Flights from Dubai to Nairobi

Nairobi - a vibrant African city

Visitors to Nairobi can enjoy all the attractions of a modern city such as the bustling Westlands district as well as proximity to some of Kenya's best National Parks.

Best Nairobi seasons

Visit during one of the two dry seasons from mid-December until the end of February or from mid-June till the end of September to avoid the rainy season downpours. Travellers should visit on 1st June to catch Madaraka Day independence day parades. The Heroes day parades on Mashujaa Day are on 20th October and the Nairobi Marathon is also in October. Visit in December for Kenya Music Week or Jamhuri Day (Republic Day) on the 12th.

Useful information before arriving in Nairobi

Visas are required and a tourist visa costing about £30 can be obtained online (e-visa), at the Kenya High Commission in London or at the airport before departure. Malaria, cholera and dengue fever all occur in Kenya. Travellers should ensure that routine vaccinations are up to date and Tetanus, Polio, Diphtheria, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Rabies, Yellow Fever, Rabies and Meningitis are also recommended. An anti-malarial (prophylaxis) course is advised if intending to travel outside Nairobi. Tourist should avoid Pangani, Eastleigh and other inner city slum areas at night. Crime and terrorism rates are high.

Getting around in Nairobi

There is no smoking in public particularly in the inner city. Tap water should be avoided - choose bottled water or boil drinking water. Fruit and vegetables should be peeled or cooked before eating. Wear long clothing, use a mosquito repellent and sleep under a mosquito net. Kenya is far less expensive than the UK and a restaurant meal is about 500 KES. Try local foods like Nyama Choma (grilled meat). Beer is around 200 KES, non-alcoholic drinks about 100 KES and bottled water about 100 KES from supermarkets. Shop in Biashara Street or haggle in Massai Market.

Local tips for Nairobi

It is approximately 15 km from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to the business district. A taxi takes about 30 minutes and costs about 1,500 KES. Prices should be settled beforehand. The #34 bus costs around 50 KES and takes about 40 minutes to the Ambassador Hotel. Accommodation might cost about 800 KES for a shared hostel room or around 10,000 KES for a luxury hotel. Traffic is heavy, particularly in rush hour periods from 7-9 am and 4.30 to 6.30 pm. Taxis start at about 500 KES then around 200 KES per km.