If you’re planning a trip to Kenya, you may be wondering where to stay in Nairobi – its diverse and vibrant capital. I’ve lived in the city for over ten years and know its neighborhoods well.
So, to help you plan the perfect trip to East Africa’s largest city, I’ve prepared this comprehensive guide to the best neighborhoods to stay in Nairobi. They range from posh areas for families to the best places for nightlife around the metropolis.
Nairobi has some of the country’s best tourist attractions including a game park, museums, and nature trails. The city receives thousands of tourists annually, which therefore increases the need for accommodation. It also hosts various international organizations, making it a suitable place to settle for expatriates.
I’ve stayed in several areas around the city – others I’ve visited. Each is unique and attracts different people based on tastes, preferences, and budgets. So, whether you’re looking for cheap places to stay for a night or a safe neighborhood in Nairobi for your family, you’re sure to find it.
In this article, I’ll share ideas about where to stay in Nairobi for families, nightlife, and history. I’ll also introduce you to my favorite neighborhoods for first-time visitors and budget travelers.
Best Areas to Stay in Nairobi
Quick Look – Here is a summary of the best areas to stay in Nairobi (click to jump down the page).
- First-Time Visitor: Westlands
- With Family: Karen
- On a Budget: Nairobi City Center
- For Nightlife: Kilimani
- For Couples: Westlands
- For Shopping: Karen
- For Foodies: Westlands
- For History: Nairobi City Center
- For Short Visits: Mombasa Road
1. Westlands: Best Place To Stay in Nairobi for Your First Time
If it’s your first time in Nairobi, then Westlands is the best neighborhood to stay in. It’s close to the city center, tourist attractions, and other key areas of interest. It also offers some of the best restaurants in Nairobi.
The neighborhood has many great dining places, and if you’re into nightlife, it won’t disappoint. A few minutes from Westlands are the UN Headquarters in Nairobi, the US Embassy, and offices for several global organizations. This makes the area a favorite for expats too.
You’ll find excellent multi-cuisine restaurants, vibrant nightclubs, and beautiful accommodation facilities here. It’s also easy to move around Westlands. You can walk to most places, hail a shared taxi, or try the local public transport vehicles.
Places to stay in Westlands are mainly high-end hotels and modern apartments. Although they tend to be pricey, you can still find a few bargains. My preferred areas to stay in this Nairobi neighborhood include Westland Center, Spring Valley, and Parklands.
Best Places to Stay in Westlands
If you’re searching for hotels or serviced apartments around the Westlands, check out the following listings. These properties feature all necessary amenities and are close to tourist sites:
1. Best Western Plus Westlands: This newly built hotel offers superior services and great value for money. It’s in the heart of Westlands behind the Sarit Center Shopping Mall. The hotel is suited for all types of travelers. It features elegant, air-conditioned rooms, and a restaurant for a wonderful stay. Click here to learn more.
Other unique amenities include a gym, coffee shop, and 24/7 room services. It’s also close to tourist attractions like the City Park in Parklands. Click here for more details.
2. Mövenpick Hotel & Residences: If you’re looking for beautiful Nairobi hotels near nightlife spots, consider staying at Mövenpick. The luxury hotel and residences offer guests an experiential stay.
My favorite feature is their all-day dining restaurant (The Baluda). It has an uplifting ambiance and beautiful panoramic views of the city. You can also expect no less with their rooms, bar, and lounge. Click here to see more.
3. Sankara Nairobi: The Sankara is an iconic hotel in the area. In addition to clean rooms and suites, it has an outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi and parking, and a fitness center. It also features a rooftop bar, a buffet restaurant, and a popular steakhouse. Click here for more details.
Top 5 Things To Do in Westlands
Check out the best things to do and places to visit in and around Westlands:
1. Go Shopping: There are several places for shopping in Westlands including Westgate Mall, Sarit Center, and The Village Market. If you have time, make sure you visit Two Rivers Mall (one of the largest malls in sub-Saharan Africa).
