10 Facts About Nairobi You Didn’t Know & Where to Stay
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Nairobi is a city and Kenya’s capital. At about 5,500 feet (1,680 m), it is located in the highlands in the nation’s south-central region. The current metro population of Nairobi in 2023 is 5,325,000, a 4.02% increase from 2022. The colonial authorities of British East Africa built Nairobi in 1899 as a rail depot on the Uganda Railway. In 1907, the town soon expanded to take the position of Mombasa as the nation’s capital.
There are many people who don’t just like Nairobi but also live there. For people who live there, the city’s cosmopolitan charms include amazing places to eat, vibrant culture, and unforgettable nightlife. But for those who are passing through, this melting pot of rich history, people, and attractions has the National Museum, National Park, an elephant orphanage, Karen Blixen’s former home, and much more.
Explore one of the most dynamic cities in Africa, a place you will most certainly pass through and learn to like it if you give it a chance. Let’s discuss some facts about Nairobi! Where to stay in Nairobi? But before that, are you finding staycation hotels in Nairobi or luxury hotels in Nairobi? Click below.
10 Facts About Nairobi You Should Know Before You Go
Here are some interesting facts about Nairobi you should know before you visit and the best 5 star hotels in Kenya.
[Suggested Read: Ultimate Guide to Shopping in Nairobi Kenya & Where to Stay]
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1. Nairobi means 'Cool Waters'
The Maasai word “Enkare Nairobi,” which means “cool water,” is the source of the name Nairobi. The Nairobi River, which runs through the city, was the subject of this. The area where the city and its areas now stand used to be a swamp and deserted. The Maasais, who owned large grazing areas, were pushed further out of the way as the city grew in order to allow their growth. It is not one of the well-known facts about Nairobi.
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2. The Founding Date was 1899
The colonial authorities in British East Africa founded Nairobi in 1899. This came from the Uganda Railway’s rail depot. The town developed fast, and it succeeded Mombasa as the nation’s capital. Nairobi became the capital of the Republic of Kenya after independence in 1963.
3. Nairobi was a Commercial Hub.
Nairobi became a hub for the colony’s sisal, coffee, and tea industries during the colonial era. Sir George Whitehouse recognized Nairobi as a storage depot with the coming of the Uganda Railway. Indian employees tented there as they worked on the Ugandan railway. Sir George admired Nairobi’s height and moderate climate.
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4. Many Global Firms Have Headquarters in Nairobi
In addition to over 100 major global firms, Nairobi City is home to hundreds of businesses run by Kenyans. UNEP, the UN, embassies and consulates, Google’s headquarters in Africa, General Electric, Young & Rubicam, Coca-Cola, IBM Services, and Cisco Systems are a few examples of global NGOs. The regional offices have Safaricom among them. It is also one of the most famous facts about Nairobi.
5. Nairobi is a Center for Arts & Culture in Kenya
Nairobi is the cultural center for the arts as well as other upscale events and shows. In the city are the Kenya National Theatre and the Kenya National Archives. The Rahimtulla Museum of Modern Art, the Mizizi Arts Centre, the Nairobi National Museum, the Karen Blixen Museum, and the Kuona Art Centre for Visual Artists in Nairobi are just a few of the art galleries that can be found in the city.
6. Matatu Culture is Famous
Most global cities can be defined by their primary means of transport. There are red buses in London, taxi cabs in New York, and matatus in Nairobi. Minibusses that are used for public transport in the nation are known as “Matatus”. These public buses and vans are the standard for the vast majority of people in Nairobi.
The unique body art on Nairobi’s matatus is what sets them apart. They are breathtaking, especially for new visitors. The sides of the matatus are covered with street art depicting current events, pop culture, and music icons. They are embedded in the culture of Nairobi. See Matatu culture photos above. Wanting to know about the top 5 star hotels in Nairobi? Read more.
7. Only City in the World with a National Park
The only national park that borders a major capital city is Nairobi. On the city’s southern outskirts sits The Park. A view of the city skyline can be seen while viewing the wildlife in the park. There are Giraffes, Rhinos, Zebras, Lions, and Buffaloes in the park, which is made up of open grasslands. It is the best place to visit in Nairobi. Are you looking for the best five star hotels in Nairobi? Read our other articles as well.
8. The Unique Kenya Bus System (KBS)
Nairobi Matatus and buses go in route numbers. The routes and estates that the matatus service are identified by these numbers. The former Kenya Bus Service (KBS), the country of Kenya’s first official public transport system, created these route numbers in 1934. It is not one of the very well-known facts about Nairobi. Searching for the best places to eat in Nairobi? Read till the end.
9. One of the Biggest Slums in Africa is Found in Nairobi
60% of Nairobi’s residents live in the city’s more than 40 slums, which are low-income regions. The two biggest slums in Nairobi are Kibera and Mathare. Kibera is also one of the biggest slums in Africa. These slums are home to some of Nairobi’s poorest citizens, but they are also the birthplace of a number of wealthy Kenyans who have since moved back to the nation to help younger people still residing there. Want to know about the best hotels in Nairobi for dinner? Keep reading.
