Nairobi Travel Guide

Of all the beautiful places Chad and I have been lucky enough to travel, Nairobi is truly a favorite. From the epic conservancies to the beautiful sites, Nairobi is definitely a must-see destination for every traveler.

Below are some of mine and Chad’s favorite locations in Nairobi. Make sure to check them out next time you get bitten by the travel bug.

KAREN
Known for its upscale dining scene and posh fashion culture, Karen is our favorite neighborhood to stay in. Hemingway's is a sure bet for a luxury stay all around. Their accommodations, restaurant and bar are a cut above. For a bit of Hollywood in Nairobi, visit the Karen Blixen Museum, made famous by the film "Out of Africa" which is based on the life and autobiography of Karen Blixen. 

GIRAFFE MANOR
Fortunately, Karen is also home to one of the most unique hotels in the world. Giraffe Manor is a boutique hotel with some very unique guests—beautiful Rothschild’s Giraffes who visit morning and night, sticking their heads through the windows for treats from delightedly surprised guests. The Manor is also one of my top recommendations for a honeymoon destination.

GIRAFFE CENTER
If, like us, you can’t get enough giraffes, discerning travelers and animal lovers should stop by the Giraffe Center, a world famous Nature Education Centre focused on educating youth about their local wildlife. This 60-acre sanctuary opened in 1983 to bring attention to the alarming plight of the Rothschild’s Giraffe. Today, it is a non-profit organization devoted to giving local children and international visitors an authentic experience with this beautiful yet endangered animal.

SHELDRICK WILDLIFE TRUST
As animal lovers and committed conservationists, no trip to Nairobi is complete without a visit to our partners at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. The Nursery is open from 11 am to noon every day (except December 25th), and visitors are invited to learn about the rescue and rehabilitation of orphans from the Keepers who work with them every day. While visitors learn about the Nursery, the orphans will be in view, grazing and enjoying mud baths.

FOOD & DRINK
All that site-seeing is sure to leave you craving some local food and drink. We love starting our day off at Artcaffe or Java House for some great coffee and free wifi. At the end of the day, we love stopping by Hemingway's Bar for a drink.

SOUVENIRS
Lastly, no visit is complete without a few memorable tokens or gifts to commemorate the occasion. We love shopping at Matbronze bronze gifts and keepsakes. The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust also has an awesome gift shop.

For more of our adventures in Africa, check out some Highlights here.