2. Visit Nairobi National Museum: If you’re keen to learn about Kenya, head to Nairobi National Museum. It’s the biggest in Kenya, with various sections on my country’s history, culture, nature, and heritage. To best experience the museum, I recommend joining this tour that includes exploring some of Nairobi city on foot. Click here for the museum’s address.
3. Hike at Karura Forest: I love nature, and one of the best places to experience it near Nairobi is Karura Forest. Here, you can hike, joke, bike, or simply relax and enjoy the surroundings. You’ll also stumble upon a cave and a waterfall along the trail. Click here for directions.
4. Watch a Comedy Show or Play: If you’re into music, drama, plays, local comedies, and live shows, the National Theatre should definitely make it onto your itinerary. Check out their website for upcoming events.
5. See the Notorious Baboons at City Park: This park in Parklands is ideal for an evening walk. While there, you’ll see many baboons known for snatching foodstuffs and invading kitchens (keep your snacks close!). You can also pass by the nearby farmers market, where fresh groceries and fruits are sold.
Where to Eat and Drink in Westlands
If you’re staying in Westlands and wondering where to eat and drink, here are some of my favorite restaurants and my go-to bar:
1. Mawimbi Seafood Restaurant: This is one of the leading seafood joints in the city. If you crave oysters, prawns, lobsters, and salmon, take a table at Mawimbi. They also serve tasty steaks and burgers if you’re not into seafood. The restaurant is situated at Longonot Place along Kijabe Street and close to the National Theatre. Click here for directions.
2. About Thyme Restaurant: This is one of the finest restaurants in the city. It’s set in a serene space with rustic benches, comfortable couches, and a tranquil garden lit by traditional lanterns, giving it a romantic feel. You can go there for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Try out their steak-beef barbecue served with ugali or mashed potatoes. Click here for directions.
3. K1 Klub House: There are several excellent nightlife joints in Westlands, including K1 Klub House. Dance the night away, listen to music, and hang out while enjoying a local beer like Tusker. Click here for directions.
2. Nairobi City Center: Best Place to Stay in Nairobi on a Budget
If you’re wondering where to stay in Nairobi on a budget, then the city center is one of my top recommendations. It’s also the best area for walking tours and sightseeing. Within the central business district, you’ll find many tourist attractions and historical sites. These include the Railway Museum, August 7th Memorial Park, Jamia Mosque, and more.
To better experience the city, join this exciting day tour. Your guides (some of them former street kids) will lead you along the streets and show you many places of interest, including monuments, archives, libraries, and notable buildings. This tour is one of the best things to do in Kenya. Don’t miss it.
Nairobi city center has several accommodation options. These comprise hotels and apartments ranging from high-end stays to affordable guesthouses. There are also many restaurants around the city for all kinds of tastes and budgets.
Best Places to Stay in Nairobi City Center
Below are my best recommendations for places to stay in Nairobi city center:
1. Kweza Bed and Breakfast: This lovely bed and breakfast is perfect if you’re traveling on a tight budget. Kweza is located in Ngara, just outside the city center. It features nice rooms, a rooftop restaurant, a bar, and other amenities. I’ve personally stayed in this B&B on several occasions and loved it each time. Click here to see more details.
2. Best Western Plus Meridian Hotel: This elegant hotel in the heart of Nairobi offers beautiful views of the city buildings and luxury accommodations at pocket-friendly prices. It features free parking, a bar, a restaurant, and plush rooms with clean bathrooms. Click here for more details.
3. Sarova Stanley Nairobi: Although expensive, this 5-star hotel is perfect for tourists and leisure travelers. In addition to comfort and convenience, the hotel promises a memorable dining experience. It offers stylish rooms, dining areas, fitness facilities, and proximity to tourist attractions. Click here to see more details and book your stay.
Top 5 Things To Do in Nairobi City Center
I love my city, Nairobi, and its numerous attractions. Besides wildlife centers, there are plenty of things to do. From strolling along its busy streets to exploring historical sites, the city has no shortage of activities. Here’s my list of some of the most exciting things to do in Nairobi city center:
1. Visit the Railway Museum: This is my favorite attraction in the city. Learn about the history of railways in East Africa and see what remains of the old Garratt locomotives and more. Click here for directions.
