Nairobi is one of those rare cities where every corner offers something different. One moment you’re watching giraffes stroll past your breakfast window, and the next you’re exploring bustling markets, hidden coffee shops or vibrant art spaces. It’s a city with real personality, shaped by wildlife, culture, food, history and a creative energy you feel the moment you arrive.

This guide highlights 37 amazing things to do in Nairobi that you’ll actually enjoy — not the filler recommendations every list repeats, but real experiences worth your time. Whether you’re here for a day, a weekend or a full itinerary, these ideas will help you explore Nairobi the way locals love it.

1. Take a Guided Walking Tour Through Nairobi’s City Centre

A walking tour through Nairobi’s city centre is one of the best ways to understand the city’s rhythm. At The Mara Wanderlust, we offer a local-led experience that takes you beyond the usual landmarks and into the heart of downtown Nairobi, where everyday life unfolds in real time.

Your guide walks you through streets filled with history, street food stalls, hidden markets and the city’s unmistakable hustle. This isn’t a scripted museum-style tour. It’s a grounded, human experience designed to show you how Nairobi breathes, works and evolves through the people who call it home.

You’ll explore areas most visitors rarely see on their own, but always with a guide who knows the city intimately and keeps you comfortable and aware. Along the way, you’ll hear stories about Nairobi’s past and present, understand its culture from a local perspective and see the city in a way that’s both eye-opening and inspiring.

Our Tip: Bring comfortable walking shoes and keep your belongings light. Photography rules in the city centre are strict, so we’ll advise you where it’s safe and allowed to take pictures. Sometimes the best memories from this tour come from simply being present and observing the city as it truly is.

2. Stop for Coffee at the Historic Thorn Tree Café

Inside the iconic Sarova Stanley Hotel sits the original Thorn Tree Café, a place tied to decades of Nairobi’s travel history. In the center of the café stands a large acacia tree where travelers once pinned notes for each other before the age of smartphones. This old message tree inspired the name of Lonely Planet’s famous online Thorn Tree Forum.

Today, it remains a charming stop for a quiet break in the middle of downtown. You can enjoy Kenyan coffee or tea, sample a slice of cake and take in the atmosphere of a hotel that has welcomed presidents, film stars and visiting royals since 1902. It’s one of Nairobi’s most nostalgic places to pause and soak in the city’s past. It is one of the amazing things to do in Nairobi if you can.

Our Tip: Pair your coffee stop with a short walk through the Stanley’s lobby to appreciate its vintage architecture and historic photographs.

3. Enjoy a Picnic in Nairobi’s Uhuru Park

Uhuru Park sits right in the center of Nairobi and has long been a gathering place for locals. On weekends, the park becomes especially lively with families relaxing on the lawns, children enjoying fairground rides and ice cream vendors moving through the crowd. The name “Uhuru” means freedom in Swahili, and the park carries that spirit.

A picnic here gives you a glimpse of Nairobi’s everyday life away from the tourist circuit. Bring snacks, find a quiet spot under the trees and watch the city unwind around you.

Our Tip: Visit in daylight hours and avoid the park during political rallies or after dark. Stick to the open, public areas where the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.

4. Escape to Nature in Karura Forest

Just minutes from the CBD, Karura Forest is one of Nairobi’s most peaceful escapes. It offers shaded walking and cycling paths, birdlife, quiet picnic spots and even a small waterfall hidden among the trees. It’s the kind of place where you forget you’re in a capital city.

You can choose to walk, jog, rent a bike or simply wander through the forest’s cool, green trails. The conservation work here is inspiring too, with reforestation efforts that visitors can take part in. It’s a refreshing break if you want a full contrast from Nairobi’s busy streets.

Our Tip: Bring a picnic or enjoy a meal at one of the nearby restaurants like About Thyme or Amaica. And keep an eye on your snacks—Karura’s monkeys are bold and curious.

