Nairobi Artistic and Literary Walking Tour Experience
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Nairobi’s creative soul with Muthoni Maina, a local writer and artist passionate about sharing the city’s art and stories. This guided walking tour takes you off the beaten path — through cosy bookshops, colourful murals, and hidden galleries where Nairobi’s spirit truly lives.
As an independent creative making a life through art and storytelling, Muthoni offers a personal glimpse into how Nairobi’s artists find inspiration, community, and resilience in a rapidly changing city.
Explore the city’s artistic landmarks and tucked-away gems
Meet local creatives and book lovers along the way
Learn about Nairobi’s literary and cultural history
Support a local artist while experiencing Nairobi
Available options
Art & Lit Tour- Pay Entry Fees
What's included
Snacks
Detailed itinerary
1
Visit “Point Zero,” the exact spot where the city of Nairobi was founded and from which all road distances in Kenya were traditionally measured.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Pass by Kenya’s oldest university and see the heart of academic life in the city.
3
See where local performers, musicians, and actors bring Kenyan stories to life.
4
Stop 4
Nairobi National Museum the area that connects other cultural institutions. A great place to understand Kenya’s heritage.
5
Stop by one of Nairobi’s most famous parks, known for its lakes, monuments, and city views.
6
Stop 6
Visit one of Nairobi’s oldest libraries, a historic landmark and a quiet space in the heart of downtown.
7
Stop 7
Pass by
The home of African books.
8
Explore Kenya’s railway history and see the trains that helped build the city of Nairobi.
9
Stop 9
Visit one of Nairobi’s most recognisable landmarks, known for its circular design inspired by traditional African huts.
10
Stop 10
Located in the heart of the city, the Alliance Française de Nairobi is a hub for language, culture, and creativity. The centre regularly hosts art exhibitions, film screenings, and performances celebrating both Kenyan and Francophone culture.
11
Stop 11
Pass by
The Goethe-Institut is a dynamic cultural space dedicated to promoting dialogue through art, literature, and film. Visitors can explore rotating exhibitions by local and international artists, attend workshops, or simply enjoy the creative atmosphere.
What's not included
Admission fee - Nairobi National Museum – $10 USD KICC Tower – $3 USD Railway Museum – $4 USD Nairobi Gallery– Approx. $3 USD USD 20.00 per person
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We’ll meet outside Carrefour at St. Ellis Tower, located along Wabera Street in the heart of downtown Nairobi. It’s just a short walk from Kenyatta Avenue and opposite the Hilton Arcade.
Look for: the glass-fronted entrance of St. Ellis Tower and the Carrefour supermarket sign.
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