2. View Nairobi from above: If you want a birds-eye view of almost the entire city, visit The KICC (Kenyatta International Convention Center). It’s located along City Hall Way next to the Supreme Court of Kenya. Click here for directions.
3. Join a Walking Tour: One of the best ways to see Nairobi is by walking along its streets. You’ll see the architecture close up, learn more about the city’s history, and experience the local culture. Click here to join an informative, highly-rated and fun walking tour around downtown Nairobi.
4. Shop at a Masai Market: If shopping for gifts and souvenirs is your thing, visit the Masai Market. The open-air market is usually conducted at the High Court parking lot on Sundays and Saturdays. You can also visit City Market any day of the week.
5. See the August 7th Memorial Park: In August 1998, there was a bombing in Nairobi that targeted the US Embassy, and many people lost their lives. The sober August 7th Memorial Park was set up on the site to honor the departed souls. It features a small museum with information on the saddening event, a garden, and a stone wall bearing the names of the 218 victims.
Where to Eat and Drink in Nairobi City Center
Nairobi city center has many restaurants offering various cuisines. So, whether you like tasting local dishes or fancy international delicacies, here are some suggestions for the best places to eat and drink:
1. Ronalo K’Osewe: No restaurant in Nairobi city gives local vibes like Ronalo K’Osewe. It serves dishes from around the country, including ugali with beef fry, mukimo (mashed potatoes and green veg), nyama choma, and various vegetables. You can also enjoy a local beer like Tusker while listening to Rumba music. Check out our guide to foods in Kenya.
2. Kilimanjaro Jamia: This restaurant along Kimathi Street is best for Swahili and Somali dishes. They also serve other meals like beef steak and Italian pizzas. If you’re traveling in a group, try out their platter that includes biryani, chapati, chicken, and vegetables – it’s delicious.
3. Cafe Deli: Check out this restaurant for the best burgers and coffee in the city. It has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, which blends well with their dining experience. This is one of my favorite restaurants in the city based on affordability and food quality.
3. Karen: Best Neighborhood in Nairobi for Families
Karen is one of the best places to stay in Nairobi for families. The posh suburb is safe and relaxed, with many attractions nearby. You can visit Giraffe Center, Kazuri Beads Factory, Oloolua Nature Trail, or the Karen Blixen Museum easily from here. Ngong Hills is also only a short distance away for the more adventurous types.
I’ve visited the Karen neighborhood several times. Although accommodation facilities are not obvious to see, they are there – and are amazing. You can choose from rustic houses, glamping sites, boutique hotels, and unique stays.
There are several places to eat around Karen. Restaurants like Talisman are popular for their incredible dining experiences and tranquil spaces. If you’re into shopping, this neighborhood has you covered. It has fantastic malls and shopping centers, including Galleria, The Waterfront, and The Hub.
Best Places to Stay in Karen
Karen is considered to be the safest neighborhood in Nairobi. It’s also upscale and serene, attracting families and tourists who prefer quieter places. To best enjoy your trip in the area, see the best places to stay in Karen below:
1. Wildebeest Eco Camp: This stay in Karen gives you a taste of what to expect on a safari in the bush. The camp features comfortable safari tents and other necessary amenities. It has a swimming pool, outdoor seating space, a children’s playground, and more. There’s also a restaurant on-site that serves local and international dishes. Click here to learn more and book your stay.
2. The Drexel House Kenya: Everything about this gorgeous house is excellent. The staff makes you feel at home, and the property is serene. The food is great, and the rooms are stunning. In addition to elegant rooms, the house features a garden, an infinity pool, and a restaurant. Click here to see more details.
3. Severine Cottages: Check out this stay if you’re traveling in a group or family. It offers accommodation in unique cottages equipped with all the necessary amenities. There’s free WiFi, a parking lot, and an outdoor fireplace. Tourist attractions in Karen are also nearby. Click here for more details.