5. Take in the Views from the Top of the Kenyatta International Convention Centre

The Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) is one of Nairobi’s most recognizable landmarks. For a small fee, you can take the elevator up to the rooftop helipad for one of the best panoramic views in the entire city. From here, you’ll see the CBD skyline, Uhuru Park, Parliament buildings and even the Ngong Hills on a clear day. It’s a favorite spot for sunset watching and makes for a memorable city moment.

Our Tip: KICC is open during the day, but the soft light just before sunset makes the view even better. Carry minimal belongings and follow photography guidelines around government buildings.

6. Take Part in a Kenyan Cooking Class

A Kenyan cooking class is one of the most enjoyable ways to connect with the culture. You’ll learn how to prepare popular dishes like chapati, pilau, mukimo or stewed greens while hearing stories about local food traditions. Many classes begin with a visit to a neighborhood market where you shop for ingredients, meet vendors and get a feel for everyday Nairobi life.

Once in the kitchen, you cook together, taste everything you prepare and enjoy conversations that go far beyond food. It’s warm, hands-on and ideal for travelers who want a deeper cultural experience.

Our Tip: Go hungry. These classes are generous with portions and you’ll finish the day with a full plate and new friends.

7. Take a Historical Nairobi City Tour

If you want to understand Nairobi’s past and how it shaped modern Kenya, a historical walking tour is a must. You’ll explore key sites such as the Parliament buildings, the original Sarova Stanley Hotel, iconic streets in the CBD and sections of Uhuru Park that hold political significance. Your guide will walk you through the city’s colonial history, independence movement and cultural evolution.

It’s an eye-opening way to see Nairobi through context rather than just landmarks, giving you a richer appreciation of the city’s identity.

Our Tip: Nairobi’s CBD has strict photography rules. Avoid taking photos of government buildings or security installations. Even phone photography can attract fines. We will always guide you on where it is safe and permitted to take pictures.

10. Dive Into Kenya’s Story at the National Museum

The Nairobi National Museum is the best place to understand Kenya’s history, culture and natural heritage in one visit. You’ll find exhibits on early human origins, local communities, wildlife, art and archaeology. The museum grounds also include the Nairobi Snake Park, botanical gardens, galleries and a peaceful nature trail.

Our Tip: Allow at least two hours. The human origins section and the Joy Adamson galleries are especially worth your time.

11. Shop Beautiful, Fair-Trade Souvenirs at Wasp & Sprout

Wasp & Sprout is a charming fair-trade boutique in Loresho offering handmade furniture, textiles and crafts. If you love interior design, this is one of Nairobi’s most inspiring shops. Their African-print cushions, art pieces and unique homeware make excellent gifts.

The attached café is equally lovely — perfect for brunch, coffee or a light lunch after shopping.

Our Tip: Look out for pieces by Kangarui, a Kenyan artist known for bold, colorful wildlife art.

12. Visit a Tea Farm in Limuru

Kenya is one of the world’s largest tea producers, and visiting a tea estate near Nairobi offers a refreshing break from the city. Kiambethu Tea Farm is one of the most popular. You arrive to a warm cup of tea, learn about the history of the farm and walk through indigenous forest that often hosts colobus monkeys. The visit ends with a delicious three-course garden lunch overlooking rolling green hills.

Nearby, Kawamwaki Farm offers horse riding through beautiful countryside.

Our Tip: Dress comfortably and plan for a slow, peaceful day. Limuru is cooler than Nairobi — bring a light jacket.

13. Explore Nairobi’s Best Farmers Markets

Nairobi has a vibrant market culture, and weekends are the perfect time to explore it.

• KSPCA Farmers Market in Karen (Saturdays): Great for handmade items, baked goods, honey, jewelry and family-friendly activities. You can also meet some of the animals up for adoption.
  
• The Organic Farmers Market: Held on Saturdays at Marula Lane and Sundays at Kilimani Primary School. Expect fresh produce, artisan foods, spices, oils and eco-friendly products.
  

Our Tip: Come hungry and bring a reusable bag. Most vendors accept mobile money (Mpesa), and the vibe is lively but relaxed.

