48 hOUrs IN A SHORT GUIDE TO THE MAGICAL CITY FOR THE ACTIVE TRAVELLER Sightseeing, , eating out and more. Nairobi is the only capital city in Memo The Safari the world with a national park Whether you are visiting capital of within its boundaries, making Nairobi for business or it a prime tourist destination. pleasure, there are many the world. It is also home to several other activities and experiences tourist attractions. that would suit any traveler. A world in Nairobi has a diverse and This pocket-sized booklet is multicultural composition; filled with fun and interesting tune with there are a number of churches, activities for anyone to enjoy, nature. mosques, temples and from the breath-taking scenery gurdwaras within the city. Nairobi and beautiful abundance of is home to several museums, natural attractions, to the sites and monuments, plus glamour and glitz of the spectacular five star hotels to modern city lifestyle. cater for safari-bound tourists.

2 3 2) Animal Orphanage and conservation Welcome • Location: Langata education. • Distance: 10kms from CBD to the • Duration of visit: 2-3 hours It offers an opportunity to depending on interest points experience what you expect magic that to see across the country. It was established in 1964 as a Introductory talks on ’s is Nairobi refuge and rehabilitation centre for parks and reserves can be wild animals found abandoned or arranged for you by the 1) National Park of Nairobi injured in Kenya. It is a setting for naturalists. You will have a taste • Location: Langata visitors to walk around and have of Kenya’s rich animals including • Distance: 10kms from the CBD close up views of animals such the rare bongo, white rhino, • Duration of visit: Half a day as lions, crocodiles, cheetahs & albino zebra and a collection of depending on interest points leopards. Watch out for the group cats, antelopes and primates. of monkeys and baboons roaming www.kws.org Established in 1948 and covering freely around. an area of 117sq. km, it is the only www.kws.org 4) Nairobi National Museum park in close proximity to a city • Location: Museum Hill • Distance: 3kms from CBD centre. It has diverse environments 3) Nairobi Safari Walk with characteristics of flora and • Location: Langata • Duration: 1 hour depending fauna and deep rocky valleys. • Distance: 10kms from CBD on points of interest The animals that can be found • Duration: Half a day depending in this park are black and white on points of interest The museum aims to interpret rhinos, diverse birdlife, lions, Kenya’s rich heritage and offers leopards, hyenas, cheetahs, This is Kenya’s new conservation a one-stop-shop for visitors buffaloes, zebra and hippos. based recreation facility. The to sample the country’s rich www.kws.org combination of skilled and creative heritage both for education landscape design, unique wildlife and leisure. species and detailed interpretation, Visitors are treated to a variety of renders the facility supreme in shopping and dining facilities,

4 5 as well as botanical gardens that 4 Maasai Ostriches can also be 7) Elephant Orphanage The orphanage is open to the offer a serene environment. found strutting around their pen • Location: Karen public during the calves’ feeding with grace. • Distance: 10 kms from CBD times where they can interact with There is a wide variety of attraction • Duration: 1 hour calves and watch them being fed on display at the museum ranging Visitors often come into direct depending on points while they are informed about from cultural and natural exhibits, personal contact with them of interest how the calves came to be at stuffed birds and mammals, fossils when given the opportunity to Elephant calves orphaned by the orphanage. There is also an from Lake Turkana, exhibits of feed these gallant birds. The poachers or natural occurrences option for visitors to choose to local art, an impressive collection experience is always satisfying are brought here from all over the adopt an elephant where they of rocks and minerals and a and exciting especially for country. They receive extremely will be in charge of the elephants collection of pre-historic bones children. Within the village, there specialised treatment and care at the orphanage. and fossils including one of an is also a tented camp available personalised care from highly www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org elephant. for accommodation. dedicated staff. www.nairobimamba.com One can purchase a combination ticket for the adjacent snake park 6) Giraffe Centre with live specimens of Kenya’s • Location: Karen most common reptiles. • Distance: 15 kms from CBD www.museums.or.ke • Duration: Half a day depending on points of interest 5) Mamba Village The centre has been ostensibly • Location: Karen established as a breeding ground • Distance: 13 kms from CBD for the endangered Rothschild • Duration: Half day depending Giraffe. Information about the on points of interest giraffe is provided and an elevated Mamba Village is famous for feeding platform was installed to its crocodile farm. The pens are give visitors the opportunity to home to an estimated hand-feed the giraffes. 70 Nile Crocodiles. www.giraffecenter.org

6 7 8) Nairobi Arboretum Kenya. Visitors here can learn about art and inspired design. 13) Kenya National Archives • Location: Kileleshwa the lifestyle, art, music, crafts and www.kitengela.com • Location: Along Moi Avenue • Distance: 3 kms from CBD cultures of Kenya. in the City Center • Duration: Half a day depending 11) Kazuri Beads • Duration: 1-2 hours depending on points of interest The complex encompasses • Location: Karen on points of interest recreated traditional homesteads • Distance: 10 kms from CBD The Arboretum occupies 30 or ‘bomas’ built in the traditional • Duration: 1 - 2 hours It houses the Murumbi Gallery, hectors and holds over 350 style, each one reflecting the depending on points dedicated to the late Joseph different species of trees. It is home culture of a major ethnic group in of interest Murumbi, Kenya’s second to over 100 migrant and resident Kenya. Every afternoon, a team Vice President from May 1965 – birds. The Arboretum is one of performs traditional dances and Kazuri creates hand-shaped and August 31, 1966. He and his wife Nairobi’s few remaining green songs in the large theater. painted ceramic jewelry made by Sheila were avid collectors of spaces, with jogging trails, walking www.bomasofkenya.co.ke over 300 local women and sold all African art. paths and picnic lawns. over the world. www.naturekenya.org 10) Kitengela Glass www.kazuri.com Murumbi’s collection has been • Location: Kitengela described as “Africa’s best known 9) Bomas of Kenya • Distance: 7 kms from CBD 12) Karen Blixen Museum collection of priceless heritage and • Location: Karen • Location: Langata • Duration: 3 - 4 hours artifacts”. He left behind 50,000 • Distance: 10 kms from CBD • Distance: 10 kms from CBD depending on points books and sheaves of official • Duration: 1 – 2 hours • Duration: 3 - 4 hours of interest correspondence. depending on points depending on points The National Archives department of interest of interest This is a glass blowing factory. The has set up a library containing This is the home of Danish farmer It was established by the workers create handmade glass some of the 8,000 “rare books” and author Karen Blixen made government in 1971 as a subsidiary bottles from renewed and recycled (those published before 1900) famous by her book and the movie company of Kenya Tourist raw materials, such as scrap entrusted to them upon the death based on the book “Out of Africa” Development Corporation as a windows, glass bottles and other of Murumbi. which chronicles her life at the tourist attraction. glassy material. www.archives.go.ke Bomas of Kenya is a living museum The finished products are stylish estate. celebrating the colorful tribes of products, made through functional www.museums.or.ke

