"Enjoy perfect walking weather around David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. January is one of the best times to visit Nairobi. Lace up your boots for epic trails and stunning landscapes."
We built this guide using recent climate data, hotel price trends, and our own trips, so you can pick the right month without guesswork.
Why Visit Nairobi?
Nairobi thrills visitors as Africa's undisputed safari capital and East Africa's dynamic modern hub where the unique Nairobi National Park—the only national park in the world directly bordering a major capital city—lets visitors photograph free-roaming lions, rhinos, and giraffes against surreal downtown skyscraper backdrops mere kilometers away, orphaned baby elephants at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage endearingly nuzzle their dedicated handlers during touching 11am daily public feeding sessions (pre-booking required), and endangered Rothschild giraffes elegantly poke their long necks through Giraffe Manor's manor house breakfast windows seeking treats from delighted upscale guests. Kenya's bustling capital and East Africa's essential economic, transport, and safari hub (around 4.8 million residents in the city and roughly 5.7 million in the wider metropolitan area) serves primarily as the crucial gateway to Kenya's world-famous safari destinations—the legendary Masai Mara's spectacular wildebeest migration river crossings (July-October peak, 1.5 million wildebeest plus zebras and gazelles), Amboseli's impressive elephant herds photographed beneath snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro, and flamingo-filled Rift Valley soda lakes—yet the surprisingly green city itself genuinely rewards spending 2-3 full days exploring Nairobi's attractions, museums, and wildlife encounters before flying onwards to remote bush camps. Nairobi National Park (just 7 kilometers from city center's CBD, around Ksh1,500 non-resident adult entry plus vehicle fees, half-day morning game drives best) spectacularly showcases the surreal incongruity: endangered black rhinos, prides of lions, Maasai giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and warthogs graze naturally across savanna grasslands while Nairobi's modern glass office towers shimmer surreally in the background creating that iconic wildlife-meets-urban photo opportunity.
The beloved Giraffe Centre (around Ksh1,500 non-resident adult) provides close encounters letting visitors hand-feed endangered Rothschild giraffes from elevated platform and learn conservation, while the nearby Karen Blixen Museum (Karen suburb, around Ksh1,000) preserves Out of Africa author's 1914 colonial farmhouse with period furniture and gardens. Yet Nairobi pulses with urban energy beyond wildlife tourism: the rotating Maasai Market (different location each day of week, bargain hard) sells colorful Maasai beaded jewelry, soapstone carvings, and wood crafts, Karura Forest's 1,000+ hectares offer surprising urban hiking trails, waterfalls, and caves mere minutes from suburbs, and trendy Westlands neighborhood's restaurants authentically serve nyama choma (Kenyan BBQ grilled goat or beef) with cold Tusker lager beer. The Bomas of Kenya cultural center showcases traditional tribal dances, music, and homesteads from Kenya's 40+ ethnic groups, while Kibera slum (one of Africa's largest informal settlements, often estimated at a few hundred thousand residents) can be visited respectfully with ethical guide-led community tours supporting local projects.
Significant safety concerns absolutely exist—opportunistic petty crime, bag snatching, occasional carjackings, and con artists—requiring constant vigilance and sensible precautions, yet millions visit Nairobi safely annually using registered Uber/Bolt rides or hotel taxis, avoiding walking after dark, not displaying valuables, and staying aware. Most international safari visitors spend just 1-2 nights in Nairobi hotels before flying to Masai Mara (45-minute flight, around $200–$400 return on small planes) or driving overland to Amboseli (approximately 4 hours south). With English universally spoken (official language alongside Swahili), pleasantly mild highland climate year-round (15-26°C at comfortable 1,795-meter elevation avoiding coastal heat), modern infrastructure, and absolutely essential position as East Africa's primary safari launching point and international airport hub, Nairobi delivers accessible urban wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and crucial safari planning before heading out to Kenya's legendary grassland game viewing adventures.
What to Do
Wildlife in the City
David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
Watch orphaned baby elephants play and feed at the 11am daily public visit (lasts about 1 hour). The public visit requires a minimum donation of US$20 per adult and US$5 per child, booked online in advance—spaces sell out quickly. The elephants are adorable and keepers explain each animal's rescue story. You can also foster an elephant from US$50/year, which supports their care and sometimes includes access to special foster-only visits. Photography allowed. Located in Nairobi National Park area. Combine with Giraffe Centre same morning. Very popular—arrive 15 minutes early.
