When I have friends in town… an early morning game drive in Nairobi National Park, watching giraffes, zebras, and rhinos silhouetted against skyscrapers, is definitely top of the itinerary. Moreover, I enjoy taking them on a little tour of Karen, including the adorable elephant orphanage at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and a stop at the Giraffe Centre. A hearty lunch at Talisman is a must, followed by an attempt to walk it off in the tranquil Karura Forest. If you’re seeking a glimpse of Nairobi’s nightlife, I’d usually take friends to J’s Fresh Bar and Kitchen for some live music (every Thursday) or, if the timing is right, to the Wasp & Sprout for an entertaining pub quiz.
When I’m up for a big night out… my friends and I will start by grabbing a bite at one of the popular restaurants in Westlands, like Mercado Mexican Kitchen and Bar, Haandi, or Open House (for outstanding Indian cuisine). We then head to nearby ‘Electric Avenue’, which features a string of vibrant bars. Havana Bar and Brew Bistro are favorites for delectable cocktails and dancing. For a cheeky late-night snack, I’ll head to the Alchemist Bar and grab something from the Mama Rocks food truck located on its grounds.
What I like about the people here… is that Nairobians always make time for greetings, smiles, and light-hearted chit-chat. You quickly become familiar with your local shopkeeper, industrious neighborhood street vendor, and M-PESA (mobile money) agent. For instance, buying a quick bouquet of flowers on the roadside can easily turn into an insightful conversation that leaves a lasting impression. When greeting people, venturing beyond ‘Jambo!’ and using the more colloquial ‘Mambo vipi?’ (How are things?) is often met with surprise and delight.
For a great view of the city… you can’t beat the Kenyatta International Convention Centre located in the city’s bustling central business district. It costs about KSh500 (US$5) to take the lift (and stairs) up to the helipad. If you’re fortunate, you might enjoy the view alone, gazing down at the vibrant hustle and bustle of Nairobi life.
What I love most about Nairobi… is that you can determine your own pace of life to a certain extent. You can choose between a lively nyama choma (grilled meat) joint or a peaceful, artisanal cafe. You can sweat it out in CrossFit and Zumba classes, or unwind in a gentle yoga session. Heading towards the central business district, with its intriguing mix of colonial and modern architecture, offers a stimulating dose of city clamour. In a single day, you can venture for a quiet walk through Uhuru Park or meander through a forest, hearing only the sweet sounds of birdsong.
When I want to get out of the city… I head to the hills, particularly the stunning Ngong Hills. Immortalized in the film Out of Africa, a hike over a few of these hills, offering views over the Rift Valley, will leave you breathless in more ways than one. For those who crave adventure, just an hour outside the city, you can satisfy your adrenaline cravings by ziplining over treetops and valleys in The Forest.
For best buys… Ngong Rd is a perfect starting point. Nairobi pulses with entrepreneurial energy, and this road is lined with artisans selling everything from furniture and paintings to unique plant pots. The Made in Kenya store on Parklands Rd features a sophisticated range of designer wares. Additionally, an influx of mitumba (bundled second-hand) clothes can be found at Toi Market, where sharpening your haggling skills can yield fantastic bargains.
For cheap eats… visit Diamond Plaza, commonly known as ‘Little India’, where you can sample jaw-achingly sweet treats, crispy, spicy bhajias (battered potatoes), and authentic Indian cuisine. This vibrant spot is perfect for buying fresh fruits, vegetables, and juices. Head over to Kilimani to explore Nairobi’s expanding Chinatown, where the streets are dotted with affordable restaurants and red lanterns that sway gently in the breeze. The city also boasts a plethora of Ethiopian restaurants, with platters at Habesha being reasonably priced and ideal for sharing with friends.
A typical weekend involves… a morning walk or bike ride in Karura Forest, sometimes followed by a leisurely brunch at the River Cafe, enjoying panoramic views while spotting monkeys over good coffee. Later, I might choose between an outdoor movie screening at the Alchemist Bar or an evening art exhibition at the Circle Art Gallery, both of which always draw a cosmopolitan crowd. I also love visiting Nairobi’s cinemas, which screen a mix of Hollywood blockbusters and lively Bollywood films (best enjoyed with a bucket of caramel popcorn). Sundays are best spent with friends, perusing the colorful K1 Flea Market or taking an invigorating walk through verdant tea fields.
When I need to relax… I head to one of Nairobi’s numerous spas or salons. For a simple manicure or pedicure, I usually go to the very affordable Honey Beauty in New Muthaiga Mall, where women from all walks of life share lively gossip and laughter. For an indulgent massage, my go-to is Devarana Luxury Spa, set within the dusitD2 boutique hotel complex, which I sometimes follow with Thai food from the nearby Soi.