8 9 14) Maasai Market Friday – Village Market, Upper • Location: varies throughout Car Park Galleries & the week • Duration: Within the CBD Saturday – Law Court Parking CBD, monuments • Duration: 1 - 2 hours Adams Arcade & Ngong Road depending on points 1) Uhuru Gardens It stands in Uhuru Gardens on Langata Road and of interest Sunday – Yaya Shopping Centre, it is where Kenya’s first flag was raised on Car Park, Adams Arcade, Ngong 12th December, 1963. Here visitors can buy different art Road & Safari Park Hotel, Thika Road curios, trinkets, jewellery, wood carvings and more by various www.jambonairobi.co.ke/culture/ Kenyan artisans. crafts-markets/maasai-market

The market also moves around the city visiting different malls and locations, selling their products.

Monday – No market

Tuesday – Off Kijabe Street near Text Book Centre

Wednesday – Capital Center, Mombasa Road

Thursday – The Junction Mall, Ngong Road, 3rd Floor Parking

10 11 2) Tom Mboya Monument with very detailed aspects including East Africa. inspiration and development for It is located in the City Centre a birthmark on the President’s face bananahillartgallery.com indigenous artists and art lovers. on Moi Avenue. It was erected and his trademark peep toe sandals The arts centre programs include: in 2011 in honor of Tom Mboya, sits at the center of KICC. 8) Nairobi Gallery visual arts, music, dance, theater a charismatic Pan-Africanist and Located at the intersection and photography. It is opened freedom fighter known for his 5) War Memorial Statues of Kenyatta Avenue and Uhuru everyday from 9am to 5pm. African airlift projects and who Located on Kenyatta Avenue, Highway in the heart of Nairobi City paayapaa.kbo.co.ke helped in the formation of the these are statues of three African is the Nairobi Gallery. Built in 1913, oldest party in Kenya (KANU). soldiers standing next to each other this was the Old PC’s office building 10) The GoDown Arts Centre representing those who fought and fondly referred to as ‘Hatches, The centre provides the first 3) Dedan Kimathi Statue died in both World War One and Matches and Dispatches’ because Kenyan multi-disciplinary space for It is located on Kimathi Street, World War Two. of the births, marriages and deaths arts and host organisations opposite the Hilton Hotel. Dedan that were recorded here. Today, the representing a variety of art forms was a leader of the Mau Mau which 6) Galton Fenzi Monument building is a National Monument as well as residence programs. The led an armed military struggle This monument was built in memory and serves as a museum holding GoDown also has an exhibition known as the Mau Mau uprising of Galton Fenzi who played a role in temporary art exhibitions. gallery where exhibitions can against the British Colonial devising the road system in Kenya. The Murumbi Gallery which is be shown and meetings or Government in Kenya in the 1950s. It is located on Kenyatta Avenue just dedicated to the late Joseph performances held. Kimathi, clad in military regalia, next to the main Post Office. Murumbi, a former Kenyan Vice www.thegodownartscentre.com holds a rifle with his right hand and a www.museums.or.ke President and a collector of African dagger on the other, symbolising the art is housed in the Nairobi Gallery. 11) Nairobi Railway Museum GALLERIES The home to the acclaimed last weapons he held in his struggle. His collection has been described “Lunatic Line” is located in an old as “Africa’s best known collection of 7) Banana Hill Art Gallery railway building along Uhuru 4) Jomo Kenyatta Statue It is located in the town of Banana priceless heritage and artifacts.” The Jomo Kenyatta statue is Highway. It provides answers to Hill, just North of the famous Village www.magicalkenya.com an 80-year-old British sculptor’s many unanswered questions Market in Nairobi. They exhibit masterpiece by the name James concerning the early history of the some of East Africa’s most stunning 9) Paa ya Paa Arts Centre Butler. The intricately double Located on Ridgeways Road off rail and Kenya’s transport paintings and sculptures with an life-size, 12-foot, seated statue of Kiambu Road, it is a place for development. emphasis on contemporary African President Jomo Kenyatta in 1969 art from painters and sculptors in 12 13 The museum consists of the Main Recreational parks Gallery, the Resource Center, the auditorium and an outdoor & picnic sites collection of locomotives, wagons and coaches.