Giraffe Centre
Feed endangered Rothschild giraffes from a raised platform—they'll take pellets from your hand or mouth (for photos). Entry is Ksh1,500 for adults, less for children. Open 9am-5pm daily. The experience takes about 1 hour. Best mornings before 11am when giraffes are hungry. Warthogs roam the grounds freely. There's a short nature trail and informative displays. Located in Karen suburb, 30-40 minutes from center. Combine with nearby Karen Blixen Museum. Very photogenic—bring a camera.
Nairobi National Park
The only national park bordering a capital city—see lions, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and buffalo with Nairobi skyline in background. For non-residents, park entry is US$80 per adult / US$40 per child (3–17) per day, plus a vehicle/guide fee. A typical half-day game drive from Nairobi for visitors costs around US$60–$100 per person for the vehicle and guide, on top of park fees. Go early morning (6-9am) for best animal sightings. The park is 117 km², about 20 minutes from center. Bring binoculars and camera with zoom lens. Can't compare to Masai Mara but convenient and surreal with city backdrop.
Nairobi Culture
Karen Blixen Museum
Former home of Out of Africa author, preserving colonial-era farmhouse and gardens at foot of Ngong Hills. Entry Ksh1,200 adults. Open 9:30am-6pm daily. Guided tours included, last about 45 minutes. The house is filled with period furniture and Blixen's belongings. Beautiful gardens perfect for photos. Located in Karen suburb near Giraffe Centre—easy to combine. Movie fans will recognize settings. Less crowded than wildlife attractions.
Bomas of Kenya
Cultural center showcasing Kenya's diverse tribal heritage through traditional homesteads (bomas) and daily dance performances. Entry Ksh1,000-1,500. The main show (2:30pm weekdays, 3:30pm weekends, about 1.5 hours) features dances from different tribes—colorful and energetic. Arrive 30 minutes early for good seats. The homestead village shows traditional architecture. Touristy but educational. Located 10km from center—arrange transport.
Maasai Market
Rotating outdoor craft market selling Maasai beaded jewelry, wood carvings, fabrics, and souvenirs. Locations change daily (Friday Yaya Centre, Saturday Village Market, Sunday near high court). Bargaining essential—start at 30-40% of asking price. Quality varies—inspect carefully. Authentic Maasai crafts mixed with mass-produced items. Go midday when fully set up. Bring cash (shillings). Great for gifts and souvenirs. Watch your belongings in crowds.
Safari Gateway
Masai Mara Safari
Kenya's most famous safari destination, 5-6 hours drive or 45-minute flight from Nairobi. The Great Migration (July-October) sees millions of wildebeest cross from Serengeti. Most visitors fly from Wilson Airport (around $200–$400 return) then stay 2-4 nights at tented camps or lodges ($300–$800 per person per night, all-inclusive with game drives). Book reputable operators months ahead. Budget safaris exist but avoid very cheap options. Flying is far better than the rough 8-hour drive. Essential Kenya experience.
Karura Forest
Urban forest in Nairobi with hiking/biking trails, waterfalls, and caves. Entry Ksh150 adults. Open 6am-6:30pm daily. The forest has over 50km of trails—popular routes take 1-3 hours. Rent bikes at entrance (Ksh500). Monkeys and over 200 bird species. Peaceful escape from city chaos. Go mornings for cooler temperatures. Safe during daylight—don't go alone at dusk. Popular with locals for jogging and picnics. Several entrance gates—main one off Limuru Road.
Westlands & Dining
Nairobi's upscale neighborhood with malls, restaurants, and nightlife. Westgate Mall and Sarit Centre have international brands and food courts. Try nyama choma (grilled meat) at carnivore restaurants—Carnivore Restaurant is famous but touristy. Westlands bars and clubs stay open late (locals start around 10pm). The area is relatively safe and walkable by Nairobi standards. Good base for accommodation. Uber easily available. Mix of expats and wealthy Kenyans.
