Overview
Nairobi is one of Africa's most fast-paced cities
and the safari capital of Africa. It is a place of enormous energy,
a tireless and thriving bustle of people, and a city of
differences. Assorted races, tribes and origins are all a part of
its make-up.
The city centre buzzes with the energy,
aspirations and opportunism of moneychangers, safari touts, food
vendors, trinket sellers, shoppers, and sharp-eyed shoe shiners
assessing the footwear of the hurried throngs.
Kenyatta Avenue is the city's favourite tourist
image, a broad avenue fringed by trees and flowers that was
originally designed to allow a twelve-oxen team to make a full
turn. There are several museums and places of interest in the
centre, including the National Museum and Snake Park.
There are numerous markets selling traditional
crafts, especially the popular Masai Market. Just outside of the
centre is the Nairobi National Park, and the nearby Bomas of Kenya
host performances of traditional dancing and singing. The Langata
Giraffe Centre offers visitors the chance to hand-feed the
Rothschild's giraffes that inhabit the area.
Safety has been a concern for tourists, as the
capital has in recent years been the target of terrorist attacks.
With safety in mind, travellers are advised to be vigilant when
visiting the capital and keep an eye on official government
warnings as to the latest safety information pertaining to Kenya.
Yet despite these unfortunate few incidents, a trip to Nairobi is
usually trouble free and tourists can still safely enjoy the
beautiful flavour and culture of the vibrant and friendly city.