The Museum is opened daily from 8am to 5pm. www.krc.co.ke

14 15 1) Jeevanjee Gardens Activities include: hiking, picnics 6) Central Park It is located in the Parklands area The park features beautiful gardens and jogging. It occupies an area bounded by of Nairobi. Attractions include: and trees providing a welcome www.jambonairobi.co.ke Kenyatta Avenue, Nyerere Avenue sculpture garden, Murumbi shade from the tropical sun. It is and Uhuru Highway, behind Nairobi Memorial Park, jogging, picnic sites dotted with artistic benches and 3) Karura Forest Serena Hotel. Activities include: and nature trails. sculptures that add to its appeal. The Karura Forest Reserve is an picnic and a children’s playground. Friendsofcitypark.org Its location makes it an ideal picnic urban upland forest on the outskirts www.jambonairobi.co.ke site for the city residents. On a of Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. 9) Uhuru Park typical weekday, you will find many This remarkable geographical 7) Uhuru Gardens It is the most popular recreational people relaxing on the benches or location and natural resource is It is where Kenya’s first flag was park in Nairobi and is used th lawns, or just walking around the park. one of the largest gazetted forests raised on 12 December, 1963. mainly as an assembly point for One of the few designated in the world fully within city limits. The national monument on celebrating national holidays, for smoking zones in the city is also Attractions include Mau Mau Langata Road is Kenya’s largest political rallies during election situated here. caves, nature trails, wildlife, scenic memorial park. The park offers a periods and for prayer meetings by waterfalls and bamboo forest. tranquil picnic site, a popular family various religious organisations. The Jeevanjee Gardens is bounded www.friendsofkarura.org outing destination and a venue Attractions include: boat riding on by Moi Avenue, Monrovia Street, for corporate events. The Uhuru the artificial lake, picnic sites and Muindi Mbingu Street and Moktar 5) Oloolua Nature Trail monument stands in it. monuments. Hidden away in the upmarket Daddah Street towards the www.museums.or.ke www.uhurupark.com suburb of Karen is 250 hectares of Northern end of the City Centre. the indigenous tropical dry Oloolua The park is open for free to the 8) Nairobi City Park 10) Paradise Lost Forest that is home to the Institute Nairobi City Park is one of only a It is a beautiful oasis in the middle public. of Primate Research (IPR) run by the few intact indigenous forests that of a coffee farm close to Kiambu www.jambonairobi.co.ke National Museums of Kenya. once covered most of Nairobi. The Town, about 10 kms from Nairobi. forest hosts botanical gardens, 2) Ngong Hills Activities include boat riding, Located just 22 kms SouthWest of Activities include jogging, picnic, historical landmarks and a number fishing, bird watching, feeding Nairobi City, Ngong Hills make a camping, short hikes, guided tours of indigenous tree species that are ostriches, horse and camel riding, very popular weekend destination in the forest, visiting the caves, endemic to kenya. visiting the caves & waterfalls, for visitors from all over the country. swamps and waterfall. www.magicalkenya.com

16 17 camping and walking on the It contains a board with names of Golf courses nature trail. the people who were reported www.jambonairobi.co.ke dead due to the incident. 1) Muthaiga Golf Club The park also has a Visitors The Muthaiga Golf Club enjoys the influential position of having 11) Rowallan Camp Centre that features a museum been one of the Kenya’s pioneer golf courses. It serves as the It’s situated along Kibera Drive displaying images and exhibits home to the Kenya Golf Union and also plays host to the most adjacent to the Ngong Road Forest that aim to sensitise the public on prestigious golfing event in the country, the Kenya Open. Reserve about 9 kms from the City the need for peace and tolerance, It has 18 holes within a distance of 4.7 kms. Centre. and an auditorium where a www.muthaigagolfclub.com Activities include: camping, taking documentary of the disaster is walks on the nature trails & short played. hikes to some caves located in www.memorialparkkenya.org/ the reserve. www.kenyascouts.org

12) August 7th Memorial Park It is located along Haile Selassie Avenue, at the scene where the 1998 terrorist bomb attack took place at the then United States Embassy.

18 19 2) Windsor Golf & Country Club hole major championship course. at the North Western edge of gives discounts so that you can The superbly built 200 acre hotel www.karencountryclub.org Nairobi, on Veterinary Laboratory just pay and play. and golf club is definitely one of its Department, about 15 kms from the www.jockeyclubofkenya.com kind in East Africa. Situated 17 kms 4) Railway Golf Club City Center. from Nairobi, a visit to the Windsor It was established in 1922 as a 8) The Royal Nairobi Golf Club Golf Hotel and Country Club is private club for the Railway staff The Golf Club hosts 2 of the The Royal Golf Club (Royal a must, not only for golfers, but by the Kenya Railway Manager’s biggest events: the Kabete because it was adapted by King anyone seeking luxury. wife, Mrs. Couper, as the Kenya Foursomes Men’s Invitational George V) was the first golf Railway Golf Club and the Kenya Breweries Festival course in Kenya. On your way up the drive leading (KURGC). of Golf. to the hotel, you get a view of the www.vetlabsc.com Although challenging and fun to Aberdare Mountain ranges. Once The club opened its membership play, the front 9 holes have on the course, you see a lovely view to non-railways staff in 1924. 6) Airforce Golf Club a different look than the back of Mt. Kenya. You also get a glimpse A new exquisite yet modest 9. This has a lot to do with the of Ol’Doinyo Sabuk and the Kenya Railway Golf Club is brownies course at the Eastleigh difference in the lay of the terrain Ngong Hills. situated in the Central Business Airbase. This is the only military on which the two sides were www.windsorgolfresort.com District of Nairobi, between golf course in the country and constructed. Uhuru Highway and Lower has 9 holes and 72 par. 3) Karen Golf & Country Club Hill Road, with its entrance off www.worldgolf.com The finishing 18 hole is the only Situated at one of Kenya’s suburbs Haile Selassie Avenue. It is a watering hole on the course. It is about 16 kms from Nairobi is the remarkable 9 hole par 72 course. 7) Golf Park located in Nairobi’s Ngong Road, Karen Country Club, famous for its krgc.co.ke It is 15 minutes from the Nairobi with a panoramic view of the beautiful course and lawn terrace. City Center on Ngong Road. The Ngong Hills as one drives up to 5) Vet Lab Sports Club course is located inside the Jockey the club’s entrance. Founded in 1933 by the Karen It is the friendliest club in the Club racetrack. www.royalnairobigc.com Estates Company Ltd. and an initial country and has a pleasant and 9 hole and pins layout, the country challenging 18 hole golf course. It is generally a public course that 9) Sigona Golf Club club has become Kenya’s top 18 It is located in Upper Kabete, has a loyalty card membership that Sigona Club is located in Kikuyu, 18 kms, just outside Nairobi.

