Nairobi National Park: prepay to skip the gate queue

The Nairobi Gallery on Kenyatta Avenue occupies a building completed in 1913 that began as a government office and is now run by the National Museums of Kenya. Inside you will find the collection assembled by Joseph Murumbi plus changing art shows. It sits at the edge of the centre, so it pairs easily with a walk…

Giraffe Manor is a small historic house in Lang'ata with only twelve rooms, where resident giraffes lean in at breakfast. Meals with the giraffes are for overnight guests only, and demand is high, so book early through the official Safari Collection site or a licensed agent. The Historic Manor is reserved for guests…

The Fairmont The Norfolk on Harry Thuku Road opened in 1904 and keeps its Tudor-style look, so a night here is a piece of Nairobi history. Its Lord Delamere Terrace restaurant dates from the opening and makes a pleasant stop even if you sleep elsewhere. Book a table in advance, as the restaurant page says reservations…

Blankets and Wine began in Kenya in 2008 as a picnic with a blanket, a basket and a bottle of wine, and it now runs a few editions a year. Recent ones have been at Laureate Gardens in Kasarani, with a live main stage, a DJ stage and a market of local brands. Bring a blanket, arrive around midday and watch the…

Government advisories describe crime in Nairobi as high and flag incidents around hotels, transport hubs and the airport. Canada advises using reputable taxi or ride-share services and not hailing taxis on the street, and the UK advises keeping car windows closed and doors locked. Arrange rides in an app or through…

The National Museum on Museum Hill traces Kenya from the Cradle of Humankind to independence, with galleries on mammals, birds and the country's communities. The Snake Park sits inside the same complex, with snakes, crocodiles and an American alligator, so one visit covers both. The museum is open every day including…

Look-alike websites sell Kenya's eTA at inflated prices, and at best they are agencies posing as the government portal. The official site ends in go.ke, so type the address yourself instead of clicking an advert, and be wary of any page that asks for far more than the government fee. Apply well before flying and keep…

Karura Forest, just north of the centre, has over 50 kilometres of trails, plus caves and a waterfall that make an easy escape from the traffic. Wear walking shoes, bring water and plan to start early. Since late August 2025 gate fees are paid only through the government eCitizen platform, so set up payment on your…