14. Step Into Kenya’s Literary Past at the Karen Blixen Museum

If you’ve read or watched Out of Africa, visiting the former home of author Karen Blixen is one of the things to do in Nairobi. Set at the foot of the Ngong Hills, the house has been preserved with original furniture and artifacts from Blixen’s life as a Danish writer and coffee farmer. Tours provide insight into colonial-era Kenya and the inspiration behind her famous memoir.

After your visit, stop for a meal or coffee at the Karen Blixen Coffee Garden, located nearby. The food and atmosphere are excellent.

Our Tip: Combine the museum with the Giraffe Centre or Elephant Orphanage for a full Karen-day itinerary.

15. Hike the Ngong Hills

If you enjoy outdoor activities, the Ngong Hills offer one of Nairobi’s most scenic hikes. The trail follows a line of seven rolling peaks with expansive views of the Rift Valley and the city. The full route takes around 4–6 hours, depending on pace. At the top, there are picnic sites where you can rest and enjoy the breeze.

For thrill-seekers, Kompass at Ngong Hills offers zip-lining, archery and other adventure activities.

Our Tip: Plastic bottles are not allowed on the hike. Bring a reusable water bottle and start early before the sun gets intense.

16. Shop Local at Langata Link Shops

Langata Link Shops bring together some of Kenya’s most creative artisans and ethical brands. You’ll find handmade jewelry, skincare products, home decor, art and the famous upcycled flip-flop sculptures from Ocean Sole. It’s one of the best places to find high-quality, Kenyan-made souvenirs.

After shopping, grab a meal at Tin Roof Café, known for its fresh salads, sandwiches and laid-back atmosphere.

Our Tip: This is a great stop after visiting Nairobi National Park or the Giraffe Centre.

17. See the Baby Elephants at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

The Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is one of Nairobi’s most loved experiences. Every morning at 11 a.m., visitors are welcomed to watch young orphaned elephants drink milk, play in the mud and interact with their keepers. The center rescues elephants from across Kenya and rehabilitates them for release back into the wild.

You can also adopt an elephant, supporting its long-term care. We always advise our guests to include it as one of the things to do in Nairobi after finishing safari in Mara or Amboseli before they leave the country.

Our Tip: Book early via the Sheldrick website. Slots fill quickly. If you’re planning to visit Nairobi National Park, combine both since they’re close.

18. Find Unique African Crafts at Utamaduni

Utamaduni in Langata is a treasure trove of African crafts, textiles, jewelry and homeware. Multiple vendors and artisans are housed under one roof, making it an easy place to find quality souvenirs without running around the city.

Our Tip: After shopping, enjoy a drink in the garden area to unwind.

19. Experience Kenya’s Cultural Heritage at Bomas of Kenya

Bomas of Kenya is a cultural center dedicated to showcasing Kenya’s diverse communities. Visitors can explore traditional homesteads, watch music and dance performances and learn about Kenya’s ethnic groups and their customs.

It’s an educational, colorful and lively experience that gives travelers a deeper cultural perspective. It should definitely be on your list of things to do in Nairobi, especially when you have a full-day excursion.

Our Tip: Shows run in the afternoon. Combine Bomas with a visit to the Giraffe Centre or Karen Blixen Museum for a well-rounded day.

20. Go for High Tea at Nairobi’s Iconic Hotels

High tea may have colonial roots, but Nairobi has turned it into its own elegant ritual. Between mid-afternoon and early evening, the city’s top hotels serve towers of pastries, warm scones with cream and jam, delicate sandwiches and, of course, a pot of Kenyan tea. It’s slow, charming and pairs beautifully with Nairobi’s breezy afternoons.

Some of the city’s best high tea spreads are found at Hemingways Nairobi, Villa Rosa Kempinski, Fairmont Norfolk’s Lord Delamere Terrace and The Lord Erroll. Each venue has its own ambience — from polished hotel lounges to quiet garden terraces where you can spend hours unwinding.

Our Tip: If high tea at Giraffe Manor is on your radar, remember it’s strictly for overnight guests. Book well ahead.