20 21 It was founded by the Kenya Estates At 7,000 feet altitude and set Ltd. around 1938. amidst the famous local tea Shopping plantations and rolling farmlands, The toughest hole is the 7th and provides a unique measures 458 yards for men and hole-by-hole challenge for all 485 for women. members, visitors and guests. www.sigonagolf.com www.limurucountryclub.co.ke

10) Kiambu Club It is one of the oldest golf clubs in the country. It started off in 1916 with a total of 3 holes. In 1959, it was extended to 9 holes and the club was modernised with the browns being converted into Nairobi is becoming more of greens. a shopping destination. New www.golf.co.ke electronics, household items, furniture and branded gear enter 11) Limuru Country Club the market every day. Being a Just 30 minutes from Nairobi City cosmopolitan city, international Centre, Limuru’s 18 hole course is brands are really thriving in Nairobi. widely regarded as the most scenic The shopping variety available is in Kenya with one of the best club vast enough to suit any preference. house veranda views in all of Africa. Access to these commodities is widespread. For more local items, it’s advised to visit the town shopping stalls, whereas for high end products, the malls are a better option.

22 23 1. Sarit Centre - Westlands a diplomat exclusive 4. Yaya Centre - Kilimani serve coffee, pastries, pizza, • Opened in 1983, it is Kenya’s supermarket whose • This is a modern burgers and Mexican food first ever shopping mall. Its commodities are exempt multifunctional mall, • The other side of Karen “City within a City” concept from duties and VAT tax frequented by various Shopping Centre in provided a burgeoning middle • The Village Market has customers within Nairobi. Nairobi is an older shopping class with a new shopping an outdoor food court Opened in the late 80’s, it centre, but also has a grocery experinece by having and other restaurants has grown to the most iconic store and restaurant everything under one roof offering local African recipes and well known malls in • Effectively, the Sarit Centre as well as international Nairobi housing over 6. The Junction - Nairobi is an interactive shopping mall recipes. The shopping mall 100 shops, offices, cafes and • The Junction provides you offering a one-stop access to offers beauty and relaxation a supermarket with lifestyle experience with a complete range of products and services and a its distinctive features in supermarkets, stores, health and fitness center 5. The Crossroads Mall - Karen terms of comfort, luxury service outlets, a food court, which also has yoga and • Karen Shopping Centre & modernity. It is the place entertainment, an expo centre dance classes is located in Karen, Nairobi with everything you could and professional and and is made up of 2 need, from the realistic to medical facilities 3. Diamond Plaza - Parklands adjoining shopping centers the positively distinctive, • Located in Parklands, this that are separated by a road all under one roof. 2. The Village Market - is a shopping complex • One side is called Crossroads The mall is home to leading • It is a large shopping, recreation like a small India within and is a more modern brands of clothing, fashion and entertainment complex. Nairobi. With over 70 stalls, shopping centre with a accessories, sportswear, The Village Market has outlets an outside food court and large grocery store, jewellery, computer and mobile offering products and services a brand new mall extension restaurants, clothing stores, accessories and according to of different categories.There added to it, it is a place shoe stores and boutiques the 2011 Taste Awards, is one are over 35 shops selling one can find almost as well as salons and of the best Food Courts local & designer wear, fashion, everything they are looking other services in Kenya accessories & footwear. for, plus delicious Indian and • There are also several cafés The mall is also home to traditional Swahili cuisine at the shopping centre that

24 25

7. Capital Centre - Mombasa offering shopping, dining 12. Two Rivers Mall 14. Garden City Mall • It boasts over 100 shops, Road & entertainment experiences • The mall integrates green • This is a shopping & technologies and intelligent Nairobi’s favorite iMax cinema, a host of restaurants, cafes and entertainment destination • Choose from a variety building management bars, banks and supermarkets located close to the CBD & of leading brand stores and systems for effective as well as a convenient the national airport, with over enjoy great food at various sustainable resource usage, medical centre 60 stores offering services like restaurants and cafes, offering with over 100 shops to a supermarket, cuisines from various places shop from and restaurants to 15. Rosslyn Riviera Mall cinemas, casinos and banking halls dine in on the globe • Kenya’s first eco-friendly • The mall also hosts the only neighborhood mall with it’s 8. Prestige Plaza - Ngong Road ferris wheel dubbed ‘Eye of 10. T Mall - Nairobi West blend of unique stores and • This is a shopping mall that is • There are various outlets Kenya’ the first of its kind in services, offers every person home to both local & at this mall. These offer the country with its massive who walks in a shopping and international outlets that offer a wide range of goods & 55-meter diameter making it dining experience unlike their customers a wide range of services ranging from the the tallest in Africa. When you any other services at an ultimate value Tuskys Supermarket, a food ride, you get a bird’s eye view of shopping destination. It is court, pay TV services as well the city 16. The Hub Karen approximately 30 minutes from as a pub at the rooftop. • This is a premier shopping the City Centre 13. West Gate Mall Banking services are also mall located in the beautiful • This is Nairobi’s premier available leafy suburbs of Karen • The mall offers a variety of shopping mall and East Africa’s Nairobi catering to unique outlets ranging from finest shopping, leisure and 11. Thika Road Mall (TRM) - experiences. It is a place entertainment centres, pleasure destination for millions Thika Road, Kasarani where you can spend the boutiques a food court, medical • There are various local and of residents and international whole day with all your needs services and banking services international brand stores visitors with over 80 stores and being under one roof from and food courts with an a variety of Art & Craft kiosks fashion, to entertainment, to 9. Galleria Shopping experience of the first 7D to shop from, as well as a fine dining and beyond Mall, Karen - Langata cinema in Kenya. food court with different Road Also inclusive is a kid’s cuisine restaurants • This is a shopping destination entertainment zone

