Nairobi is the capital and the largest city of Kenya. The name comes from the Maasai phrase Enkare Nairobi, which translates to “cool water,” a reference to the Nairobi River, which flows through the city. The city proper had a population of 4,397,073 in the 2019 census, while the metropolitan area has a population of 9,354,580. The city is popularly referred to as the Green City in the Sun.
Warnings & Dangers in Nairobi
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Nairobi is not the safest city to travel to. Petty thefts often occur here, and the police are corrupt and rarely find intruders. To safely move around this city, use increased safety precautions.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport is not safe due to pickpockets and robbers. Traffic on the roads is chaotic and, out of habit, can be dangerous. Use only licensed taxi services and make sure the driver turns on the taximeter.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH
Pickpocketing is very common in Nairobi, especially on public transport, main squares, and bazaars. Carry things in an anti-theft backpack, be especially careful about your wallet and phone, and never leave things unattended.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW
The risk of natural disasters is not very high, and you are unlikely to encounter them in Nairobi.
MUGGING RISK : HIGH
There is a risk of armed attacks or kidnapping in Nairobi, and the common goal of robbers is to get your money and valuables. Therefore, if you are attacked, give the robbers what they ask of you to save your life.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorism is low in Nairobi. Of course, the risk of attacks still exists due to the international position of the city.
SCAMS RISK : LOW
Fraud is rare and can only be associated with an attempt to defraud tourists. Common sense and diligence will help avoid this risk.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM
Women traveling alone may not be safe in Nairobi. We recommend staying in a group of like-minded people and not walking around the city in the dark.
How Safe Is Nairobi for Tourists?
Nairobi is not a safe city to travel to.
The crime index here ranges from high to medium.
The main problems are related to corruption and bribery, car theft, vandalism, and theft.
There is a lot of theft happening in Nairobi.
Watch your surroundings, and especially if someone is following you.
The best tourist advice is to stay in the city center, always know where you are and pretend you know where you are going (even if you don’t).
If you find yourself in an unfamiliar area, your best bet is to find a taxi.
Do not carry large amounts of money and expensive devices on the street.
However, most of the locals are honest people who will be happy to help if you ask them.
At night the city is empty, and it is better not to walk here.
Avoid walking alone on streets far from the city center.
Wear anti-theft backpacks and never leave your belongings unattended.
It is recommended that before tourists come to Nairobi, that they should be vaccinated well in advance of their trip.
The most common recommended vaccines for people traveling to Africa are Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Yellow Fever, Rabies, and Meningitis.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Nairobi?
Visitors to Kenya require a visa unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries. All visitors must hold a passport valid for 6 months.
Which Currency Is Used in Nairobi?
The shilling is Kenya’s currency. It is divided into 100 cents.
How's the Weather like in Nairobi?
In Nairobi, the summers are short, warm, and overcast, and the winters are short, cool, dry, and partly cloudy. Best Time June to September is best for general wildlife viewing.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Nairobi?
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is an international airport in Nairobi, the largest city in Kenya. The other two important international airports in Kenya include the Kisumu International Airport and Moi International Airport.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Nairobi?
Nairobi is Kenya’s capital city. In addition to its urban core, the city has Nairobi National Park, a large game reserve known for breeding endangered black rhinos and home to giraffes, zebras, and lions. Next to it is a well-regarded elephant orphanage operated by the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Nairobi is also often used as a jumping-off point for safari trips elsewhere in Kenya.
Is the Water in Nairobi Safe to Drink?
Tap water is not drinkable in Nairobi. You should buy bottled water or boil tap water.
Is Uber Safe in Nairobi?
There is an Uber taxi in Nairobi. You can call a taxi from the app on your phone. The cost of the trip will depend on the distance and time of day.