21. Go on Safari in Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park is one of the few places on Earth where you can see a wild black rhino, a lion on the hunt or giraffes browsing acacia trees — all with a modern skyline rising behind the plains. The contrast is surreal, and that’s what makes this park unforgettable. It’s perfect if you’re in the city for business, a short stopover or simply want a safari without long travel times.

Early morning drives offer the best action. The light is soft, predators are active, and you’ll often spot wildlife right near the road. The park is also incredibly accessible: a quick 20–30 minute drive from most hotels. Including Nairobi National Park in the things to do in Nairobi will be a great choice.

Our Tip: Photography rules near government installations and the park entrance are strict. Your guide will tell you where it’s safe to shoot and where to keep your camera down.

22. Haggle and Treasure-Hunt at the Maasai Market

If you want to shop the Nairobi way, nothing beats the Maasai Market. It’s loud, colorful and full of character — stalls stacked with beaded jewelry, hand-carved bowls, woven baskets, artwork, sandals, fabrics and home décor. Every vendor has a story, and bargaining is part of the culture.

The market rotates daily across the city, from Village Market on Fridays to High Court on Saturdays and Yaya Centre on Sundays. Each location has a slightly different feel, but the experience is always lively.

You must bargain, but respectfully. Start low, stay friendly, and enjoy the exchange. Locals will tell you you still paid too much — don’t worry, everyone does.

Our Tip: If you prefer a calmer atmosphere, the Maasai Market at Galleria Mall is open daily and far less overwhelming, yet still full of great finds.

23. Experience Nairobi’s Nightlife

Nairobi after dark feels like a different city. The music gets louder, the rooftops fill up and the energy shifts into something vibrant and irresistible. Whether you’re into soulful live bands, high-end cocktail lounges, Afro-house clubs, or relaxed pubs with great nyama choma, you’ll find something that speaks to you.

Westlands is known for its buzzing bar scene, while Karen and Lavington offer more laid-back lounges. Gigiri mixes upscale dining with late-night spots that attract expats and diplomats. Weekends see the biggest crowds, but nightlife in Nairobi truly runs any day of the week.

Our Tip: Always move with a trusted taxi or rideshare. Nairobi is fun at night — just be smart about getting around.

24. Enjoy Some of the Best Ethiopian Food Outside Ethiopia

You don’t have to travel to Addis Ababa to eat incredible Ethiopian food. Nairobi has a strong Ethiopian community, and as a result, some of the city’s best restaurants serve injera and richly spiced stews that taste deeply authentic. Meals are shared, generous and eaten by hand, making the experience warm and communal.

Neighborhoods like Kilimani, South B, Hurlingham and the CBD host long-standing Ethiopian eateries where the food is consistent, flavorful and remarkably comforting. If you’ve never tried Ethiopian cuisine before, Nairobi is one of the best places to start.

Our Tip: Order a mixed platter. It’s the easiest way to explore different textures and flavors without feeling overwhelmed.

25. Dine at Nairobi’s Top Restaurants

Nairobi’s dining scene has transformed into one of Africa’s most dynamic. You’ll find everything: modern Kenyan tasting menus, upscale steakhouses, garden cafés shaded by bougainvillea, vegan kitchens, Middle Eastern lounges, Japanese fusion, Italian trattorias and street food spots with lines down the block.

Karen, Gigiri, Lavington and Kilimani offer diverse options, while the CBD is home to classic institutions that have fed Nairobi for decades. Whether you want brunch, cocktails, nyama choma or fine dining, the city delivers.

Our Tip: Nairobi traffic gets heavy around dinner hours. If you’re crossing the city, leave early — or book a driver so you can relax and enjoy the night.

26. Shop Beautiful, Ethical Souvenirs at Wasp & Sprout

Wasp & Sprout is one of Nairobi’s most thoughtful places to buy handmade, ethical items. This fair-trade concept store showcases beautiful pieces created by Kenyan artisans — from woven baskets and pottery to unique furniture, textiles and African-print cushions. The designs are modern, colorful and perfect for travelers who want souvenirs with real meaning.

The café attached to the shop is just as inviting. It’s a quiet spot for breakfast, brunch or a light lunch, with excellent coffee, fresh salads, sandwiches and pastries. It’s the kind of place where you browse, eat, browse again… and end up leaving with something you truly love.

