Do: Shop for jewelry, carvings, paintings, and negotiate prices directly with the artists.
Free or Paid: Entry is free, but all purchases are paid and prices are negotiable.
August 7th Memorial Park, Nairobi
Overview: August 7th Memorial Park is a serene garden and monument commemorating the victims of the 1998 U.S. Embassy bombing in Nairobi.
History: It was built on the former site of the American Embassy following the tragic terrorist attack that killed over 200 people.
Since When: The memorial was officially opened to the public in 2001 as a place of remembrance and education.
Review: Visitors find it solemn and reflective, appreciating its peaceful setting and informative gallery.
When to Go: Best visited during daylight hours when the grounds and museum are open and well-staffed.
How to Go: Located in the Nairobi CBD, it’s accessible by foot, matatu, or taxi from most parts of the city.
What to Do: Reflect at the memorial wall, walk through the garden, and explore the small museum and gallery.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, with minimal fees used for upkeep and maintenance.
Ngong Race Course and Golf Park, Nairobi
Overview: Ngong Race Course and Golf Park is Nairobi’s premier horse racing venue, also offering an executive 9-hole golf course and space for public events.
History: Developed during the colonial era in the 1950s, it has long been associated with elite sports and social gatherings.
Since When: The race course has been operational since the 1950s and continues to host races and tournaments regularly.
Review: It’s admired for its green setting, exciting race days, and use as a multipurpose venue for events and festivals.
When to Go: Visit on Sundays or scheduled race days for the most activity and entertainment.
How to Go: Located off Ngong Road, it’s best accessed via private car or ride-hailing apps, with parking available on-site.
What to Do: Watch horse races, play golf, attend music or food festivals, and enjoy picnics in the open grounds.
Free or Paid: Entry may be free on non-event days, but horse races and special events are usually ticketed.
Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi
Overview: Uhuru Gardens is Kenya’s largest memorial park, symbolizing the country’s independence with monuments, open fields, and cultural heritage displays.
History: It was established in 1963 to commemorate Kenya’s independence, marked by the raising of the national flag for the first time.
Since When: The park has been open to the public since 1963 and was later redeveloped with a museum complex in 2022.
Review: Visitors enjoy its peaceful atmosphere, historical importance, and the newly added museum exhibits, though crowds may vary.
When to Go: Best visited in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler weather and avoid peak heat.
How to Go: Located along Lang’ata Road, it is easily accessed by car, matatu, or ride-share services from the city center.
What to Do: Tour the independence monument, visit the new museum, picnic in the gardens, and take guided history tours.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid for the museum section, but general access to the outdoor grounds is often free.
Funcity Gardens Utawala, Nairobi
Overview: Funcity Gardens is a family-friendly recreational center in Utawala featuring a water park, rides, gardens, and event spaces.
History: Developed as a modern leisure venue to serve the growing Utawala suburb and its neighboring areas.
Since When: It has been operational since the mid-2010s and has grown popular for local weekend outings and celebrations.
Review: Families love the wide range of kids’ activities and affordable fun, though service levels vary during peak hours.
When to Go: Best visited on weekends or public holidays when all attractions are fully running and entertainment is available.
How to Go: Located in Utawala, it’s accessible via Eastern Bypass by private car, ride-hailing, or matatus from Nairobi CBD.
What to Do: Swim, enjoy water slides, take kids on amusement rides, and host birthday parties or events.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, with separate charges for activities and group packages.
Hell’s Gate National Park, Nairobi
Overview: Hell’s Gate National Park is a dramatic, adventure-filled park famous for its towering cliffs, geothermal activity, and walking or cycling safaris.
History: Declared a national park in 1984, it was named after a historic narrow break in the cliffs once believed to be a gateway to the underworld.
Since When: It has been open to visitors since 1984 and remains one of the few parks in Kenya where walking and biking are allowed.
Review: Tourists praise it for its stunning landscapes and outdoor thrill, especially among hikers, cyclists, and rock climbers.
When to Go: Visit during the dry season (June to October) for better road access and comfortable hiking conditions.
How to Go: Located near Naivasha, it’s about a 2-hour drive from Nairobi by car or tour van via the Nairobi–Nakuru Highway.
What to Do: Hike through gorges, cycle among wildlife, visit Fischer’s Tower, and soak in the natural hot springs.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid, with standard Kenya Wildlife Service park fees based on nationality and residency.
Rosslyn Riviera Mall, Nairobi
Overview: Rosslyn Riviera Mall is a boutique shopping and lifestyle center offering retail, dining, and wellness experiences in a quiet, upscale setting.
History: Opened as part of the development boom in Nairobi’s diplomatic and residential Runda-Rosslyn area to provide modern convenience.
Since When: It has been serving shoppers since its launch in 2017 with a focus on sustainability and community lifestyle.
Review: Visitors appreciate the peaceful environment, family-oriented facilities, and accessible shopping without heavy crowds.
When to Go: Best visited on weekday afternoons or early evenings for a relaxed, uncrowded experience.
How to Go: Situated on Limuru Road, it is easily reached by private vehicle, taxi, or matatu from Westlands or Gigiri.
What to Do: Shop for groceries, enjoy fine dining, attend yoga or fitness classes, and visit salons and cafes.
Free or Paid: Entry is free, but shopping and services are paid.
Ngong Hills Forest Reserve, Nairobi
Overview: Ngong Hills Forest Reserve is a scenic ridge of rolling hills offering panoramic views, hiking trails, and fresh air just outside Nairobi.
History: Managed by the Kenya Forest Service, the hills have long been a popular recreational and ecological landmark with cultural ties to the Maasai.
Since When: It has been accessible to the public for hiking and tourism since the 1990s under forest conservation regulations.
Review: Hikers love its breathtaking views and invigorating climbs, though the wind and elevation can be challenging for beginners.
When to Go: Ideal to visit in the morning or during dry months (June–October) for clear skies and safe trails.
How to Go: About an hour’s drive from Nairobi, it’s best accessed by private vehicle via Ngong Road or public transport to Ngong town.
What to Do: Hike the hill range, picnic, enjoy photography, and spot wildlife like buffalo and birds.
Free or Paid: Entry is paid through Kenya Forest Service at the gate with affordable rates.