Nairobi Historical Walking Half Day Tour
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Nairobi Historical Walking Half Day Tour

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(1 reviews)
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience

Nairobi Historical Walking city tour offers a comprehensive guide to Nairobi's rich history and diversity in addition to the modern architecture and the famous matatu culture.

Itinerary for this activity:

1. Meeting point is at the entrance of Jamia Mosque Nairobi.
2. Activity proceeds to Nairobi city market to explore different sections of the market.
3. Pass by nation centre: one of Kenya’s premier media stations. No pictures allowed.
4. Explore Nairobi's masai market for Souvenirs
5. View Nairobi from Kenyatta International Convention Centre at a 360⁰ view.
6. Learn the comprehensive history of the old East African railway with various exhibits including: locomotive and rolling stock and historical artefacts.

Available options

Nairobi Historical Walking Half Day Tour

What's included

All Fees and Taxes
Bottled water

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Jamia Mosque is one of the most prominent and historic mosques in Nairobi, Kenya. Located in the city's central business district along Kigali Road, it serves as a major place of worship for Muslims and a significant landmark in Nairobi.

Key Features include:

Architectural Beauty: The mosque features a striking Islamic architectural style with large domes, intricate Arabic calligraphy, and towering minarets.

Religious Significance: It is one of the most important mosques in Kenya, accommodating thousands of worshippers, especially during Friday prayers and Islamic festivals.

Facilities: The mosque houses a madrasa (Islamic school), a library, and offices. It also plays a role in community activities and Islamic teachings.

Location & Accessibility: Situated in the heart of Nairobi, it is easily accessible from major roads and public transport routes.

2

City Market Nairobi is a popular shopping destination located in the heart of Nairobi, along Muindi Mbingu Street, near the Central Business District (CBD). It is well known for its fresh produce, flowers, souvenirs, and art pieces.

What to Expect at City Market

Fresh Produce & Meat: The market is a key spot for fresh meat, fish, poultry, and vegetables. It is one of the main butcheries in the city.

Souvenirs & Handicrafts: A great place to buy Kenyan souvenirs, including Maasai beadwork, wood carvings, traditional jewelry, paintings, and sculptures.

Flowers: The market also offers a variety of fresh flowers, making it a popular spot for florists and event planners.

Bargaining Culture: Prices are often negotiable, so be prepared to haggle for the best deals.

3
Stop 3

The Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) is one of Nairobi’s most iconic landmarks and a premier venue for conferences, exhibitions, and events. Located in the heart of the Central Business District (CBD), KICC is a key symbol of Kenya’s political and economic status.

Key Features of KICC:

Architectural Design: Built in the 1970s, KICC features a unique cylindrical tower inspired by traditional African huts, with terracotta finishes that reflect Kenya’s heritage.

Conference & Event Space: It hosts local and international summits, corporate events, and exhibitions, with meeting rooms and a 4,000-seat plenary hall.

Helipad & Rooftop View: The rooftop offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Nairobi’s skyline, making it a popular spot for photography.

Strategic Location: Situated on Harambee Avenue, KICC is near major hotels, government buildings, and attractions like Uhuru Park.

4

The Nairobi Railway Museum is a historic site dedicated to preserving Kenya’s rich railway heritage. Located near Nairobi Railway Station, the museum showcases the history of the Uganda Railway, which played a significant role in the development of Kenya and East Africa.

Key Attractions at the Museum:

Vintage Locomotives & Coaches:

The museum features old steam locomotives, some of which date back to the early 1900s, including those used during the construction of the Kenya-Uganda Railway.

Historical Artifacts:

Exhibits include railway maps, photographs, signaling equipment, and original station signs.

Famous Locomotives:

Visitors can see the "Lunatic Express" engines and the legendary steam engines once used by colonial settlers.

Outdoor Display:

Retired locomotives are on display outside, and some can be explored from the inside.

What's not included

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We meet at the gate of Jamia Mosque Nairobi

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

Adults
Age 19-85
1
Childs
Age 5-11
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
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Free cancellation available
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