Our Tip: Keep an eye out for artwork from local designers. Their prints make exceptional gifts.

27. Support Women Artisans at Kazuri Beads

Kazuri Beads is a social enterprise that changes lives and therefore one of the best things to do in nairobi if you want to make an impact. Founded to create sustainable income for disadvantaged women, the workshop now employs hundreds of artisans who handcraft ceramic beads, jewelry and pottery. A visit lets you tour the studio, watch the bead-making process and meet the women behind the craft.

Every piece sold directly supports the artisans and their families, making it one of the most meaningful places to shop in Nairobi.

Our Tip: Visit on a weekday morning when the workshop is busiest. You’ll see the full production process in action.

28. Stay at the Iconic Giraffe Manor

Few experiences feel as surreal — or as indulgent — as staying at Giraffe Manor. This ivy-covered boutique hotel is home to a small herd of endangered Rothschild’s giraffes who freely wander the grounds. They often join guests at breakfast, peek into bedroom windows or stop by during afternoon tea.

It’s a high-budget stay, but the intimate wildlife encounters and the charm of the property make it one of the most famous boutique hotels in the world. If you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime Nairobi getaway, this is the place that sits at the top of most bucket lists.

Our Tip: Rooms book months in advance. If it’s a priority, plan early.

29. Feed a Giraffe at the Nairobi Giraffe Centre

If Giraffe Manor isn’t within your budget, the Nairobi Giraffe Centre offers the same incredible giraffe encounters for a fraction of the cost. Visitors can learn about giraffe conservation, feed the resident Rothschild’s giraffes and take photos from raised platforms that put you at eye level with these gentle giants.

Talks led by the staff are excellent — informative, friendly and great for families.

Our Tip: Arrive early to avoid midday crowds. No advance booking is needed, and your entrance fee supports giraffe conservation across Kenya.

30. Explore Nairobi’s Creative Side with AfroWema

If you love upcycling, sustainability and bold Kenyan design, AfroWema is a brand you shouldn’t miss. Working with artisans around Kibera and Toi Market, AfroWema creates standout pieces — especially their hand-painted denim jackets, reworked clothing and jewelry. Their motto says it all: Save the Planet with Style.

While they don’t yet have a standalone shop, their team is easy to reach on Instagram or Facebook, and you can often meet the artisans directly in Toi Market. It’s a fantastic way to support local creatives and take home something completely unique.

Our Tip: Visit Toi Market with a local guide. It’s huge, fun and full of incredible second-hand finds.

31. Take a Thoughtful Kibera Community Tour

Kibera is one of Africa’s largest informal settlements, and visits here require sensitivity, preparation and respect. When done responsibly, with locally led organizations that reinvest in the community, these tours can be incredibly meaningful. They highlight the creativity, resilience and entrepreneurship that thrive within Kibera — stories that rarely make it into mainstream media.

You may visit community projects, youth groups, artisans’ workshops or educational centers. You’ll hear first-hand stories about daily life, challenges and achievements, and gain a more nuanced understanding of Nairobi beyond its wealthier suburbs.

But ethical considerations matter. Not every tour operator has the community’s interests at heart.

Our Tip:
Choose a community-run initiative, follow your guide’s lead and do not treat the experience as a spectacle. Ask questions, listen deeply and avoid intrusive photography. Respect is everything.

32. Explore the Nairobi Arboretum

The Arboretum is one of the city’s most peaceful sanctuaries, a leafy escape filled with towering indigenous and exotic trees, walking paths and open lawns where Nairobians come to relax, jog or picnic. Monkeys swing through branches, photographers wander among the greenery and the atmosphere feels calm despite being minutes from the CBD.

It’s the perfect break if you want nature without leaving the city.

Our Tip: Early mornings offer the best light and coolest temperatures. Carry your essentials only — the Arboretum is beautiful, but stay alert as you would in any urban park.

