Joanna James
East Africa's most cosmopolitan city and the beating heart of Kenya, Nairobi, which has long been renowned as a jumping-off point to some of Africa's best adventures, is undoubtedly a fantastic destination in itself. Wildlife, culture, history and the urban core—it sure is a city of variety.
A trip to Africa with no wildlife experiences is simply no trip to Africa at all. The crown jewel of Nairobi, the eponymous Nairobi National Park, needs no introduction whatsoever and is the quintessential African wildlife experience every traveller to the capital city looks forward to. At 117 square kilometres, it may be one of the smallest national parks in Africa, but you can rest assured that you are treated to an experience that’s nothing short of fantastic, for it is brimming with fascinating fauna. Set at a distance of only 7 kilometres from the city centre, it is one of the only national parks on earth bordering a capital city and is renowned as the most accessible safari experience in Kenya. While the national park is home to a wide variety of animals, it is best known for having the world’s densest concentration of black rhinos, presumably over 50. Other prominent species include lions, hyenas, cheetahs, leopards, gazelles, warthogs, zebras, giraffes, ostriches and buffaloes.
Southwest of Nairobi, on a ridge along the Great Rift Valley, Ngong Hills make the perfect day trip destination for a hike in serene nature away from the hustle and bustle of the capital city. The winding walking trail to the hilltops is one that’s definitely not taxing and affords views of both Nairobi National Park and 1000-metre gorges into the fabled Great Rift Valley.
Nairobi may not be the most glamorous of cities, but it certainly wouldn’t be in vain to enjoy a moment, taking in the vibrant cityscape. Zoom up the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, in the City Square of Nairobi, where you are afforded panoramic views of the metropolis 32 storeys high. After a day of revelling in the glories of the capital city, retreat to one of the finest furnished apartments in Nairobi the likes of Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Nairobi.
For those looking for a moment of peace and quiet away from the bustling metropolis, the urban Karura Forest makes for an ideal escape, only a hop, skip and jump away from the city. At an extent of 1,041 hectares of virgin forestland, you are afforded all the tranquillity and seclusion you desire.
Picking up a traditional souvenir or two is all part of the customary holiday experiences, and for those holidaying in vibrant Nairobi, Maasai Market is hands down the ideal choice. The atmospheric open-air market takes place in different parts of the city throughout the week, bringing together a multitude of local vendors selling souvenirs, paintings, curios, handcrafted jewellery, clothing and utensils.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
