The places where your selfies will speak volumes, the less-known destinations with views for days and with that rare ambiance that is recommended for the toughest migraines.
The tantalizing magic that is this city comes with an allure that captures all in its glow. From radiant blue skies to cordial people, to flashy matatus all the way to the idea of nature flowing through the almost always warm atmosphere, it would be an understatement to welcome you to the theatre of dreams.
What does Nairobi have to offer? you may ask… well
Nature and Green Spaces
One place you must visit if your desire is to enjoy the splendour of the green grass and the pure skies, is Karura forest.
Dubbed the joggers and bikers paradise, this green space is host to some incredible wildlife including monkeys, bucks, dik-dik, African civet cat, porcupines, and exotic bats. Where else in the city would you randomly encounter a harmless dik-dik?
If you are not in a position to go to Karura, then an equally good alternative is the Ngong Forest. ‘Let the land speak to you and spill its history with the winds that blow on the vast landscape.’
When the day is almost done and you want to see Nairobi transitioning from the busy, daylight town to a glorious ball of light, then you want to be at the Uhuru park.
City Sites
A favourite destination for families especially on Sundays, Uhuru Park has a charm that exceeds its many years. The recreational park, is a welcome distraction from the bustle of the city – a glimmer of peace and quiet amidst the chaos associated with the Central Business District.
In the park, you can host a number of activities including boat riding at the artificial lake and also visit several historical monuments located all around the park. You can have a peaceful time with the one you love or just quiet time alone if you so desire.
Many have walked past Kenya National Archives but how many have walked into this historic building. You don’t have to be a history buff but with a little curiosity and a Ksh50 bob, you can have. Take your kids and explore the building and the artifacts.
The Nairobi Nightlife
In the dying light of the night, another part of Nairobi comes to life. If a drink-up is your thing, then in the city we swear by a number of the numerous clubs. Going to your local is great but if you want to meet new people and have new experiences, you can try out some of the many clubs in the city.
Simply search for the club on your preferred taxi-hailing app be it; Brew Bistro, J’s, Choices, Tribeka, Havana or the Alchemist. At each establishment, you are assured of the diverse mix cocktails and of premium brewed craft beer that the city has to offer.
The Mercury Lounge, for example, is a highly sophisticated cocktail bar with vague retro curves in the decor and a fine list of cocktails, and also food inspired by the Spanish tradition of Tapas and African cuisine.
A Visit to Nairobi is never complete without a K1 Klubhouse experience. Situated along Ojijo Road in Parklands, K1 is Nairobi’s foremost entertainment point where locals meet for the best music along with the great atmosphere.
Quick tip! The clubs operate through the week with select days where they may events such as karaoke nights or special performances.
The clubs, however, are usually popping over the weekends- that’s Friday, Saturday nights. You can learn the new and hottest songs at the moment and you may even learn new lingo with the newest Gengeton craze.
Cuisine and Restaurants
You can make food an experience and give your taste buds a run for its money.
If you are looking for fried fish or oriental cuisine, different restaurants offer different packages that are sure to have you licking your lips.
Some restaurants to try out are; Harvest, Ankole, Talisman, Mama Rocks, Mama Oliech, Abyssinia and Burger Hut.
From high-end restaurants like Villa Rosa Kempinski on Waiyaki Way and Lord Erroll in Runda, you can gain access to even cheaper but quality options like The Monarch Hotel and the Nairobi Upper Hill hotel.
Shopping in Nairobi
Spoil and treat yourself at the most talked-about shopping spots in the city.
The Sarit Centre, located on Karuna Road in Nairobi, is one of the largest shopping malls in East Africa. The Sarit Centre Expo Centre is a popular venue for international exhibitions as well as private functions and banquets. Over 25,000 visitors visit the Centre every day.
At Two Rivers Mall, you can experience shopping at another level by trying out the Ferris Wheel dubbed the Eye of Kenya. Standing at 60 meters high with 40 capsules of a six-passenger capacity each, the ferris was dubbed “the Eye of Kenya” and clinching the tallest wheel in Africa title.
With only Kshs 500, Kenyans can now spend 17 extraordinary minutes of their life on the wheel that provides exquisite and never seen before view of the very glamorous Nairobi skyline.
All the malls have distinct features for the perfect Sunday out with the family to enjoy and relax.
These are just but a glimpse into what Nairobi has to offer, discover your own hidden patches of heaven in this great city. There is no spirit of adventure Nairobi can’t accommodate.