33. Discover Nairobi’s Street Art in Westlands and Kawangware

Nairobi has a bold and expressive street art culture, with walls painted by some of East Africa’s most talented graffiti artists. Westlands features large, colorful murals that blend social commentary with modern African aesthetics, while Kawangware and Pangani host rawer, deeply community-driven art.

Walking through these neighborhoods introduces you to Nairobi’s creative spirit and youth culture in a way museums can’t capture.

Our Tip: Go with a local guide who knows the artists and can explain the stories behind the murals.

34. Spend a Slow Afternoon at Karura’s River Café

Hidden inside Karura Forest is the charming River Café — an open-air restaurant overlooking lush trees, soft light, and birdsong. It’s one of the best places in Nairobi for a slow morning brunch, mid-afternoon coffee or a peaceful lunch after a hike.

The combination of forest air, good food and quiet ambience makes it feel like a retreat inside the city.

Our Tip: Arrive just before lunchtime on weekends to avoid the peak rush. The forest setting fills up quickly.

35. Visit the Railway Museum for a Glimpse Into Colonial-Era Kenya

The Nairobi Railway Museum is a fascinating stop if you enjoy history. It houses original locomotives, colonial rolling stock, vintage station equipment and photographs tracing the era of the “Lunatic Express” — the railway that shaped Kenya’s economic and political identity.

It’s quirky, a bit old-school, and full of stories you won’t hear elsewhere.

Our Tip: Combine this with a stroll along the nearby Nairobi Railway Station for a deeper understanding of the city’s early growth.

36. Take a Scenic Hot-Air Balloon Flight Over the Ngong Hills

Hot-air ballooning isn’t limited to the Masai Mara. A few operators offer scenic early-morning flights over the Ngong Hills, giving you panoramic views of the Rift Valley, Nairobi’s eastern edge and sweeping green landscapes bathed in sunrise light.

It’s peaceful, breathtaking and far less known than the Mara version — making it a perfect Nairobi bucket-list addition for couples or photographers.

Our Tip: Balloon flights are weather-dependent. Book for your first morning in Nairobi so you have backup days if rescheduling is needed.

37. Ride a Private Matatu for the Ultimate Nairobi Culture Experience

Matatus — Nairobi’s famously decorated minibuses — are more than just public transport. They’re moving art galleries, mobile nightclubs and cultural symbols packed with music, neon lights and personality. Riding one in the wild can be overwhelming for newcomers, but experiencing matatu culture in a safe, curated way is unforgettable.

At The Mara Wanderlust, we arrange a private matatu experience where you and your group get your own customized matatu for a short city ride or photo session. You get the lights, the music and the full Nairobi vibe, minus the chaos of public routes. It’s fun, stylish and one of the most unique ways to see the city.

Use it for airport pickup, a city tour, a birthday surprise, content creation or just pure enjoyment — you’ll never forget it.

Our Tip: Choose a matatu with famous artwork or a theme you love. Nairobi’s matatu artists are incredibly creative, and the photos alone are worth the experience.

Conclusion: Nairobi Is a City You Experience, Not Just Visit

Nairobi has a way of surprising people. It’s a city where lions roam within sight of skyscrapers, where markets pulse with color, where forests sit minutes from highways, and where food, music and culture blend into a rhythm that feels uniquely Kenyan. It’s a place best explored slowly, with each day revealing something different.

A Nairobi trip can unfold beautifully when planned with intention. You might begin with a full-day Nairobi National Park safari, complete with a picnic lunch overlooking the plains. The next day, enjoy a full-day excursion — perhaps a tea farm visit, a hike in the Ngong Hills, or a cultural immersion in Karen and Langata. On your final day, you can ease into the city with a guided tour of Nairobi, some thoughtful shopping and artisan visits, and end the evening with a farewell dinner at Carnivore Restaurant before heading to the airport.

If you’d like this kind of seamless, meaningful itinerary, we at The Mara Wanderlust can design it for you — balancing wildlife, culture, shopping, dining and local experiences so you feel the real Nairobi, not just the postcard version.

However you choose to explore it, Nairobi offers depth, character and unforgettable moments. We’d love to help you discover them.