The bustling city of Nairobi began as a railway town during the construction of the Kenya-Uganda railway. It soon became the administrative headquarters of the protectorate, and then later, the capital of Kenya.
As the Lonely Planet describes it, many use Nairobi as a base rather than a destination. However, will a little patience, luck, gut-feeling, and sense for adventure, this chaotic city can be quite charming.
· The night has a life of its own in Nairobi. There are tastes for everyone. In upmarket Nairobi, party in the clubs of Westlands (or Westi as it is popularly known), at Mercury, Skylux, Havana, Gypsies, and even K1.
· The less lofty but nonetheless fun types will prefer the CBD joints, and the absolutely brave will venture to Madhouse.
· The next day, to nurse the throbbing in your head, visit one of a handful of really decent coffee bars scattered all over the city, like Java, Art Caffe, The Mug, Tspot, and Savannah.
· After your espresso milkshake or mocha, try out some retail therapy at some of the beautiful malls like Sarit, The Village Market, The Junction Mall, Galleria Mall, Yaya Centre, and Westgate Mall.
· For a basic introduction into the cultures and histories of the East African people, take a short tour of the Kenya National Archives in the city centre. Stroll through the city; one walk across is likely to reveal some of the social stratifications that Nairobi is known for. Later, climb to the top of the Kenyatta International Conference Centre and watch the sun dip over the blood-orange skyline.
· Gather a pack of friends and go paintballing, or watch monkeys roll about the greens at the City Park. If you feed them, they become friendly and will even sit on your shoulder long enough for the photographer to snap away.
· Take a game drive at the Nairobi National Park. This you must! Did you know that Nairobi is the only city in the world with a natural game park in its heart?
· Later, indulge in exotic game meat at the world famous Carnivore Restaurant. And if you are up for some sport, there probably is a soccer match nearby at the Nyayo National Stadium.
· Go to Simmers restaurant, famous for its cold Tuskers and its Rumba; the perfect place for a sundowner.
· Perhaps the best thing about Nairobi is the satellite towns around it. A one or two hour drive in any direction of Nairobi is likely to unearth some unforgettable delights; from the flamingos of Nakuru, to the juicy goat barbecues of Ole Polos, from the hot springs of the Rift Valley, to the fourteen falls of Thika.
Other places you must visit include the Kenya National Museum, the Railway Museum, the August 1998 Memorial Park, the Go-Down Arts Centre, Sarakasi Dome, Mzizi Arts Centre, Ramoma Rahimhella museum of Modern Art, as well as a handful of regular arts events such as the Kwani Open Mic held at Club Soundd every first Tuesday of the month.
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Photo Credits: Mutua Matheka
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