10. Sheng (Kenyan Slang) Originated in the Nairobi
More than three languages are spoken by the majority of Kenyans. The two most widespread tongues are English and Kiswahili. Sheng is the third language. The languages used here are a blend of English, Kiswahili, and regional dialects. Urban youth are liable for its rise. Also, keep reading for one of the top restaurants in Nairobi and the best event venues in Kenya.
Stay at Emara Ole Sereni to Experience Facts About Nairobi
Want to stay at hotels near Wilson Airport Nairobi or hotels near Nairobi National Park? Staying at the Emara Ole Sereni in Nairobi can provide you with a unique experience to learn about the city. Where is Ole Sereni Hotel located? It is a luxury hotel located close to JKIA, Wilson Airport, and Nairobi National Park. It offers stunning views of wildlife against the backdrop of Nairobi’s skyline. Here are some facts about Nairobi that you might encounter during your stay.
1. Proximity to the Nairobi National Park: Searching for the best place to stay in Nairobi? One of the standout features of Emara Ole Sereni is its location right next to the Nairobi National Park. It is unique as it’s a national park located within a major city. You can catch glimpses of various wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, and antelopes grazing against the urban skyline. Nature and city life collide to give you the dream holiday. Want to go on a safari in Nairobi National Park?
2. Wildlife Viewing: Our hotel has 148 rooms & suites. The Nairobi National Park facing rooms and suites allow you to witness wildlife and unmatched city views. You can spend your days lounging in your spacious rooms with modern decor and high-tech facilities.
3. Giraffe Center and David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: Nairobi is home to many firms dedicated to preserving Kenya’s rich biodiversity. We also have a concierge. So, while staying at Emara Ole Sereni, you can visit places like the Giraffe Center. Here you can get up close and personal with giraffes, and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, which focuses on the rescue of orphaned elephants. Read below for fine dining restaurants in Nairobi.
4. Local Cuisine: Looking for the best Indian restaurants in Nairobi or the best seafood restaurants in Nairobi? Emara Ole Sereni offers a range of dining options like Acacia Restaurant, Oasis Bar (one of the best bars in Nairobi), Karibu Cafe, and The Sky Lounge (one of the best rooftop restaurants in Nairobi). Sky Lounge Nairobi is also one of the best romantic restaurants in Nairobi. You can try authentic Kenyan cuisine and dishes like Nyama Choma (grilled meat), ugali (a staple starch), and global flavors.
5. Interaction with Locals: Wondering what to do in Nairobi? Engaging with the hotel staff and locals can provide you with firsthand insights into life in Nairobi. They can share personal stories, suggest places to visit, and tell about the city’s history and traditions.
6. Weddings & Culture: Our hotel offers an enchanting and romantic setting for weddings. The mix of stunning landscapes, breathtaking sunsets, and the proximity to Nairobi National Park creates a memorable backdrop for couples looking to celebrate their special day. We offer the best wedding halls in Nairobi in sync with the culture and traditions of Kenya. Searching for the best wedding packages in Nairobi?
7. Get down to Business: Many major firms have headquarters in Nairobi. Our hotel is about 5km and 15 minutes away from Nairobi CBD via Nairobi Expressway. Host a meeting or conference with artisanal amenities, legendary catering, and thoughtful service. Click below for the best meeting rooms in Nairobi and conference facilities in Nairobi.
It is one of the hotels in Nairobi with swimming pool. Finding the best spa in Nairobi? You can also enjoy a massage at the Duma Spa and Salon or relax at the pool.
Getting to Emara Ole Sereni to Know Facts About Nairobi
Global airlines fly to Nairobi from Asia, Europe, the Middle East, South Africa, the United States, and more. It is also a major airline hub to most of the African countries. Emara Ole Sereni is located close to Wilson Airport (7 km), 5 minutes from JKIA, 15 minutes from Westlands via the Nairobi Expressway, and 20 minutes from Karen and other major attractions in Nairobi.
Planning holidays to Nairobi? Looking for hotels around CBD Nairobi? Searching for the best dinner restaurants in Nairobi? We are the preferred choice of global dignitaries as well. It was an honor to host the UN Secretary-General – Mr. Antonio Guterres who recently stayed at our hotels. Contact the best boutique hotels in Nairobi today to witness the facts about Nairobi!
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Cancellation Policy
Group/individual Reservations that are cancelled or reduced in length of stay, or numbers, are subject to cancellation charges and no-show fees at the discretion of the Hotel and are as follows:
- Any rooms booked and cancelled or reduced in number between 21 days prior to arrival will be charged a 50% cancellation fee on the first night.
- Any rooms booked and cancelled or reduced in number between 14 days prior to arrival will be charged a 75% on the first night.
- In case of cancellation within 72 hours from noon to the date of accommodation, or in case of no-show – 100% of the net value of booking for a maximum of two nights.