26 27 17. Southfield Mall 2) Wambui Mukenyi designed are linens, suedes, African and transforms them into sexy, • This mall is a state-of-the Her collection reflects her love themed accessories and belts. feminine and chic attire. The art lifestyle and leisure for luxurious fabric while at the Contact: +25402519676 Sarakaray collections are based hub nested in the heart same time instilling her African off the elements: earth, air, fire of bustling Embakasi area heritage to produce timeless, 5) Shenu Hooda & water. of Nairobi. It houses dozens feminine and effortlessly Shenu Hooda is a well known name www.sarakaray.com of stores and shopping stylish pieces. in the Kenyan Fashion Industry. A experiences and with easy great blend of Kenyan and Pakistani access to the Eastern Wambui Mukenyi’s collections fashion makes Shenu’s collection Bypass, Southern Bypass, can be found along Raphta unique and sets her apart from all Outering Road and Road, Westlands, Gate 142, Eastern designers in Kenya. Mombasa Road Suite 8. www.shenudesigns.com wambuimukenyi.com 6) POISA LOCAL DESIGNERS POISA deals with fashion and ethnic 1) Kiko Romeo 3) John Kaveke jewellery design. Their products The company specialises in making He designs both male and range from men’s and women’s ethically sound products, cut to female clothing. He uses African wear, ethnic jewellery, uniquely international fashion trends using inspired themes in his designs, African ties and afro centric African made fabrics, often with always adding that extra touch of clutch purses. handcrafted details. Kiko Romeo is cosmopolitan flair. www.poisastyle.com now on: Kobo Trust, 523 Riara Road; www.kaveke.com Two Rivers Mall, 1st Floor, Ruaka and Village Market New Wing, 1st Floor. 4) Moo Cow 7) Sarakaray Sarakaray is a Kenyan based luxury It is open Mon-Sat 9.30am – 7.00pm Moo Cow is a fashion brand and clothing/fashion brand that is and Sun 10.30am-6.00pm sells out of its own boutique in bold, exquisite, out of the box and kikoromeo.com Silver Springs Hotel, Hurlingham, Nairobi, Kenya. Garments high end. Sarakaray blends bold, extravagant prints with subtle hues

28 29 Hotels & restaurants

Accommodation in Nairobi is an experience of lavishness and comfort, with an extensive variety available, plus great dining destinations taking your taste buds on a trip around the globe. Nairobi being a modern multicultural city, the choices available for consumers are endless. Several 5 star hotels offering luxury and serene accommodation and endless choices of great restaurants are available to quench any appetite.

1) The Villa Rosa Kempinski • The Villa Rosa Kempinski Hotel is located along Chiromo Road, within the Commercial Centre of Nairobi, 20 kms from the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport www.kempinski.com

2) The Nairobi Serena Hotel • Nairobi Serena Hotel in Kenya is located in Central Nairobi

30 31 overlooking Central Park and 5) Fairmont The Norfolk Hotel 7) Ole Sereni Hotel it offers five star, luxurious & is five minute’s walk from the • Playing a dominant role in • Strategically positioned comfortable space to relax, Central Business District the development of the 12 kms from the airport and unwind & rejuvenate in an ideal • The hotel is 30 mins city since its earliest days approximately 15 minutes location that is conveniently drive away from Jomo is Fairmont The Norfolk. drive, Ole Sereni combines 10 minutes away from Jomo Kenyatta International airport Built in 1904, the hotel the best features of a modern Kenyatta International Airport www.serenahotels.com continues to be one of the city hotel and a traditional www.panarihotels.com most beloved landmarks wildlife lodge to present 3) The Sarova Stanley in the city and the launch guests with a cocktail of 10) Windsor Golf Hotel & • Sarova Stanley is the oldest point for safari tours. It has breathtaking fundamentals Country Club • With Victorian-designed hotel in Nairobi established been refurbished over of nature’s tranquility from a buildings set within colorful in 1902, with a rich the years to give it a modern very close range landscaped gardens and proud history and has just touch while preserving its www.ole-sereni.com overlooking a fusion of undergone an intensive traditional charm. It’s indigenous forest and an programme of renovation. conveniently located 20 kms 8) The Tribe Hotel 18-hole championship golf It is centrally located in the from JKIA and 3 kms from • Tribe is a luxury boutique course, this five-star luxury CBD and is 18 kms from JKIA the CBD hotel in Nairobi. Set in a hotel is located 15 minutes www.sarovahotels.com www.fairmont.com leafy suburb within Nairobi’s diplomatic district and from the City Center of Nairobi www.windsorgolfresort.com 4) The InterContinental Hotel 6) The Nairobi Safari Park attached to the Village • This hotel is ideally located Hotel Market, the hotel is ideally for business, close to the • Located 30 minutes drive located 25 kms from JKIA 11) The Crowne Plaza Nairobi • The Crowne Plaza Nairobi is a Parliament buildings & next to from JKIA, the Safari Park www.tribe-hotel.com Kenyatta International Hotel is a fusion of modern, stylish and luxurious Convention Centre (KICC) international sophistication, 9) The Panari Hotel hotel situated in the trendy www.intercontinental.co.ke safari style, theme-park fun • The hotel is a central point business district area of Upper and cultural creativity for any tourist, business Hill. Centrally located 16 kms www.safaripark-hotel.com traveller, diplomat & from JKIA, 23 kms from Nairobi dignitary or airline crew and National Park and 6 kms from

32 33 Nairobi National Museum. RESTAURANTS Italian Cuisine Swahili Cuisine It is also surrounded Mediterraneo Restaurant Jamia Plate Swahili Plate by diplomatic missions, African Dishes Osteria Del Chianti multinational companies, Le Palanka Restaurant Roberto’s Restaurant Steakhouses banks and Mama Ashanti Restaurant Trattoria Restaurant Carnivore Restaurant entertainment venues Graze Steakhouse, Sankara Arabic Cuisine www.cpnairobi.com Japanese Cuisine The Arabian Cuisine Restaurant Thai Cuisine Furusato Restaurant Soi Restaurant, Dusit D2 12) Hemingways Nairobi Misono Restaurant Brazilian Cuisine Thai Chi Restaurant, • Hemingways Nairobi is a Fogo Gaucho Sarova Stanley luxury five-star boutique Korean Cuisine hotel with a sophisticated Sushi Soo Restaurant Chinese Cuisine COFFEE SHOPS & CAFÉS and tranquil ambience. Set Canton Malaysian Artcaffé between Nairobi National Lebanese Cuisine China Plate Cedars Restaurant Casual Bite Park and overlooking the For You Phoenician Restaurant Java House Nairobi iconic silhouette of Ngong Tambourin, Villa Rosa Kempinski Tin Roof Café Hills, a magical view that Ethiopian/Eritrean Cuisine The River Café can also be enjoyed over Abyssinia Mexican Cuisine sundowners at the bar. It is Asmara Restaurant Zapata Restaurant For more information on eating perfectly placed for trips to Habesha Restaurant places, visit www.eatout.co.ke Nairobi National Park and Sheba Restaurant Sea Food the capital. Smart Village Japanese Cheka Izakaya www.hemingways-collection. Lido Seafood & Grill, com/nairobi Indian Cuisine Ocean Basket Haandi Restaurant Seven Seafood & Grill Mughal Restaurant Tamambo Karen Blixen Shehnai Restaurant

