Nairobi is the capital city of Kenya and one of the most populous cities of East Africa, providing shelter to 3.5 million people. Situated at an elevation of about 1,660m in the highlands of the southern part of the country, it is the principal economic, administrative and cultural center of the country which is now one of the largest and fastest-growing cities in Africa. Modern Nairobi is still the safari capital of Africa, where the majority of Kenyan safari companies are based.
The beauty of Nairobi surely creates a magical spell on its visitors and it seems that the city never sleeps. The entire town has boundless energies and is a thriving place where all human life can be found. It is a great place to live, work, or visit and offers a great contrast where race, tribe, and origin are all facets of Nairobi’s unique character.
Whether you’re taking a business trip, luxury honeymoon, or backpacking Kenya on a budget, Nairobi boasts 4 top attractions that shouldn’t be missed when visiting:
1. Head Out On Safari
Say Kenya and you instantly think wildlife. With extraordinary thrills, the city will make your trip more than worthwhile. Located 7 kilometers from the city in the south, Nairobi National Park is a nice introduction to Kenya’s National Parks and Reserves. It offers you an opportunity to learn what you can expect to see across the country and offers glimpses of Kenya’s rich animal collection, along with around 150 species of local trees. It is the only national park situated so close to a city center.
2. Nairobi National Museum
The recently renovated Nairobi National Museum is a good place to learn more about Kenya’s history and culture. The museum was managed by the National Museum of Kenya (NMK) whose role is to collect, preserve, study, document and present country’s past and present cultural and natural heritage. It is situated along Museum Hill, a few minutes’ drive from the city center. Built in 1929, the museum houses a great collection of Kenya’s history, nature, culture and contemporary art. Major attractions of museum include Art Gallery, Temporary Exhibitions, Botanical Gardens, Nature trails, shopping, and dining facilities.
3. Nairobi Railway Museum
If you’ve ever wondered how Nairobi came into existence, the best place to find the answer is the Nairobi Railway Museum, located in an old railway building along Uhuru highway. It provides answers to many unanswered questions concerning the early history of rail and development of the country. The museum consists of the main gallery, the Resource Center, an auditorium and an outdoor collection of locomotives, wagons, and coaches. It is a worth visit site that you just can’t afford to miss.
4. Bomas of Kenya
Bomas of Kenya is a tourist village located in Lang’ata a few minute drives from the city center. It was started by the Government of Kenya in 1971 to preserve, promote and maintain rich and diverse cultural values of various ethnic groups of Kenya. It is among major attractions of the country which portrays true cultural values of the country in their pure form. The Bomas of Kenya put on displays of traditional dancers and spread over many acres. It also has a wonderful display of mud huts and traditional Kenyan homesteads.
