At some point, you come to realize that the city is not the easiest place to get a grasp on. Even when you think you know you way around, that is when it dawns on you. With the crowded streets, unique attractions, the upcoming latest Shopping Malls and Restaurants, changing sceneries of added newly built roads, buildings and businesses by the year, it can feel a little bit daunting to tackle in a day or two depending on your travel schedules. But for the open-minded individuals at heart, here are a couple of ideas that you can use to make the most of your 24 hours in Nairobi.

a. Download a Taxi App on your Mobile Device– For an easy on-the-go trip, there are quite a number of taxi services offered currently in Nairobi.  One can find that this apps offer a better pricing option and saves you time and money. You can as well source out a private driver, depending on your budget, and agree on a negotiated price. If you are staying at a hotel or an Airbnb, your host can be available to help you get the best drivers around.  Keep a positive mind, remember that the experience can be worthwhile and just as rewarding.

b. Transportation- There are various options available to you. Apart from the Taxi and Rental Cars, For the Tourists interested in exploring the Matatu Culture of Nairobi, they are easily recognizable and can be found at every bus stage around the city. Fares range from between 20 to 200 shillings depending on the distance you travel. Nowadays, you can also hire a matatu for private transportation. But, while Matatus can be cheap and convenient, they can however get overcrowded and uncomfortable, especially during the 4 PM Rush Hour. It is quite an Adventure, but still very important to keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.

c. Invest in good walking Shoes and Clothing– Exploring the city will involve a lot of walking. And you would want to be as comfortable as possible so as to be able to take in the views, restaurants and the amenities that it has to offer. 

d. Carry a durable bag– Invest in an excellent back pack or “Anti-theft” bag to keep your belongings secure at all times. Remember to only carry the essentials when out exploring. 

e. Know Your Host- Depending on your stay at a Hotel, the Hotel Staff, Local Tour Operator or Air BnB host, they are always available for you and are ready to take on the task and provide you with the information and assistance that you need. Avoid asking random strangers for directions in case you loose your way. You can however approach a nearby security guard in uniform who may be able to assist you.

f. Carry a bottle of water-Supermarkets are available all-around Nairobi for the traveler who is always on the go, stocked with a variety of bottled water. From still to sparking to distilled. 

g. Safety and Security– Nairobi is generally safe for Tourists, but just like any other Major city around the world, it is important to stay vigilant. Be aware of scammers, watch out for pickpockets, keep your valuables close and avoid displaying your phones and jewelry. Be cautious of crowded areas and make sure to use reliable transportation options.

h. Cash and Credit Cards- The currency used in the City is Kenyan Shillings (KSHS). Carry a separate small wallet with a combination of both cash and credit/debit cards. Remember to always use ATMs, if in town, inside the banks. Cards are widely accepted, but it is advisable to have loose cash on hand depending on the area that you plan to visit, be it the Maasai Market or Local Mini Marts. Only carry the amount that you may need and not more.

I.  Purchase the Local Mobile Sim Cards– Sim Cards are readily available to be purchased once you arrive at the Airport and data is reliable and Cheap. Be sure to get your hands on a Local sim card like Safaricom or Airtel and purchase a bundle of airtime and data, so as to have immediate access to Uber, Google Maps and other indispensable online services and Mobile Money services such as M-Pesa.

Finally trust your instincts!!! and while at it, enjoy your Adventure and curate your own Itinerary! Nairobi is an exciting city and should definitely be part of your travel radar. Whether you are interested in the Culture, Wildlife or Urban Adventure, Nairobi will surprise you as there is always something for everyone!

Kenya is an incredible and diverse country, perfect for an introduction to an authentic True African Travel and Safari. But, what many do not know is that sometimes, finding things to do in the bustling city of Nairobi can feel overwhelming and difficult to navigate for a first-time visitor, or even a seasoned Traveler. Nicknamed the “Green City in the Sun”, The Safari Capital of Kenya offers its own unique fusion of its Modernity and wide Historic cultures, great Nightlife scenes for the outgoing tourist to even having its own National Park found at the heart of the City!