34 35 FASHION Festivals & Festivals & Events events 1) Nairobi Fashion Market The event provides a platform for the small retailers, designers and entrepreneurs in the product, accessory, lifestyle, art and fashion industries to promote, market, test and position their products and brands. The event enables interaction with several thousand potential buyers over a weekend of sales, promotion and product education and the opportunity to establish long term business relationships with the market. The day provides for casual shopping for a wide range of items. Kids enjoy the play areas and visitors relaxed in outdoor chill-out zones, bars and concession areas. During the day, visitors are entertained by glittering fashion shows from Kenya’s top and upcoming designers and live music entertainment from the best of Kenyan talent. nfm.co.ke

36 37 2) Samantha Bridal Wedding 3) StanChart Nairobi Marathon The course covers some FOOD Fair It’s held annually towards the end 700 kms/435 miles. The Samantha’s Bridal Wedding of October and include 42 kms full www.eastafricansafarirally.com 1) Cake Festival Fair is an exciting 4-day event marathon, 21 kms half marathon The event prides in the fact that filled with fashion, beauty and and 10 kms road races through the 7) Concur d’Elegance it’s the only Cake Festival in the style. It is Kenya’s most dynamic city streets. The event brings together owners world, where bakers congregate and effective place to meet www.nairobimarathon.com of classic cars and motorcycles in to serve as much cake as guests leading industry players in the September at the Ngong Race can possibly eat for a cause. The wedding, beauty, honeymoon, 4) Parklands Sports Club Run Course. Whilst vintage vehicles are Cake Festival is the first event fashion industries showcasing The Parklands Sports Club (PSC) the main attraction, there is a lot of its kind in Kenya that aims to affluent women and their families. organises a monthly 15 kms timed of sideshow entertainment. display a wide variety of cakes and www.samanthasbridal.co.ke road race held on the first Sunday www.concourskenya.com desserts that are available in the of every month through the leafy Kenyan market. It is a convergence SPORTS Parklands, Westlands, Kitisuru and 8) Horse Racing of bakers, exhibitors and sponsors Kabete suburbs of Nairobi. PSC is Races are held at the Ngong Race who are passionate about all 1) Magical Kenya Open a private members club situated in Course and Golf Park which is the things baking! Guests from diverse It’s a 4 open day golf event that is the Parklands suburb along only horse racing course in backgrounds are brought together held at the Karen Country Club. Ojijo Road. East Africa. by their love for cakes and are able The Magical Kenya Open is a www.parklandssportsclub.org is situated on to contribute to a charitable cause scheduled European Tour event. Ngong Road towards Karen and while indulging themselves. www.facebook.com/ 5) National Motor Cross has beautiful grounds, offering www.cake-festival.com KenyaOpenGolf Championship a tranquil setting away from the It’s held at Jamhuri Park on 2) Oktoberfest Kenya hustle and bustle of Nairobi. 2) (Rugby) Ngong Road. The event lasts for 3 days and www.ngongracing-kenya.com It’s an international rugby www.motorsportkenya.com includes an international food tournament with seven players on court, a three-day beer festival, 9) Polo each side, held at the Impala Club 6) Safari Rally beer sampling tent,a music Games are hosted by Nairobi on Ngong Road or Safaricom A chance to see a world-class festival, eating competitions and Polo Club and played at the Stadium along Thika Road. motor sports event as it gets challenges, beer games and a Ngong Race Course. 7s.safaricom.co.ke flagged off in Nairobi. party zone. www.polokenya.com

38 39 This event helps raise funds 5) Utalii Annual Food Festival are talented in theater, arts, music 5) Kids Festival to educate under privileged The festival was started 24 years and drama. It’s the greatest Kids Event children from various slums ago with an aim of recognising the www.facebook.com/Kenya- organised by Churchill and in Kenya. growing importance of the tourism Music-Festival the Laugh Industry. It aims at oktoberfest.co.ke industry in Kenya and most of all, to developing children to be all explore talents and potential of the 2) The Kenya International rounded and develop their 3) The African Food & Film Festival students in preparation of out-of-class talents and skills and Cultural Festival The festival brings together films African cuisines. more so, have fun while at it! The African Food and Cultural and filmmakers from the East and www.facebook.com/kidsfestival Festival is the place for people The menu depicts the cultures of Central African regions.

from different countries in Africa the people of East Africa such as: www.kenyafilmcommission to meet. The festival showcases 6) East African Arts Festival matoke, githeri, ugali wimbi, The event is hosted annually in the food, music, culture and 3) Theater & Performances different varieties of green Nairobi at the Kenya National fashion of Africa. These are local productions vegetables such as osuga, mrenda, Museum in March. It’s the biggest www.facebook.com/ that are written and directed by terere, kunde, masale, pilau, of its kind in the region and attracts TheAfricaFoodFestival Kenyan directors showed daily at mchele wa nazi, fried beef, chicken, competitors and spectators from the Alliance Française in Nairobi. fish, all types of roasted meat and around the world. The 4) The Beer Festival fruit deserts. nairobinow.wordpress.com The Art & Beer Fest is a 48-hour three-day event showcases art, www.tourism.go.ke music, theater, fashion, literature, spectacle that features, among 4) Kenya Drama Festivals architecture, sculptures and others, art exhibitions, food and MUSIC & DRAMA An annual event takes place in drink, auto and motorcycle art, Kenya every year. The Kenya traditional crafts. fashion and even a midnight 1) Kenya Music Festival Schools and Colleges www.nairobi.com lingerie show. It gives upcoming It is an annual event that takes Drama Festivals has produced and established artists a platform place in Kenya showcasing schools hundreds of thousands of young 8) The Sigana International Storytelling Festival to showcase their work and and college music performances. people who are talented in The event is held every July in facilitates the promotion It has produced hundreds of theater, arts, music and drama. Nairobi and it brings together of local culture. thousands of young people who www.facebook.com/pages/ travel.kenya.co.ke/festivals/ Kenya-Drama-festivals art-beer-festival