Top 5 Things To Do in Karen
One of the best things about Karen is its proximity to the most exciting tourist sites in the city. Places of interest near this suburb are plenty, but the main things to do in Karen are below:
1. Feed Giraffes: The Giraffe Center cares for the endangered Rothschild type and offers educational information about these vulnerable animals. Here you can watch the giraffes and also feed them. There’s also a nature trail opposite the center where you can spend a few minutes of quiet time. Click here for a great tour that includes the giraffe center and elephant orphanage.
2. Take a Walk in Nature: I love Oloolua Nature Trail. It’s one of the few places in the city to go hiking, see a waterfall, or camp under huge trees. Click here for its location.
3. Go Shopping: There are several malls in Karen where you can go shopping. These include The Waterfront, Galleria, and The Hub. If you love beads and unique souvenirs, head over to Kazuri Beads Factory for some handcrafted goods.
4. Experience the Wild Side: Nairobi is one of the rare cities that hosts a safari park. Visit Nairobi National Park for game viewing or a photo of rhinos with an unusual backdrop of skyscrapers. Join this full-day guided tour of the park that also includes a visit to the Elephant Nursery.
5. Visit the Karen Blixen Museum: Another wonderful thing to do in Karen is to visit this museum. It was the home of a Danish Baroness and celebrated author Karen Christensen von Blixen-Finecke. You’ll learn about her history, hardships in Kenya, and literary works. Join this tour which includes visiting Giraffe Center, Kazuri Beads Factory, and the museum.
Where to Eat and Drink in Karen
Here are some of the best restaurants in the Karen neighborhood:
1. The Talisman: If you’re looking for fine dining in Karen, spare your evening for The Talisman. The restaurant connects different cultures with its multi-cuisine dishes. Whether you crave local meals or are longing for European cuisine, this restaurant won’t disappoint. It also has a lovely ambiance, and its interior is top-notch. Click here for directions.
2. Java House: This restaurant in Galleria Mall has a multi-cuisine menu. It serves heartwarming meals, coffee, smoothies, and cakes. Their interior is also well decorated with local art, and the background jazz makes you want to stay longer. I particularly love their full breakfast omelets (made with 3 eggs and served with sausage, toast, and chips). Click here for directions.
3. Cultiva Farm: My favorite restaurant in Karen – and top recommendation – is Cultiva Farm. This incredible eatery serves fresh vegetables straight from their garden and offers a beautiful sitting space. Their menu is extensive and features meaty, vegetarian, and seafood dishes. They also have coffee, cocktail juices, and beers. Click here for directions.
4. Kilimani: Best Area in Nairobi for Nightlife
In recent years, the Kilimani neighborhood has become increasingly popular with travelers. It’s close to places to visit, like The Nairobi Arboretum, and is home to several charming restaurants, hangout lounges, bars, and art galleries.
This neighborhood is also an innovation hub for tech companies, which makes it a favorite to founders. If you enjoy the nightlife or are a digital entrepreneur looking for a place to stay in Nairobi, head for Kilimani.
In addition to entertainment spots, restaurants, and offices, Kilimani has several hotels and modern apartments. The area is rated as “one of the coolest neighborhoods worldwide” for a reason. It’s hip, fun, artistic, and full of energy. Other cool neighborhoods in Nairobi, like Lavington and Kileleshwa, are also only a few kilometers away.
Best Places to Stay in Kilimani
Here are the most popular places to stay in Kilimani for travelers, tourists, families, and first-time visitors:
1. Four Points By Sheraton: If you’re looking for a luxurious place to stay in Kilimani, this 4-star hotel is one of the best. It has a fitness center, a heated pool, and a range of other great facilities. It’s also close to shopping malls like Yaya Center, restaurants, and attraction sites. Click here for more details.
2. DoubleTree by Hilton: With an unrivaled location near Prestige Plaza, Double Tree combines elegance, creative dining experiences, and unique style. It offers the comfort and convenience you need during your trip. In addition to staying in their stylish suites, you’ll have access to a restaurant, a swimming pool, and a gym. Click here to learn more.
3. Hays Suites Hotel: This cozy and affordable hotel has everything necessary for a beautiful stay. It offers free high-speed WiFi, a terrace, a 24-hour front desk, and each room is fitted with a flat-screen TV. Click here to find out more.
