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Plan Your Trip to Nairobi: Best of Nairobi Tourism

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By Ramona Lea

Nairobi, Kenya

Known as the safari capital of Africa, Nairobi is an energetic, modern city that serves as a fascinating introduction to both wildlife and nightlife. Music clubs pulse with life, shops and markets bustle, and a mélange of restaurants will tempt your palate in this former Maasai watering hole. Top sights include the Karen Blixen Museum, Giraffe Centre and the black rhinos of Nairobi National Park. The compact city centre is safe to walk in and taxis make other areas accessible.

Essential Nairobi

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Nairobi Is Great For

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Nairobi travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travellers ask in the forums.

Wildlife and Conservation Centers

According to forum posts, popular activities for a day in Nairobi include visits to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and the Giraffe Centre. These places offer close encounters with animals and are highly recommended for their conservation efforts.

Cultural Experiences

Travelers have called out the Bomas of Kenya as a must-visit for those interested in cultural performances and traditional Kenyan music and dance. The Karen Blixen Museum is also frequently recommended, offering insights into the author's life and the colonial history of Kenya.

City Tours and Walking

Some visitors suggest taking a city tour or participating in the Nai Nami walking tour to experience Nairobi from a local perspective. These tours are highlighted for their engaging storytelling and for providing a deeper understanding of Nairobi's socio-economic backdrop.

Art and Craft Sites

For arts and crafts enthusiasts, forum users recommend the Kazuri Beads Factory, where visitors can see the making of handcrafted ceramic beads. This is an ideal spot for those looking to purchase unique Kenyan handicrafts.

Outdoor Options

Lastly, for those who prefer outdoor activities, Nairobi National Park offers safari drives where one can spot wildlife, including rhinos. The park is conveniently located near the city, making it an easy addition to any day trip itinerary.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
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Ground Transfer Options

Some travelers recommended using a tour operator or hotel services for transfers between Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) and Wilson Airport. They suggested asking these services to include airport transfers as part of the package.

Taxi Services

According to forum posts, travelers can opt for taxi services for a more comfortable and reliable transfer. Specific recommendations like Jim Cabs were mentioned for their Meet & Greet service, which offers peace of mind to travelers concerned about safety and convenience.

Alternative Transportation Methods

For those looking for a quick transfer, it was suggested to use the NBO Expressway to reduce travel time between the airports. This route bypasses heavy traffic areas, providing a faster option than traditional roadways.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Travelers have called out the use of ride-sharing apps like Uber as a viable option for airport transfers in Nairobi, noting their convenience and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional taxi services.

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Visitor Feedback

According to forum posts, the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi offers a unique and interactive experience where visitors can hand-feed giraffes. Some travelers mentioned that the center can get crowded, especially in the afternoon, but visiting early in the morning or after 3 PM can help avoid larger crowds.

Additional Activities

Travelers have called out that while the Giraffe Centre itself is not very large and might take around an hour or two to explore, the area offers other attractions such as the adjacent Karen Blixen Museum, which can be combined for a fuller day of activities.

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Driver Recommendations

Some travelers recommended specific drivers and services for hire in Nairobi. For instance, Maxwell Obell was mentioned frequently as a reliable choice, with praises for his knowledge and service. His contact information, maxwell.nairobi@gmail.com, was provided by several users who had positive experiences with him.

Vehicle Options

Options for vehicle hire include standard cars and larger vehicles like minibuses, suitable for groups. Companies like Dream Safaris and Joyland Safaris were suggested for hiring tour vans or jeeps with a knowledgeable driver-guide included. Prices for hiring a car with a driver were mentioned, with one service priced at Ksh13500 per day within Nairobi.

Service Considerations

According to forum posts, it's crucial to ensure drivers have good local knowledge and are recommended by other travelers. Some drivers are also noted for their additional capabilities like speaking fluent English and providing information about local attractions. It's advisable to book through reputable sources or based on strong personal recommendations from the forum.

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Security Procedures

According to forum posts, travelers should allocate ample time for multiple security checks at NBO, including entrance security, terminal entry, passport control, and gate security. Some travelers have reported needing up to 3 hours to navigate these processes, even with no checked luggage.

Transportation to Airport

Travelers have called out the notorious Nairobi traffic, suggesting using the NBO Expressway to bypass congestion. This is especially recommended for those trying to reach the airport during peak hours. Additionally, some users recommended being at the airport as early as 6 PM for evening flights due to these delays.

Inside NBO

For those transiting or having a short layover, forum posts recommend staying within the airport to avoid the hassles of local traffic and security concerns. Options like dining at the Java House or using airport lounges are suggested for short waits.

Luggage and Check-in

Travelers have noted the need for all passengers, even those with mobile boarding passes and carry-on luggage only, to undergo standard security checks. This includes a passport check, which might not be bypassed even with a mobile pass.

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Luggage Storage at Hotels

Many travelers have successfully stored their luggage at hotels in Nairobi without any problems. It is common for hotels to offer this service, particularly for guests who are going on safari and need to store bags they will not take with them. However, it is advised not to leave valuables like money or electronics in stored luggage.

Wilson Airport Storage

According to user discussions, Wilson Airport provides a luggage storage service. This service has been described as helpful, with staff assisting in retrieving luggage between flights.

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport

As per recent updates from travelers, the left luggage facility at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport was reported closed, and it is unclear if it will be operational in the future. Travelers needing storage at this airport are advised to check current status directly with the airport or consider arranging for their hotel to collect and store luggage.

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Tripadvisor is not responsible for these answers or any opinions in them. Please read full forum posts for more details and information.