Nairobi is a city where modern urban life and wildlife exist surprisingly close together. You can start your morning surrounded by skyscrapers and spend the afternoon looking at giraffes or exploring a national park.

Here are ten experiences worth adding to your itinerary.

1. Visit Nairobi National Park

One of Nairobi’s most distinctive attractions is Nairobi National Park, located just outside the city centre.

It offers visitors an opportunity to see wildlife with Nairobi’s skyline forming an unusual backdrop.

2. Visit the Giraffe Centre

The Giraffe Centre in Karen is one of Nairobi’s best-known visitor attractions and provides an opportunity to learn about giraffe conservation.

3. Explore Karen

Spend an afternoon exploring Karen’s cafés, restaurants, galleries and attractions.

4. Visit the Karen Blixen Museum

The former home of Danish author Karen Blixen is now a museum and provides insight into an important part of Nairobi’s history.

5. Explore Nairobi National Museum

For visitors interested in Kenya’s history, culture and natural heritage, the National Museum is an excellent place to start.

6. Go shopping

Nairobi has numerous modern shopping centres, including Westgate, Sarit, Two Rivers, The Junction and others.

7. Experience Nairobi’s food scene

From Kenyan cuisine to international restaurants, Nairobi’s dining scene is remarkably diverse.

8. Visit Karura Forest

For a break from the city, Karura Forest offers walking and outdoor experiences in a green environment.

9. Explore Nairobi’s cafés

Westlands, Kilimani and other neighbourhoods have a growing café culture, making the city particularly convenient for remote workers.

10. Simply explore Nairobi

Sometimes the best way to experience the city is to leave some space in your itinerary. Explore a neighbourhood, try a local restaurant and experience Nairobi at your own pace.

Planning a Nairobi trip?

After a day of exploring, having a comfortable apartment to return to can make all the difference.

Discover your stay with Cosmopolitan Homes.