Visit Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi is the largest city in East Africa and while not a tourist destination as such, it does have some worthy attractions. The Giraffe Centre and the Daphne Sheldrick (elephant) Orphanage, are both well worth a visit.
Nairobi is the largest city in East Africa. It began as a shantytown depot for the East Africa Railroad in 1899 and in 95 years it has become one of the major cities of modern Africa and headquarters of the United Nations.
Modern Nairobi
Nairobi has received bad press in the past, especially with regards to security. It is still not recommended to walk at night, especially in unlit areas and you will notice that your driver may not stop at traffic lights. During the day it is a different matter though. Huge increases in security mean that you can happily wander about, shopping and sightseeing at ease.
It is an interesting place to visit for a day or two, a mosaic of races and cultures and a vibrant and growing city.
Many of the tourist attractions of Nairobi are located in the upmarket suburb of Karen. This is a lovely part of town, wide streets, cattle grazing on the verges, and a variety of houses hiding under leafy trees.
Nairobi's Giraffe Centre
One of the most interesting attractions is a visit to the Giraffe Centre. Run by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife visitors can feed Rothschild giraffe, learn about giraffe conservation and admire the lively warthogs.
Daphne Sheldrick Orphanage
Also in this part of town is the Daphne Sheldrick Orphanage where you can observe baby elephant from close quarters and the Karen Blixen museum. Finally of course, there is the shopping. You can find everything in Nairobi from soapstone carvings to bright African fabrics, wood carvings and of course the lovely ceramics at Kazuri Beads.