Top 3 Things To Do in Kilimani
Below is a list of my favorite things to do in and around the Kilimani area:
1. Walk in Nature at Arboretum: For nature lovers, I recommend the Arboretum Gardens as the best place to visit near Kilimani. The atmosphere in this place is quiet, tranquil, and very calming. You can go here to jog, walk, or just admire the beautiful trees, plants, birds, and flowers.
2. Experience Life in a Slum: Nairobi is not all glitter. There are some parts where its residents live it hard. One of these areas is the infamous Kibera slum. Here, you can experience life in a slum for a day and appreciate the resilience of human beings. You can join this walking tour conducted by youths living in the slum and see the real Kibera through the lens of hope.
3. Shop for Gifts: There’s a Masai Market every Tuesday on the first-floor parking of the Prestige Plaza Mall. Here, you can shop for gifts and test your haggling skills with local vendors. If you visit on a different day, you can shop at the nearby Yaya Center.
Where to Eat and Drink in Kilimani
Here are some of the best eateries and nightlife spots in Kilimani:
1. Empire Kilimani Lounge: Kilimani is well-known for its vibrant and fun nightlife scene. If you love music, dancing, and drinks, experience the apex of Nairobi’s nightlife at Empire Kilimani Lounge. In addition to drinks, you can also order nyama choma with ugali and kachumbari – local dishes in Kenya.
2. Fogo Gaucho: Nothing in the culinary world beats delicious food and excellent service. Fogo Gaucho, a Brazillian restaurant in Kilimani, offers that and more. Their steaks are finger-licking-worthy, and the staff members are friendly and welcoming. While there, try the sirloin steak and pork sausages – very tasty! Click here for directions.
3. Abyssinia Restaurant: If you’d like to try Ethiopian dishes in Kenya, Abyssinia is one the best places to eat. They serve delicious meals like beef goulash with Injera (an Ethiopian staple). You can also find various vegetarian options on their menu. Click here for directions.
5. Mombasa Road: Best Place in Nairobi for Short Visits
Not everyone is lucky enough to have plenty of time set for one destination. If you’re a transient traveler seeking to stay in Nairobi for a night or two, the area along Mombasa Road will suit you best. It includes neighborhoods such as South B, South C, Imara Daima, and Embakasi.
These areas are close to the main transport hubs in Kenya – Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Nairobi SGR Terminus. Staying in these places, you’ll be sure to beat the frustrating Nairobi traffic and still have access to restaurants, nightlife joints, and attractions.
There are many nice hotels, apartments, and homestays along Mombasa Road. From there, you can also take a day trip to wildlife spots in the city. These include Nairobi National Park, Elephant Nursery, and Giraffe Center. The best thing is that you can visit all these places and still catch your connecting flight. Check out this highly-rated tour that includes all 3 of those top sites.
So, whether you’re transiting through Nairobi or staying for a few days, neighborhoods along Mombasa Road are your best bet. Several restaurants, such as Acacia (at Emara Ole-Sereni), and shopping malls, like Capital Center, are along the road too. Check out this 4-hour guided tour of Nairobi National Park if you only have a few hours in the city.
Best Places to Stay Along Mombasa Road
Because of their proximity to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and the Nairobi SGR Terminus, hotels along Mombasa Road are quite expensive. However, you can still get good deals even for the most luxurious of stays. Here are a few ideas on where to stay in Nairobi, close to the major transport hubs:
1. Hilton Garden Inn: This hotel along Mombasa Road is ideal for transient travelers and anyone looking for luxury. It’s situated less than 10 minutes from the airport and train station.
Here guests are treated to comfortable and luxurious rooms to relax and unwind. You can take a day trip from the Hilton Hotel to Nairobi National Park or dine at Carnivore Restaurant. Click here for more details.
2. The Panari Hotel: If you’re looking for an all-in-one accommodation facility in Nairobi, book your stay at Panari. The hotel is situated about 10 minutes from the airport and train station.
It also has state-of-the-art facilities to make your time in the city even more memorable. Besides beautiful and spacious suites, it features a skating rink, a movie theatre, a swimming pool, four restaurants, bars, a gym, and more. Click here for more details.
