Things to Do in Nairobi

Nairobi sits at nearly 5,500 feet above sea level, which gives it a surprisingly pleasant climate for a city just south of the equator. It's one of those rare African capitals where you can see giraffes against a backdrop of skyscrapers - literally, thanks to the national park that borders the city. The contrast is striking: gleaming business districts next to bustling markets, luxury hotels a stone's throw from sprawling neighborhoods that tell the real story of how most Nairobians live. What makes Nairobi particularly interesting is how it functions as East Africa's unofficial capital. You'll hear Swahili, English, and dozens of other languages on any given street corner. The city has this energetic, entrepreneurial spirit - it's where tech startups are reshaping how Africans bank and communicate, while traditional crafts markets still thrive in places like Maasai Market. The food scene reflects this diversity too, with everything from nyama choma (grilled meat) joints to surprisingly sophisticated international restaurants.

Nairobi's food scene is more diverse than you might expect. For authentic Kenyan cuisine, try nyama choma (grilled meat) at local joints like Carnivore, though it's become quite touristy. Street food is excellent but stick to busy stalls with high turnover - samosas, mandazi (sweet bread), and roasted maize are safe bets. The Indian community has left a strong culinary legacy, so you'll find excellent Indian restaurants throughout the city. Westlands and Karen have upscale dining options with international cuisines. Local markets offer fresh tropical fruits that are worth trying - passion fruit, tree tomatoes, and various types of bananas you won't find elsewhere.

Nairobi's high altitude means it never gets uncomfortably hot, but there are definitely better and worse times to visit. The dry seasons (January-March and July-October) offer the most pleasant weather with sunny days and cool evenings. The long rains (April-May) can make getting around difficult, and some attractions may be less accessible. That said, the landscape is incredibly green during rainy season, and there are fewer tourists. The short rains in November are usually brief afternoon showers that clear quickly. Wildlife viewing in the national park is actually good year-round, though animals tend to congregate around water sources during dry periods.