1. Get up-close and Personal at The Giraffe Center- For the Traveler on the budget, this experience is for sure one that you do not want to pass and the one that you will never forget. Take a chance to visit the famous Endangered Rothschild Giraffe roaming freely on the grounds. Here you definitely have an opportunity to get face-to face and feed (or touch), and take incredible photos or videos with these extraordinary giant creatures. Offer them a few or a handful pellets of food provided by the caretakers, and watch them instantly become friendly!
2. Shop for Souvenirs at the Maasai Market– Here is a challenge for you. There is no harm in buying the latest African souvenirs at a shop in the Airport or Malls. In fact, it is very much encouraged. But, take a minute and think about it. If you are curious to make the most of your trip, and looking to experience authentic local businesses and the artisans behind the beautiful paintings, animal carvings, beaded and metallic designed jewelry and colorful clothing, look no further than paying a visit to the nearest Maasai market, located in the city. Most of the time, held at a different location and specified day at the city, you can seek aid at the hotel, Tour Operator or Air BnB host who are for sure able to help you locate this unique market.
3. Visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage- Forget swimming the entire day or watching the movies and step out to continue to get closer with the African Wildlife. Known as a world-renowned elephant orphanage conservation in Nairobi, the center raises these incredible animals, who have been orphaned for a multitude of reasons, and later on, they are released back into the wild. Expertly raised by trained caretakers, Tourist and locals can visit the conservation once a day in the Afternoon hours. Make an early booking and get the chance to see this unique orphanage at work.
4. Visit the Karen Blixen Museum This colonial farmhouse turned museum is the home of famous Danish author, Karen Blixen, from 1917-1931. Much of the history of the city a is preserved in the farmhouse… including a coffee-drying plant, old photographs, and books. (Tours can be booked right at the museum entrance.)
5. Take a Tour to the Kazuri Beads Factory– Found within Karen, this factory is the place to be to shop for unique, handmade souvenirs and items unique to the Kenyan culture. The colorful beads and pottery items are made from scratch by the local women and single mothers. While on your visit, remember to make a purchase of some of these items as a memoir to your trip, and by purchasing these items, you’re able to support and keep this heritage alive.
6. Explore the Karura Forest Reserve- Just a few kilometers from the main city center is Karura Forest Reserve, one of the largest urban forests in the world! The forest is a known home to over 200 species of birds, as well as Monkeys, Reptiles, Civets, and Butterflies. Both Local and Visitors, who are more athletic, also take the opportunity to explore this vast forest by jogging, running, hiking, or rent a mountain bike to cycle in the reserve’s 50 km lush trails. Afterwards you can take a relaxing afternoon and enjoy a picnic in the shady gardens, and relax at the open-sided river café.
7. Visit the Nairobi Arboretum- For a relaxing nature itinerary, this is not to be missed as it features a quiet setting for family, couples. individual picnics. It’s a lesser-known attraction but boasts the most relaxing scenery shaded by trees and flowers. You can also spend the day walking or jogging through the trails and spot visible wildlife, including a monkey or two.
8. Take a Stroll on the Nairobi Safari Walk– Located within the Nairobi National Park Reserve, this raised wooden boardwalk, known as the Safari Walk, allows for fantastic views of animals from above and is located just 7 km from the City Centre. The Safari Walk is a show case of Kenya’s Parks and Reserves, and it allows visitors to discover what they can expect to see across the country.
9. Take a Day Tour to a Tea or Coffee Farm– Just an hour’s drive from Nairobi, you will find a relaxing countryside filled with rolling tea and coffee farms, waterfalls, dams, and man-made forests. Be sure to take one of the many tours to experience and unwind, have a fine cup of Chai or the best Kenyan tea and Coffee served fresh and hot from the farm.