The Go Down Arts Center
The GoDown Arts Centre is a multidisciplinary arts and culture centre that is home to Kenyan creativity in arts and media. Established in 2003, in a space that was formerly a car repair warehouse, the centre has contributed significantly to the growth, recognition and visibility of local artists by fostering and facilitating collaborations and encounters between artists from different disciplines and different parts of the world. The GoDown provides facilities and support for the development, performance and display of different forms of creative and artistic expression, and the growth of a vibrant and sustainable cultural sector in Kenya and the region, including creative training, exhibitions, and events.
The Pottery Shed
Located in Karen, the Pottery Shed seems to be the new favourite spot for Nairobians. At this pottery experience, people are invited to make their own clay-based products. The activity is designed to be fun for groups, such as family activities or activities with kids.
Nairobi National Museum
The Nairobi National Museum is the flagship brand for the National Museums of Kenya. Located on Museum Hill, the museum showcases Kenya’s rich Heritage with four distinct themes representing Kenya’s Culture, Nature, History and Contemporary Art. Other attractions within the compound include the Snake Park and Botanical Gardens as well as a State of Art Auditorium that occasionally hosts concerts, film shows and events.
Sagana (White Water Rafting)
An adventure lover’s favourite in Nairobi, white water rafting is an adrenaline-filled experience. The Sagana River features a series of exciting rapids depending on the water levels and the section of the river. These rapids provide thrills and challenges for rafters of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced paddlers. Rafting on the Sagana River offers participants the opportunity to immerse themselves in Kenya’s beautiful natural landscape. The river meanders through lush forests, rocky gorges, and scenic valleys, providing breathtaking views along the way. Several adventure companies and tour operators organise white water rafting experiences on the Sagana River. These companies provide all the necessary equipment, including rafts, paddles, helmets, and life jackets. The duration of the trips on the Sagana River varies depending on factors such as water levels and the chosen route. Trips typically range from a few hours to a full day.
Lukenya Motor cross
Lukenya Motorcross is an off-road motorcycling and motorsport facility located near Nairobi. It’s situated in Athi River, approximately 40 kilometres southeast of Nairobi’s city centre. The rugged terrain and natural landscape provide an ideal setting for off-road motorcycling and motorsport activities. It offers a range of amenities and infrastructure for both participants and spectators. This includes dirt tracks for motocross and off-road racing, spectator viewing areas, parking facilities and accommodation for overnight stays. It has also become a space for foodies with a bar, poolside dining and Porini Restaurant which specialises in continental and African cuisine. Lukenya Motorcross also offers training programs and clinics for riders looking to improve their skills in off-road riding and racing. These programs are conducted by experienced riders or professional instructors and may cover topics such as technique, safety, and bike maintenance.
Mater Heart Run
The Mater Heart Run started in 2002 and happens annually in Nairobi and other towns in Kenya. The run is a fundraiser for children with heart conditions, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds who require cardiac surgery or treatment. The Mater Heart Run attracts thousands of participants, including individuals, families, corporate teams, schools, and community groups, from across Kenya. Participants can choose to run, walk, or engage in other physical activities during the event, making it inclusive and accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. In addition to fundraising, the Mater Heart Run aims to raise awareness about heart disease, particularly congenital heart defects in children, and the importance of early detection, diagnosis, and treatment.
Gatura Greens
Gatura Greens is the world’s first purple tea farm and offers an authentic Kenyan Tea Farm Tour experience. The tour is an opportunity to learn about the different types of tea, enjoy a long beautiful walk, and swim in a waterfall. This paid experience involves people picking their tea, processing it and keeping it as a souvenir, as well as a tea tasting ceremony and a 3 – course vegetarian lunch. Gatura is becoming more popular as a fun weekend activity with friends surrounded by a bamboo forest and even the option to camp at the location or stay the night at the farm cottage.
Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
The Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is located in Nairobi. The main objective of the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned elephant calves and later reintegrate them into the wild. The orphanage also provides veterinary care to injured and sick elephants, as well as other wildlife species. The orphanage offers a unique opportunity for visitors to observe the orphaned elephants during their daily feeding and mud bath sessions. These visits allow visitors to learn about the challenges facing elephants in the wild and the conservation efforts being undertaken to protect them. The orphanage holds a public visiting hour every day from 11 AM to noon and advanced booking is required. The trust also runs an adoption program that allows individuals to foster an orphaned elephant or rhino. By symbolically adopting an orphan, supporters contribute to the ongoing care, feeding, and rehabilitation efforts. In return, they receive updates and exclusive access to information about their adopted animal.
Brakenhurst
In the lush and beautiful Limuru lies Brackenhurst – a retreat centre about 30 KM from Nairobi. Brackenhurst has a long history dating back to the early 20th century when it was established as a colonial tea farm. Over the years, it has transformed into a vibrant conference and retreat centre while preserving its natural beauty and historical charm. The centre offers a range of facilities to accommodate conferences, workshops, retreats, and other events. These include conference halls, meeting rooms, accommodation options (such as cottages and guest rooms), dining areas, and outdoor spaces for recreational activities such as nature walks and bird watching. In addition to hosting events and conferences, Brackenhurst Nairobi offers various activities and excursions for guests to enjoy during their stay. These include guided nature walks, visits to nearby attractions (such as the Limuru Tea Plantations or the Ngong Hills), cultural experiences, and team-building exercises.
Arboretum
The Nairobi Arboretum is a botanical garden in Nairobi. It covers 74 acres and is managed by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS). Arboretum is a popular area for residents who enjoy fresh air and nature. The arboretum is home to a diverse collection of trees, plants, and shrubs, both indigenous and exotic, and visitors can explore the garden through guided tours. Visitors can also explore walking, jogging, picnicking and birdwatching – with well-maintained paths and trails winding through the garden, the arboretum is perfect for a well-deserved break in the middle of the city. The Arboretum also holds events and cultural activities such as tree planting events, environmental awareness campaigns and concerts. If you’re planning a visit, the Arboretum has the right facilities to make the experience easier such as restrooms, picnic areas, benches, parking areas and a small cafe where you can enjoy drinks and snacks.