3. Emara Ole-Sereni: Emara is a beautiful, luxurious, and idyllic hotel along Mombasa Road. The 5-star stay offers elegant air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs, free WiFi, and private bathrooms. It also has a bar, a shared lounge, and an amazing restaurant overlooking the Nairobi National Park. Click here for more details.
Top 3 Things To Do Along Mombasa Road
Here are some of my favorite things to do and places to visit for tourists staying in neighborhoods along Mombasa Road:
1. Go on a Game Drive: One of the top places to visit in Kenya is the incredible Nairobi National Park. I recommend taking this full-day tour of a game drive in the national park. Among other animals, you’ll see rhinos, buffalos, and lions. Find out more here.
2. Watch a Cultural Dance: For those who love experiencing culture and traditions, visit the Bomas of Kenya where you’ll be entertained with cultural dances and music. You’ll also see model villages for local communities and tribes in the country. Join this tour conducted by a local guide to this cultural center.
3. Go Ice Skating: The Panari Hotel has the largest ice skating rink in the region. If you love skating, visit the hotel for a fun afternoon on your blades. The hotel also hosts the Anga Sky Cinema, where you can catch the latest movie.
Where to Eat and Drink Along Mombasa Road
Here are some of my favorite places to eat and drink if you stay along Mombasa Road:
1. Acacia Restaurant: This is my favorite restaurant along Mombasa Road. It’s located at the Emara Ole-Sereni Hotel and is popular for fine dining. It also commands a wonderful view of the Nairobi National Park. After enjoying your best meal, you can chill at the Oasis bar or order coffee from Karibu Cafe. I love the T-Bone, which is served with ugali or mashed potatoes.
2. Carnivore Restaurant: Carnivore is a must-visit gem for all meat lovers. The restaurant in Lang’ata is popular among tourists, locals, and expatriates. Here you can enjoy all-you-can-eat meat at reasonable prices. In addition to sirloin and beef, you’re served more ‘out there’ roasted meats from crocodile, ostrich, and lamb. Your favorite beer, dessert, or coffee follows the meals. Check out this Carnivore experience.
3. The Tunnel: If you’re more into nightlife than fine dining, head over to The Tunnel and wind the night away. Here you can drink, dance, and enjoy music with local revelers. The popular lounge is opposite Hilton Garden Inn and near Nairobi SGR Terminus.
6. Kileleshwa and Lavington: Coolest Nairobi Neighborhoods
To wrap up this guide, let me introduce you to the coolest areas in Nairobi. Besides being cool, bright, and beautiful, Kileleshwa and Lavington are particularly safe. Over the years, these areas have attracted wealthy Kenyans, expatriates, and tourists who seek peace and tranquility.
The affluent neighborhoods feature classic mansions, family villas, and low-rise apartments. They also have social facilities nearby, including high-end schools, hospitals, malls, restaurants, and entertainment spots.
If you’re searching for an upmarket neighborhood in Nairobi, stop at Kileleshwa or Lavington. Staying in either area, you’ll also be close to various tourist attractions and nature trails in the city. You can relax at Nairobi Arboretum, wander along Nairobi’s streets, visit Nairobi National Museum, and plenty more.
Best Places to Stay in Kileleshwa and Lavington
Here are my top picks for the best places to stay in the Kileleshwa and Lavington neighborhoods:
1. The Social House Nairobi: As the name suggests, this stay in Lavington has a friendly touch and a personable environment for guests to connect. It features beautifully decorated rooms, a gym, a swimming pool, and nice restaurants. The house is ideal for couples, solo travelers, and tourists who love art, good food, and music. Click here for more details.
2. The Emory Hotel: If you’re looking for a place to stay in Nairobi for couples, check out The Emory in Kileleshwa. This hotel has a rooftop lounge and three in-house restaurants serving delicious meals and drinks. Besides being well-ventilated, the rooms have a private bathroom, huge windows, and great city skyline views. Click here for more details.
3. Takdiri Homes: Kileleshwa is an upscale neighborhood, and most hotels are highly-priced. However, if you’re looking for a budget place to stay, check out Takdiri Homes. They offer reasonably priced accommodation in clean units with a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private bathroom. Click here for more details.
