Nairobi: Kenya's modern capital

Nairobi is the capital of Kenya and the starting point for many safaris. It is more than likely that you will spend a night or two in this bustling hub. Just over a century ago Nairobi was little more than a water depot on a train route. Meaning ‘cool water’in the language of the Masai, Nairobi is now the hub for Kenya’s businesses and a major centre for commerce in Africa. The city skyline bristles with skyscrapers and many first time visitors are surprised by Nairobi’s modernity and spaciousness.

Since it was founded little over a century ago the city has grown at a breakneck speed to become one of the continent’s largest metropolises. As a result the city can suffer from chaotic traffic jams and many visitors choose to stay in the suburbs where many delightful accommodation choices and hotels are on offer.

For the traveller who has some time to spend in the city there is plenty to see and do, from museums and restaurants and green parks and bars to explore. Nairobi might not be the reason people come to Kenya, but one shouldn’t overlook it and it has plenty to offer the inquisitive visitor. The opportunity to feed a giraffe or adopt a baby elephant should not be misssed. The national museum offers a fantastic insight into the history of Kenya and Kenya`s diverse and fascinating culture can be explored in detail at the Bomas of Kenya. Nairobi is also home to the oldest of Kenya`s national parks which is also the only national park in a capital city in the world, and well worth a visit.