The Basics
City Name: Nairobi
Where is it located?: Nairobi is in southern Kenya, a few hours from the boarder of Tanzania.
Why do people go there?: People use Nairobi as a transit point for heading elsewhere around both Kenya and Tanzania.
How do travelers get there?: Since it’s an international hub, there are buses go all over the country and to other major cities outside Kenya. There is regular service to Europe and many other spots in Africa and the Middle East.
Currency: Kenyan Shilling
City Code: 2
Other phone tips: The phone service in Nairobi is the most expensive in the entire world. You are immediately charged from the moment your phone rings and not when your call is answered.
Population: 3.1 million
Languages: English, Swahili
Travel Information
Neighborhoods: Eastleigh, Mathare, Ngong Hills
Attractions: National Museum
Accommodations: Nairobi Hostels
Tourist Office: Kenya Tourist Board, Kenya Re Towers, Ragati Road, Upper Hill P.O. Box 30630 Nairobi, Kenya Tourisms Office
Off-the-beaten-path: Karen Blixen Museum
Health Issues: Malaria, Cholera, Hepatitis, Meningococcal Meningitis, Typhoid, Bilharzia, Yellow Fever
Tips for Visiting
When to go: Tourists visit East Africa from December through February, when the weather is dry and pleasant. The next best season is from June to September, although you can encounter some rain.
Common Phrases: Most Kenyans speak English.
City Specific Events: Safari Rally, Ferodo Councours d’Elegance
How to get around?: Be careful traveling around Nairobi. Avoid buses and take taxis even during the day.
Good to know: Nairobi can be lots of fun, but you have to keep your wits about you – always.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airport to fly into Nairobi is the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the Nairobi travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
