Nairobi National Museum & City Tour with shopping
Active
6h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the beating heart of Kenya with our specially designed one-day cultural and historical tour of Nairobi, a city renowned for its vibrancy, diversity, and rich heritage. Experience a perfect blend of
past and present, urbanity and nature, all within the bustling capital. From colonial-era history to cultural performances, and from wildlife conservation to local craftsmanship, Nairobi distinctive charm is sure to captivate every traveler.
Start your journey through time at the Nairobi National Museum, where Kenya cultural and natural heritage is beautifully showcased. Immerse yourself in Kenya diverse cultures, and finally, experience the colorful crafted artifacts at the utamaduni craft Centre. Get ready to explore, learn, and be inspired as we navigate the best of what Nairobi has to offer.
Available options
Nairobi National Museum & City Tour with shopping
Pickup included
What's included
Pick up and drop off
bottled drinking water
Entry/admission KICC & City tour
Utamaduni Craft Centre
Entry/admission Nairobi National Museum
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Start your day with a visit to the Nairobi National Museum, which is situated on Museum Hill, a short distance from the city center. The museum offers a unique display of Kenya's rich heritage, both cultural and natural. Marvel at Ahmed, the massive elephant, who became a symbol of Kenya at the height of the 1980s poaching crisis is displayed here. He was placed under 24-hour guard by President Jomo Kenyatta. Explore the museum's permanent collection, through the hall of Kenya, some ethnological exhibits such as the extraordinary Kalenjin cloak made from the skins of Sykes Monkeys and a mosaic map of Kenya made from the country's butterflies. Next hall is the birds of east Africa exhibit, a huge gallery of at least 900 stuffed specimens. Then follows the great hall of mammals. Cradle of Humankind, the highlight of which is the Hominid Skull Room – an extraordinary collection of skulls that describes itself as ‘the single most important collection of early human fossils in the world’.
2
Stop 2
This will be our next stop. The iconic 28-storey building is located along Harambee Avenue in the City Square of Nairobi. The skyscraper’s rooftop provides a 360-degree picturesque panoramic view of the city center and its horizons. Only then can one appreciate the beauty and complex pattern that it embodies.
We will then proceed to the Nairobi view point on the recreational grounds of an ordinary Kenyan, Uhuru Park as we learn more on its historical significance to the Kenyan Nation-State.
Chronologically will find our way into the Central Business District. As we walk, we will share tales told in real-time by your guide of the history of pre-independence Nairobi and post-independence Nairobi. We will walk through the city visiting different landmarks, including KICC, Kipande house, among others.
3
The best African craft shop in Nairobi, Utamaduni is a must to drop into on the way to some of the exciting venues in Nairobi's green suburb of Karen/Langata, known for the famous writer, Karen Blixen's original farm with beautiful views of the Ngong hills. Incorporate a visit to this unique house of crafts on the day of your visit Nairobi.
The shop, a converted Kikuyu house with 18 shops, is a treasure trove of African crafts, antiques and art, with friendly staff to assist and help pack or ship if needed.
After shopping stop and have refreshments in the large beautiful garden restaurant and if you are a bird watcher the many exotic birds will keep you entertained.
Make sure you make utamaduni a part of your Kenya holiday itinerary.
What's not included
Lunch available for purchase
Tips & gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.6
20 reviews
5★
17
4★
1
3★
0
2★
1
1★
1
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Nairobi
Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, is a vibrant city known for its rich wildlife, cultural diversity, and modern urban landscape. It's the only city in the world with a national park within its boundaries, offering a unique blend of city life and nature.
Top Attractions
Nairobi National Park
This unique national park is located just a few kilometers from the city center and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and rhinos.
Nature
Half day to full day
KES 400-1000
Karen Blixen Museum
This museum is dedicated to the Danish author Karen Blixen, who lived in Kenya during the early 20th century. The museum is set in her former home and offers a glimpse into colonial life in Kenya.
Historical
2-3 hours
KES 500-1000
Bomas of Kenya
Bomas of Kenya is a cultural center that showcases the traditional music, dance, and acrobatics of Kenya's various ethnic groups. The center also features a museum and craft shops.
Cultural
2-3 hours
KES 500-1500
Must-Try Local Dishes
Nyama Choma
Grilled meat, typically goat or beef, seasoned with salt and sometimes spices. It's a popular dish often served with ugali and kachumbari.
Main Course
Contains meat
Ugali
A staple food made from maize flour, cooked with water to form a thick, dough-like consistency. It's often served with stews or nyama choma.
Side Dish
Vegetarian, Vegan
Sukuma Wiki
Collard greens cooked with onions, tomatoes, and sometimes other vegetables. It's a common side dish in Kenyan cuisine.
Side Dish
Vegetarian, Vegan
Popular Activities
Hiking
Safari
Wildlife viewing
Coffee tasting
Spas
Picnics
Museum visits
Cultural performances
Best Time to Visit
June to October
This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for safaris and outdoor activities. The city is lively with various festivals and events.
18-28°C
64-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Swahili
- Widely spoken: English, Swahili
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Kenyan Shilling (KES)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
240VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Nairobi is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and at night. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
Getting there
By air
- Jomo Kenyatta International Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Nairobi Railway Station
By bus
Nairobi Bus Station, Mombasa Road Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The NCBS is the main public transport system, with routes covering most of the city. Buses are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
CBD (Central Business District)
Westlands
Karen
Day trips
Lake Naivasha
90 km from Nairobi • Full day
Lake Naivasha is a beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by scenic landscapes and wildlife. It's a popular spot for boat rides, birdwatching, and visiting the nearby Hell's Gate National Park.
Mount Longonot
80 km from Nairobi • Full day
Mount Longonot is an extinct volcano with a challenging but rewarding hike to the summit. The hike offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and the crater lake.
Lake Nakuru National Park
160 km from Nairobi • Full day
Lake Nakuru National Park is known for its large population of flamingos and other wildlife, including rhinos, lions, and leopards. The park offers game drives and walking safaris.
Festivals
Nairobi International Trade Fair • July
Nairobi Film Festival • October
Kenyatta Day • June 1
Pro tips
- Visit the Nairobi National Park early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best wildlife viewing
- Try local dishes like nyama choma, ugali, and sukuma wiki for an authentic culinary experience
- Use app-based taxi services like Uber or Bolt for safer and more convenient transportation
- Carry a reusable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics to minimize your environmental impact
- Learn a few basic Swahili phrases to enhance your interaction with locals and show respect for their culture
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