Top 3 Things To Do in Kileleshwa and Lavington
There aren’t many things to do around the upmarket areas of Kileleshwa and Lavington. However, you can explore nearby places from there easily. Here are my favorite activities near Kilieleshwa and Lavington:
1. Go on a Hike: There are several places to hike near Kileleshwa and Lavington. Two of my favorites are Karura Forest and Ngong Hills. I recommend the latter if you’re looking for a true adventure.
Hiking Ngong Hills is a good challenge, but you’re rewarded with beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. The hills are easily accessed from Kileleshwa by taxi. Click here to see the Ngong Hills trailhead.
2. Learn History: For history lovers, head to Nairobi National Museum, Railway Museum, or the National Archives. You’ll learn something interesting about Kenya and its people at each attraction site.
3. Wander in Nairobi: One of the best ways to understand the local culture is by exploring the city on foot. Walking along the streets of Nairobi will show you sides of Kenya that not many tourists would otherwise experience. You’ll see monuments, architecture, markets, and more. If you’re wary of walking on your own, join this tour of the city.
Where to Eat and Drink in Kileleshwa and Lavington
There are some incredible restaurants and bars in Kileleshwa and Lavington. Here are some of my favorites:
1. Mambo Italia: This restaurant is a great place to eat with family and friends. Their meals are reasonably priced, and service is of high quality. The menu consists of Italian pizza, gelato, and pasta. You can also enjoy more takes such as barbecue pork ribs, fish fillet, and coffee. Mambo Italia is located on the second floor at Lavington Curve Mall. Click here to see their menu.
2. Mama Ashanti: For some of the best West African dishes in the city, head to Mama Ashanti. It’s located along Muthangari Gardens Road in Lavington, and is popular for its great services and affordable prices. You can try jollof rice (rice cooked in spiced tomato sauce) and Eforiro (assorted offals and meats cooked together). Click here to see their menu.
3. Viva Lounge Sports Bar & Restaurant: This place combines casual dining with drinks and good music perfectly. The sports bar and restaurant are located along Kandara Road in Kileleshwa and have a great local vibe. Here you can try out nyama choma served with ugali and kachumbari (Kenyan dishes) and then enjoy a cold Tusker (local beer).
Best Areas to Stay in Nairobi: FAQs
Karen and Westlands are the best areas to stay in Nairobi for tourists. These neighborhoods have everything from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses and are close to plenty of Nairobi’s attractions.
Nairobi is a wonderful city. However, certain areas might not be the best choice for tourists. These include parts of Mathare, Dandora, and Eastleigh. See this travel advisory for more information.
Karen, Westlands, and Kileleshwa are considered some of the safest neighborhoods in Nairobi.
Karen is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Nairobi for shopping. Malls in the area include The Hub, Waterfront, and Galleria.
Each neighborhood in the city is unique. However, many consider Kileleshwa, Lavington, and Kilimani the coolest neighborhoods in Nairobi.
For backpackers and budget travelers, the area around the city center offers the most affordable accommodations.
If you’re planning to stay in Nairobi for a month, consider staying in Westlands or Kilimani. These neighborhoods offer a great mixture of tranquility, fun, and comfort.
Nairobi is considered safe for Westerners. However, I recommend checking the latest travel advisories by US and UK governments before your trip.
It’s safe to wander along Nairobi’s streets, especially in busy and well-frequented areas. However, even for a local like me, there are a few streets to be cautious about, especially after dark. These include alleyways along River Road and Globe roundabout.
Now You Know Where to Stay in Nairobi
There’s certainly no shortage of fantastic places to stay in Nairobi. The choice depends on your budget, preferred location, style, and available time. These places and areas cater to every type of traveler; groups, families, backpackers, couples, fun lovers, and more.
So whether you want to stay in a quiet suburb, near nightlife spots, or close to the airport, the city has an area just right for you. I hope this article on where to stay in Nairobi has given you some ideas. No matter where you stay, make sure you indulge in the local cuisine by tasting some of the delicious dishes Kenya has to offer.
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