Nairobi – a big city at the edge of nature. Nairobi is a big city with plenty to do. In the Kenyan metropolis, culture, history and nature introduce themselves to the tourist.
The Kenyan capital of Nairobi is a mixture of Kenyan culture and Western influences. The modern look of the city center with its skyscrapers turns into a magnificent nature park on the outskirts of the city. Nairobi is the first destination for several travelers to Kenya.
NAIROBI AS A DESTINATION
According to Abbreviation Finder, Nairobi, in western Kenya, is home to about 2.5 million people. It is one of the largest cities in Africa. The distance to the country’s most famous destination, Mombasa, is about 500 kilometers from Nairobi.
The city was established in 1899 as a stopover on the railway line from Uganda to Mombasa. The British held power until Nairobi became the capital of Kenya in 1963. Colonial buildings in the city are hardly visible anymore, but the horizon is dominated by modern skyscrapers. Several international companies are headquartered in Nairobi.
For all modern and Western, Nairobi also has the opposite. Kenya is home to about 40 different tribes, whose cultural features are reflected in Nairobi in clothing, music and food culture. The tourist can get acquainted with the history and culture of the country, for example, at the National Museum of Kenya.
However, the most interesting destination for most tourists is Nairobi National Park, which is only a few kilometers from Nairobi. You can easily take a day trip to the park and then enjoy the pulse of the city.
The climate of Nairobi
The city of Nairobi is located about 1,600 meters above sea level. The height keeps the most startling heat away. Average daytime temperatures remain at 20-25 degrees known throughout the year, but in the evenings and at night, mercury may drop to around 10 degrees.
Even during rainy seasons, temperatures remain relatively similar. The rainy seasons run from April to May and November to December. The most popular time to travel is July-September.
Nature and the heartbeat of the big city
Nairobi is a starting point for many Kenyan travelers. Most travelers arrive at the international airport and stay in the city for a few nights exploring the culture and history.
Those who go to Nairobi National Park use the city as their base. The park is located about seven miles outside the city. The national park can be explored on day trips, either guided or on your own. Despite the proximity to the big city, the park is home to about a hundred species of mammals, the best known of which are elephants, rhinos and lions.
Nairobi has good shopping opportunities. The city’s shopping malls sell both local products and international brands. The price level of land is favorable for Finns. The most interesting places to shop are the various squares and markets where you can buy handicrafts. The best known is the Maasai market, which specializes in selling traditional masai products. Bargaining in the market is part of trading.
Nairobi has a lively nightlife and has been said to be the best party city in Africa. In addition to the big and popular nightclubs, there are numerous small cups favored by the locals in the town. Some places are open as long as there are enough customers. You can also gamble at a few casinos in the city.
When hunger strikes, you don’t have to look for a place to eat for a long time, as the city’s restaurant offer is quite plentiful. Choose from local delicacies as well as European and Asian cuisine. The price level is affordable. The local specialty is grilled meat or nyama choma. The meat is usually lamb and is served with grilled vegetables.
Good to know about Nairobi
Nairobi’s reputation as a dangerous travel destination is not entirely exaggerated. However, there is no need to panic, as following your normal caution, you can enjoy your trip to Nairobi as in other destinations.
However, it is good to remember that crime occurs and pocket theft in particular is high. Moving alone in the dark should be avoided. Road safety is poor throughout the country. In nature parks, it is important to follow their rules.
In Nairobi, as in the whole of Kenya, there is malaria, so it is good to be prepared for prophylaxis. Also check the necessary vaccinations before leaving. Only bottled water should be used as drinking water. The best security for a Nairobi traveler is good travel insurance.