Is Nairobi safe for first-time visitors?

Yes, if you stay in the right areas and take basic precautions. Stick to Westlands, Karen, and Lavington neighborhoods. Don't walk around downtown at night or flash expensive items. Use reputable taxi services or Uber instead of walking long distances.

Do I need yellow fever vaccination?

Only if you're coming from a yellow fever endemic area. Kenya doesn't require it for most travelers, but check with your doctor about other recommended vaccinations like hepatitis A and typhoid.

What's the best way to get around the city?

Uber works well in Nairobi and is safer than flagging down taxis. For longer trips or full-day tours, arrange a driver through your hotel. Matatus (shared minibuses) are cheap but overwhelming for first-time visitors.

Should I exchange money before arriving?

No need. ATMs at the airport and throughout the city work with international cards. Exchange rates are better in Nairobi than in your home country. Just notify your bank you're traveling to avoid card blocks.

Can I see the Big Five in Nairobi National Park?

You can see four of the Big Five - lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo. There are no elephants in Nairobi National Park, but you'll see them at the nearby Elephant Orphanage.

How to spend 3 days in Nairobi for first-time visitors

Focus on the Giraffe Centre and David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage on day one, explore downtown Nairobi and local markets on day two, and visit Nairobi National Park on day three. Stay in Westlands or Karen for safety and convenience, and budget $80-120 per day including accommodation.

Book accommodation in the right area. Stay in Westlands, Karen, or Lavington neighborhoods. These areas are safer for tourists and have good restaurants nearby. Avoid downtown hotels unless you're very experienced with African cities.
Arrange airport transport in advance. Book a hotel transfer or use Uber from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The ride to Westlands costs 1,500-2,000 Kenyan shillings ($10-14) and takes 45 minutes without traffic.
Plan animal experiences for day one. Visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage at 11am (600 shillings entry), then the Giraffe Centre in the afternoon (1,500 shillings). Both are in Karen area and easy to combine.
Explore the city center on day two. Take a guided walking tour of downtown or visit the National Museum (1,200 shillings), then browse Maasai Market for souvenirs. Return to your hotel before dark.
End with Nairobi National Park. Hire a driver-guide for the full day (8,000-12,000 shillings) or join a group tour. Park entry is $43 for non-residents. You'll see zebras, giraffes, and possibly rhinos with the Nairobi skyline as backdrop.

Is Nairobi safe for first-time visitors?: Yes, if you stay in the right areas and take basic precautions. Stick to Westlands, Karen, and Lavington neighborhoods. Don't walk around downtown at night or flash expensive items. Use reputable taxi services or Uber instead of walking long distances.
Do I need yellow fever vaccination?: Only if you're coming from a yellow fever endemic area. Kenya doesn't require it for most travelers, but check with your doctor about other recommended vaccinations like hepatitis A and typhoid.
What's the best way to get around the city?: Uber works well in Nairobi and is safer than flagging down taxis. For longer trips or full-day tours, arrange a driver through your hotel. Matatus (shared minibuses) are cheap but overwhelming for first-time visitors.
Should I exchange money before arriving?: No need. ATMs at the airport and throughout the city work with international cards. Exchange rates are better in Nairobi than in your home country. Just notify your bank you're traveling to avoid card blocks.
Can I see the Big Five in Nairobi National Park?: You can see four of the Big Five - lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo. There are no elephants in Nairobi National Park, but you'll see them at the nearby Elephant Orphanage.