Nairobi City Guide for First-Time Visitors: 10 Must-See Experiences

Nairobi — 'The Green City in the Sun' — is far more than a transit hub on the way to safari parks. Africa's most dynamic capital is a city of extraordinary contrasts: gleaming glass towers beside sprawling informal settlements, world-class restaurants beside open-air street food markets, and a wildlife park where lions roam with skyscrapers as a backdrop.

Nairobi National Park — The world's only national park within a capital city. Just 7km from the CBD, you can spot lions, rhinos, giraffes and buffalo with the Nairobi skyline as a surreal backdrop. DALA offers half-day tours from just $20.

David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage — One of Nairobi's most emotional and memorable experiences. Watch rescued elephant calves being hand-fed and learn about conservation efforts protecting Kenya's elephants.

Giraffe Centre — Get nose-to-nose with Rothschild giraffes at this conservation centre in the Karen suburb. Feed them from your hand on an elevated platform — a magical experience especially for families.

Kibera Community Tour — An eye-opening guided walk through one of Africa's most densely populated urban areas. DALA's Kibera tour connects you with local entrepreneurs, artists and community leaders telling their own story. Unlike voyeuristic 'poverty tourism', our tour is guided by Kibera residents and designed with the community.

The food scene — Nairobi's restaurant scene has exploded in recent years. From Carnivore Restaurant's legendary game meats to Java House's excellent African coffees, the city's culinary diversity rivals any global capital.