40 41 professional storytellers from all 3) Christmas Craft Fair 5) The International Flower display their products and over the world to participate. The Christmas Fair is an annual Trade Exhibition (IFTEX) services to the Kenyan people www.facebook.com/Sigana- event that takes place on the first The expo is a unique exhibition and business investors alike. International-Storytelling-Festival weekend in December at the dedicated to the flower sector. It is www.ask.co.ke Nairobi Race Course on a biennial event held at the Oshwal OTHERS Ngong Road. Centre in Nairobi and welcomes 1) Kenya Tourism Week nairobinow.wordpress.com flower growers and equipment The Kenya Tourism Week is suppliers for flower growers to held throughout the third week 4) Homes Expo present before an international of September. During the The Kenya Homes Expo is the clientele of flower purchasers. celebrations, participants explore most interactive solution-based www.hppexhibitions.com various attraction sites. homes show in Eastern and Central The main events are an art Africa. The expo is held twice a 6) The Nairobi International exhibition, cuisine, music, culture year, in April and October. Trade Fair and a golf tournament. The Nairobi International Trade www.tourism.go.ke It is a unique one-stop shop for show is an annual event that is real estate stakeholders, interior held in the month of September. 2) Shaggy Dog Show designers, mortgage and bank This event takes over 5 days and The event is organised by the institutions and companies is located at the Nairobi Show Kenya Society for the Protection presenting new products, Grounds. Here various companies and Care of Animals (KSPCA) and innovative services and technology. targets pet lovers. The purpose of Over the years, Kenya Homes Expo the show is to seek the shaggiest has been able to generate not only dog that graces the event. high quality audiences and sales Orphaned dogs are also paraded leads for exhibitors, but also great and participants asked to adopt. bargains for attendees. www.kspca-kenya.org/event/ kenyahomesexpo.com shaggy-dog-show

42 43 Tips & guides

DRESS CODE The dress code in Nairobi is multicultural and relatively relaxed. In rural areas avoid transparent and revealing clothing.

GREETINGS Most social interactions begin with a greeting. It is considered rude and disrespectful not to greet someone with a shake of the hand. Telephone conversations will often start with a polite greeting and an inquiry into one’s health.

44 45

PHOTOGRAPHY HEALTH a commitment to the environment BOOKS WRITTEN Photography of the State House, It’s advisable to travel with a was Kenyan. She was also the first • Born Free (Adamson) government institutions & military small first aid kit that includes African woman in East and Central • Out of Africa (Karen Blixen) installations is prohibited. It is band-aids, a thermometer, sun Africa to earn a Doctorate Degree. • I Dreamed of Africa polite to always ask before taking screen, oral re-hydration sachets, (Kuki Gallman) pictures of local people. anti-diarrhea medication, an David Rudisha is the current antiseptic, water purification Olympic and World Record INTERNATIONAL FILMS SHOT IN SAFETY tablets and more. Some of Holder in the 800 meters athletes KENYA Personal safety begins with you, Over 80 international films have been the hospitals you can visit or category. Rudisha was the first and like with any other big city in shot entirely in Kenya, many of which call when necessary include: person to run under 1:41.00 for the world, one is encouraged to turned into Hollywood box office hits the Nairobi Hospital, the Aga the Olympics. avoid walking alone in dark alleys Khan Hospital, Mater Hospital, and won several international awards. especially in the night. Keep Among them are: M.P. Shah Hospital, Gertrude’s Tegla Loroupe was also the first to well lit areas and avoid • Constant Gardener Children’s Hospital, Karen woman from Africa to win the crowded places. • African Cats Hospital and the Kenyatta New York City Marathon, which she • The White Maasai National Hospital. has won twice. VISA • Tomb Raider II Series A visa is required prior to entry into • The Ghost and the Darkness WILDLIFE Paul Tergat, one of the most Kenya and is readily obtained at Nairobi boasts of being the only • The Snows of Kilimanjaro accomplished long-distance the airport upon arrival. You may city in the world with a National • King Solomon’s Mines runners of all time, is from Kenya. also obtain one from the Kenyan Park within a city. The park has a • Mogambo Embassies and High Commission variety of wildlife including the • Mountains of the Moon The first African Black Oscar winner offices abroad before departure. big cats, giraffe, buffalos, zebras, • Nowhere in Africa – Lupita Nyong’o – has roots in A single entry visa as always is elephants and others. • Big Cat Diary Kenya. Her father is Kenyan. valid for three months after the • Survivor Africa III Series date of issue. FAMOUS PEOPLE OF KENYA • Gorillas in the Mist America’s first Black President The first African woman Nobel • To Walk with Lions – Barrack Obama – has roots in Peace Prize winner – the late • Lion King (inspired by locations Kenya. His father was Kenyan. Prof. Wangari Maathai – who had in Kenya)

46 47 2) Focus Cab Cabs & car Mayfair Maisonette, Mpaka Road, Opposite Fedha Plaza, hire companies Westlands, Nairobi, Kenya. 1) KENATCO Taxi +254 208006620 12th Floor, Uchumi House, +254713555888 Aga Khan Walk, [email protected] P.O. Box 52684-00200, www.focuscabs.co.ke Nairobi, Kenya. +254 721830061/ 3) Jimcab Services +254 788502237 Ground Floor, Warwick Centre, JKIA: +254 703 115076 United Nations Avenue, Gigiri, [email protected] P.O. Box 759-00621, www.kenatco.co.ke Village Market, Nairobi, Kenya. +254 20 7121205 +254 722 711001/ +254 722 714246/ +254 733 735499 [email protected] www.jimcab.co.ke

