Destination

About Nairobi

Africa's most vibrant safari gateway city

Nairobi — Africa's Most Dynamic Capital City

Nairobi is unlike any other capital city on earth. It is the only city in the world with a national park on its doorstep — where lions roam against a backdrop of skyscrapers. This extraordinary juxtaposition defines Nairobi perfectly: a dynamic, modern African city that is simultaneously the gateway to some of the world's greatest wildlife experiences.

Why Nairobi is Your Perfect Safari Base

As Kenya’s capital, Nairobi sits at the heart of East Africa’s safari circuit. Within a few hours’ drive, you can be watching the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara, photographing elephants in Amboseli, or tracking lions in Tsavo. Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) connects directly to London Heathrow, Amsterdam, Dubai, Doha, Hong Kong, New York (via Addis Ababa) and dozens of other international hubs.

Top Things to Do in Nairobi

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Nairobi National Park

Game drives within city limits. Lions, rhinos, giraffes and over 400 bird species — 7km from city centre.

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Giraffe Centre

Hand-feed endangered Rothschild's giraffes up close. One of Nairobi's most beloved wildlife experiences.

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David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

Meet orphaned baby elephants being rehabilitated for release. A deeply moving experience for all ages.

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Karen Blixen Museum

Visit the farmhouse of Out of Africa author Karen Blixen, now a beautifully preserved museum in the leafy Karen suburb.

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Maasai Market

Shop for authentic Maasai beadwork, carvings, textiles and souvenirs at Nairobi's famous rotating craft market.

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Carnivore Restaurant

Nairobi's legendary game meat barbecue restaurant — a must-visit for an authentic Kenyan dining experience.

Getting Around Nairobi

Charki Safaris provides airport transfers in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles for all our guests. For getting around the city, we recommend using Uber (widely available) or booking through us. Nairobi traffic can be heavy during peak hours (7–9am and 5–7pm), so we plan all departures accordingly.

Best Nairobi Hotels for Safari Guests

Luxury: Hemingways Nairobi, Fairmont The Norfolk, Tribe Hotel, Nairobi Serena Hotel. Mid-Range: House of Waine, Eka Hotel, Radisson Blu Upperhill. Budget: Ngong House, Ole-Sereni Hotel (overlooks Nairobi National Park).

Charki Safaris can arrange pre- and post-safari hotel bookings in Nairobi to complement your package. Ask us when booking.

— Experience Wild Kenya

Arriving in Nairobi?

We offer airport transfers, Nairobi city tours, and day trips to local wildlife attractions — all bookable alongside your main safari.