Nairobi is the capital and largest city of Kenya, located on the eastern coast of Africa. It has long been regarded as one of the most exciting, vibrant, and diverse cities in the continent. It is home to an abundance of historical and cultural attractions, from the National Museums of Kenya to the bustling streets of the CBD. But the city is more than the sum of its tourist attractions – it is a bustling metropolis filled with opportunity, creativity, and adventure. From its amazing natural parks and colorful markets, to its vibrant nightlife and ever-evolving cultural offerings, Nairobi is a unique and multi-faceted city that is truly worthy of exploration. In this text, we’ll take a closer look at all that Nairobi has to offer.
Getting to Know Nairobi
Nairobi is the largest city in Kenya and the capital of the country. It is located in the central region of the country and has an estimated population of around 3.36 million people. The people of Nairobi are diverse and come from many different backgrounds, including Cushite, Nilotic, Bantu and other ethnicities.
The time zone in Nairobi is East Africa Time (EAT), which is three hours ahead of UTC.
English is widely spoken in Nairobi and is the official language, but there are also many other diverse languages spoken in the city, including Swahili, Kikuyu, Kamba, Luhya, Maasai, Turkana, and others.
The official currency of Nairobi is the Kenyan Shilling, however, US Dollars and other foreign currencies are widely accepted, particularly in tourist areas.
Climate and Weather
Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, experiences a mild highland climate. With a location at an altitude of 5,800 feet above sea level, temperatures in Nairobi are generally lower than those at sea level locations in the region. The warmest month is February, when temperatures average a high of 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius) and a low of 57 F (14 C). The coldest month is July, with a high of 72 F (22 C) and a low of 50 F (10 C). In Nairobi, the majority of rain falls from April to June. This is the long rain season, when average monthly rainfall amounts are around 6 inches (150 mm). The short rains take place from October to December, with average monthly rainfall amounts above 3 inches (83 mm). Most days are partly overcast and sunny, with occasional rain showers throughout the year.
Touring Nairobi: Airport and Transportation
There are two airports in Nairobi: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Wilson Airport.
You can get from JKIA to downtown Nairobi by taxi or matatu (costs around KSh 500-600 – about 5 to 6 USD). You can also book a shuttle service which is usually cheaper and more convenient.
Yes, you can easily change money at the airports in Nairobi.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Nairobi
- Nairobi is an exciting city known for its vibrant mix of cultures. It is an African hub of commerce and the home to the United Nations Environment Programme.
- Nairobi has a colonial past, having been the capital city of British East Africa. Its historic attractions, such as Nairobi National Park, the Parliament Buildings, and Uhuru Park are popular destinations for visitors.
- The city also hosts a wealth of cultural activities such as the Nairobi International Film Festival, the Nairobi Jazz Festival, and the monthly Artcrawl event where artists can display their artworks. Nairobi boasts world-class restaurants, galleries, and shopping malls
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