Exploring Nairobi as a Local: A Day of Culture, History, and Cuisine

For those visiting Nairobi, there’s more than just the typical safari and game reserves. Kenya’s vibrant capital offers a rich blend of history, modern culture, and local traditions best discovered on foot. For an immersive experience, spend a day (4 hours) walking in the city as a local, taking in historic sites, tasting local flavors, and connecting with the heart of Kenya. Here’s a perfect itinerary for discovering Nairobi through the eyes of a Kenyan.

Morning:0900hrs meeting your Local Guide and the Start of the walk at the August 7th Memorial Park (Old American Embassy)

Begin your day at the August 7th Memorial Park (Old American Embassy), the site of the 1998 U.S. Embassy bombing. This peaceful memorial park serves as a reminder of Nairobi’s resilience and its people’s strength. The serene garden is dotted with benches and plaques commemorating the lost lives, providing a contemplative space to reflect on this tragic but significant part of Nairobi’s history.

A small museum on-site showcases exhibits and firsthand accounts of the bombing, offering insights into an event that forever changed Nairobi. While sad, this stop is an important part of understanding the city’s journey and the resilience of its people.

Next Stop: Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC)

A short walk from the Memorial Park, the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) is an iconic Nairobi landmark. With its 28-story cylindrical tower and unique rooftop view, it’s must-see. Nairobians are proud of this architectural marvel, which stands as a symbol of Kenya’s progress and ambition.

Visitors can take the elevator up to the rooftop for a small fee, where an observation deck offers stunning 360-degree views of Nairobi’s skyline, bustling streets, and even the distant Ngong Hills on a clear day. This is a perfect spot for photos, so bring your camera and capture Nairobi from above

continue your walk through some of Nairobi’s most important political sites. First, pass by ministerial offices and government offices. There after the Mzee Jomo Kenyatta Mausoleum, located within the Parliament Building complex. While it’s not open to the public, you can view the site from outside. The mausoleum is the resting place of Kenya’s founding father, Jomo Kenyatta, and remains an important monument in Kenyan history.

A Stroll past the Parliament Buildings, where the country’s political leaders convene. The impressive architecture and proximity to Kenyatta’s mausoleum offer a chance to reflect on Kenya’s journey to independence and its growth as a democracy. These sites hold significant historical weight for Nairobians, making this a meaningful part of your tour.

The Holy Family Basilica

A short walk from Parliament is the Holy Family Basilica, a stunning Roman Catholic church in the heart of Nairobi. Its modern architecture, soaring ceilings, and beautiful stained-glass windows make it an impressive sight. Locals come here for prayer and reflection, and you’ll often find a quiet reverence inside the basilica. Take a moment to appreciate the peaceful ambiance, as the Basilica offers a brief escape from the busy city outside.

For those interested in religious architecture and culture, this stop provides insight into the spiritual life of many Nairobians and is a wonderful place to connect with the city’s soul.

Lunchtime: Sample Kenyan Cuisine at K’Osewe

After a morning of exploration, it’s time for a culinary adventure. We head over to K’Osewe, a beloved local restaurant located along Moi Avenue. Known officially as “Ranalo Foods,” K’Osewe is where Nairobians gather for authentic Kenyan dishes. For a visitor, this is an unmissable chance to taste local flavors and experience the lively atmosphere of a Kenyan lunch spot.

A great opportunity to sample local dishes like ugali (a staple maize flour dish), sukuma wiki (a type of kale often served with tomatoes and onions), and nyama choma (grilled meat). Don’t miss a glass of mala (fermented milk) for a true local experience. You’ll often find Kenyans dining in groups, laughing and sharing, which makes for an authentic taste of Nairobi’s communal spirit.

The Oloolua nature trail meanders through thick forest vines and undergrowth below giant indigenous trees and bushes, in some places following the course of the Mbagathi River that cuts through the forest.

Giant riverside bamboo stands beckon you to descend some rickety stairs to the river and rest on benches built under the bamboo. Trickling water and chirping birds, the only sounds you hear as you rest, cause you into a reflective mood.

Along the trail close to the river, you encounter a 33m long cave. Reputed to have once been home to Mau Mau freedom fighters during the colonial period of Kenya’s History.

A thick pile of guano underfoot and the occasional disturbance of bats flitting past you bring to your attention the existence of a bat colony within.

A papyrus swamp further down the river offers a further glimpse into the rich biodiversity of this indigenous Forest.

Cost per person: $42

Cost Includes

  • Entrance fee to the American Memorial Park and Kenyatta International Conference Center
  • Lunch
  • Guided walk with an experienced Guide

Cost Excludes

  • Visas, International and Airport taxes
  • Gratuities
  • Drinks, dining during the visit
  • Personal travel, baggage and medical insurance
  • Telephone, laundry and any items of a personal nature
  • PCR Test

Enquire this tour