Gallery
Travel Information
Getting There
- Airports: NBO
- From :
Best Time to Visit
January, February, June, July, August, September, October
Climate: Moderate
Visa Requirements
Visa required
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 24°C | 16°C | 25 | Excellent (best) |
| February | 25°C | 16°C | 20 | Excellent (best) |
| March | 25°C | 16°C | 29 | Wet |
| April | 24°C | 16°C | 28 | Wet |
| May | 23°C | 15°C | 19 | Wet |
| June | 23°C | 13°C | 8 | Excellent (best) |
| July | 22°C | 13°C | 7 | Excellent (best) |
| August | 24°C | 13°C | 11 | Excellent (best) |
| September | 24°C | 13°C | 11 | Excellent (best) |
| October | 26°C | 15°C | 18 | Excellent (best) |
| November | 24°C | 15°C | 24 | Wet |
| December | 25°C | 15°C | 8 | Good |
Weather data: Open-Meteo Archive (2020-2025) • Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0) • Historical avg. 2020–2025
Travel Costs
Per person per day, based on double occupancy. 'Budget' reflects hostels or shared accommodation in high-cost cities.
💡 🌍 Traveler Tip (January 2026): January 2026 is perfect for visiting Nairobi!
Practical Information
Getting There
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) is 18km southeast. Airport taxis Ksh2,000-3,500/$16–$28 (45 min-1.5hr depending on traffic, pre-book only). Uber works. Buses chaotic—avoid. Nairobi is East Africa's hub—international flights from across Africa, Middle East, and worldwide. Wilson Airport (WIL) for domestic/safari flights to Masai Mara, Amboseli.
Getting Around
Avoid walking at night; even short distances are safer by Uber/Bolt or registered taxis. In daylight, walking short distances in safer areas (Westlands, Karen, Gigiri) is generally fine if you stay alert and don't display valuables. Uber/Bolt widely available (Ksh300-800 typical rides). Matatus (minibuses) and regular buses are cheap but chaotic and not recommended for first-time visitors; most tourists use Uber/Bolt or private drivers. Rent 4x4s for safaris ($80–$150/day + driver recommended). Traffic horrendous—2hr jams normal. Stay in safe areas, arrange hotel airport transfers.
Money & Payments
Kenyan Shilling (Ksh, KES). Exchange $1 ≈ Ksh$135–$1451 ≈ Ksh125-135. Cards accepted at hotels, restaurants, malls. Cash needed for markets, tips. ATMs in safe areas—withdraw with guard present. Tipping: $5–$10/day for safari guides/drivers, Ksh200-500 for services, 10% restaurants.
Language
English and Swahili are official. English widely spoken—former British colony. Swahili useful (Jambo = hello, Asante = thanks, Hakuna matata = no worries). Signs in English. Communication easy in tourism. Tribal languages spoken in rural areas.
Cultural Tips
SAFETY: use registered taxis/Uber for most trips, avoid walking after dark, don't display phones/cameras/jewelry openly, and avoid downtown CBD after dark. In daylight, stick to safer neighborhoods like Westlands, Karen, or Gigiri. Safaris: book reputable operators only, fly to Masai Mara don't drive (8hr rough road). Bargain at Maasai Market (start at 30% of asking price). Tipping: safari guides essential ($10–$15/day). Altitude: Nairobi at 1,795m—mild effect. Dress conservatively—no shorts in city. Traffic: patience required.
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Perfect 3-Day Nairobi & Safari Gateway
Day 1: Wildlife Encounters
Day 2: Nairobi National Park
Day 3: Depart for Safari
Where to Stay in Nairobi
Westlands
Best for: Shopping malls, restaurants, hotels, expats, relatively safe, nightlife, modern
Karen
Best for: Upscale residential, Giraffe Centre, Blixen Museum, quieter, affluent, safer, suburban
CBD (Downtown)
Best for: Daytime only, business, avoid at night, traffic, crowded, unsafe for tourists after dark
Gigiri & UN Area
Best for: Diplomatic quarter, UN headquarters, safer, upscale, international restaurants, expat living
Popular Activities
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Why you can trust this guide
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
- Official tourism boards and visitor guides
- GetYourGuide and Viator activity data
- Booking.com and Numbeo pricing data
- Google Maps reviews and ratings
This guide combines personal travel experience with comprehensive data analysis to provide accurate recommendations.
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