Nairobi is a destination that provides tourists with many exciting and adventurous opportunities. You can learn about the history and culture of the people, explore unique and beautiful locations, experience wildlife, and walk through the city to experience the way locals live. This detailed guide to Nairobi will help you prepare for your trip.
Visa for Kenya
You can get a visa upon arrival in Nairobi depending on your nationality. You can also choose between a single-entry (valid for three months), multiple-entry (if you want to visit other regions in East Africa for future vacations), and transit visas.
Vaccinations
You will need specific vaccinations to enter Kenya, including yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, cholera, typhoid, rabies, polio, measles, meningitis, and MMR. You should also be vaccinated for COVID-19.
COVID-19 Requirements
You will need a negative PCR test at the airport to visit Nairobi. Although the rules may change over time, you should check the latest news and information to make sure you can travel to Nairobi. You may need to undergo screening at the airport even if you present a negative PCR test. If you display any symptoms, the authorities may ask you to quarantine.
Airport
You will be flying into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport if you have taken a direct flight to Nairobi. The airport is considered the busiest and largest airport in East Africa. Once you land at the airport, you can take a taxi to travel to your hotel, unless your hotel has provided airport transfers. You should consider traveling by a company-operated taxi if you take a taxi. The airport is approximately 30 minutes away from the city center.
Kenyan Shillings
Kenya’s national currency is the Kenyan Shilling. Before traveling, you should purchase enough shillings to get you to your hotel. It is recommended to keep US dollars and exchange them locally. You will find plenty of exchanges in Nairobi. Do not convert your money at an exchange at the airport or hotel. The rates are considerably higher.
Accommodations
Nairobi is a destination for everyone. You will find various accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels and resorts to budget-friendly hostels for solo travelers. You can choose from camps, guest houses, B&Bs, and hotels.
Transportation
You can book taxis from your hotel to travel around Nairobi, or you can take the Matatu Minibuses that roam the city. Furthermore, you can also take the Kenya Bus Service. Although this may be considerably cheaper than taking a taxi, you will be forgoing the privacy and comfort of a taxi.
Places to Visit
Nairobi offers plenty of tourist attractions, ranging from parks to see exotic wildlife to unique museums to learn about the region’s history. Some of the many places should visit include:
- Nairobi National Park
- Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
- Downtown Nairobi
- Nairobi National Museum
- City Park Hawkers
- Maasai Market
Nairobi is a fun, lively, and thriving city, where you will find more exciting and unique things to do than you can imagine. Start planning your vacation immediately to make sure you can cover the best Nairobi has to offer. You can also learn more about this region by reading our Flying in East Africa: all you need to know.
