Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi is the capital and largest city of Kenya. The name “Nairobi'' comes from the Maasai phrase ‘Enkare Nyrobi’, which translates to “the place of cool waters” but it is popularly known as ‘the Green city in the Sun’ because it surrounded by 113 km² of plains, cliffs and forest that makes up the city’s Nairobi National Park. . It is situated in South-Central Kenya, 140 Kilometers south of the Equator. Mount Kenya is situated north of Nairobi, and Mount Kilimanjaro is towards the south-east.
HISTORY
The area Nairobi currently occupies was essentially uninhabited swamp until a supply depot of the Uganda Railway was built by the British in 1899 linking Mombasa to Uganda. The location was chosen because of its central position between Mombasa and Kampala. Its network of rivers could supply the camp with water and its elevation would make it cool enough for residential purposes for not only the thousands of Indian laborers who came to Kenya seeking employment on the railway line, but also for the British settlers. With such a suitable location, it had soon grown big enough to become the railway’s headquarters and the city officially was incorporated in 1900 as the Township of Nairobi.
Interesting to Know
It is the most populous city in East Africa, with a current estimated population of about 3.5 million and home to large herds of zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, giraffes, lions, cheetahs, hippos, rhinos and over 400 species of birds.
The Uhuru Park (“Nairobi’s Central Park”) is a vibrant park which has attractions such as Boat Riding, Amusement Park, Picnic Sites, Historical Monuments, Assembly ground for meetings, Skateboarding Spot and Children’s Park (Road Safety Academy).
The western part of the park is open for visitors daily and consists of clearly marked woodland paths and facilities that make it ideal for hiking, running, mountain biking, tennis, football, rugby and filming . The eastern end consists of deep woods with a variety of wild animals where trekkers venture in the company of armed rangers. Its major attractions include: Karura Caves & Waterfalls, Nature trails, Bamboo forest, Bike Trail, Friendly Colobus Monkeys, wide range of birdlife and Picnic Sites.
Where to Stay
Nairobi is home to a variety of new hotels and resorts around the city which have opened over recent years to meet the high demand for accommodation in both the low end and high end market.
Transport around the City
Walking around the CBD area is a viable option as distances are short and pedestrian lanes are in abundance. This also gives the opportunity for one to become more acquainted with the environment and explore any crooks and crannies that catch one's eye. If you are not so fond of walking around, no need to worry there are many ways to move around.
Taxis are the more expensive but most reliable mode of transportation to get around the city. There are several companies operating services with phone bookings, and online bookings such as Uber.
Popularly known as ‘Boda Boda’, Motorcycles are a convenient and affordable way to weave through Nairobi Traffic. Motorcycles provide a quick and safer means to navigate the city’s residential areas. Regulations have been enacted that secure the riders safety.
A matatu (public minibuses/commuter buses) is typically used for travelling between downtown Nairobi and the suburbs. They are the most common form of public transport and provide a cheap way of getting around Nairobi.
There are a large number of long-distance bus companies in Nairobi that provide transportation to most areas of the country. Long-distance buses also provide service to major cities in Uganda and Tanzania. In addition to long-distance buses, there are mini-buses with regular service to Mombasa and shared taxis to nearby urban centres including the Shared taxis are Peugeot station wagons that usually carry seven passengers.
One can also opt for car hire for their own use throughout the duration of their stay in Kenya. We can assist with our trusted car rental companies.
Activities for Your Itinerary
Nairobi brags a vibrant and growing social life with a variety of clientele. The city has seen a rise in the number of new entertainment spots popping up in different parts of the city as a growing middle class feeds the demand for entertainment.
The giraffe centre has become very popular over the years. It is an educational centre run by the non-profit organization African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW), where visitors can interact closely with the giraffes and feed them right out of your hand. They also have a family of warthogs you can see and feed as well that live with the giraffes.
I would highly recommend a day tour to Hells Gate National Park for its unique scenery, inside of the Great Rift Valley, a series of contiguous geographic trenches, approximately 7,000 kilometres in total length, runs from Lebanon to Mozambique. Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life was shot on location in the beautiful Hell's Gate National Park in Kenya, just two hours' drive from the capital. One can also visit Lake Navaisha inside the Great Rift Valley amongst much more.
If you are only going to stop at one place to buy souvenirs and local goods, I’d probably recommend stopping at Utamaduni Shops, also known as Utamaduni Craft Centre. This place has a huge selection of crafts, jewelry, linens, soaps, masks, art, clothing, woodwork, accessories, children’s toys, games, beauty products, and much more.
‘Carnivore’ is the most well-known restaurant in Nairobi. It was opened in Nairobi in 1980 and offers an all-you-can-eat menu that is focused on roasted meats.
