Places to visit

Nairobi offers many attractions, from breathtaking natural wonders to stunning architectural marvels. Here are a few of the many exciting sites the city offers.

• Nairobi National Museum: The Nairobi National Museum is a cultural and educational centre in the heart of Nairobi. It was founded in 1929 and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. The museum showcases Kenya's rich cultural and natural heritage with exhibitions ranging from prehistoric fossils to contemporary art. Visitors can also enjoy the botanical gardens, snake park, and aviary.
• Karen Blixen Museum: The Karen Blixen Museum is a historic house-turned museum in the suburb of Karen in Nairobi, Kenya. It was the home of Danish author, Karen Blixen, who lived there from 1917 to 1931. The museum displays Blixen's furniture, books, and other personal items from her life. The museum is set on beautiful grounds with gardens, a coffee plantation, and a forest. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in literature, history, or the beauty of Kenya.
• Bomas of Kenya: The Bomas of Kenya is a cultural centre in Langata, Nairobi. It was established in 1971 to preserve and celebrate Kenya's rich cultural heritage. "Bomas" refers to traditional homesteads used by various Kenyan ethnic groups. The Bomas of Kenya feature a range of cultural displays, including traditional dance performances, music, and crafts. Visitors can explore the different types of bomas used by various tribes, and learn about their unique customs and traditions.
• David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is a sanctuary for orphaned elephants and rhinos. Visitors can witness the animals being fed and playing with each other. The trust also offers a fostering program where visitors can adopt an elephant and contribute to their care, making it a must-visit place for animal lovers.
• Ngong Hills: Ngong Hills is a series of hills located on the outskirts of Nairobi, Kenya. The hills are a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities, with trails of varying difficulty levels available for visitors to explore. The highest point of the hills stands at an altitude of 2,460 metres above sea level, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
• Uhuru Gardens: Uhuru Gardens stands as the biggest memorial park in Kenya. It was the venue for the inaugural ceremony of Kenya's first President, Jomo Kenyatta . The ceremony took place in December, 1963, when Kenya gained independence.

Nairobi is known for its diverse culinary options, with various restaurants and street food. The city offers many mouth-watering dishes that cater to every taste and preference. From traditional Kenyan dishes to international delicacies, Nairobi's restaurants and food markets are sure to leave you craving for more. Here are must-visit places to eat in Nairobi that will tantalise your taste buds.

• Carnivore Restaurant: Located in Langata, the Carnivore Restaurant is a paradise for meat lovers. As the name suggests, the restaurant specialises in barbecued meat, offering a selection of over 20 different types of meat. The restaurant's rustic ambience, complete with a Masai warrior greeting guests at the entrance, adds to the dining experience.
• Mama Oliech Restaurant: Mama Oliech restaurant in Hurlingham is a favourite for traditional Kenyan dishes. The restaurant is known for its fish fry, which features tilapia, catfish, and Nile perch, among other types of fish. The fish is served with ugali, a traditional Kenyan staple made from maize flour. The restaurant's homely setting and friendly service offers a comfortable dining experience.
• Talisman: Talisman, located in Karen, is an upscale restaurant known for its eclectic menu and elegant ambience. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, ranging from Mediterranean to Asian-fusion, all made from locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant's outdoor seating area, complete with a beautiful garden and waterfall, provides a serene atmosphere to enjoy your meal.

Nairobi offers a diverse range of shopping experiences for both locals and visitors. Whether looking for traditional African crafts, designer brands, or unique souvenirs, Nairobi has everything. Here are some of the top places to shop in Nairobi:

• Maasai Market: One of the most popular shopping destinations in Nairobi is the Maasai Market. This vibrant market is filled with stalls selling colourful handmade products, such as jewellery, clothing, bags, and other traditional Maasai crafts. The Maasai market is a great place to shop for unique souvenirs and gifts to take back home.
• Sarit Centre: The Sarit Centre is one of Nairobi's oldest and most iconic shopping malls. Located in the affluent suburb of Westlands, this shopping complex offers a range of local and international brands and restaurants, cinemas, and other entertainment options.
• Village Market: The Village Market is a modern and upscale shopping complex in the affluent suburb of Gigiri. This open-air shopping centre offers a unique blend of local and international brands, and a range of restaurants and entertainment options. The Village Market is also home to the famous weekly Maasai Market, making it a one-stop shop for traditional and modern shopping experiences.

Kenyans are known for their warmth and hospitality; Nairobi is no exception. The city has various accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, and visitors can be assured of a warm welcome wherever they choose to stay.

• The Sarova Stanley: This iconic hotel has been in Nairobi since 1902 and has hosted some of the world's most famous names, including Ernest Hemingway and Winston Churchill. The hotel has 217 rooms and suites, all of which are spacious and elegantly decorated. The hotel features several dining options, including a Thai restaurant, a poolside grill, and a coffee shop. Other amenities include a fitness centre, spa, and heated outdoor pool.
• Villa Rosa Kempinski: The Villa Rosa Kempinski is a luxurious five-star hotel in the heart of Nairobi's Westlands neighbourhood. The hotel features 200 spacious rooms and suites, all beautifully decorated with African and European styles. The hotel also offers an array of amenities, including a pool, fitness centre, spa, and several restaurants. The Villa Rosa Kempinski is perfect for those seeking a luxurious and comfortable stay in Nairobi.
• The Tribe Hotel: The Tribe Hotel is a boutique hotel in the affluent suburb of Gigiri, near the United Nations headquarters in Nairobi. The hotel features 137 spacious rooms and suites decorated with a contemporary African theme. The hotel also offers several amenities, including a pool, fitness centre, spa, and restaurants. This hotel property is perfect for those seeking a stylish and modern stay in Nairobi.

Famously called the Green City in the Sun, Nairobi is known for its stunning natural beauty, and many parks and nature reserves. Overall, Nairobi offers a unique blend of wildlife, culture, adventure, and hospitality, making it a must-visit destination.

• Adventure activities: Nairobi offers plenty of activities, from hiking in the nearby Ngong Hills to skydiving and bungee jumping. You can also take hot air balloon rides over the Masai Mara or a safari in nearby parks such as Amboseli and Tsavo.
• Nightlife: Nairobi is also known for its vibrant nightlife. Whether you prefer a laid-back rooftop or a high-energy place, you're sure to find a spot that suits your style.

Visa and Immigration

Are you an Indian passport holder planning to book flights from India to Kenya? For that, you must obtain a Kenya visa before entering the country. The Kenyan tourist visa, Kenya eVisa, or Kenya visitor visa for Indian citizens are all different names for the visa you'll need to apply for. The process is straightforward: apply for the visa online, wait for approval, and present a copy at the border upon arrival