Nairobi History and Modern Culture 3 Hours Tour
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This is a safe walking tour.
Ideal for people on a layover.
We treat you to a safe fruit salad. We might engage you in cooking Chapati or ugali which are very popular foods in Kenya. We sit in one of the local restaurants to have a feel of the food experience in Nairobi. We pay for your shoes to be cleaned at shoe cleaning kiosk and we treat you to a street photo shoot. All optional.
While you can stroll around Nairobi by yourself, you cant compare this to the wealth of information you would get from our guide(s). The sense of security and ease of getting around wouldn't also compare.
We also teach you some everyday cool Nairobi slang and basic Swahili words and sentences. We basically teach you how to blend into the culturally diverse city.
Available options
Nairobi History and Modern Culture 3 Hours Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Fruit Salad
Bottled water
Pickup and Drop-off
Professional street photo
Shoe Cleaning
Detailed itinerary
1
Travelers learn the history of the garden and see current activities and events held there. They get to know the colonial names of the streets that surround the garden.
2
Travelers go through the 4 divisions of the market while learning about its history. They also get to buy some souvenir at the curio shops.
3
Stop 3
Travelers see the mosque and its activities.
4
Stop 4
Travelers see the historical structural uniqueness of the library, learn its history and its inclusion in the constitution.
5
Stop 5
This street is one of the main entrance into the city. travelers see the Askari monument and African war veterans memorial obelisk. They also see various banks, Forex bureaus and restaurants along the street
6
Stop 6
Being the oldest hotel in the city, travelers learn its history. They also see the stores along Kimathi street.
7
Dedan Kimathi being an iconic figure in Kenya's fight for independence, travelers learn his role in the Mau Mau movement. Travelers also see the Hilton hotel Nairobi.
8
Stop 8
Travelers see closely the 'Matatu' culture and the buzzing life of Nairobi.
9
Stop 9
Travelers take photos at the Jomo Kenyatta statue, go up to the helipad to have an aerial view of the City which includes attractions like the historical 'British' railway, Parliament buildings, Uhuru park grounds, Holy Family Basilica Catholic church and others.
10
It is here that travelers,learn the directions and distance of major cities in the world and finalize the tour walking towards Jevanjee gardens.
What's not included
Kenyatta International Convention Centre
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
16 reviews
5★
13
4★
1
3★
0
2★
1
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.8
25 reviews
5★
23
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Incase you arrive at CJs before others, kindly sit outside on the green seats or go in the restaurant and order something light as you wait. The location is very safe and the restaurant staff will take care of you as you wait.
Note that is is illegal to smoke in public in the city
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
