Nairobi’s history and creativity are worth a day of their own. Start with these.

Nairobi National Museum

On Museum Hill, a short drive from the city centre, the Nairobi National Museum tells Kenya’s story through its natural history, cultures, art and early human finds. Leave time for the gardens around the museum.

Karen Blixen Museum

At the foot of the Ngong Hills, the Karen Blixen Museum is the farmhouse at the centre of the Danish author’s coffee farm, made famous by Out of Africa. The house was built in 1912 and opened as a museum in 1986, run by the National Museums of Kenya.

Inside are furniture and belongings from the original household. Outside, old farm machinery stands in gardens with a short nature trail. Guided tours run throughout the day.

Bomas of Kenya

In Langata, near the main gate of Nairobi National Park, Bomas of Kenya recreates the traditional homesteads of Kenya’s communities. Walk through the villages, then stay for the afternoon performance of traditional song and dance. Check the day’s show times before you go.

Kenya National Theatre

On Harry Thuku Road, next to the University of Nairobi, the Kenya National Theatre stages plays, musicals and concerts by Kenyan and visiting companies. Check what’s on before you go, as programmes change from week to week.

Good to know

Museums and venues set their own hours and fees, so check each official site before you go. Several of these places are in Karen and Langata, so they combine well with the Giraffe Centre or a visit to the elephants.

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