4) Sideways Car hire Jameson court, Block A. Ngong Road, Kenya. P.O.Box 42369-00100 Tel ; 0722275231 , 0724275231 [email protected] www.sidewaystoursandcarhire.com

48 49 5) Market Car Hire Ltd. Bishop’s Road, Community +254 20 2711 262, Kenya Tourism Federation Ground Floor, Chester House, Nairobi, Kenya. (Pilot No) +254 20 2749 000, +254 (0)20 6004 767, Koinange Street, Nairobi, +254 20 2720952, +254 720 601 262, +254 (0)20 8001000, (20 mins from Jomo Kenyatta +254 20 2720972, +254 735 287 030. +254 (0)722 745 645, International Airport) +254 20 2734932, [email protected] +254 (0)738 617 499. (245 020) 225797/253948/ +254 20 2734 487, www.magicalkenya.com 342264. +254 727 264 600. Kenya Police [email protected] [email protected] Kenya Association of Travel 999, www.marketcarhire.com www.virgintours.co.ke Agents 0800 720002, +254 248 65 63, 736 350 100, 6) Delight Cabs Ltd. 9) Wonderview Taxis Ltd. +254 374 97 45/6. 712 179 524. 3rd Ngong Avenue, Upper Hill 0733-678953, 0722787001. [email protected] Gardens A-39, Opposite Kenya [email protected] www.katakenya.org Nairobi County Office Bankers Sacco Centre, www.wonderviewtaxis.co.ke 020-344194, P.O. Box 46021-00100, Nairobi. Kenya Association of 0725-624489. Tour Operators +254 0722 10 42 42, 10) Prestige Taxis [email protected] KATO Place, (Opposite Shelter +254 (20) 230 56 97. Prestige Plaza, Ngong Road, Afrique Centre) Upper Hill, [email protected] Nairobi, Kenya. There are foreign missions in the 2713348/2713386, delightcabs.co.ke +254 (0)20 214 0457 country. For more information, 2722401/2726517, +254 (0)705 600 095 visit the website of Ministry of 020 2106353 (Wireless) 7) Universal Cabs Foreign Affairs and International P.O. Box 63622, Nairobi. 11) Uber 0722 434845, 0733 226932. Trade. (020) 444 09 50, Download the app from Google [email protected] www.mfa.go.ke Play Store or the Store +254 735 27 88 56. www.katokenya.org USEFUL CONTACTS Kenya Association of Hotel 8) Virgin Tours Kenya Tourism Board Keepers and Caterers P.O. Box 63346-00200, Head Office +254 600 44 19, +254 600 25 48. Nairobi. Kenya-Re Towers, Ragati Road, [email protected] ACK Parking Silo, 9th Floor, P.O. BOX 30630-00100, www.kahc.co.ke Nairobi, Kenya.

50 51 DID YOU KNOW? Kenya holds the world Nairobi is the only city in the record for paragliding world to boast a 12,000-hectare park (Nairobi National Park) with 80% of cut rose flowers in Europe a variety of animals and birds are from Kenya close to a capital city. The park is located only 10 kms from 11% of world bird population is Nairobi City Centre. A newly in Kenya born wildebeest and giraffe can run within minutes of birth M-PESA (a mobile money transfer service) was invented in Kenya Kenya has the highest concentration of Olympic gold The Kenyan first lady Margaret medal winners in the marathon Kenyatta is the first African first event lady to compete in and finish the 42 kms London marathon

52 53 HERITAGE WALKING TOURS TOUR 2: RIVER ROAD WALKING Moi Avenue, City Hall way, Walking Tours are available daily from the Nairobi Gallery by a TOUR Taifa Road, Harambee Avenue professional guide. We recommend advance booking. The walking tour commences at the culminating on top of KICC. August 7th Memorial Park via Haile NB: Fee payable to access the Selassie Avenue tracing the origin helipad. TOUR DURATION COST IN KSHS of Nairobi City and the immense Kenyatta Avenue 90 Minutes C:150.00 R:300.00 NR:500.00 contribution of the Asian community TOUR 4: HARRY THUKU RD Walking Tour to its development. TOUR Walk begins from the Nairobi River Road 90 Minutes C:150.00 R:300.00 NR:500.00 National Museum with a tour Walking Tour The tour goes through Racecourse of the museum, walk down Road, Uyoma Street, Ronald Ngala City Square 90 Minutes C:150.00 R:300.00 NR:500.00* Museum Hill through Harry Street, Tom Mboya and Walking Tour* Thuku Road. Moi Avenue. Harry Thuku Road 2hours C:150.00 R:300.00 NR:500.00* Attractions include: Walking Tour* The cost mentioned above does • Nairobi National Museum, not include the entry fees to the Snake Park, Botanical *Additional charges for Nairobi National Museum, KICC Helipad and Memorial Park and the entry to the Gardens Norfolk Hotel apply visitor’s centre where a movie of the • Kenya Broadcasting Key: C - Citizen; R -Resident; NR - Non-Resident occurrences on the August 7th 1998 Corporation is beamed. TOUR 1: KENYATTA AVENUE WALKING TOUR • Norfolk Hotel The tour begins from the Nairobi Gallery at any time of the day. The • Kenya Cultural Centre TOUR 3: CITY SQUARE tour takes ninety minutes walking through Kenyatta Avenue/Kimathi WALKING TOUR • Jewish Synagogue Street/ Biashara Street/Mundi Mbingu Street/Banda Street. The walking tour starts from the • French Cultural Centre/ Nairobi Gallery through Posta Road, Maendeleo ya Wanawake/ This tour showcases the input of the British/Europeans to the Kaunda Street, Standard Street, Utalii House/Central Park development of the city and an introduction to the Asian influence. Kimathi Street, Mama Ngina Street, www.museums.or.ke

54 55 CONTACT Kenya Tourism Board Kenya-Re Towers, Ragati Road, Upper Hill P.O. Box 30630-00100, Nairobi, Kenya. Tel: +254 20 271 1262 Email: [email protected] Follow @MagicalKenya on: Website: www.MagicalKenya.com