Nairobi
Kenya
Attractions & Events in Nairobi
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Nairobi, Kenya
Top Attractions
Bomas of Kenya
A cultural center displaying traditional villages and performances from Kenya's various ethnic groups.
Tips: Attend the daily cultural performances in the afternoon; check the schedule in advance.
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
A sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of orphaned elephants and rhinos, offering visitors the chance to observe and learn about these animals.
Tips: Open to the public for one hour daily (11 am to 12 pm); arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Giraffe Centre
A conservation center for the endangered Rothschild's giraffe, where visitors can feed and interact with these gentle giants.
Tips: Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm; consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds.
Karen Blixen Museum
The former home of the famous Danish author of 'Out of Africa,' offering insights into colonial life in Kenya.
Tips: Guided tours are available; combine your visit with nearby attractions in the Karen suburb.
Karura Forest
An urban forest offering walking and cycling trails, waterfalls, and caves, providing a serene escape from the city.
Tips: Ideal for morning walks; bike rentals are available at the entrance.
Kazuri Beads Women's Cooperative
A workshop producing handmade ceramic beads and pottery, supporting local women artisans.
Tips: Tours are available; a great place to purchase unique souvenirs.
Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC)
An iconic building offering panoramic views of Nairobi from its rooftop helipad.
Tips: Visit during clear weather for the best views; check for any events that might restrict access.
Nairobi National Museum
A museum showcasing Kenya's rich heritage, including exhibits on culture, history, and natural history.
Tips: Don't miss the adjacent Snake Park; allocate at least two hours to explore both.
Nairobi National Park
A unique wildlife reserve located just 7 kilometers from Nairobi's city center, offering a chance to see lions, giraffes, and rhinos against a backdrop of urban skyscrapers.
Tips: Visit early in the morning for the best wildlife viewing opportunities; guided game drives are available.
Nairobi Railway Museum
A museum dedicated to the history of the railway in Kenya, featuring vintage locomotives and memorabilia.
Tips: Rail enthusiasts will appreciate the guided tours; check for operational hours before visiting.
Events & Festivals
Kwani Literary Festival
Features a variety of activities including signings and readings from different African authors, celebrating literature and storytelling.
When: August
Tips: Literature lovers should attend; look out for book launches and author interactions.
Jamhuri Day Celebrations
Commemorates Kenya's independence with parades, cultural performances, and speeches by government officials.
When: December
Tips: Join locals at Uhuru Park for the main celebrations; arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Nairobi International Jazz Festival
A celebration of jazz music featuring performances by local and international artists, offering a diverse range of styles and sounds.
When: February
Tips: Jazz lovers should book tickets in advance; explore workshops and masterclasses offered during the festival.
Nairobi Restaurant Week
A culinary event where participating restaurants offer special menus at discounted prices, showcasing Nairobi's diverse food scene.
When: January/February
Tips: Reserve tables in advance; explore different cuisines and dining experiences.
Sigana International Storytelling Festival
Brings together proficient storytellers from across the world, celebrating the art of storytelling.
When: July
Tips: Great for families and literature enthusiasts; check the schedule for storytelling sessions.
Kenya Fashion Week
An expo-style fashion gala showcasing both domestic and international brands, highlighting the latest trends in the fashion industry.
When: June
Tips: Fashion aficionados should attend; consider purchasing tickets early due to high demand.
Kenya International Trade Exhibition
An annual event showcasing both domestic and international brands, offering networking and business opportunities.
When: June
Tips: Business professionals should attend; bring business cards for networking.
Koroga Festival
A vibrant celebration of African music, art, and culture, featuring performances by top regional artists.
When: June
Tips: Great for music lovers; check the lineup and venue details ahead of time.
Madaraka Day
Celebrates Kenya's self-governance achieved on June 1, 1963, with parades, music, and traditional dances.
When: June
Tips: Participate in city-wide events; be prepared for large crowds and road closures.
Nairobi Fashion Week
A platform for emerging and established designers to showcase their creations, with fashion shows, exhibitions, and networking opportunities.
When: March
Tips: Fashion enthusiasts should attend; consider purchasing tickets early due to high demand.
Blackrock Rugby Festival
An annual school's rugby union competition held at St. Mary's School, showcasing young rugby talent from across East Africa.
When: May/June
Tips: Rugby fans should attend; support emerging talent and enjoy competitive matches.
Blankets and Wine
A monthly music festival showcasing African music, art, and culture, where attendees enjoy live performances in a picnic-style setting.
When: Monthly
Tips: Bring a blanket and picnic supplies; check the lineup ahead of time for favorite artists.
Safari Sevens
A premier rugby sevens tournament featuring international and local teams, celebrated for its competitive matches and vibrant atmosphere.
When: November
Tips: Purchase tickets in advance; arrive early to enjoy pre-match entertainment.
Kenya International Film Festival
Hosts diverse African films and filmmakers, offering screenings, workshops, and networking opportunities.
When: October
Tips: Film enthusiasts should attend; look out for special screenings and director Q&A sessions.
Nairobi Marathon
An annual road running competition featuring marathon and half marathon races, attracting participants from across East Africa.
When: October
Tips: Register early to secure a spot; spectators can enjoy various vantage points along the route.
Concours de Elegance
A world-class motor show exhibiting vintage machines, attracting car enthusiasts and collectors.
When: September
Tips: Car enthusiasts should attend; arrive early to view all exhibits.
Kenya Tourism Week
A week-long event marking Kenya's tourism week, providing opportunities to savor Kenya's diverse culture, wildlife, arts, music, and food.
When: September
Tips: Ideal for tourists; participate in various activities and tours offered during the week.
Nairobi International Book Fair
An annual event promoting literature and literacy, featuring book launches, author talks, and activities for readers of all ages.
When: September
Tips: Ideal for book enthusiasts; look out for special discounts and book signings.
Nairobi Film Festival
A celebration of African cinema, showcasing contemporary and classic African films with screenings, workshops, and Q&A sessions.
When: Varies
Tips: Film enthusiasts should attend; check the festival dates and venues in advance.
Nairobi Wine Festival
An annual event bringing together wine enthusiasts to savor the finest Kenyan and international wines, featuring tastings and masterclasses.
When: Varies
Tips: Wine lovers should attend; consider booking tickets early due to limited availability.